Microsoft Surface Keyboard vs Keychron K4
Side-by-Side Comparison
Products
Tested using Methodology v1.2
Updated Jun 21, 2023 04:42 PM
Tested using Methodology v1.0
Updated May 15, 2023 09:40 PM
Variants
- Surface Keyboard (Gray)
- K4 (Black)
Our Verdict
Microsoft Surface Keyboard
Keychron K4
The Microsoft Surface Keyboard and the Keychron K4 are very different keyboards. Both are Bluetooth keyboards, but only the K4 has a multi-device pairing feature. The Microsoft uses scissor switches and chiclet-style keys, while the Keychron is a mechanical keyboard that you can customize with the switches of your choice. The LK Optical Brown switches on our K4 provide a better typing experience, but the Microsoft's low profile makes it a bit more comfortable to type on without a wrist rest. The Keychron has backlighting, which the Microsoft doesn't have, and it has a built-in rechargeable battery instead of using disposable batteries.
Notice: Two or more of the products selected have been tested with different test methodologies, so some of the results below aren't directly comparable. Learn how our test benches and scoring system work, and read more about the latest changes to our keyboards test methodology.
Main Differences for
Threshold
Gaming
Backlight Features
Operating Force
Latency
Full Comparison
Dimensions
Top Picture
Size
Height
Width
Depth
Depth With Wrist Rest
Weight
Build Quality
Build Quality Close Up
Keycap Material
Ergonomics
Side Picture
Curved/Angled
Split Keyboard
Key Alignment
Minimum Incline
Medium Incline
Maximum Incline
Home Row Height
Wrist Rest
Hardware Customizability
Customizability Overview
Replaceable Cherry Stabilizers
Stabilizer Fixation
Spacebar Stabilizer Size
Size Of Right Mod Keys
Hot-Swappable Switches
Switch Stem Shape
Switch PCB Socket
North-Facing Cherry MX Interference
Backlight Features
Backlighting Picture
Brightness Max
Backlighting
Brightness Min
White Shot
RGB
Per-Key Backlighting
Effects
Software Controllable
Color
Color Mixing
Backlight Clarity
White Shot
Cable & Connector
Connectivity
Detachable
Length
Connector (Keyboard side)
Wireless Versatility
Bluetooth
Bluetooth Multi-Device Pairing
Proprietary Receiver
Battery Type
Macro Keys And Programming
Dedicated Macro Keys Count
Onboard Macro Programming
Macro Programming With Software
Extra Features
Extra Features
Media Keys
Trackpad / Trackball
Scroll Wheel
Control Knob
USB Passthrough
Numpad
Windows Key Lock
Lock Indicator
Macro Programmable Keys
In The Box
Bundle Picture
Switches
Wobble Video
Switch Name
Switch Type
Feel
Keystrokes
Key Switch Actuation Graph
Key Switches
Mechanical
Feel
Operating Force
Actuation Force
Pre-Travel
Total Travel
Typing Quality
Typing Noise
Typing Sample
Average Loudness
High Pitch Clicks
Noise
Latency
Latency Video
Latency Wired
Latency Receiver
Latency Bluetooth
Configuration Software
Software Picture
Microsoft Surface Keyboard
Keychron K4
Comments
Microsoft Surface Keyboard vs Keychron K4: Main Discussion
What do you think of these products? Let us know below.
Looking for a personalized buying advice from the RTINGS.com experts? Insiders have direct access to buying advice on our insider forum.