If you're interested in understanding more about our two new keyboards, you may be curious about the key differences between the KB7 vs KB5.
We've recently announced the brand new Command Series, which brings in a new era to our PC peripheral lineup at Turtle Beach.
So let's explore what these two gaming keyboards can offer you.
Command Series KB7 vs KB5
The two keyboards feature many similarities and differences, which will sway your decision as to which product you would want to buy.
Let's break down those differences to give you a more informed decision.
What Is The Same?
Both keyboards feature:
- Low-Profile Design
- Customisable per-key RGB lighting
- Double-shot PBT keycaps (with textured WASD)
- Detachable Wrist Rest
- Media Controls
- Command Touch Display
- ReacTap™ SOCD tech
- 8K polling rate with 0.125ms latency
- Swarm II software support
- 32MB On Board Memory
- Double Kickstand
- Full Key, Anti-Ghosting
Command Touch Display
The first and most obvious difference is in the Command Touch Display. This element of the keyboard will transform your PC experience as it provides a real-time command centre, putting critical controls, performance data and system adjustments at your fingertips.
The KB7 features a 4.3" Command Touch Display, which offers more readily available actions in comparison to the KB5's 2.4" screen.
The widget allows for up to 12 functions per page on the KB7, compared to the 6 on the KB5.
Form Factor
Another apparent difference is in the size of the keyboard.
You'll notice right out of the box, the KB5 is a full-sized extended keyboard which includes the number pad underneath the Touch Display and 5 dedicated macro keys on the left side.
The KB7, however, comes in a TKL form factor, which essentially means the right side of the keyboard has been removed to allow more space on your desk and for those who like more room for their mouse movements.
While this is the case, there are options to bring this back to the keyboard, including an accessible number pad on the Command Touch Display.
Detachable KP7 Module
Continuing from the previous point, the KB7 has a detachable module called the 'KP7'. This module is an independent MOBA and FPS powerhouse.
This module contains the same features as the main keyboard. It can be used as a traditional number pad, with the addition of extra dedicated keys and controls. This is attached via a rail-based mounting on either side of the main keyboard.
It should also be mentioned that you can use this as a standalone mini keyboard in conjunction with your regular keyboard.
Switches
The KB7 has Titan Low-Profile Hall-Effect Switches, which benefit players looking for durable and lightning-fast inputs.
The KB5 has a key stroke lifecycle of 50 million clicks, compared to the KB7, which has a 100 million click lifecycle.
Rapid Trigger And Adjustable Actuation
The KB7 features Rapid Trigger, which allows you to execute more inputs in quick succession compared to a standard key click. Rapid Trigger dynamically adjusts key activation and reset points, allowing keys to reset instantly upon release rather than at a fixed distance. This means you can register inputs on the upstroke and the downstroke of a key.
And with an adjustable actuation point, allowing you to customise how far on a key press an input is registered, you can really tailor the keyboard to your personal preference.
These features do not appear in the KB5.
Low Profile Design
Both of these magnificent keyboards feature low-profile designs.
The KB5 features a slim design measuring 27mm at the highest typing point, with double adjustable kickstands.
In comparison, the KB7 has a 29mm/1.14 inch tall chassis at the highest typing point with the same adjustable kickstands.
Media Controls
Both the KB5 and KB7 feature Media controls, although these are significantly different.
The KB7 has a tactile control bar with a clickable volume dial, dedicated media buttons and four fully mappable quick-access keys. which can be customised in the Swarm II software.
This has been simplified on the KB5, which features a single clickable volume barrel for quick media control.
Palm Rest
Both keyboards come with a palm rest, but their design differs quite significantly. The KB5 comes with a solid, detachable palm rest. In comparison, the KB7 comes with a detachable translucent palm rest that allows RGB lighting to pass through and light it up, which is similar to our Vulcan II Max.
Power
The KB5 is powered by a detachable USB-A cable, whereas the KB7 can be powered by a detachable cable with 2 x USB-A ports or a single USB-C slot.
(Note: the device should be plugged directly into your computer and not a hub to ensure it has enough power and works as intended.)
Price
These key differences are reflected in the pricing of the keyboards. The KB7 comes in at $199.99, and the KB5 at $149.99.
