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Compare Chilkey ND104 vs Keychron Q1 Max Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a feature-rich full-size keyboard and a premium compact model. Both the Chilkey ND104 and Keychron Q1 Max offer high-end aluminum construction, triple-mode wireless, and extensive programmability, making the choice difficult. The decision primarily hinges on whether you need a dedicated numpad and a built-in screen or prefer the desk space savings of a 75% layout.

100
Chilkey ND104 CNC Aluminum Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard
98
Keychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard

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5.0 (14)
3.9 (96)
  • Released in 2025
  • Has Clicky, Silent, Linear switch options
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, ISO-UK layout standard
  • Includes a Yes, LCD display
  • Uses a Plate Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 8000 mAh battery
  • Sized at 34 x 438 x 140 mm
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-CH, JIS layout standard
  • Includes a No display
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1724 g
  • Sized at 23 x 145 x 328 mm
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 81.9
  • Build Quality: 92
  • Productivity: 96.8
  • Customizability: 99.4
  • Portability: 64.7
Scores
  • Performance: 82
  • Build Quality: 89.1
  • Productivity: 96.9
  • Customizability: 99.5
  • Portability: 81.2
Name
Chilkey ND104
Name
Keychron Q1 Max
Release year
2025
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Clicky, Silent, Linear
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
100%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, ISO-UK
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-CH, JIS
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
LCD
Display Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
8000 mAh
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
Hall Effect Support
 
Hall Effect Support
 
QMK Support
 
QMK Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIAL Support
 
VIAL Support
 
N-Key Rollover
 
N-Key Rollover
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Mount Style
Plate Mount
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
34 x 438 x 140 mm
Dimensions
23 x 145 x 328 mm
Weight
-
Weight
1724g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require a numpad for data entry, want a built-in screen for utility, and have ample desk space, the Chilkey ND104 is the more feature-complete workstation keyboard. If you value a clean, compact setup for typing and gaming, need specific ISO layouts, or plan to move the keyboard frequently, the Keychron Q1 Max is the more practical and portable premium option.

Chilkey ND104

  • +Full-size 106-key layout with dedicated numpad and F13 key.
  • +Built-in LCD screen with calculator, clock, and dynamic background modes.
  • +Large 8000mAh total battery capacity (2x 4000mAh).
  • +Includes five layers of sound dampening foam (plate, switch, PET, case).
  • +Modular top-right section can be a screen, keys, or a storage tray.
  • −Very large footprint (438mm wide) is less portable and demands more desk space.
  • −Vendor description notes software limitations, including lack of multi-zone RGB control.
  • −Some colorways require an additional plate to support ISO layouts.

Keychron Q1 Max

  • +Compact 75% layout saves considerable desk space.
  • +Extensive ISO layout support including DE, UK, Nordic, Swiss, and JIS.
  • +Features a double-gasket design with a polycarbonate plate for a cushioned typing feel.
  • +South-facing RGB LEDs ensure compatibility with Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • +Officially supports Bluetooth 5.1 for multi-device connectivity.
  • −Smaller 4000mAh battery offers less wireless runtime than the ND104.
  • −Lacks a built-in screen or dedicated numpad.
  • −Some user reviews mention firmware update issues leading to key chatter.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Chilkey ND104 is the clear choice for office work and content creation where its numpad, screen, and high-capacity battery are major assets. The Keychron Q1 Max wins for travel and programming, thanks to its compact 75% form factor and broader ISO layout support. For gaming and modding, both keyboards are equally capable, sharing core performance and customization features.

GamingTie
  • •Both offer a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired and 2.4 GHz modes for low latency.
  • •Both feature N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
  • •Both have hot-swappable PCBs for customizing switch feel.
OfficeChilkey ND104
  • •The Chilkey ND104's full-size layout includes a dedicated numpad for data entry.
  • •Its built-in screen offers calculator and clock functions for quick reference.
  • •The larger 8000mAh total battery capacity promises longer wireless use.
ProgrammingKeychron Q1 Max
  • •The Keychron Q1 Max's 75% layout saves desk space while retaining arrow and function keys.
  • •It offers a wider range of ISO layout support including ISO-DE and ISO-Nordic.
  • •South-facing RGB LEDs are compatible with Cherry-profile keycaps, a popular choice for programmers.
TravelKeychron Q1 Max
  • •The Keychron Q1 Max is significantly more compact (328mm wide vs 438mm).
  • •It is lighter, with a listed weight of 1724g.
  • •Its smaller footprint is easier to pack and use in confined spaces.
ModdingTie
  • •Both keyboards are hot-swappable and support QMK/VIA firmware for deep customization.
  • •Both use screw-in stabilizers for easy tuning and replacement.
  • •Both are available in barebones kits for building from scratch.
Content CreationChilkey ND104
  • •The Chilkey ND104's hotswap knob can be configured for media and volume control.
  • •The full-size layout provides direct access to number keys for timeline scrubbing.
  • •The modular area above the numpad can be reconfigured for extra macro keys.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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