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Compare Chilkey ND104 vs Keychron V1 Max Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a feature-rich, full-size keyboard and a space-saving, value-oriented compact model. The Chilkey ND104 offers a premium aluminum build and an integrated LCD screen, while the Keychron V1 Max provides a highly portable 75% layout at a lower price point. Both support extensive customization via QMK/VIA and offer triple-mode wireless connectivity, making the choice a matter of layout preference, budget, and desired premium materials.

100
Chilkey ND104 CNC Aluminum Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard
98
Keychron V1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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5.0 (14)
4.3 (32)
  • 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
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-PT, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Includes a No display
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 770 g
  • Sized at 22 x 149 x 329 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Plastic case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 82
  • Build Quality: 92
  • Productivity: 96.8
  • Customizability: 99.4
  • Portability: 64.8
Scores
  • Performance: 83.1
  • Build Quality: 86.3
  • Productivity: 97.3
  • Customizability: 99.4
  • Portability: 79.2
Name
Chilkey ND104
Name
Keychron V1 Max
Release year
2025
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Clicky, Silent, Linear
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, 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
ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-PT, ISO, ANSI
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
ABS, Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Dimensions
34 x 438 x 140 mm
Dimensions
22 x 149 x 329 mm
Weight
-
Weight
770g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your decision hinges on layout needs and budget. If you require a numpad, value premium materials like aluminum, and want unique features like an LCD screen, the Chilkey ND104 is worth the investment. If you prefer a compact, space-efficient keyboard that offers excellent core functionality and programmability at a more accessible price, the Keychron V1 Max is the pragmatic choice. Both deliver on the promise of a high-quality, customizable wireless mechanical keyboard.

Chilkey ND104

  • +CNC-machined 6063 aluminum case for a premium, durable build.
  • +Built-in LCD screen with calculator, clock, and dynamic background modes.
  • +Full-size 106-key layout includes a numpad and F13 key.
  • +Extensive sound dampening with five layers of foam, including plate, switch, PET, and case foam.
  • +Large 8000mAh total battery capacity (2x 4000mAh) for long wireless use.
  • −Full-size layout is large (438mm long) and less portable.
  • −Higher price point compared to the Keychron V1 Max.
  • −One vendor review cited software limitations, including issues with multi-zone RGB and screen customization.

Keychron V1 Max

  • +Compact 75% layout saves considerable desk space while keeping arrow and function keys.
  • +More affordable price point for a feature-rich wireless keyboard.
  • +Lightweight at 770 grams and shorter (329mm long) for better portability.
  • +Officially supports a wide variety of ISO layouts for different regions.
  • +Includes south-facing RGB LEDs to avoid interference with Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • −ABS plastic case lacks the premium feel of an aluminum chassis.
  • −No integrated screen or similar premium extra features.
  • −Smaller 4000mAh battery capacity.
  • −Some user reviews mention key chatter issues developing over time.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Chilkey ND104 is the clear choice for office work and content creation where a numpad and extra utility features are prioritized. The Keychron V1 Max wins for travel and programming due to its compact, lightweight design. For gaming and modding, both keyboards are equally capable, offering high-performance wireless and deep customization. Your primary use case will heavily dictate which layout and feature set is more valuable.

GamingTie
  • •Both keyboards offer a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired and 2.4 GHz modes for low latency.
  • •Both feature N-Key Rollover (NKRO) for simultaneous key presses.
  • •The Chilkey ND104's full layout includes a dedicated numpad for macros or data entry in certain games.
  • •The Keychron V1 Max's compact form saves desk space for larger mouse movements.
OfficeChilkey ND104
  • •The Chilkey ND104's full-size layout includes a numpad, essential for data entry and spreadsheet work.
  • •Its built-in screen can function as a clock or calculator, adding utility.
  • •It can connect to up to three devices wirelessly for easy switching.
  • •The aluminum case may present a more professional aesthetic.
ProgrammingKeychron V1 Max
  • •The Keychron V1 Max's 75% layout retains arrow and navigation keys while saving desk space.
  • •Its lighter weight (770g) and smaller dimensions make it easier to reposition.
  • •It supports a wide range of ISO layouts, beneficial for international programmers.
  • •The manufacturer states it can store separate layouts for macOS and Windows.
TravelKeychron V1 Max
  • •The Keychron V1 Max is significantly more compact (329mm long vs 438mm).
  • •It is lighter at 770 grams compared to the larger, likely heavier aluminum Chilkey ND104.
  • •Its 4000mAh battery, while smaller, may still offer sufficient runtime for a portable keyboard.
ModdingTie
  • •Both keyboards are hot-swappable, supporting 3-pin and 5-pin MX-style switches.
  • •Both are programmable via QMK and VIA open-source firmware.
  • •Both use screw-in PCB stabilizers for easy modding or replacement.
  • •The Chilkey ND104 offers a modular area above the numpad for reconfiguration, and the Keychron V1 Max is available in a barebones kit.
Content CreationChilkey ND104
  • •The Chilkey ND104's hot-swappable knob controls volume and media, useful for video/audio editing.
  • •The full-size layout with numpad aids in timeline scrubbing and numerical input.
  • •The built-in screen can display custom images or GIFs, according to a vendor description.
  • •Its five layers of sound dampening foam contribute to a quieter typing sound for recording.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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