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Compare Chilkey Slice HE vs Keychron Q1 HE Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two premium 75% aluminum keyboards featuring hall effect magnetic switches. The choice is difficult because both offer adjustable actuation and gasket-mounted builds, but diverge sharply in connectivity and software support. The Chilkey Slice HE is a focused, wired-only option, while the Keychron Q1 HE adds multi-device wireless, extensive programmability, and a broader ecosystem.

63
Chilkey Slice75 HE 8K Aluminum Keyboard
100
Keychron Q1 HE QMK Wireless Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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0.0 (0)
4.0 (34)
  • Released in 2025
  • Has Magnetic, Linear switch options
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO layout standard
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Runs at a 8000 Hz polling rate
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers No RGB lighting
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Magnetic, Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Built with the ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-DE, ANSI, JIS layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Enables rapid trigger functionality
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 4000 g
  • Sized at 23 x 145 x 328 mm
  • Features PBT, ABS, keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face, White, White South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 81.1
  • Build Quality: 68.9
  • Productivity: 63.7
  • Customizability: 47.4
  • Portability: 63.4
Scores
  • Performance: 100
  • Build Quality: 90
  • Productivity: 96.9
  • Customizability: 99.5
  • Portability: 81.1
Name
Chilkey Slice HE
Name
Keychron Q1 HE
Release year
2025
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Magnetic, Linear
Switch Options
Magnetic, Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO
Layout Standard
ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-DE, ANSI, JIS
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only
Polling Rate
8000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz;8000 Hz
Battery capacity
-
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
Gasket Mount
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face, White, White South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS,
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
23 x 145 x 328 mm
Weight
-
Weight
4000g
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Pros and Trade-offs

The Keychron Q1 HE is the recommended choice for most users due to its wireless freedom, superior software customization, and broader feature set. Opt for the Chilkey Slice HE only if you have a strict preference for a simpler, wired-only hall effect keyboard and do not need the programmability or wireless options of the Keychron. The decision ultimately hinges on the value you place on connectivity and software control versus a more straightforward, plug-and-play experience.

Chilkey Slice HE

  • +CNC machined aluminum case and plate for a solid build.
  • +Features a unique cork sound dampening layer with a moisture-protecting gauze coating.
  • +Includes a decorative back weight design inspired by cracked ice.
  • +Comes with 1.5mm thick double-shot PBT keycaps and a specialty Escape key.

  • Wired-only connectivity (USB-C) with no wireless options.
  • Limited to ANSI and ISO physical layouts, with no vendor mention of extensive international support.
  • Lacks RGB lighting, according to its specifications.
  • Appears to be a pre-built configuration only, with no barebones kit option mentioned.

Keychron Q1 HE

  • +Offers triple-mode connectivity: 2.4 GHz (1000Hz), Bluetooth 5.2, and wired USB-C.
  • +Fully programmable with open-source QMK firmware and VIA support.
  • +Includes a double-gasket mount design with a removable acoustic pad for sound tuning.
  • +Comes with screw-in PCB stabilizers and supports a rotary knob.

  • Hot-swap socket is compatible only with specific Gateron double-rail magnetic switches, limiting switch choices.
  • Heavier weight (approximately 1735g for the assembled version) may reduce portability.
  • The vendor description notes that discount codes cannot be used for this model.
  • South-facing RGB is not shine-through with the included PBT keycaps.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron Q1 HE is the more versatile choice, winning across all defined use cases except for a tie in none. Its wireless connectivity, extensive software support, and modding-friendly design make it suitable for mobile professionals, gamers, and tinkerers. The Chilkey Slice HE serves a narrower niche for users who strictly prefer a wired, pre-configured hall effect keyboard without the need for wireless or advanced programming.

GamingKeychron Q1 HE
  • The Keychron Q1 HE offers a 1000Hz wireless polling rate via its 2.4 GHz connection for cable-free gaming.
  • It explicitly supports rapid trigger and dynamic keystrokes for multiple actions per key press.
  • It provides adjustable actuation points from 0.2 to 3.8 mm with 0.1 mm sensitivity.
OfficeKeychron Q1 HE
  • The Keychron Q1 HE supports Bluetooth 5.2 for connecting to three devices, ideal for switching between a computer, phone, and tablet.
  • It includes Mac and Windows keycaps and has a system toggle for dual OS compatibility.
  • Its 4000mAh battery offers up to 100 hours of wireless use with backlighting off.
ProgrammingKeychron Q1 HE
  • The Keychron Q1 HE has full QMK and VIA support for deep, open-source key remapping and macro programming.
  • Its listed layout support includes numerous ISO variants (ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, etc.) for international programmers.
  • The 75% layout with function row is maintained on both boards, but Keychron's software support is superior for custom layers.
TravelKeychron Q1 HE
  • The Keychron Q1 HE's wireless functionality eliminates the need to carry or connect a cable on the go.
  • Its Bluetooth mode allows connection to laptops or tablets without using a USB port.
  • Both keyboards share a 75% form factor, but wireless operation is a key travel advantage.
ModdingKeychron Q1 HE
  • The Keychron Q1 HE is offered in a DIY kit/barebones version and has a documented double-gasket design where the acoustic pad can be removed.
  • It features screw-in PCB stabilizers for easier modification and supports knob installation.
  • Its vendor description details compatibility with specific Gateron double-rail magnetic switches for hot-swapping.
Content CreationKeychron Q1 HE
  • The Keychron Q1 HE's ability to assign multiple actions to a single key based on press depth can be leveraged for macro commands in editing software.
  • South-facing RGB backlighting is present, which the manufacturer states avoids interference with Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • Wireless connectivity provides a cleaner desk setup for streaming or recording.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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