Not sure which keyboard to choose? Try the Keyboard Finder now!

Compare Double shell DoubleShell DS84i vs Keychron K3 V3 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two popular low-profile 75% wireless keyboards. The DoubleShell DS84i and Keychron K3 V3 share a similar form factor and hot-swappable low-profile switch support, making the choice difficult. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize a dedicated 2.4GHz receiver and a physical knob, or advanced firmware customization and a wider selection of international layouts.

DoubleShell DS84i Low Profile Mechanical Keyboard
83
Keychron K3 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (ISO Layout) - Version 3

Select a keyboard to compare

0.0 (0)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Weighs about 798 g
  • Sized at 25 x 153 x 314 mm
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-SW, ISO-Nordic layout standard
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Uses a Top Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 1550 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 540 g
  • Sized at 19 x 306 x 116 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Aluminum case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face, White North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 61.4
  • Build Quality: 40.5
  • Productivity: 58.9
  • Customizability: 59.9
  • Portability: 74.6
Scores
  • Performance: 82
  • Build Quality: 81.7
  • Productivity: 70.3
  • Customizability: 89.9
  • Portability: 74.7
Name
Double shell DoubleShell DS84i
Name
Keychron K3 V3
Release year
2023
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Low Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-SW, ISO-Nordic
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
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
-
Battery capacity
1550 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
-
Mount Style
Top Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
-
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Dimensions
25 x 153 x 314 mm
Dimensions
19 x 306 x 116 mm
Weight
798g
Weight
540g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require a reliable 2.4GHz connection with a place to store the dongle and want a physical control knob, the DoubleShell DS84i is the clear pick. If your priority is extensive key remapping, macro programming via QMK/VIA, and you value a wider range of international layouts and specified performance metrics, the Keychron K3 V3 is the better keyboard. Both serve as competent low-profile wireless options, but cater to different user workflows.

Double shell DoubleShell DS84i

  • +Includes a dedicated storage compartment for the 2.4GHz wireless receiver.
  • +Features a multi-function metallic knob for adjusting volume or brightness.
  • +Vendor claims an exceptionally long battery life of up to 20 weeks.
  • +Uses unique ladder-shaped PBT keycaps.
  • +Offers tri-mode connectivity including 2.4GHz, Bluetooth, and wired USB-C.

  • Does not specify a polling rate for gaming performance.
  • Heavier at 798g compared to the Keychron.
  • Lacks the advanced QMK/VIA firmware support found on the Keychron.

Keychron K3 V3

  • +Supports QMK and VIA firmware for deep, open-source customization.
  • +Offers multiple ISO layout options (UK, German, Swiss, Nordic).
  • +Specifies a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode and 90 Hz in wireless mode.
  • +Features multiple acoustic foam layers (IXPE, EPDM, latex) for sound dampening.
  • +Includes adjustable typing angles (2.5°, 4.2°, 6.5°) for ergonomics.

  • Lacks a 2.4GHz wireless connectivity option, relying on Bluetooth and wired.
  • Does not have a dedicated storage solution for its wireless dongle.
  • Officially supports a more limited set of low-profile switches (Keychron Milk POM or Gateron) for QMK compatibility.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron K3 V3 is the stronger choice for gaming, programming, and modding due to its specified polling rates, extensive firmware support, and detailed construction for customization. The DoubleShell DS84i wins for travel and content creation, thanks to its integrated 2.4GHz receiver storage and dedicated multifunction knob. For general office use, both keyboards are well-matched with their low-profile designs and wireless connectivity.

GamingKeychron K3 V3
  • The Keychron K3 V3 lists a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode, which can offer lower latency.
  • Its vendor description mentions a 90 Hz polling rate in wireless mode, providing a specified wireless performance metric.
  • The DoubleShell DS84i does not specify a polling rate in its provided information.
OfficeTie
  • Both keyboards offer Bluetooth and wired connectivity for multi-device use.
  • Both are low-profile designs which can be comfortable for extended typing.
  • The Keychron K3 V3 includes specific Mac/Win support and extra keycaps for both operating systems.
  • The DoubleShell DS84i includes a multi-function knob for adjusting volume or brightness.
ProgrammingKeychron K3 V3
  • The Keychron K3 V3 supports QMK and VIA firmware for deep key remapping and macro programming.
  • It offers multiple ISO layout options (UK, DE, Swiss, Nordic) for international users.
  • Its vendor description mentions the Keychron Launcher web app for customization from any browser.
TravelDouble shell DoubleShell DS84i
  • The DoubleShell DS84i has a unique shell-themed storage compartment for its 2.4GHz wireless receiver, preventing loss.
  • It is heavier at 798g compared to the Keychron K3 V3's 540g, but its integrated receiver storage is a key travel-friendly feature.
  • Both support Bluetooth for cable-free use on the go.
ModdingKeychron K3 V3
  • The Keychron K3 V3 explicitly supports QMK and VIA open-source firmware, allowing for extensive software customization.
  • Its vendor description details multiple internal foam layers (IXPE, EPDM, latex) for acoustic tuning.
  • It features a hot-swappable PCB that supports Keychron Milk POM and Gateron low-profile mechanical switches.
  • It uses a top mount and PCB mount style, and has a case made from ABS and aluminum.
Content CreationDouble shell DoubleShell DS84i
  • The DoubleShell DS84i includes a finely textured multi-function metallic knob for adjusting volume or brightness, useful for media editing.
  • Its vendor description claims up to 20 weeks of battery life, which is beneficial for long, uninterrupted work sessions.
  • Both keyboards have RGB backlighting for visual customization.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

94
$84
Keychron K3 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K3 Max
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Plate Mount

87
$83
Keychron K3 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K3 Pro
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

85
$106
Keychron K1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K1 Max
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
PCB Mount

68
$96
Keychron K3 Ultra-slim Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (Version 2)
Keychron K3 V2
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

84
$94
Keychron K1 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (ISO Layout) - Version 6
Keychron K1 V6
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Top Mount

84
$109
Keychron K13 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K13 Max
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
PCB Mount

84
$83
Keychron K7 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K7 Pro
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

77
$90
Keychron K3 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (ISO Layout) - Version 3
Keychron K3 QMK V3
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
QMK,
HE,
Alu case,
Plate Mount

89
$99
Keychron K15 Max (Alice Layout) QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron K15 Max
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
PCB Mount

83
$100
Keychron K2 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (ISO Layout) - Version 3
Keychron K2 QMK V3
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
PCB Mount