Which one should you get?
Get the
Redragon EISA K686 Pro
Budget
- More affordable price point.
- Includes a full 98-key layout in a compact form factor.
- Comes with spare switches and pullers in the box.
- Heavier at 1060g, less portable.
- Only available with linear red switches in the pre-built configuration.
- Software customization appears less advanced than QMK/VIA.
Get the
Keychron V1 Max
Customization
- Extensive firmware support with QMK and VIA for limitless customization.
- Available in multiple switch types (linear, tactile, clicky) and as a barebones kit.
- Lighter weight (770g) and more compact 75% layout.
- Higher price point.
- Some user reviews mention key chatter issues developing over time.
- Double-shot PBT keycaps are not shine-through for the south-facing RGB.
Your budget and intent should guide this choice. The Redragon EISA K686 Pro delivers a complete, ready-to-use package with a generous layout at a compelling cost. The Keychron V1 Max is an investment in a customizable platform, offering superior firmware, build details for modders, and better portability. If you plan to deeply personalize your typing experience, the Keychron is worth the premium.
The differences that matter
Skip the 40-row spec sheet. These are the specs that change how each board feels, sounds, and fits your desk.
Redragon EISA K686 Pro
Keychron V1 Max
Layout size
90%
75%
Case material
Plastic
ABS, Plastic
Switch options
Linear
Clicky, Linear, Tactile
Mount style
Gasket Mount
Gasket Mount, Plate Mount
Weight
1,060 g
770 g
- Redragon EISA K686 Pro
- Keychron V1 Max
- Performance
- 6683
- Build quality
- 6386
- Productivity
- 8397
- Customizability
- 6698
- Portability
- 5279
- Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Knob
- Sound dampening
What will you mostly use it for?
The Keychron V1 Max wins in most specialized categories due to its superior programmability, lighter weight, and modding-friendly design. It is the clear choice for programmers, travelers, and modders. The Redragon EISA K686 Pro remains a competent all-rounder, particularly for office use where its larger 98% layout and lower cost are appealing. For gaming, the Keychron's specified polling rate gives it an edge.
Pick the Keychron V1 Max
- The Keychron V1 Max lists a 1000 Hz polling rate for its 2.4 GHz and wired modes.
- It features N-key rollover in both wireless and wired modes.
- The Keychron's vendor page highlights a powerful MCU for low latency.
What owners say
Ratings and quotes collected from verified store reviews, including the critical ones.
Redragon EISA K686 Pro
No owner reviews collected yet.
Keychron V1 Max
18 owner reviews
“Feels great, haven't got a new KB since my Novatouch. Great high end features and feel, DSA caps on it feel good.”
“The dongle does not work after 6 months of using it and they want me to pay to fix it. If you want to buy a keyboard that is good don’t go for keycron”
Redragon EISA K686 Pro vs Keychron V1 Max specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
14 of 27 specs differ
Redragon EISA K686 Pro
Keychron V1 Max
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Screw-in stabilizers
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Knob
Display
Media keys
Connection
Max polling rate
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Typing angle
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
Compare prices
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Redragon EISA K686 Pro vs Keychron V1 Max: your questions
The Keychron V1 Max is the stronger candidate for wireless gaming. Its product specifications list a 1000 Hz polling rate for the 2.4 GHz wireless connection, which is a common standard for responsive gameplay. The Redragon's vendor description does not specify a polling rate for its wireless modes.
Yes, both keyboards explicitly list Mac support. The Keychron V1 Max vendor page notes it includes an additional set of keycaps for macOS and a system toggle to switch between macOS and Windows layouts. The Redragon EISA K686 Pro also mentions a side button for switching between the two operating systems.
Yes, both the Redragon EISA K686 Pro and the Keychron V1 Max feature hot-swappable PCBs. This allows you to change the mechanical switches without soldering. Both support the common 3-pin and 5-pin MX-style switches.
The fully assembled Keychron V1 Max comes with Gateron Jupiter switches. According to the vendor, you can choose between Jupiter Red (linear), Jupiter Brown (tactile), or Jupiter Banana (tactile) switches. The keyboard is also sold as a barebones kit without switches or keycaps.
Yes, the Redragon vendor description states the EISA K686 Pro has 'Pro Software Supported' for designing lighting modes, effects, and creating macros. The description directs users to download it from the Redragon website.
The Keychron V1 Max is more portable. It weighs 770 grams compared to the Redragon's 1060 grams, and it uses a more compact 75% layout. The Keychron also has a built-in 4000mAh battery for cordless use, while the Redragon's battery capacity is not specified.
Yes, the Keychron V1 Max offers extensive key remapping through its QMK and VIA firmware support. The vendor also provides the Keychron Launcher, a web-based configurator that allows you to customize keys, layers, and macros without installing software.
Both keyboards use PBT keycaps, which are generally more durable and resistant to shine than ABS. The Keychron V1 Max uses double-shot PBT keycaps in an OSA profile, while the Redragon's specific PBT profile is not detailed.
Yes, both keyboards feature a dedicated control knob. The vendor descriptions indicate the knobs can control volume, media playback, and keyboard backlight brightness.
A key build quality differentiator is the stabilizers. The Keychron V1 Max uses screw-in PCB stabilizers, which are generally more stable and preferred by enthusiasts. The Redragon's stabilizer type is not specified in the provided information. The Keychron also lists a polycarbonate plate, while the Redragon's plate material is not mentioned.
The Redragon EISA K686 Pro is a simpler, more affordable entry point. It comes fully assembled with all accessories, offers a familiar 98% layout, and requires less initial decision-making. The Keychron V1 Max, while excellent, has a steeper learning curve due to its extensive customization options and higher price.
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