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Compare Epomaker TH40 vs Keychron Q1 HE Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a minimalist, ultra-portable keyboard and a high-performance, feature-packed model. The Epomaker TH40 offers a radical 40% layout in a lightweight, tri-mode wireless package, while the Keychron Q1 HE delivers a premium 75% aluminum build with advanced magnetic switches and extensive customization. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize desk space and travel or demand top-tier gaming performance and a more traditional key layout.

-10% off
82
Epomaker TH40
100
Keychron Q1 HE QMK Wireless Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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3.9 (52)
4.0 (34)
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Available in a 40% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Offers Split Spacebar ergonomics
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 3000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 500 g
  • Sized at 35 x 258 x 97 mm
  • Made with a ABS case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Magnetic, Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-DE, ANSI, JIS layout standard
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Comes with a knob
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Enables rapid trigger functionality
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only connectivity
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 4000 g
  • Sized at 23 x 145 x 328 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Features PBT, ABS, keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face, White, White South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 73.8
  • Build Quality: 75.4
  • Productivity: 62.5
  • Customizability: 86.1
  • Portability: 84.2
Scores
  • Performance: 100
  • Build Quality: 90
  • Productivity: 96.8
  • Customizability: 99.4
  • Portability: 81.2
Name
Epomaker TH40
Name
Keychron Q1 HE
Release year
2024
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Linear
Switch Options
Magnetic, Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
40%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-DE, ANSI, JIS
Layout Ergonomics
Split Spacebar
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, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz;8000 Hz
Battery capacity
3000 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
Gasket Mount
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face, White, White South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS,
Dimensions
35 x 258 x 97 mm
Dimensions
23 x 145 x 328 mm
Weight
500g
Weight
4000g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If your priority is a feature-rich, high-performance keyboard for gaming or productivity at a dedicated workstation, the Keychron Q1 HE is worth its premium cost. If maximizing portability, saving desk space, or adhering to a stricter budget is paramount, the Epomaker TH40 delivers capable wireless functionality in a remarkably small package. Consider how often you need dedicated arrow keys versus how often you carry your keyboard.

Epomaker TH40

  • +Extremely compact and portable 40% layout with a split spacebar.
  • +Offers tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired) in a tiny form factor.
  • +Fully programmable via VIA software with multiple layers.
  • +Gasket mount design with Poron plate foam and bottom foam for sound dampening.
  • +More affordable price point relative to the Q1 HE.
  • −The 40% layout requires heavy reliance on function layers for numbers, arrows, and punctuation.
  • −Built with an ABS plastic case, which feels less premium than metal.
  • −Limited to linear switches in the provided configuration.
  • −Some user reviews mention challenges with VIA software recognition.

Keychron Q1 HE

  • +Features advanced Gateron double-rail magnetic switches with adjustable actuation points (0.2-3.8mm) and rapid trigger.
  • +Premium all-aluminum body construction for durability and a solid feel.
  • +Versatile 75% layout retains arrow keys, function row, and navigation cluster.
  • +Extensive modding features: double-gasket mount, hot-swappable magnetic switches, screw-in stabilizers, and removable acoustic pad.
  • +Large 4000mAh battery and tri-mode wireless with a 1000Hz polling rate in 2.4GHz mode.
  • −Very heavy (4000g) and large, making it unsuitable for frequent travel.
  • −Comes at a significantly higher price point.
  • −Hot-swappable socket is compatible only with specific Gateron magnetic switches, limiting switch choices.
  • −The listed weight and size make it a permanent desk fixture.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron Q1 HE is the clear choice for stationary use cases like gaming, office work, programming, and content creation, thanks to its full-featured layout and advanced magnetic switches. The Epomaker TH40 wins decisively for travel due to its minuscule size and light weight. For modding enthusiasts, the Q1 HE offers a more robust and modular foundation, though both keyboards support hot-swapping and programmability.

GamingKeychron Q1 HE
  • •The Keychron Q1 HE features adjustable actuation points (0.2-3.8mm) and dynamic rapid trigger for competitive gaming.
  • •It offers a 1000Hz polling rate in both wired and 2.4GHz modes, while the TH40's Bluetooth mode is limited to 125Hz.
  • •The Q1 HE's magnetic switches and TMR sensors are designed for ultra-low latency and precise input.
OfficeKeychron Q1 HE
  • •The Keychron Q1 HE's 75% layout includes dedicated arrow keys, function row, and navigation keys, reducing reliance on layers for common office tasks.
  • •It includes multimedia keys and a knob support, according to its listed features.
  • •Its all-aluminum body and heavier weight provide a more stable, premium feel on a desk.
ProgrammingKeychron Q1 HE
  • •The Keychron Q1 HE's 75% layout provides direct access to symbols, brackets, and arrow keys without layer switching.
  • •Both support QMK/VIA for deep customization, but the Q1 HE's larger layout offers more physical keys for macros.
  • •The manufacturer states the Q1 HE's QMK firmware offers flexibility for developers.
TravelEpomaker TH40
  • •The Epomaker TH40 is significantly smaller (258x97mm) and lighter (500g) than the Q1 HE (328x145mm, 4000g).
  • •Its 40% layout and lightweight ABS case are designed for portability.
  • •It maintains tri-mode wireless connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired) despite its tiny size.
ModdingKeychron Q1 HE
  • •The Keychron Q1 HE features a hot-swappable PCB for magnetic switches, a double-gasket design, screw-in PCB stabilizers, and a removable acoustic pad.
  • •Its all-aluminum case and aluminum/polycarbonate plate options provide a premium modding base.
  • •While the TH40 is also hot-swappable and gasket-mounted, the Q1 HE's construction and component list indicate a higher degree of modularity.
Content CreationKeychron Q1 HE
  • •The Keychron Q1 HE's knob support and dedicated multimedia keys, as listed in its features, are advantageous for editing software.
  • •Its larger layout allows for more dedicated shortcut keys without complex layer programming.
  • •The premium aluminum build and sound profile may be preferable for streamers or video creators.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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