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Compare HEXCORE W800 vs Keychron V3 Max Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a feature-rich, customizable TKL and a compact, portable 75% keyboard. The Keychron V3 Max offers extensive modding support and a robust feature set, while the HEXCORE W800 prioritizes a smaller footprint. The decision is difficult because both offer triple-mode wireless connectivity and hot-swappable sockets, making the choice hinge on layout preference and how much you value advanced firmware and build design.

HEXCORE W800 Mechanical Keyboard
94
Keychron V3 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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0.0 (0)
4.3 (14)
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Equipped with a 2000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 800 g
  • Sized at 40 x 284 x 97 mm
  • Made with a PBT case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 895 g
  • Sized at 24 x 149 x 368 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Plastic case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 49.5
  • Build Quality: 40.9
  • Productivity: 68
  • Customizability: 63.8
  • Portability: 76.5
Scores
  • Performance: 83.6
  • Build Quality: 86.4
  • Productivity: 97.8
  • Customizability: 99.9
  • Portability: 73.3
Name
HEXCORE W800
Name
Keychron V3 Max
Release year
2023
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
80%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK, ISO, ANSI
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, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
2000 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
-
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
PBT
Case Material
ABS, Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Dimensions
40 x 284 x 97 mm
Dimensions
24 x 149 x 368 mm
Weight
800g
Weight
895g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your priority should guide your choice. If you value a compact, travel-friendly keyboard with a straightforward feature set, the HEXCORE W800 is suitable. For virtually everyone else, especially enthusiasts, programmers, and users who want deep hardware and software customization, the Keychron V3 Max is the superior and more future-proof investment, justifying its potentially higher cost with a vastly more capable platform.

HEXCORE W800

  • +More compact 75% layout saves desk space and is easier to transport.
  • +Lighter weight at 800 grams.
  • +Includes dynamic RGB side light bars according to its vendor description.
  • +Offers Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity.

  • Smaller 2000mAh battery capacity.
  • Lacks advanced customization firmware like QMK/VIA.
  • Uses PCB satellite stabilizers instead of screw-in stabilizers.
  • No confirmed polling rate specification for gaming performance.

Keychron V3 Max

  • +Extensive customizability with QMK and VIA open-source firmware support.
  • +Gasket mount design with polycarbonate plate and sound-absorbing foam for a tuned typing feel.
  • +Large 4000mAh battery for extended wireless use.
  • +Supports a wide variety of ISO and ANSI layouts and is available as a barebones kit.

  • Larger and heavier TKL form factor is less portable.
  • South-facing RGB LEDs are not shine-through with the included PBT keycaps.
  • The ABS plastic case may feel less premium than metal alternatives to some users.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron V3 Max is the more versatile choice, winning in gaming, office, programming, modding, and content creation due to its superior customization, layout options, and specified performance features. The HEXCORE W800's primary advantage is in travel, where its smaller 75% size and lower weight make it the more portable keyboard. For users who need a compact daily driver that still offers wireless connectivity, the W800 remains a valid option, but the V3 Max dominates in scenarios demanding flexibility and a premium feature set.

GamingKeychron V3 Max
  • The Keychron V3 Max has a specified 1000 Hz polling rate in its 2.4 GHz and wired modes.
  • Its gasket mount and sound-absorbing foam, as described by Keychron, may offer a more consistent typing feel during long sessions.
  • It includes N-key rollover for both wireless and wired modes.
OfficeKeychron V3 Max
  • The Keychron V3 Max supports a wide range of ISO layouts (UK, German, Nordic, etc.), crucial for international users.
  • It includes a system toggle and dedicated keycaps for both macOS and Windows.
  • The 4000mAh battery offers a longer potential wireless working time.
ProgrammingKeychron V3 Max
  • Full QMK and VIA support on the V3 Max allows for deep key remapping and macro programming.
  • The TKL layout retains the function row and navigation cluster, which are often used in IDEs.
  • Screw-in PCB stabilizers, as listed, can contribute to a more stable feel on large keys.
TravelHEXCORE W800
  • The HEXCORE W800 has a more compact 75% form factor (284mm length vs. 368mm).
  • It is lighter at 800g compared to the V3 Max's 895g.
  • Its smaller dimensions make it easier to fit in a bag.
ModdingKeychron V3 Max
  • The Keychron V3 Max has a gasket mount design and a polycarbonate plate, which are popular modding platforms.
  • It offers a barebones kit option for building from scratch.
  • Support for both 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches and third-party screw-in stabilizers provides broad compatibility.
Content CreationKeychron V3 Max
  • The V3 Max offers knob support for potential media control, and its vendor page mentions multimedia keys.
  • QMK/VIA support allows for creating complex macros for editing software.
  • The dedicated Mac/Win keycaps and system toggle simplify switching between creative suites on different operating systems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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