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Compare Redragon HORUS K618 vs Keychron K1 Max Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a value-focused full-size keyboard and a premium, feature-rich TKL model, both in the low-profile category. The decision is difficult because both offer tri-mode connectivity and a slim design, but diverge sharply in build quality, customizability, and price. Your choice hinges on whether you need a dedicated numpad and macro keys or prioritize a compact form factor with high-end modding potential.

HORUS K618 Ultra-slim Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
85
Keychron K1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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4.5 (14)
  • Released in 2021
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Uses a Bottom Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 1900 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 725 g
  • Sized at 17 x 437 x 147 mm
  • Made with a Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a PCB Mount mounting style
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 608 g
  • Sized at 24 x 346 x 119 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Aluminum, Plastic case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, White North-face, Rgb North-face, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 71.7
  • Build Quality: 43.5
  • Productivity: 48.7
  • Customizability: 44.4
  • Portability: 47.5
Scores
  • Performance: 80.8
  • Build Quality: 79.7
  • Productivity: 89.1
  • Customizability: 90.2
  • Portability: 76.9
Name
Redragon HORUS K618
Name
Keychron K1 Max
Release year
2021
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Profile
Low Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
100%
Layout Size
80%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, 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
1900 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
Bottom Mount
Mount Style
PCB Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum, Plastic
Keycaps Material
-
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Dimensions
17 x 437 x 147 mm
Dimensions
24 x 346 x 119 mm
Weight
725g
Weight
608g
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Pros and Trade-offs

If your budget is limited and you require a full-size keyboard with macro keys, the Redragon HORUS K618 delivers core low-profile features. For all other users, especially those who value build quality, typing customization, and a compact form factor, the Keychron K1 Max is worth the higher investment. Its hot-swap capability, premium materials, and software support make it a more future-proof and enjoyable typing instrument.

Redragon HORUS K618

  • +Full-size 100% layout with a dedicated numpad.
  • +Includes 4x5 on-the-fly macro keys and dedicated media controls.
  • +Can connect to up to five devices via tri-mode connectivity.
  • +Vendor claims an ultra-thin 17mm profile and 30-hour battery life.
  • +Generally more affordable than the Keychron K1 Max.
  • −Case is constructed from plastic, with no mention of aluminum or foam dampening.
  • −Switches are not hot-swappable, limiting future customization.
  • −Vendor description does not specify a polling rate for gaming performance.
  • −Heavier and much wider than the TKL Keychron K1 Max.

Keychron K1 Max

  • +Hot-swappable PCB supports easy switch changes with Gateron low-profile switches.
  • +Extensive customization via open-source QMK and VIA firmware support.
  • +Build features an aluminum frame, PBT keycaps, and IXPE/latex sound-dampening foam.
  • +Specifies a 1000 Hz polling rate in 2.4GHz and wired modes.
  • +More portable TKL (80%) layout, lighter weight, and larger 4000mAh battery.
  • −Lacks a dedicated numpad due to its TKL layout.
  • −Premium features come at a higher price point.
  • −Currently only compatible with Gateron/Keychron low-profile mechanical switches, not optical ones.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron K1 Max is the clear choice for programming, travel, and modding due to its compact TKL layout, extensive firmware support, and hot-swap capability. The Redragon HORUS K618 wins for office use and content creation where a full-size layout with a numpad and macro keys is non-negotiable. For gaming, the K1 Max's specified high polling rate and sound-dampened build give it an edge, though the HORUS offers dedicated macro keys.

GamingKeychron K1 Max
  • •The Keychron K1 Max lists a 1000 Hz polling rate for its 2.4GHz and wired modes, which can benefit responsiveness.
  • •Its listed sound dampening with IXPE and latex foam may provide a more consistent, less hollow typing sound.
  • •The Redragon HORUS K618 offers dedicated macro keys, but its vendor description does not specify a polling rate.
OfficeRedragon HORUS K618
  • •The Redragon HORUS K618 has a full 100% layout with a dedicated numpad, which is often essential for data entry.
  • •It can connect to up to five devices, as stated in its vendor description, facilitating multi-device workflows.
  • •Its vendor page claims a 30-hour battery life, though the Keychron K1 Max has a larger 4000mAh battery.
ProgrammingKeychron K1 Max
  • •The Keychron K1 Max supports QMK and VIA firmware for deep, open-source key remapping and macro programming.
  • •Its TKL layout saves desk space while retaining essential navigation keys.
  • •It includes PBT keycaps, which are more resistant to shine over long typing sessions.
TravelKeychron K1 Max
  • •The Keychron K1 Max is significantly more compact (346mm wide) and lighter (608g) than the full-size HORUS K618 (437mm wide, 725g).
  • •It has a larger 4000mAh battery, which may offer longer wireless use between charges.
  • •Its case material includes aluminum, which may contribute to a more rigid, travel-resistant build.
ModdingKeychron K1 Max
  • •The Keychron K1 Max is hot-swappable, allowing easy switch changes without soldering.
  • •It supports QMK/VIA for extensive firmware customization.
  • •Its build includes multiple foam layers (IXPE and latex) and redesigned stabilizers, providing a solid foundation for acoustic and feel mods.
Content CreationRedragon HORUS K618
  • •The Redragon HORUS K618's full-size layout provides dedicated media control keys and a numpad for timeline scrubbing and numerical input.
  • •It features 4x5 on-the-fly macro keys, useful for assigning complex editing shortcuts.
  • •Its vendor description mentions software for RGB and key remapping, offering some level of workflow customization.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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