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Compare Keychron 81 Pro vs Q1 Max Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers choosing between two high-end 75% wireless keyboards from Keychron. Both feature aluminum cases, PBT keycaps, QMK/VIA support, and a 4000mAh battery, making the decision genuinely difficult. The Keychron Q1 Max is the more premium option with a 2.4 GHz wireless mode for gaming and layered acoustic foams, while the Keychron 81 Pro is a OnePlus collaboration that is simpler to order pre-built and has a lower price point. The key differentiator is whether you need the ultra-low latency of 2.4 GHz for gaming or if wired/Bluetooth connectivity and a more affordable price are sufficient.

87
Keychron x OnePlus 81 Pro (ANSI)
98
Keychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard

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0.0 (0)
3.9 (95)
  • Has Clicky switch options
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Weighs about 1887 g
  • Sized at 47 x 338 x 151 mm
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-CH, JIS layout standard
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Weighs about 1724 g
  • Sized at 23 x 145 x 328 mm
Scores
  • Performance: 73.4
  • Build Quality: 83.7
  • Productivity: 92.6
  • Customizability: 92.9
  • Portability: 83
Scores
  • Performance: 82
  • Build Quality: 89
  • Productivity: 96.9
  • Customizability: 99.5
  • Portability: 81.3
Name
Keychron 81 Pro
Name
Keychron Q1 Max
Release year
2023
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Clicky
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-CH, JIS
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, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
4000 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
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
47 x 338 x 151 mm
Dimensions
23 x 145 x 328 mm
Weight
1887g
Weight
1724g
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Pros and Trade-offs

For most users, the Keychron Q1 Max is the superior keyboard thanks to its 2.4 GHz connectivity and advanced sound treatment, justifying its higher price. The Keychron 81 Pro is a solid alternative for buyers who prioritize a lower cost, do not need 2.4 GHz for gaming, and are happy with a ready-to-type experience right out of the box. Ultimately, your choice depends on whether you value the ultra-low latency and acoustic ceiling of the Q1 Max or the more budget-friendly simplicity of the 81 Pro.

Keychron 81 Pro

  • +Supports Bluetooth 5.1 for easy wireless connection to phones, tablets, and computers.
  • +Competitive price point compared to the Q1 Max, offering a solid feature set for a lower starting cost.
  • +Includes a double-gasket design with a polycarbonate plate as confirmed by the vendor, providing a cushioned typing feel.
  • +Features an adjustable foot bar for multiple typing angles, as noted in the vendor description.
  • +Includes a clear, programmable knob for quick access to volume or other functions.
  • −Uses Bluetooth 5.1 and wired-only connectivity, lacking a low-latency 2.4 GHz wireless option for gaming.
  • −Only available pre-built with specific Clicky switches, limiting initial switch choice compared to the Q1 Max.
  • −Heavier than the Q1 Max at 1887g, making it a bit less portable.

Keychron Q1 Max

  • +Features both 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth 5.1 wireless connectivity, providing low-latency (1000 Hz) and flexible options.
  • +Available as a barebones kit or fully assembled, offering maximum flexibility for custom builds.
  • +Includes enhanced acoustic foams (IXPE, PET, Latex) for a premium and refined typing sound.
  • +Equipped with screw-in PCB stabilizers for more stable and less wobbly performance on large keys.
  • +Offered in multiple layout standards like ANSI and ISO variants for international users.
  • −Higher starting price than the 81 Pro, placing it in a more premium budget category.
  • −Reviewers note the keyboard is quite tall, suggesting a wrist rest may be necessary for comfortable use.
  • −Slightly lighter but likely still considered heavy for travel at 1724g.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Q1 Max is the stronger choice for most demanding use cases, including gaming, programming, content creation, and modding, due to its versatile connectivity and superior acoustic engineering. The 81 Pro and Q1 Max tie for office work as both offer excellent battery and layout support. The 81 Pro gains a slight edge in travel scenarios, being lighter and marginally more affordable. Overall, the Q1 Max's 2.4 GHz support and layered construction make it the more versatile performer across different environments.

GamingKeychron Q1 Max
  • •The Q1 Max features a 2.4 GHz wireless connection with a 1000 Hz polling rate, ideal for low-latency gaming.
  • •The Q1 Max supports N-Key Rollover over wireless and wired connections for reliable key presses.
  • •The vendor description confirms the 1000 Hz polling rate on 2.4 GHz and wired modes for the Q1 Max.
OfficeTie
  • •Both have a 75% layout, PBT keycaps for durability, and sound dampening features for a quieter office environment.
  • •Both offer Bluetooth 5.1, Mac and Windows support, and a 4000mAh battery for all-day work.
  • •The 81 Pro has an adjustable foot bar for typing angles, while the Q1 Max has a fixed 5 degree typing angle.
ProgrammingKeychron Q1 Max
  • •The Q1 Max is praised in vendor reviews for its typing feel, ideal for long coding sessions.
  • •The Q1 Max's multiple layers of acoustic foam (IXPE, PET, Latex) enhance the typing sound quality.
  • •The Q1 Max offers more switch options (Linear, Tactile, Clicky) compared to the 81 Pro's Clicky option.
  • •The Q1 Max includes screw-in PCB stabilizers for a more stable feel on large keys.
TravelKeychron 81 Pro
  • •The 81 Pro's vendor page describes it as supporting Bluetooth 5.1, offering cable-free connectivity for on-the-go use.
  • •The 81 Pro is lighter at 1887g compared to the Q1 Max's 1724g, making it slightly easier to carry.
  • •The 81 Pro has a lower entry price, making it a more cost-effective choice if the keyboard faces travel risks.
ModdingKeychron Q1 Max
  • •The Q1 Max is available as a barebones kit, allowing users to choose their own switches and keycaps.
  • •The Q1 Max features screw-in stabilizers, a common starting point for custom stabilizer upgrades.
  • •The Q1 Max uses multiple layers of acoustic foam, providing a deeper foundation for sound tuning.
  • •The Q1 Max's firmware is based on QMK and VIA, offering extensive customization through a web configurator.
Content CreationKeychron Q1 Max
  • •The Q1 Max's 2.4 GHz connection provides a more stable and responsive wireless experience for editing timelines.
  • •The Q1 Max includes a programmable knob, useful for timeline scrubbing or volume control.
  • •The Q1 Max offers multiple switch types (Linear, Tactile, Clicky) to match an editor's preference for sound and feel.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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