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Compare Keychron 81 Pro vs V1 Max Differences Side by Side

This comparison helps buyers choose between two 75% wireless Keychron keyboards from different tiers. The 81 Pro features a full aluminum case and a double gasket design, targeting users seeking a premium tactile feel. The V1 Max offers 2.4 GHz connectivity, a lighter ABS plastic build, and a wider range of layout standards including ISO. The decision hinges on whether you value premium materials or versatile wireless performance and customization flexibility.

87
Keychron x OnePlus 81 Pro (ANSI)
98
Keychron V1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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0.0 (0)
4.3 (32)
  • 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
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-PT, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Weighs about 770 g
  • Sized at 22 x 149 x 329 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Plastic case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 73.4
  • Build Quality: 83.7
  • Productivity: 92.6
  • Customizability: 92.9
  • Portability: 83
Scores
  • Performance: 83.1
  • Build Quality: 86.3
  • Productivity: 97.3
  • Customizability: 99.4
  • Portability: 79.2
Name
Keychron 81 Pro
Name
Keychron V1 Max
Release year
2023
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Clicky
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-PT, 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, 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
ABS, Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Dimensions
47 x 338 x 151 mm
Dimensions
22 x 149 x 329 mm
Weight
1887g
Weight
770g
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Pros and Trade-offs

The Keychron V1 Max is the better choice for most users due to its 2.4 GHz wireless, lighter weight, and barebones customization option at a lower starting price. Choose the Keychron 81 Pro if you prioritize an all-aluminum chassis and a double gasket mount for a premium typing experience on your desk. For gamers, travelers, and modders, the V1 Max offers more flexibility and performance features.

Keychron 81 Pro

  • +Full aluminum case (top and bottom) provides a premium, rigid build.
  • +Double gasket design with PC plate for a softer typing feel.
  • +Large 4000mAh battery for extended wireless use.
  • +Comes in a unique OnePlus-designed Winter Bonfire colorway with red and grey PBT keycaps.
  • +Includes adjustable foot bar for multiple typing angles.
  • −Weighs 1887g, making it less portable than plastic alternatives.
  • −Only available in ANSI layout, limiting options for international users.
  • −No 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity, relies solely on Bluetooth 5.1.
  • −Only comes in a prebuilt configuration with OnePlus-designed tactile switches.

Keychron V1 Max

  • +Offers 2.4 GHz wireless with 1000 Hz polling rate for gaming.
  • +Available in multiple ISO layout variants (DE, UK, Nordic, SW, ES, FR, IT, PT).
  • +Lightweight ABS plastic construction at only 770g.
  • +Sold as both a fully assembled and barebones kit for maximum customization.
  • +Includes screw-in PCB stabilizers for improved big key feel.
  • −ABS plastic case feels less premium compared to aluminum.
  • −Some user reviews report key chatter and connectivity issues after months of use.
  • −Bluetooth polling rate drops to 90 Hz in wireless mode.
  • −Double-shot OSA PBT keycaps are not shine-through, reducing RGB visibility.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The V1 Max is the clear winner for gaming, modding, programming, and travel thanks to its 2.4 GHz wireless, lighter ABS plastic body, barebones option, and multiple layout standards. Both keyboards tie for office and content creation use cases, where sound dampening and programmable VIA features are equally important. The 81 Pro's all-aluminum case and double gasket design make it a compelling choice for users who prioritize desk presence and premium materials over portability.

GamingKeychron V1 Max
  • •Offers both 2.4 GHz wireless and wired 1000 Hz polling rate for low latency gaming.
  • •Supports N-Key Rollover in both wireless and wired modes.
  • •Lighter weight at 770g makes it easier to transport to LAN events.
  • •Available with multiple switch types (tactile, linear, clicky) to suit different gamers.
OfficeTie
  • •Both have south-facing RGB and sound dampening for a quieter office environment.
  • •Both support QMK/VIA for key remapping and productivity macros.
  • •Both include a programmable knob and multimedia keys for workflow control.
  • •Both offer dual-system Mac/Win support with system toggle.
ProgrammingKeychron V1 Max
  • •V1 Max offers multiple layout standards including ISO for European programmers.
  • •Available as a barebones kit for developers who want to choose their own switches and keycaps.
  • •Screw-in PCB stabilizers provide a consistent feel on larger keys like space and enter.
TravelKeychron V1 Max
  • •V1 Max weighs only 770g compared to the 81 Pro's 1887g, making it far more portable.
  • •Thinner profile at 22mm versus 47mm for the 81 Pro.
  • •2.4 GHz dongle offers reliable wireless without needing Bluetooth pairing.
ModdingKeychron V1 Max
  • •Available as a barebones kit (no switches or keycaps) for fully custom builds.
  • •Hot-swappable PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches.
  • •Screw-in PCB stabilizers can be replaced with third-party screw-in stabilizers.
  • •Larger user community with 32 reviews for modding tips and inspiration.
Content CreationTie
  • •Both are fully programmable with QMK and VIA for creative shortcuts and macros.
  • •Both include a programmable knob and multimedia keys for audio and video editing control.
  • •Both offer Mac/Win support and system toggle for cross-platform creators.
  • •Both have south-facing RGB for key backlighting during video calls or low-light work.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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