Compare Keychron C1 vs K1 Pro Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Keychron's entry-level and prosumer tenkeyless models. The choice hinges on whether you prioritize wireless connectivity and firmware customization or a lower upfront cost. Both are hot-swappable and support multiple switch types, making the decision more nuanced than just price.

Model
	72	86	Select a keyboard to compare
Rating	4.8 stars (180 reviews)	5.0 stars (10 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	Released in 2020 Built with the ANSI layout standard Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity Weighs about 685 g Sized at 27 x 130 x 357 mm Made with a ABS, Plastic case Features ABS keycaps Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face, White North-face RGB lighting	Released in 2023 Features a low-profile design Built with the ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, JIS, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW, ANSI layout standard Supports QMK firmware Supports VIA configuration Features N-key rollover Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity Equipped with a 2000 mAh battery Weighs about 580 g Sized at 8 x 346 x 119 mm Made with a Aluminum, Plastic, ABS case Features ABS, PBT keycaps Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face, White, White North-face RGB lighting
Score	Scores Performance: 65.4 Build Quality: 63 Productivity: 77.4 Customizability: 76.7 Portability: 58.7	Scores Performance: 81.3 Build Quality: 80.1 Productivity: 80 Customizability: 89.3 Portability: 73
Name	Name Keychron C1	Name Keychron K1 Pro
Release year	Release year 2020	Release year 2023
Switch Options	Switch Options Linear, Tactile, Clicky	Switch Options Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile	Profile Normal Profile	Profile Low Profile
Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable
Layout Size	Layout Size 80%	Layout Size 80%
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ANSI	Layout Standard ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, JIS, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW, ANSI
Layout Ergonomics	Layout Ergonomics Normal	Layout Ergonomics Normal
Knob Support	Knob Support	Knob Support
Display Support	Display Support	Display Support
Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support
Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys
USB-C	USB-C	USB-C
USB passthrough	USB passthrough	USB passthrough
Connection	Connection Wired, Wired only	Connection Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate	Polling Rate 1000 Hz	Polling Rate 1000 Hz
Battery capacity	Battery capacity -	Battery capacity 2000 mAh
Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support
QMK Support	QMK Support	QMK Support
VIA Support	VIA Support	VIA Support
VIAL Support	VIAL Support	VIAL Support
N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover
Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger
Mount Style	Mount Style Tray Mount	Mount Style Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers
Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening
Backlight	Backlight Rgb, White, North-face	Backlight Rgb, North-face, White
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material ABS, Plastic	Case Material Aluminum, Plastic, ABS
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material ABS	Keycaps Material ABS, PBT
Dimensions	Dimensions 27 x 130 x 357 mm	Dimensions 8 x 346 x 119 mm
Weight	Weight 685g	Weight 580g

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Pros and Trade-offs

Your budget and need for wireless operation are the deciding factors. The Keychron K1 Pro is worth the higher investment for its Bluetooth versatility, superior programmability, and premium low-profile build. If you only need a basic, reliable wired keyboard for a desk that never moves, the Keychron C1 delivers core hot-swap functionality at a more accessible price.

Keychron C1

+Lower cost entry point into a hot-swappable mechanical keyboard.
+Includes a switch puller and keycap puller in the box for the hot-swap version.
+Offers non-backlight, white backlight, and RGB backlight versions.
+Compatible with a wide range of standard MX-style 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
+Simple plug-and-play wired operation with a USB-C connection.

−Wired-only connectivity limits desk setup flexibility.
−Uses ABS keycaps which may develop shine over time.
−Lacks advanced programmability software like QMK or VIA.
−Heavier and taller than the K1 Pro.

Keychron K1 Pro

+Bluetooth 5.1 wireless and USB-C wired connectivity with multi-device pairing.
+Native support for QMK and VIA firmware for extensive key remapping.
+Low-profile design with an aluminum frame and double-shot PBT keycaps.
+Includes adjustable typing angle feet for ergonomics.
+Hot-swappable for Gateron low-profile mechanical switches.

−Hot-swap compatibility is limited to Gateron low-profile switches only.
−Higher price point than the C1.
−Lower 90 Hz polling rate in wireless mode compared to its wired 1000 Hz.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron K1 Pro is the more versatile choice, winning in five of six categories. Its advantages in wireless connectivity, programmability, and portability make it stronger for office, programming, and travel. The C1 remains a competent, cost-effective option for users who only need a reliable wired keyboard. For content creation involving media controls and lighting, both are equally capable.

GamingKeychron K1 Pro

•The K1 Pro offers a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode, matching the C1.
•Its listing mentions a 90 Hz polling rate in wireless mode for flexibility.
•The K1 Pro's aluminum frame may provide a more stable typing platform.

OfficeKeychron K1 Pro

•Bluetooth connectivity allows pairing with up to three devices, according to its vendor page.
•The low-profile design and 3° typing angle are listed as ergonomic features.
•It includes keycaps for both macOS and Windows for easy OS switching.

ProgrammingKeychron K1 Pro

•Native QMK and VIA support allows for deep key remapping and macro programming.
•The vendor description states compatibility with the Keychron Launcher web app for customization.
•Low-profile switches and keycaps may reduce finger travel during long sessions.

TravelKeychron K1 Pro

•It is lighter (580g vs 685g) and thinner (8mm height vs 27mm) than the C1.
•Wireless Bluetooth operation removes the need for a cable on the go.
•The built-in 2000mAh battery enables cordless use.

ModdingKeychron K1 Pro

•QMK/VIA firmware support offers extensive software customization beyond basic hot-swap.
•It features low-profile double-shot PBT keycaps, which are more durable than the C1's ABS.
•The vendor page mentions redesigned stabilizers for improved feel on larger keys.

Content CreationTie

•Both have a 1000 Hz polling rate for responsive input.
•Both include multimedia keys for quick media control.
•The C1 offers 18 RGB modes, while the K1 Pro offers over 22, providing ample lighting customization for stream setups.