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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.

-29% off
70
Keychron C1 Wired Mechanical Keyboard (US ANSI Layout)
86
Keychron K1 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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4.8 (180)
5.0 (10)
  • Released in 2020
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear switch options
  • 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
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • 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
Scores
  • Performance: 62.2
  • Build Quality: 60.2
  • Productivity: 74.8
  • Customizability: 73.6
  • Portability: 58
Scores
  • Performance: 81.2
  • Build Quality: 79.8
  • Productivity: 79.8
  • Customizability: 89.2
  • Portability: 73
Name
Keychron C1
Name
Keychron K1 Pro
Release year
2020
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
80%
Layout Size
80%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, JIS, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW, 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
Wired, Wired only
Connection
Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
-
Battery capacity
2000 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
Tray Mount
Mount Style
Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, North-face, White
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Plastic
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic, ABS,
Keycaps Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Dimensions
27 x 130 x 357 mm
Dimensions
8 x 346 x 119 mm
Weight
685g
Weight
580g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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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.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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