Compare Keychron C1 vs K8 Pro Differences Side by Side

Both the Keychron C1 and K8 Pro are tenkeyless (80%) mechanical keyboards from the same brand, but they target different users. The C1 is a straightforward, wired-only keyboard that offers an affordable entry point with a hot-swappable option for some versions. The K8 Pro, on the other hand, is a premium wireless board with Bluetooth 5.1, QMK and VIA support for remapping keys, an aluminum frame option, and sound-dampening materials. Choosing between them comes down to how much you value wireless freedom and programmability versus a lower price point.

Model
	72	94	Select a keyboard to compare
Rating	4.8 stars (180 reviews)	3.3 stars (108 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 2022 Built with the ANSI, ISO, JIS, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-SW, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-Nordic layout standard Supports QMK firmware Supports VIA configuration Features N-key rollover Includes screw-in stabilizers Has built-in sound dampening Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery Weighs about 1146 g Sized at 35 x 355 x 123 mm Made with a Aluminum, Plastic, ABS case Features PBT, ABS keycaps Offers Yes, Rgb, White, South-face, Rgb South-face, White South-face RGB lighting
Score	Scores Performance: 65.3 Build Quality: 62.7 Productivity: 77.1 Customizability: 76.4 Portability: 58.7	Scores Performance: 81.6 Build Quality: 89.4 Productivity: 94.7 Customizability: 97.3 Portability: 73.1
Name	Name Keychron C1	Name Keychron K8 Pro
Release year	Release year 2020	Release year 2022
Switch Options	Switch Options Linear, Tactile, Clicky	Switch Options Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile	Profile Normal Profile	Profile Normal Profile
Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable
Layout Size	Layout Size 80%	Layout Size 80%
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ANSI	Layout Standard ANSI, ISO, JIS, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-SW, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-Nordic
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 4000 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, White, South-face, White South-face
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material ABS, Plastic	Case Material Aluminum, Plastic, ABS
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material ABS	Keycaps Material PBT, ABS
Dimensions	Dimensions 27 x 130 x 357 mm	Dimensions 35 x 355 x 123 mm
Weight	Weight 685g	Weight 1146g

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Pros and Trade-offs

If you need a capable wired keyboard without extras for a lower cost, the Keychron C1 is a reliable choice that doesn't compromise on basic performance. However, if you value wireless freedom and deep customizability, the Keychron K8 Pro offers more features that justify its higher price. Your final decision should prioritize whether connectivity and programmability are worth the extra investment.

Keychron C1

+Significantly lighter weight (685g) for easier portability.
+Available at a lower starting price point.
+Wired-only 1000Hz polling rate ensures consistent latency-free performance.
+Multiple backlight options including white and RGB versions.

−Wired-only connectivity limits desk layout options.
−No QMK or VIA support for software-level key remapping or macros.
−ABS keycaps may wear down faster than PBT over time.
−Non-backlit version uses opaque ABS keycaps that may show legends poorly without light.

Keychron K8 Pro

+Bluetooth 5.1 wireless connectivity with ability to connect up to 3 devices.
+Full QMK and VIA support for extensive key remapping and macro creation.
+Comes with sound-dampening foam and silicone pad on hot-swap versions for quieter typing.
+Steel plate and screw-in PCB stabilizers provide a stiffer, more stable typing feel.

−At 1146g it is much heavier and less portable.
−Some users report Bluetooth connection inconsistency according to reviews.
−The fully assembled non-hot-swap version lacks the premium switch socket and sound-dampening materials.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K8 Pro takes the lead in most use cases due to its wireless capability, extensive programmability, and refined typing experience. The C1 wins in Gaming and Travel categories where its lighter weight, simpler wired connection, and lower price are advantages. For users who prioritize customization and a clean desk setup, the K8 Pro is the stronger choice, while the C1 appeals to those who need a no-nonsense, budget-friendly keyboard for work or play.

GamingKeychron C1

•Wired-only 1000Hz polling rate eliminates wireless latency concerns.
•At 685g it is significantly lighter for easier desk movement during intense sessions.
•Lacks the weight and complexity of the K8 Pro's aluminum frame and battery.

OfficeKeychron K8 Pro

•Wireless Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity for a cleaner, cable-free desk.
•Includes sound-dampening foam and silicone pad for quieter typing (on hot-swap versions).
•Three adjustable typing angles for ergonomic comfort.

ProgrammingKeychron K8 Pro

•Full QMK and VIA support allows custom keymaps, macros, and shortcuts.
•Steel plate and screw-in PCB stabilizers provide a stable and consistent typing feel.
•OSA profile double-shot PBT keycaps offer durability and oil resistance.

TravelKeychron C1

•At 685g it is considerably lighter than the 1146g K8 Pro.
•Slimmer dimensions (27mm front height) make it easier to pack in a bag.

ModdingKeychron K8 Pro

•Supports QMK and VIA firmware for software-level customization of nearly every function.
•Available as a barebones kit, giving modders full control over switches and keycaps.
•Screw-in PCB stabilizers and sound-dampening materials provide a strong foundation for further mods.

Content CreationKeychron K8 Pro