KeebFinder
Not sure which keyboard to choose? Try the Keyboard Finder now!

Compare Keychron C1 vs Q1 Max Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between an affordable no-frills mechanical keyboard and a high-end wireless model. The Keychron C1 offers a solid wired typing experience at a lower cost, while the Keychron Q1 Max delivers a premium aluminum build, multiple connectivity options, and extensive customization. The decision is hard because both keyboards support hot-swappable switches, but they differ drastically in materials, size, and features.

-29% off
70
Keychron C1 Wired Mechanical Keyboard (US ANSI Layout)
98
Keychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard

Select a keyboard to compare

4.8 (180)
3.9 (95)
  • Released in 2020
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • 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
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-CH, JIS layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1724 g
  • Sized at 23 x 145 x 328 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 62
  • Build Quality: 60.6
  • Productivity: 74.8
  • Customizability: 73.7
  • Portability: 58
Scores
  • Performance: 82
  • Build Quality: 89
  • Productivity: 96.9
  • Customizability: 99.5
  • Portability: 81.3
Name
Keychron C1
Name
Keychron Q1 Max
Release year
2020
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
80%
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
Wired, Wired only
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
-
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
Tray Mount
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Plastic
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
27 x 130 x 357 mm
Dimensions
23 x 145 x 328 mm
Weight
685g
Weight
1724g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

If you need a straightforward, budget-friendly wired keyboard with basic RGB, the Keychron C1 is a solid choice. However, for a premium typing experience with wireless freedom, extensive customization, and superior build quality, the Keychron Q1 Max is the better investment. Your decision should hinge on whether you value affordability or advanced features and premium materials.

Keychron C1

  • +Wired USB-C connectivity for reliable, low-latency performance.
  • +Lightweight design at 685g, easy to transport.
  • +Affordable entry price point with up to 18 types of RGB backlight.
  • +Hot-swappable option available for switch customization without soldering.
  • +Retro color option available for aesthetic variety.
  • −Plastic ABS case and tray mount design may feel less premium.
  • −No wireless connectivity, limited to wired mode only.
  • −No QMK or VIA support, key remapping is not possible.
  • −ABS keycaps are less durable than PBT and may shine over time.

Keychron Q1 Max

  • +Full aluminum CNC-machined body for a premium, sturdy feel.
  • +Triple connectivity: 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth 5.1, and USB-C wired.
  • +Double-shot PBT keycaps for improved durability and oil resistance.
  • +Gasket mount design with PC plate for flexible typing feel and enhanced acoustics.
  • +QMK and VIA support for programmable keys and macros.
  • −Heavier at 1724g, making it less portable.
  • −Higher price point compared to the C1.
  • −Fully assembled version is often backordered and hard to find in stock.
  • −Taller profile may require a wrist rest for prolonged use.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

Across all use cases, the Keychron Q1 Max consistently outperforms the C1 due to its wireless connectivity, premium build, and customization features. For gaming and office tasks, the Q1 Max benefits from higher polling rates and multi-device Bluetooth. In modding and content creation, its gasket mount, acoustic foams, and knob support offer a more refined experience. The C1 remains a strong contender for budget-focused buyers who prioritize a wired-only keyboard with basic RGB.

GamingKeychron Q1 Max
  • •The Q1 Max offers a 2.4 GHz wireless connection with a 1000 Hz polling rate, matching wired performance.
  • •The Q1 Max features South-facing RGB and N-Key Rollover for a better gaming experience.
  • •The C1 is wired only and described as suitable for light gaming use.
OfficeKeychron Q1 Max
  • •The Q1 Max supports Bluetooth 5.1 for wireless connectivity across three devices.
  • •The Q1 Max has a premium aluminum build and sound dampening foams for a quieter typing experience.
  • •The Q1 Max includes KSA or OSA PBT keycaps, which are more durable than ABS.
ProgrammingKeychron Q1 Max
  • •The Q1 Max supports QMK and VIA for full key remapping and macros.
  • •The Q1 Max has a gasket mount design with PC plate for a flexible typing feel.
  • •The Q1 Max comes with a 4000mAh battery and wireless freedom for desk cable management.
TravelKeychron Q1 Max
  • •The Q1 Max supports Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless, eliminating the need for a wired connection.
  • •The Q1 Max has a compact 75% layout that saves space.
  • •However, the Q1 Max is heavier at 1724g compared to the C1's 685g, making it less portable in weight.
ModdingKeychron Q1 Max
  • •The Q1 Max features a gasket mount and double-gasket design for sound and flex customization.
  • •The Q1 Max includes multiple acoustic foam layers (IXPE, PET, Latex) out of the box.
  • •The Q1 Max has screw-in PCB stabilizers and a hot-swappable PCB for easy swap.
Content CreationKeychron Q1 Max
  • •The Q1 Max provides a wireless connection via 2.4 GHz or Bluetooth for a cleaner desk setup.
  • •The Q1 Max includes a knob support option for quick volume or timeline control.
  • •The Q1 Max has premium sound dampening, making it suitable for noise-sensitive recording environments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

97
$44
Keychron V1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron V1
75%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Tray Mount

95
$149
Keychron Q1 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q1 Pro
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

91
$50
Keychron C1 Pro 8K QMK Wired Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron C1 Pro
80%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Tray Mount

94
$194
Lemokey L1 QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Gaming Keyboard
Keychron Lemokey L1
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

91
$44
Keychron V2 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V2
65%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Tray Mount

100
$160
Keychron Q1 HE QMK Wireless Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q1 HE
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

98
$44
Keychron V6 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V6
100%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Tray Mount

96
$149
Keychron Q3 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q3 Pro
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

91
$39
Keychron V4 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V4
60%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Tray Mount

98
$219
Keychron Q3 HE QMK Wireless Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q3 HE
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Metal case,
Gasket Mount