Keychron C1 vs Lemokey X1
Choose the Lemokey X1 for its deep QMK/VIA programming, or pick the C1 for its wider RGB and switch options.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Keychron C1
Hot-swappable
- Lighter weight at 685g.
- Offers multiple backlight options: RGB, White Backlight, and Non-Backlit.
- Includes a switch puller for hot-swappable versions.
- Lacks QMK or VIA software support, limiting key remapping.
- Does not have built-in sound dampening foam.
- Uses plate-mounted stabilizers rather than screw-in ones.
Get the
Keychron Lemokey X1
QMK
- Full QMK and VIA support for complete key customization.
- Includes sound dampening acoustic foam and case foam.
- Equipped with pre-lubed mechanical switches for a smoother feel.
- Slightly heavier at 837g.
- Only offers a red backlight with limited lighting effects.
- Limited to Keychron mechanical switch options.
The primary differentiator is software programmability. The Lemokey X1 is the better choice if you need deep key customization with QMK/VIA, or prefer a more feature-rich build with sound dampening. The Keychron C1 is for those who want more out-of-the-box choices in backlighting and switches at a lighter weight. Your decision should be guided by whether you prioritize software control or hardware options.
The differences that matter
Skip the 40-row spec sheet. These are the specs that change how each board feels, sounds, and fits your desk.
Keychron C1
Keychron Lemokey X1
Hot-swappable
Yes
No
Weight
685 g
837 g
QMK
No
Yes
VIA
No
Yes
Sound dampening
No
Yes
- Keychron C1
- Keychron Lemokey X1
- Performance
- 6672
- Build quality
- 6380
- Productivity
- 7793
- Customizability
- 7679
- Portability
- 5957
- Layout size: 80%
- Connection: Wired
- Max polling rate: 1,000 Hz
- Case material: ABS, Plastic
- Switch options: Clicky, Linear, Tactile
- Mount style: Tray Mount
What will you mostly use it for?
The Keychron C1 and Lemokey X1 are similar, but the X1 wins in technical use cases. The X1 took the lead for Gaming, Programming, Modding, and Content Creation due to its QMK/VIA support, NKRO, and sound dampening features. The C1 claimed the win only for Travel due to its lighter weight. For Office use, the two keyboards are a tie. Overall, the X1 is the more technically advanced board.
Pick the Keychron Lemokey X1
- Features a 1000 Hz polling rate with a high-performance ARM Cortex-M4 MCU for competitive gaming.
- Equipped with N-Key Rollover (NKRO) and advanced anti-ghosting technology.
- Includes sound dampening and screw-in stabilizers for a more stable experience.
What owners say
Ratings and quotes collected from verified store reviews, including the critical ones.
Keychron C1
180 owner reviews
“This is my first mechanical keyboard. It is a fantastic keyboard and a fantastic typing experience. It seems extremely well built as well. Highly recommended.”
Keychron Lemokey X1
No owner reviews collected yet.
Keychron C1 vs Lemokey X1 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
11 of 25 specs differ
Keychron C1
Keychron Lemokey X1
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Screw-in stabilizers
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Media keys
Connection
Max polling rate
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Typing angle
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
Compare prices
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Keychron C1 vs Lemokey X1: your questions
No, the Keychron C1 does not support QMK or VIA software. Users have noted the lack of VIA support as a limitation, meaning custom keymaps or macros are not possible without third-party software like Karabiner Elements (macOS only).
Yes, the Lemokey X1 is fully programmable thanks to its QMK and VIA support. The vendor description states it allows for key remapping, macros, shortcuts, and backlight effects through open-source firmware, and it can be customized using a web launcher.
The Lemokey X1 is slightly more suited for gaming due to its advanced anti-ghosting technology and N-Key Rollover (NKRO). However, both keyboards have a 1000 Hz polling rate, making both viable options.
Both keyboards are listed as having hot-swappable options. The C1 is available with Gateron G Pro (Hot-swappable) or Keychron Mechanical (Hot-swappable) versions. The Lemokey X1 also includes hot-swappable key switches.
The Keychron C1 is lighter at about 685g, while the Lemokey X1 is heavier at 837g ± 10g. The C1's lighter weight makes it a slightly better option for travel if you are carrying it in a bag.
The Keychron C1 is available in multiple versions: Non-Backlight (Retro Color), White Backlight, and RGB Backlight. The vendor description mentions the RGB version features more than 15 types of RGB lighting effects.
The Lemokey X1 only offers a red backlight. The vendor description indicates it has over 14 types of red lighting effects, including flashing, breathing, and static modes, with north-facing LEDs.
Yes, the Lemokey X1 features sound dampening foam and case foam as part of an acoustic foam mod. The vendor notes this reduces acoustic resonance and noise for a quieter experience.
Yes, both the Keychron C1 and Lemokey X1 offer Mac/Win support. The C1 vendor page mentions included keycaps for both Windows and macOS, and the X1 is listed as compatible with macOS and Windows.
The Lemokey X1 comes with screw-in stabilizers, which are generally considered a premium upgrade for stability and sound. The Keychron C1 uses plate-mounted stabilizers, which are standard at its price point.
Not sold on either?
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