Compare Keychron J1 vs S1 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers choosing between two low-profile 75% keyboards from Keychron that share a similar layout but diverge sharply in materials and connectivity. The J1 brings Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless with a lightweight ABS frame, while the S1 offers a full CNC aluminum body with a steel plate and wired-only operation. The decision is hard because both support QMK/VIA customization and hot-swappable switches, but each sacrifices a key feature the other provides.

Model
	82	86	Select a keyboard to compare
Rating	3.0 stars (5 reviews)	4.8 stars (18 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	Released in 2025 Has built-in sound dampening Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity Equipped with a 2000 mAh battery Weighs about 661 g Sized at 23 x 327 x 144 mm Made with a ABS case Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face, White North-face RGB lighting	Released in 2022 Provides dedicated media keys Uses a Tray Mount mounting style Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity Weighs about 960 g Sized at 8 x 118 x 310 mm Made with a Aluminum case Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
Score	Scores Performance: 81.7 Build Quality: 71.1 Productivity: 89 Customizability: 86.6 Portability: 79.7	Scores Performance: 82.6 Build Quality: 82.1 Productivity: 80.8 Customizability: 90.4 Portability: 65.1
Name	Name Keychron J1	Name Keychron S1
Release year	Release year 2025	Release year 2022
Switch Options	Switch Options Linear, Tactile, Clicky	Switch Options Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile	Profile Low Profile	Profile Low Profile
Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable
Layout Size	Layout Size 75%	Layout Size 75%
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ANSI	Layout Standard 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 Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless	Connection Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate	Polling Rate 1000 Hz	Polling Rate 1000 Hz
Battery capacity	Battery capacity 2000 mAh	Battery capacity -
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 -	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
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material ABS	Case Material Aluminum
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material PBT	Keycaps Material PBT
Dimensions	Dimensions 23 x 327 x 144 mm	Dimensions 8 x 118 x 310 mm
Weight	Weight 661g	Weight 960g

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Pros and Trade-offs

The Keychron J1 is the clear choice for users who need wireless capability and portability, offering Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz connections in a lighter package. The Keychron S1 is better suited for those who prioritize build quality and a premium typing feel, with its all-aluminum body and higher user satisfaction. Your decision should hinge on whether wireless freedom or a solid metal chassis matters more for your daily use.

Keychron J1

+Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, and wired connections for flexible device pairing
+Includes IXPE acoustic foam and latex foam for a quieter typing experience
+Built-in receiver compartment prevents losing the 2.4 GHz dongle
+Offers per-key and mix RGB lighting zones for personalized backlight effects
+Weighs 661g, making it significantly lighter and more travel-friendly

−ABS case material feels less premium compared to the S1's aluminum construction
−User reviews report Bluetooth connectivity drops and rapid battery drain (2-3 days per charge)
−Low-profile hot-swap is limited to Gateron or Keychron low-profile mechanical switches only

Keychron S1

+Full CNC machined aluminum body and steel plate offer a solid, premium build
+Weighs 960g, providing a stable typing platform that resists sliding
+Adjustable feet allow two typing angles (3° and 6°) for ergonomic comfort
+Higher customer review rating (4.8/5 from 18 reviews) indicates strong user satisfaction
+Stems and stabilizers are aligned for compatibility with low profile, XDA, and DSA keycaps

−Wired-only connectivity limits desk cable management and portability
−Non-shine-through PBT keycaps make the RGB backlight less visible in low light
−Some user reviews mention quality control issues with stabilizer lubrication and sticky keys

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The J1 takes the lead in Gaming, Office, Travel, and Content Creation primarily due to its wireless functionality, lighter weight, and LKP feature. The S1 wins in Modding thanks to its all-metal body and higher customizability score, while Programming ends in a tie because both keyboards offer QMK/VIA support and the same layout. Overall, the J1 is the more versatile choice for users who value mobility and multi-device workflows, while the S1 appeals to those who want a premium typing foundation for customization.

GamingKeychron J1

•Supports 2.4 GHz wireless with a 1000 Hz polling rate for low-latency gaming
•Includes Last Key Priority (LKP) for smoother directional changes in competitive titles
•Lighter weight at 661g makes it easier to reposition during LAN or desk setups

OfficeKeychron J1

•Wireless connectivity (Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz) offers desk clutter reduction and device switching
•Built-in receiver compartment keeps the dongle safe and accessible
•Includes both Mac and Windows keycaps with separate keymaps for each OS

ProgrammingTie

•Both support QMK and VIA for full key remapping and macro creation
•Both feature a 75% layout with 82 keys, offering dedicated function rows and arrow keys
•Both include low-profile PBT keycaps with oil resistance for long coding sessions

TravelKeychron J1

•Weighs 661g versus 960g for the S1, making it more portable
•Supports wireless modes (Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz) so no cable is needed on the go
•Compact dimensions (23 x 327 x 144 mm) are easier to pack than the S1's 8 x 118 x 310 mm profile

ModdingKeychron S1

•Full CNC aluminum body and steel plate provide a sturdier foundation for modifications
•Hot-swappable PCB supports Gateron low profile MX switches, and the straight-line stem design allows compatibility with XDA and DSA keycaps
•Higher customizability score (89.6 vs 86.4) indicates better modding potential in its price tier

Content CreationKeychron J1

•Bluetooth 5.2 can connect to three devices, allowing easy switching between a computer, tablet, and phone
•Wireless freedom reduces cable interference in a video or audio setup
•12 multimedia keys offer quick access to controls for editing and playback