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Compare Keychron K1 Max vs K1 SE Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Keychron's two 80% low-profile wireless keyboards. The choice is difficult because both share a similar TKL form factor, hot-swap capability, and multi-device Bluetooth. The decision hinges on whether you need the K1 Max's advanced programmability and dedicated gaming wireless, or if the K1 SE's simpler feature set at a potentially lower cost is sufficient.

85
Keychron K1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
66
Keychron K1 SE Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (US ANSI Layout)

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4.5 (14)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a PCB Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 608 g
  • Sized at 24 x 346 x 119 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Aluminum, Plastic case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, White North-face, Rgb North-face, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2021
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 2000 mAh battery
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 80.7
  • Build Quality: 79.8
  • Productivity: 89.2
  • Customizability: 90.2
  • Portability: 76.8
Scores
  • Performance: 66
  • Build Quality: 60.4
  • Productivity: 66.4
  • Customizability: 71.7
  • Portability: 77
Name
Keychron K1 Max
Name
Keychron K1 SE
Release year
2024
Release year
2021
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear
Profile
Low Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
80%
Layout Size
80%
Layout Standard
ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, ISO, ANSI
Layout Standard
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
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
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
PCB Mount
Mount Style
-
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face, South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, White
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum, Plastic
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
24 x 346 x 119 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
608g
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

The Keychron K1 Max is the superior and more versatile keyboard for most buyers, justifying its potentially higher cost with features like 2.4GHz wireless, QMK/VIA, and better build details. Only choose the Keychron K1 SE if you strictly need a basic, low-profile hot-swappable keyboard and do not plan on advanced customization or low-latency wireless gaming.

Keychron K1 Max

  • +Supports QMK and VIA firmware for extensive key remapping and macros.
  • +Features a 2.4 GHz wireless connection with a 1000 Hz polling rate for gaming.
  • +Includes interior IXPE and latex foam for sound dampening and typing comfort.
  • +Larger 4000mAh battery capacity for longer wireless use.
  • +Comes with low-profile double-shot PBT keycaps for durability.
  • −Some user reviews mention occasional double-keypress issues in wireless mode.
  • −The RGB backlighting is less visible with its non-shine-through PBT keycaps, as noted in a review.
  • −Officially compatible only with Gateron or Keychron brand low-profile mechanical switches.

Keychron K1 SE

  • +Offers a hot-swappable version compatible with both low-profile Gateron mechanical and Keychron optical switches.
  • +Features a reinforced aluminum top case with a plastic bottom for a streamlined design.
  • +Includes two levels of adjustable rubber feet for ergonomic typing angles.
  • −Lacks a 2.4 GHz wireless connection, relying solely on Bluetooth and wired modes.
  • −Battery capacity is 2000mAh, half the size of the K1 Max's battery.
  • −Vendor description does not mention support for QMK, VIA, or advanced programming software.
  • −Only available in an ANSI layout, unlike the multi-ISO support of the K1 Max.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron K1 Max is the clear choice for technical and performance-focused users, winning in Gaming, Programming, and Modding due to its 2.4GHz wireless, QMK support, and detailed modding specifications. It also takes the lead for Office and Content Creation thanks to multi-ISO support, extensive programmability, and a larger battery. For basic Travel needs, both keyboards are equally matched. The K1 SE is best considered for users who want the low-profile TKL form factor without needing the advanced features of the Max.

GamingKeychron K1 Max
  • •The K1 Max has a dedicated 2.4 GHz wireless mode with a specified 1000 Hz polling rate for low latency.
  • •Its vendor description highlights a powerful ARM MCU for responsiveness in competitive games.
  • •The K1 SE's description does not mention a 2.4 GHz connection or a high polling rate, focusing only on Bluetooth.
OfficeKeychron K1 Max
  • •The K1 Max supports multiple ISO layouts (ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK) in addition to ANSI, offering better regional keycap compatibility.
  • •It includes interior IXPE and latex foam, which the manufacturer states provides silent keystrokes and enhanced comfort.
  • •It has a larger 4000mAh battery compared to the K1 SE's 2000mAh, potentially requiring less frequent charging.
ProgrammingKeychron K1 Max
  • •The K1 Max supports QMK and VIA firmware for deep, open-source key remapping and macro programming.
  • •It can be customized via the Keychron Launcher web app, as stated in its product description.
  • •The K1 SE's vendor description does not mention QMK, VIA, or any advanced programming software.
TravelTie
  • •Both keyboards share an 80% TKL layout and low-profile design for portability.
  • •Both offer Bluetooth connectivity for use with multiple devices like laptops and tablets.
  • •Their weights and exact dimensions are similar, with no major differentiator for packing.
ModdingKeychron K1 Max
  • •The K1 Max has a confirmed polycarbonate/plastic plate and PBT keycaps, with vendor-listed compatibility for aftermarket Gateron/Keychron low-profile switches.
  • •Its construction includes redesigned stabilizers and multiple foam layers (IXPE, latex) for acoustic tuning.
  • •The K1 SE's plate material is not specified in the provided data, offering less certainty for modders.
Content CreationKeychron K1 Max
  • •Advanced QMK/VIA support on the K1 Max allows for creating complex macros and shortcuts for editing software.
  • •The ability to configure different keymaps for Mac and Windows, as mentioned by the vendor, aids in cross-platform workflows.
  • •The inclusion of 12 multimedia keys on the K1 Max provides quick access to media controls.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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