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Compare Keychron K1 Max vs K1 V5 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for users deciding between two generations of Keychron's low-profile TKL keyboards. The choice is difficult because both share a core low-profile design, wireless connectivity, and hot-swappable options, but diverge significantly in firmware support, connectivity options, and price. The K1 Max is a feature-rich successor, while the K1 V5 remains a popular and cost-effective model.

85
Keychron K1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
69
Keychron K1 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (Version 5)

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4.5 (14)
4.8 (1458)
  • 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 2020
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 2000 mAh battery
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic case
  • Features ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face, White North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 80.7
  • Build Quality: 79.8
  • Productivity: 89.2
  • Customizability: 90.2
  • Portability: 76.8
Scores
  • Performance: 63.4
  • Build Quality: 67.4
  • Productivity: 67.3
  • Customizability: 70.2
  • Portability: 73.8
Name
Keychron K1 Max
Name
Keychron K1 V5
Release year
2024
Release year
2020
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
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
Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face, South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum, Plastic
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS
Dimensions
24 x 346 x 119 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
608g
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your budget and need for advanced features dictate the choice here. Invest in the Keychron K1 Max if you require the low-latency 2.4GHz connection for gaming or the deep customization of QMK/VIA firmware. Opt for the Keychron K1 V5 if you want a reliable, low-profile mechanical keyboard with basic hot-swap functionality at a more accessible cost, and can forgo the latest connectivity and programming features.

Keychron K1 Max

  • +Supports QMK and VIA firmware for extensive key remapping and macros.
  • +Includes a 2.4GHz wireless connection with a 1000 Hz polling rate.
  • +Comes with double-shot PBT keycaps and internal IXPE and latex foam for sound.
  • +Offers multiple ISO layout options (UK, DE, Nordic, Swiss).
  • +Larger 4000mAh battery capacity.
  • −Higher price point compared to the K1 V5.
  • −Heavier at 608 grams, which may affect portability.
  • −Hot-swap compatibility is limited to Gateron/Keychron low-profile mechanical switches only.

Keychron K1 V5

  • +More affordable price point.
  • +Offers a hot-swappable option for Keychron low-profile optical switches.
  • +Has a proven track record with a high volume of positive user reviews.
  • +Includes Bluetooth connectivity and is compatible with macOS, Windows, iOS, and Android.
  • −Lacks a 2.4GHz wireless connection and its polling rate is not specified.
  • −Does not support QMK or VIA firmware for advanced customization.
  • −Comes with ABS keycaps instead of PBT.
  • −Smaller 2000mAh battery capacity.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K1 Max is the clear choice for gamers, programmers, modders, and content creators who need its 2.4GHz performance, QMK customization, and enhanced acoustic features. For office use, both are capable, sharing core low-profile benefits. Travelers or budget-focused users may prefer the K1 V5 for its lower cost, assuming its unspecified weight and battery life meet their needs.

GamingKeychron K1 Max
  • •The K1 Max has a dedicated 2.4GHz wireless mode with a 1000 Hz polling rate for low latency.
  • •Its vendor description states the 1000 Hz polling rate makes latency 'hardly noticeable even in competitive games'.
  • •The K1 V5 lacks a specified 2.4GHz connection and its polling rate is not stated for wireless use.
OfficeTie
  • •Both keyboards offer Bluetooth connectivity for multi-device pairing.
  • •Both include keycaps for macOS and Windows layouts.
  • •Both are low-profile designs which the vendor states reduce finger fatigue.
ProgrammingKeychron K1 Max
  • •The K1 Max supports QMK and VIA firmware for deep key remapping and macro programming.
  • •Its vendor description highlights the 'endless possibilities' of the QMK firmware and Keychron Launcher web app.
  • •The K1 V5's description does not mention QMK, VIA, or similar advanced programming support.
TravelKeychron K1 V5
  • •The K1 V5 is listed at a lower price point, reducing risk if damaged during travel.
  • •Both share a similar 80% TKL form factor and low-profile design for portability.
  • •The K1 Max's larger 4000mAh battery may offer longer life but also contributes to a heavier 608g weight compared to the unspecified weight of the V5.
ModdingKeychron K1 Max
  • •The K1 Max features PBT keycaps and includes IXPE and latex foam for sound dampening, according to its vendor page.
  • •It uses a PCB mount style and has a polycarbonate plate, which often allows for more customization than the K1 V5's tray mount.
  • •Both are hot-swappable, but the Max's QMK support allows for firmware-level modifications the V5 lacks.
Content CreationKeychron K1 Max
  • •The K1 Max's QMK support allows for creating complex macros and shortcuts for editing software.
  • •It has 12 multimedia keys, providing quick access to media controls.
  • •The inclusion of multiple ISO layout options (UK, German, Nordic, Swiss) on the Max can be crucial for international users.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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