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Compare Keychron K1 Max vs K13 Pro Differences Side by Side

This comparison helps buyers decide between two of Keychron's low-profile 80% keyboards, the K1 Max and the K13 Pro. Both offer a slim profile, hot-swappable switches, and QMK support, making the choice tricky. The core difference lies in their layout and wireless capabilities. The K1 Max includes a 2.4 GHz connection for lower latency gaming, while the K13 Pro trades that for a dedicated numpad in its compact frame. This guide will help you weigh the importance of a numpad against the need for a dedicated high-speed wireless mode.

85
Keychron K1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
87
Keychron K13 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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4.5 (14)
4.5 (8)
  • Released in 2024
  • Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a PCB Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 608 g
  • Sized at 24 x 346 x 119 mm
  • 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 2023
  • Built with the ISO, JIS, ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK layout standard
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 2000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 580 g
  • Sized at 8 x 346 x 119 mm
  • Features ABS, PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face, White North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 80.8
  • Build Quality: 79.7
  • Productivity: 89.1
  • Customizability: 90.2
  • Portability: 76.9
Scores
  • Performance: 81
  • Build Quality: 81.4
  • Productivity: 79.9
  • Customizability: 89.2
  • Portability: 73
Name
Keychron K1 Max
Name
Keychron K13 Pro
Release year
2024
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, 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
ISO, JIS, ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK
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
1000 Hz
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
ABS, Aluminum, Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Dimensions
24 x 346 x 119 mm
Dimensions
8 x 346 x 119 mm
Weight
608g
Weight
580g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your decision hinges on your need for a numpad versus a faster wireless connection. If you require a dedicated numpad for office work, finance, or data entry, the Keychron K13 Pro is the obvious choice. If your priority is low-latency wireless gaming and you prefer a more compact TKL layout, the Keychron K1 Max is the stronger option. Both offer excellent customization through QMK and VIA, ensuring either can be tailored to your workflow.

Keychron K1 Max

  • +Has a 2.4 GHz wireless connection with a 1000 Hz polling rate for gaming.
  • +Includes advanced acoustic foam (IXPE and latex) for a quieter typing sound.
  • +Features a larger 4000mAh battery for extended wireless use.
  • +Uses a PCB and plate mount for a potentially more stable key feel.
  • +Equipped with a polycarbonate plate material.
  • −TKL layout lacks a dedicated numpad.
  • −Only supports low-profile switches from Gateron or Keychron.
  • −Is heavier at 608 grams compared to the K13 Pro.

Keychron K13 Pro

  • +Features a dedicated numpad in an 80% layout, ideal for number-heavy tasks.
  • +Uses a tray mount system, which can offer a consistent typing feel.
  • +Offers a wide range of ISO layout options including UK, German, and Nordic.
  • +A more affordable option compared to the K1 Max.
  • −Lacks a 2.4 GHz wireless connection, only offering Bluetooth and wired.
  • −Has a smaller 2000mAh battery compared to the K1 Max's 4000mAh.
  • −Uses a plastic plate material which may feel less stiff than polycarbonate.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

For gaming, the K1 Max is the clear winner due to its dedicated 2.4 GHz connection and higher polling rate. The K13 Pro takes the lead in office and content creation use cases thanks to its dedicated numpad. For programming, the K1 Max's responsive connection and TKL layout are advantageous. Both keyboards tie for modding potential as they share QMK/VIA support and hot-swappable low-profile switches. The K1 Max is a more travel-friendly choice with its TKL layout and larger battery.

GamingKeychron K1 Max
  • •Supports a 2.4 GHz wireless connection with a 1000 Hz polling rate for lower latency.
  • •Includes interior IXPE acoustic foam and latex foam for a quieter typing experience.
  • •Described as offering peak gaming performance on the fly with its 2.4 GHz connection.
OfficeKeychron K13 Pro
  • •Includes a dedicated numpad, which is useful for data entry and spreadsheet work.
  • •Features a low-profile design that is comfortable for extended typing sessions.
  • •Offers both wired and Bluetooth connectivity for a clean desk setup.
ProgrammingKeychron K1 Max
  • •Faster 2.4 GHz connection is beneficial for a more responsive coding experience.
  • •QMK and VIA support allow for deep customization of layers, macros, and keymaps.
  • •A TKL layout keeps essential navigation keys while freeing up desk space for a mouse.
TravelKeychron K1 Max
  • •Large 4000mAh battery offers potentially longer time between charges.
  • •Slightly lighter at 608g compared to 580g for the K13 Pro, though the difference is minimal.
  • •TKL layout is more compact than a numpad layout, making it easier to fit in a bag.
ModdingTie
  • •Both are hot-swappable and compatible with Gateron low-profile mechanical switches.
  • •Both support QMK and VIA for full firmware and keymap customization.
  • •The choice here is driven by layout preference (TKL vs. numpad) rather than modding potential.
Content CreationKeychron K13 Pro
  • •The dedicated numpad speeds up tasks like entering numerical values in spreadsheets or video editing software.
  • •Wired mode offers a stable connection for video editing or color grading sessions.
  • •Its compact layout with numpad is an efficient tool for creators who need number entry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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