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Compare Keychron K1 Max vs K3 Max SE Differences Side by Side

This comparison helps buyers decide between two ultra-slim wireless mechanical keyboards from Keychron: the K1 Max with an 80% TKL layout and the K3 Max SE with a 75% layout. The decision is difficult because both offer 1000 Hz polling, QMK and VIA support, and hot-swappable low-profile switches. The main trade-offs involve layout size, case materials, and battery capacity. The K1 Max provides a full row of function keys with a larger battery, while the K3 Max SE features a wooden side frame and a slightly smaller footprint.

86
Keychron K1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
82
Keychron K3 Max SE QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard

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4.5 (14)
5.0 (1)
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Uses a PCB Mount mounting style
  • 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 2026
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Equipped with a 1550 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 566 g
  • Sized at 20 x 319 x 126 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Wood case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face, White North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 82.4
  • Build Quality: 81.6
  • Productivity: 89.4
  • Customizability: 90
  • Portability: 73.7
Scores
  • Performance: 80.2
  • Build Quality: 73.6
  • Productivity: 88.4
  • Customizability: 86.6
  • Portability: 79.8
Name
Keychron K1 Max
Name
Keychron K3 Max SE
Release year
2024
Release year
2026
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
75%
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, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
Battery capacity
1550 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, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum, Plastic
Case Material
ABS, Wood
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
24 x 346 x 119 mm
Dimensions
20 x 319 x 126 mm
Weight
608g
Weight
566g
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Pros and Trade-offs

The Keychron K1 Max is the stronger choice for users who need a traditional TKL layout with a large battery and extensive multi-media keys. The Keychron K3 Max SE appeals to those who prioritize a smaller footprint and unique wooden design over function row convenience. Both keyboards share core strengths in wireless performance and customization, so your final decision should hinge on layout preference and battery needs.

Keychron K1 Max

  • +80% TKL layout with a dedicated function row and 12 multi-media keys.
  • +Larger 4000mAh battery provides extended wireless use between charges.
  • +Advanced IXPE and latex acoustic foam for quieter typing.
  • +Hot-swappable PCB compatible with Gateron low-profile mechanical switches.
  • +Available in multiple ISO layouts (UK, German, Swiss, Nordic).
  • −Heavier at 608g, less ideal for frequent travel.
  • −No unique aesthetic accents like the K3 Max SE's wood frame.
  • −Only supports Gateron or Keychron low-profile mechanical switches.

Keychron K3 Max SE

  • +Compact 75% layout saves desk space and is easier to carry (566g).
  • +Distinctive ABS case with wooden side frames for a natural look.
  • +Uses Keychron Milk POM switches with self-lubricating materials for smooth keystrokes.
  • +Includes EPDM foam and bottom case acoustic foam for a dampened sound profile.
  • −Smaller 1550mAh battery requires more frequent charging than the K1 Max.
  • −Only available in ANSI layout, limiting regional keycap options.
  • −No dedicated multi-media keys; media controls must be accessed via function layers.
  • −Plate-mounted stabilizers may feel less stable than the K1 Max's redesigned ones.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

For gaming and programming, both keyboards perform equally due to shared features like 1000 Hz polling and QMK support. The K1 Max wins in office and content creation scenarios thanks to its TKL layout and larger battery. The K3 Max SE is the better travel companion due to its lighter weight and smaller footprint. Modders may prefer the K1 Max for its multi-material plate options and higher customizability score.

GamingTie
  • •Both offer 1000 Hz polling on 2.4 GHz and wired modes.
  • •Both support N-Key Rollover for simultaneous key presses.
  • •Both use low-profile switches that can feel nimble for gaming.
  • •Neither has a clear advantage in latency or switch options.
OfficeKeychron K1 Max
  • •The K1 Max has an 80% TKL layout with a dedicated function row, helpful for spreadsheet shortcuts.
  • •It includes sound dampening IXPE acoustic foam for quieter typing.
  • •The K1 Max has a larger 4000mAh battery for longer wireless sessions.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both support QMK and VIA for full key remapping and macro creation.
  • •Both offer tactile switch options (Brown/Banana) for precise keystrokes.
  • •Both provide low-profile keycaps that reduce finger travel distance.
TravelKeychron K3 Max SE
  • •The K3 Max SE has a more compact 75% layout that fits better in bags.
  • •It is lighter at 566g compared to the K1 Max at 608g.
  • •It includes a wooden frame for a unique aesthetic while remaining portable.
ModdingKeychron K1 Max
  • •The K1 Max has a higher customizability score and includes multiple foam layers (IXPE and latex).
  • •It has a polycarbonate plate option, offering more material variety for sound tuning.
  • •The K1 Max supports both ISO and ANSI layouts, widening keycap compatibility.
Content CreationKeychron K1 Max
  • •The TKL layout with function keys gives quick access to media and editing shortcuts.
  • •The K1 Max includes 12 dedicated multi-media keys for easier control.
  • •Its larger battery reduces the need for frequent recharging during long editing sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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