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Compare Keychron K1 Max vs K3 V2 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for anyone torn between two ultra-slim wireless mechanical keyboards from Keychron. Both offer low-profile designs and hot-swappable switches, but they differ in layout size, connectivity options, and advanced features. The K1 Max brings a full TKL layout with 2.4 GHz, QMK support, and a larger battery, while the K3 V2 is a more compact 75% board focused on Bluetooth connectivity and affordability. The decision largely hinges on whether you need the extra performance features of the K1 Max or prefer the smaller footprint and lower entry price of the K3 V2.

86
Keychron K1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
-19% off
68
Keychron K3 Non-Backlight Ultra-Slim Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (Version 2)

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4.5 (14)
3.5 (9415)
  • 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
  • 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
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, JIS, ISO, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-ES layout standard
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 1550 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: 82.3
  • Build Quality: 81.8
  • Productivity: 89.6
  • Customizability: 90.1
  • Portability: 73.7
Scores
  • Performance: 61.3
  • Build Quality: 66.6
  • Productivity: 65.7
  • Customizability: 67
  • Portability: 77.5
Name
Keychron K1 Max
Name
Keychron K3 V2
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
75%
Layout Standard
ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, ISO, ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, JIS, ISO, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-ES
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
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
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

Choose the Keychron K1 Max if you need low-latency wireless for gaming or full QMK programmability for custom workflows. Its 4000mAh battery and 2.4 GHz connection make it the more powerful option for daily driving. Choose the Keychron K3 V2 if you prioritize a smaller, lighter keyboard for travel and are comfortable with Bluetooth-only connectivity. The K3 V2 is a budget-friendly entry point to low-profile mechanical keyboards without sacrificing hot-swappability.

Keychron K1 Max

  • +2.4 GHz wireless with 1000 Hz polling rate for low-latency performance.
  • +QMK and VIA support for extensive key remapping and macros.
  • +4000mAh battery provides long battery life between charges.
  • +Includes interior IXPE acoustic foam and latex foam for a quieter typing experience.
  • +Hot-swappable with Gateron low-profile MX mechanical switches.
  • −Larger 80% TKL layout is less portable than the K3 V2.
  • −Weighs 608g, which is heavier for travel.
  • −Only compatible with low-profile Gateron/Keychron mechanical switches, not optical.

Keychron K3 V2

  • +Compact 75% layout saves desk space and is more travel-friendly.
  • +Offers a lower price point.
  • +Comes with extra keycaps for Mac and Windows in the box.
  • +Features a hot-swappable optical switch option for easy customization.
  • −No 2.4 GHz connectivity; relies solely on Bluetooth for wireless use.
  • −Smaller 1550mAh battery provides shorter run times between charges.
  • −No QMK or VIA support for firmware-level customization.
  • −Optical switches are not compatible with standard MX mechanical switches.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron K1 Max wins in most use cases due to its 2.4 GHz connectivity, QMK programmability, and larger battery. It is the clear choice for gaming, office work, programming, modding, and content creation. The Keychron K3 V2 takes the lead only for travel, where its smaller 75% layout and lighter weight make it more portable. For users who prioritize a compact size and lower cost over advanced features, the K3 V2 remains a solid option.

GamingKeychron K1 Max
  • •Supports a 2.4 GHz wireless connection with a 1000 Hz polling rate for low-latency gaming.
  • •Includes interior IXPE acoustic foam and latex foam for noise dampening.
  • •Features a 4000mAh battery for extended wireless use.
OfficeKeychron K1 Max
  • •Faster 2.4 GHz connection and QMK firmware allow for custom macros and shortcuts.
  • •Larger 4000mAh battery reduces charging frequency.
  • •Offers a 3-level adjustable typing angle for ergonomic support.
ProgrammingKeychron K1 Max
  • •Full QMK firmware support enables comprehensive key remapping and macros.
  • •Open-source firmware allows for advanced customization that the K3 V2 lacks.
TravelKeychron K3 V2
  • •More compact 75% layout (smaller footprint than the K1 Max).
  • •Lighter design and lower-profile case are easier to pack.
  • •Bluetooth-only connectivity simplifies pairing with mobile devices.
ModdingKeychron K1 Max
  • •Hot-swappable with QMK support for custom firmware and keymaps.
  • •Uses standard low-profile Gateron MX mechanical switches for wider compatibility.
  • •Features redesigned stabilizers and multiple foam layers for sound tuning.
Content CreationKeychron K1 Max
  • •QMK firmware allows creating custom shortcuts for video and photo editing.
  • •Dedicated multimedia keys (12) and 80% TKL layout retain arrow keys and function row.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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