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Compare Keychron K1 Max vs S1 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two low-profile Keychron models: the K1 Max and the S1. The decision is difficult because both offer excellent low-profile typing, QMK/VIA support, and hot-swappable switches, but they target different priorities. The K1 Max provides the flexibility of 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth wireless, while the S1 delivers a more solid, all-metal wired experience. Your choice comes down to whether you value connectivity options or a denser, heavier build quality.

85
Keychron K1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
85
Keychron S1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard

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4.5 (14)
4.8 (18)
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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 2022
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Weighs about 960 g
  • Sized at 8 x 118 x 310 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 80.7
  • Build Quality: 79.8
  • Productivity: 89.2
  • Customizability: 90.2
  • Portability: 76.8
Scores
  • Performance: 81.5
  • Build Quality: 81.5
  • Productivity: 80
  • Customizability: 89.5
  • Portability: 62.9
Name
Keychron K1 Max
Name
Keychron S1
Release year
2024
Release year
2022
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
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
Battery capacity
-
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, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum, Plastic
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
24 x 346 x 119 mm
Dimensions
8 x 118 x 310 mm
Weight
608g
Weight
960g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Choose the Keychron K1 Max if you need wireless flexibility, a lighter keyboard for occasional moves, or a TKL layout with dedicated navigation keys. Choose the Keychron S1 if you prioritize a dense, all-metal build and typing feel over connectivity options and are comfortable with a wired-only setup. The K1 Max is the more versatile daily driver, while the S1 is a solid desk queen for those who prefer simplicity and heft.

Keychron K1 Max

  • +Supports 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth 5.1, and wired connections for flexible use
  • +Lighter weight at 608 grams, making it easier to move around
  • +4000mAh battery provides power for extended wireless sessions
  • +80% TKL layout with dedicated navigation and function keys
  • +Includes interior IXPE and latex foam for a quieter typing experience
  • −ABS+aluminum frame is not as premium as the S1's full aluminum construction
  • −Wireless functionality adds complexity and potential points of failure over a simple wired connection
  • −Only compatible with Gateron/Keychron low-profile mechanical switches, limiting switch choices

Keychron S1

  • +Full CNC machined aluminum body for an extremely solid and premium feel
  • +Heavier weight at 960 grams keeps the keyboard firmly planted on a desk
  • +Steel plate contributes to a distinct typing feel and sound profile
  • +Designed with a straight line between switch and stabilizer stems for broader keycap compatibility
  • −Wired-only connectivity, limiting placement and requiring a cable at all times
  • −No built-in battery, so it cannot be used as a wireless device
  • −ANSI layout only, with no ISO options available from the manufacturer

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K1 Max wins the majority of use cases due to its wireless connectivity and lighter weight, making it a better fit for office, programming, travel, and content creation. The S1 matches the K1 Max for modding due to shared QMK/VIA support and switch compatibility. Gaming favors the K1 Max for its 2.4 GHz wireless option. Overall, the K1 Max is more adaptable for varied environments, while the S1 is a specialist for users who prioritize a denser build over portability.

GamingKeychron K1 Max
  • •Supports 2.4 GHz wireless with a 1000 Hz polling rate, reducing cable clutter
  • •Offers both wireless and wired 1000 Hz polling rate options for flexibility
OfficeKeychron K1 Max
  • •Wireless connectivity (2.4 GHz and Bluetooth 5.1) reduces desk cable mess
  • •Bluetooth allows connection to up to three devices for easy multitasking
  • •Larger 80% TKL layout provides dedicated function and navigation keys
ProgrammingKeychron K1 Max
  • •80% TKL layout with dedicated navigation cluster for code editing
  • •QMK and VIA support for extensive key remapping and macros
  • •Bluetooth allows seamless switching between computer, phone, and tablet
TravelKeychron K1 Max
  • •Lighter weight at 608 grams compared to the S1's 960 grams
  • •Built-in 4000mAh battery supports wireless use without needing a cable
  • •Bluetooth 5.1 connects wirelessly to tablets and phones on the go
ModdingTie
  • •Both are hot-swappable and support low-profile Gateron mechanical switches
  • •Both feature QMK and VIA support for full firmware customization
  • •S1 offers a steel plate, while the K1 Max uses a polycarbonate plate for a different sound profile
Content CreationKeychron K1 Max
  • •Wireless connectivity reduces desk clutter for a cleaner workspace
  • •Full macro support via QMK and VIA for video editing and design shortcuts
  • •TKL layout keeps the mouse close without sacrificing navigation keys

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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