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Compare Keychron K1 Max vs V1 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a slim wireless keyboard and a fully customizable wired workhorse. The K1 Max offers an ultra-slim profile, Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz connectivity, and a lighter build ideal for travel. The V1 focuses on customization with a gasket mount, a broader switch support for modding, and array of layout sizes. The decision is challenging because both keyboards offer QMK and VIA support but target different priorities: the K1 Max prioritizes wireless convenience and a low profile, while the V1 emphasizes a deeper typing experience and extensive modding options.

85
Keychron K1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
97
Keychron V1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard

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4.5 (14)
2.5 (61)
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Features a low-profile design
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • 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, ISO, JIS, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK, ISO-NO layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Weighs about 995 g
  • Sized at 18 x 149 x 329 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, ABS case
  • Features PBT, ABS, keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face, White, White South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 80.8
  • Build Quality: 79.7
  • Productivity: 89.1
  • Customizability: 90.2
  • Portability: 76.9
Scores
  • Performance: 90.9
  • Build Quality: 89.2
  • Productivity: 97.9
  • Customizability: 99.5
  • Portability: 64.7
Name
Keychron K1 Max
Name
Keychron V1
Release year
2024
Release year
2022
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Low Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
80%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, ISO, ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, JIS, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK, ISO-NO
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;8000 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, South-face, White, White South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum, Plastic
Case Material
Plastic, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS,
Dimensions
24 x 346 x 119 mm
Dimensions
18 x 149 x 329 mm
Weight
608g
Weight
995g
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Pros and Trade-offs

If portability and wireless freedom are your top priorities, the Keychron K1 Max is the better choice. Its ultra-slim profile and extensive connectivity options excel in mobile and gaming scenarios. However, if you intend to deeply customize your keyboard's sound and feel or need a programmable knob for creative work, the Keychron V1 offers a more traditional and flexible modding platform. Your final decision hinges on whether you value a low-profile wireless experience or a fully moddable wired board.

Keychron K1 Max

  • +Ultra-slim design with low-profile Gateron switches, providing a unique typing experience.
  • +Wireless connectivity with both Bluetooth 5.1 (for three devices) and 2.4 GHz via a USB dongle.
  • +Lighter weight (608g) and compact dimensions make it highly portable.
  • +Includes double-shot PBT keycaps designed for oil resistance and long-term use.
  • +Offers a 4000mAh battery for extended wireless use.
  • −Switch compatibility is limited to low-profile Gateron and Keychron switches only.
  • −Typing angle is fixed at a single 3-degree setting, offering less ergonomic adjustment.
  • −The case is primarily ABS plastic with an aluminum frame, which may not feel as premium as a full aluminum build.
  • −The low-profile keys may feel too shallow for users who prefer a deeper key travel.

Keychron V1

  • +Features a gasket mount design, which can provide a bouncier and more cushioned typing feel.
  • +Supports a wide range of standard MX switches (both 3-pin and 5-pin) for extensive modding.
  • +Available as a barebone kit, allowing complete selection of switches and keycaps.
  • +Equipped with screw-in PCB stabilizers for improved stability on larger keys.
  • +Includes a programmable knob for quick access to custom functions like volume or zoom.
  • −Wired-only connectivity, limiting its use for a clean desk setup or on-the-go use.
  • −Heavier at 995g, making it less portable than the K1 Max.
  • −The ABS plastic case may not feel as robust as the V1's thicker construction suggests.
  • −Some users report potential looseness in the USB-C port connection.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron K1 Max secures the win for Gaming, Office, and Travel due to its wireless connectivity, lighter weight, and slim profile. The V1 takes the lead in Modding and Content Creation thanks to its standard MX switch support, barebone option, and programmable knob. For Programming, both keyboards are equally strong because both feature QMK and VIA support for complete customization.

GamingKeychron K1 Max
  • •Offers wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity for low-latency gaming on multiple devices.
  • •The low profile provides a unique typing angle and lighter overall weight for quick movements.
  • •The 1000 Hz polling rate in wired and 2.4 GHz modes ensures minimal input lag for competitive play.
OfficeKeychron K1 Max
  • •Ultra-slim design and lower weight make it easy to move between desks or take to meetings.
  • •Wireless connection (Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz) reduces cable clutter on a shared workspace.
  • •Includes 12 multimedia keys and dedicated Mac keycaps for workflow efficiency.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both offer full QMK and VIA support for custom keymaps, macros, and shortcuts.
  • •The V1's gasket mount and steel plate can provide a more traditional typing feel.
  • •The K1 Max's low profile may reduce wrist strain for some users over long coding sessions.
TravelKeychron K1 Max
  • •Significantly lighter at 608g compared to the V1's 995g.
  • •Supports both Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless, so no wire is needed on the go.
  • •The low profile design makes it easier to fit into laptop bags.
ModdingKeychron V1
  • •The V1 uses a tray mount design which many in the community prefer for modding.
  • •Supports standard 5-pin and 3-pin MX switches, offering far more switch choices than the K1 Max's low-profile compatible switches.
  • •The V1 is available in a barebone kit, allowing you to choose every component from the start.
  • •The V1 includes screw-in PCB stabilizers that are upgrade-friendly.
Content CreationKeychron V1
  • •The V1 includes a programmable knob for adjusting volume, brushes, or timeline zoom during editing.
  • •A wider selection of keycaps (OSA profile) and switch options can tailor the feel for specific creative tasks.
  • •The steel plate and gasket mount provide a more solid, consistent typing base for extended use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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