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Compare Keychron K1 Max vs V1 Max Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Keychron's two popular wireless Max series keyboards. The choice is difficult because both offer premium features like QMK/VIA support, 2.4 GHz/Bluetooth connectivity, and hot-swappable switches at a similar price. The core decision hinges on whether you prioritize an ultra-slim, low-profile design or a more traditional, acoustically-tuned gasket mount build.

85
Keychron K1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
98
Keychron V1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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4.5 (14)
4.3 (32)
  • Released in 2024
  • 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
  • Weighs about 608 g
  • Sized at 24 x 346 x 119 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Aluminum, Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, White North-face, Rgb North-face, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2023
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-PT, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Weighs about 770 g
  • Sized at 22 x 149 x 329 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 80.7
  • Build Quality: 79.8
  • Productivity: 89.2
  • Customizability: 90.2
  • Portability: 76.8
Scores
  • Performance: 83.2
  • Build Quality: 86.3
  • Productivity: 97.3
  • Customizability: 99.4
  • Portability: 79.2
Name
Keychron K1 Max
Name
Keychron V1 Max
Release year
2024
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, 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
ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-PT, ISO, 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
4000 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
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face, South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum, Plastic
Case Material
ABS, Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Dimensions
24 x 346 x 119 mm
Dimensions
22 x 149 x 329 mm
Weight
608g
Weight
770g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your priority should guide your choice. If you want the thinnest possible mechanical keyboard with a unique low-profile key feel, the Keychron K1 Max is the clear option. If you prefer a more traditional, customizable mechanical keyboard with a superior gasket-mounted typing experience, broader modding support, and a knob, the Keychron V1 Max is the better investment. Both are excellent wireless boards with strong software support.

Keychron K1 Max

  • +Ultra-slim low-profile design with an aluminum frame construction.
  • +Lighter weight (608g) for easier portability and desk adjustment.
  • +Includes redesigned stabilizers and IXPE acoustic foam for improved sound.
  • +Offers a low-profile specific typing experience with LSA profile keycaps.
  • +Three-level adjustable typing angle for ergonomic support.
  • −Hot-swap sockets are compatible only with Gateron or Keychron low-profile mechanical switches, limiting switch options.
  • −Keycaps are not shine-through, which can limit RGB backlight visibility according to user reviews.
  • −Some user reviews mention occasional double-keypress issues in wireless mode.

Keychron V1 Max

  • +Gasket mount design with a polycarbonate plate for a softer, more acoustically tuned typing feel.
  • +Hot-swap PCB supports a wide range of standard 3-pin and 5-pin MX mechanical switches.
  • +Includes premium screw-in PCB stabilizers and is available as a barebones kit.
  • +75% layout with optional knob support saves space while keeping navigation keys.
  • +South-facing RGB LEDs prevent interference with Cherry and OEM profile keycaps.
  • −Heavier (770g) and taller than the K1 Max.
  • −Case is constructed from ABS plastic, lacking the aluminum frame of the K1 Max.
  • −Some user reviews report key chatter or repeating issues developing over time.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The V1 Max is the more versatile choice for users who value deep customization, a premium typing feel, and a compact layout with a knob. It wins for programming, modding, and content creation. The K1 Max excels in portability and offers a distinct low-profile typing experience that may be preferable for office use and travel. For gaming, the core performance specs are identical, making it a tie based on personal preference for key feel.

GamingTie
  • •Both have a 1000 Hz polling rate in 2.4 GHz and wired modes for low latency.
  • •Both support N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
  • •The K1 Max's lower profile may suit some desk setups, while the V1 Max's gasket mount can offer a softer bottom-out feel.
OfficeKeychron K1 Max
  • •The K1 Max's low-profile design and 3° typing angle may be more comfortable for some users over long periods.
  • •Its lighter weight (608g vs 770g) makes it slightly easier to reposition on a desk.
  • •Both offer quiet switch options and multi-device Bluetooth connectivity for switching between computers.
ProgrammingKeychron V1 Max
  • •The V1 Max's 75% layout is more compact while retaining dedicated arrow and navigation keys.
  • •It offers knob support for a programmable rotary encoder, useful for scrolling or adjusting values.
  • •South-facing RGB LEDs prevent interference with Cherry-profile keycaps, important for many aftermarket keycap sets used by enthusiasts.
TravelKeychron K1 Max
  • •The K1 Max is significantly lighter at 608g compared to the V1 Max's 770g.
  • •Its slimmer, low-profile design is more packable.
  • •Both have the same 4000mAh battery capacity for long wireless use.
ModdingKeychron V1 Max
  • •The V1 Max features a gasket mount design and a polycarbonate plate for a customizable typing feel and sound.
  • •It includes screw-in stabilizers, which are generally preferred over clip-in for modding stability.
  • •Its hot-swap PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches, offering broader compatibility than the K1 Max's low-profile specific sockets.
  • •It is available in a barebones kit version.
Content CreationKeychron V1 Max
  • •The programmable knob on the V1 Max can be mapped to timeline scrubbing, brush size, or volume control.
  • •The 75% layout saves desk space for graphics tablets or other peripherals.
  • •QMK/VIA support on both allows for complex macros, but the V1 Max's knob adds an extra physical control layer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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