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Compare Keychron K1 Pro vs K1 SE V5 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for users deciding between two of Keychron's low-profile tenkeyless keyboards. The choice is difficult because both share a similar 80% form factor, hot-swappable options, and wireless connectivity. The decision hinges on whether you value the extensive programmability and PBT keycaps of the K1 Pro or the lower price point of the K1 SE V5.

86
Keychron K1 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
69
Keychron K1 SE Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (Version 5)

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5.0 (10)
2.4 (166)
  • Released in 2023
  • Built with the ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, JIS, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW, ANSI layout standard
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Weighs about 580 g
  • Sized at 8 x 346 x 119 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic, ABS, case
  • Features ABS, PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face, White, White North-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2021
  • Built with the ANSI, JIS layout standard
  • 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: 81.2
  • Build Quality: 79.8
  • Productivity: 79.8
  • Customizability: 89.2
  • Portability: 73
Scores
  • Performance: 64.3
  • Build Quality: 67.8
  • Productivity: 68.4
  • Customizability: 70.9
  • Portability: 74
Name
Keychron K1 Pro
Name
Keychron K1 SE V5
Release year
2023
Release year
2021
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Low Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
80%
Layout Size
80%
Layout Standard
ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, JIS, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW, ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, JIS
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, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
2000 mAh
Battery capacity
2000 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
Tray Mount
Mount Style
Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, North-face, White
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic, ABS,
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Keycaps Material
ABS
Dimensions
8 x 346 x 119 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
580g
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your budget and need for customization dictate the choice here. Invest in the Keychron K1 Pro if you plan to deeply customize your typing experience with QMK/VIA, value PBT keycaps, and want the specified high polling rate for gaming. Opt for the Keychron K1 SE V5 if you want the essential low-profile wireless mechanical experience at a lower cost and do not require advanced programming features.

Keychron K1 Pro

  • +Supports QMK and VIA firmware for extensive key remapping and macros.
  • +Comes with double-shot PBT keycaps for better durability and feel.
  • +Explicitly lists a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode for responsive gaming.
  • +Offers a wide array of layout standards including multiple ISO variants.
  • +Vendor description highlights redesigned stabilizers for less key wobble.
  • −Likely commands a higher price than the K1 SE V5.
  • −QMK/VIA programmability may have a steeper learning curve for beginners.
  • −Is listed as compatible only with Gateron low-profile mechanical switches.

Keychron K1 SE V5

  • +Generally available at a more affordable price point.
  • +Hot-swappable version supports both low-profile Gateron mechanical and Keychron optical switches.
  • +Includes a two-level adjustable typing angle for ergonomics.
  • +Shares the core low-profile TKL wireless design with the more expensive model.
  • −Uses ABS keycaps, which may develop shine faster than PBT.
  • −Lacks mention of QMK, VIA, or advanced programmability features.
  • −Vendor reviews mention some Bluetooth connectivity issues and functional key problems for some users.
  • −Offers fewer layout standard options, primarily ANSI and JIS.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron K1 Pro is the clear choice for users who prioritize customization, whether for gaming latency, programming macros, or content creation workflows, thanks to its QMK/VIA support and PBT keycaps. For general office use and travel, both keyboards are equally matched in core wireless functionality and form factor. The K1 SE V5 remains a contender primarily based on its typically lower price point for the basic low-profile experience.

GamingKeychron K1 Pro
  • •The K1 Pro specifies a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode, which the K1 SE V5 listing does not mention.
  • •The K1 Pro's vendor description states its 1000 Hz polling rate is engineered for competitive gaming.
  • •The K1 Pro includes PBT keycaps, which may offer better long-term durability during intense use.
OfficeTie
  • •Both keyboards offer low-profile switches and a TKL layout suitable for desk space management.
  • •Both support multi-device Bluetooth connectivity for switching between a laptop, phone, and tablet.
  • •Both are listed as compatible with Mac and Windows systems.
ProgrammingKeychron K1 Pro
  • •The K1 Pro supports QMK and VIA firmware for deep key remapping and macro creation, which is not mentioned for the K1 SE V5.
  • •The K1 Pro's vendor page highlights its open-source QMK firmware for endless key remapping possibilities.
  • •The K1 Pro offers a wider selection of layout standards (ISO, ANSI, JIS), providing more regional keycap compatibility.
TravelTie
  • •Both keyboards share an 80% TKL layout and low-profile design for portability.
  • •Both have identical 2000mAh battery capacities for wireless use.
  • •Both offer Bluetooth and wired USB-C connectivity options.
ModdingKeychron K1 Pro
  • •The K1 Pro explicitly supports QMK and VIA, allowing for extensive firmware-level customization.
  • •The K1 Pro comes with double-shot PBT keycaps stock, while the K1 SE V5 uses ABS keycaps.
  • •Both are hot-swappable, but the K1 Pro's vendor description details redesigned stabilizers for less wobble.
Content CreationKeychron K1 Pro
  • •The K1 Pro's QMK/VIA support allows for creating complex shortcuts and macros for editing software.
  • •The inclusion of PBT keycaps may provide a more consistent typing feel over long sessions.
  • •The K1 Pro lists 12 multimedia keys, which can be programmed for media control.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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