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Compare Keychron K1 Pro vs K13 Max Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two of Keychron's premium low-profile wireless keyboards. The choice is difficult because both share core features like QMK/VIA programmability, hot-swappable low-profile Gateron switches, and similar build quality. The decision ultimately hinges on whether you prioritize a compact tenkeyless form factor or a unique layout that includes a numpad, and if you need the low-latency wireless option the K13 Max provides.

86
Keychron K1 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
84
Keychron K13 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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5.0 (10)
4.5 (4)
  • Released in 2023
  • Built with the ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, JIS, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW, ANSI layout standard
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Weighs about 580 g
  • 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 2024
  • Built with the ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-SW, ISO-Nordic, JIS, ANSI layout standard
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a PCB Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Weighs about 600 g
  • Made with a ABS, Aluminum case
  • Features PBT 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: 80.7
  • Build Quality: 78.5
  • Productivity: 89.2
  • Customizability: 90.2
  • Portability: 76.7
Name
Keychron K1 Pro
Name
Keychron K13 Max
Release year
2023
Release year
2024
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
ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-SW, ISO-Nordic, JIS, 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, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
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
PCB 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
ABS, Aluminum
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
8 x 346 x 119 mm
Dimensions
8 x 346 x 119 mm
Weight
580g
Weight
600g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require a numpad for data entry or prefer the lowest latency wireless gaming, the Keychron K13 Max is the clear option, especially with its built-in sound foam. If you want a standard tenkeyless layout, prioritize minimal weight, or are working with a tighter budget, the Keychron K1 Pro remains an excellent, highly customizable low-profile keyboard.

Keychron K1 Pro

  • +Traditional 87-key tenkeyless layout for a compact, familiar footprint.
  • +Lower starting price point according to vendor listings.
  • +Supports a wide range of layout standards including ISO-FR and ISO-ES.
  • +Features redesigned stabilizers for less wobble on large keys.
  • +Includes three levels of adjustable typing angle for ergonomics.
  • −Lacks a 2.4 GHz wireless connection, offering only Bluetooth and wired.
  • −Uses a tray mount style, which may feel different from PCB mount.
  • −No mention of internal sound-dampening foam in its specifications.

Keychron K13 Max

  • +Unique 90-key layout integrates a numpad into an 80% form factor.
  • +Features both 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth 5.1 wireless connectivity.
  • +Includes interior IXPE and latex acoustic foam for sound dampening.
  • +Uses a PCB mount style, which some users prefer for typing feel.
  • +2.4 GHz wireless mode offers a 1000 Hz polling rate for low latency.
  • −Slightly heavier at 600g compared to the K1 Pro.
  • −The non-shine-through keycap legends may be harder to see in low light, as noted in a user review.
  • −Its unique layout may require an adjustment period for touch typists.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K13 Max wins for office use and content creation primarily due to its numpad-inclusive layout and quieter, foam-damped typing. It also takes a slight edge for gaming because of its 2.4 GHz wireless option. The K1 Pro is the better choice for travel due to its lower weight and more common tenkeyless form factor. For programming and modding, the keyboards are effectively tied, offering identical core customization features.

GamingKeychron K13 Max
  • •The K13 Max offers a 1000 Hz polling rate on its 2.4 GHz wireless connection, according to its product page.
  • •Its PCB mount style may offer a different typing feel preferred by some gamers.
  • •Both have a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode.
OfficeKeychron K13 Max
  • •The K13 Max features a unique 80% layout with an integrated numpad (90 keys), which is useful for data entry.
  • •Its product listing mentions interior IXPE and latex acoustic foam for quieter keystrokes in shared spaces.
  • •It supports seamless switching among three devices via Bluetooth 5.1.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both keyboards feature full QMK and VIA support for extensive key remapping and macro creation.
  • •Both are hot-swappable and compatible with Gateron low-profile mechanical switches.
  • •Both include keycaps for macOS and Windows for cross-platform compatibility.
TravelKeychron K1 Pro
  • •The K1 Pro is slightly lighter at 580g compared to the K13 Max's 600g.
  • •Its traditional tenkeyless (87-key) layout may be more familiar and require less adjustment.
  • •Both share the same ultra-slim, low-profile design and 2000mAh battery.
ModdingTie
  • •Both are hot-swappable, supporting Gateron and Keychron low-profile mechanical switches.
  • •Both run open-source QMK firmware and are configurable via the VIA/Keychron Launcher web app.
  • •Both use double-shot PBT keycaps and have north-facing RGB lighting.
Content CreationKeychron K13 Max
  • •The K13 Max's layout includes a numpad, which can be useful for shortcut macros or numerical input in editing software.
  • •Its 2.4 GHz wireless with a 1000 Hz polling rate offers a stable, low-latency connection for real-time work.
  • •The sound-dampening foam may provide a more focused auditory environment for recording or streaming.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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