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Compare Keychron K1 Pro vs K3 Pro Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for users deciding between Keychron's two prominent low-profile, QMK/VIA-enabled mechanical keyboards. The choice is difficult because both share core features like hot-swappable Gateron low-profile switches, aluminum frames, and extensive programmability. The decision ultimately hinges on whether you prioritize the traditional tenkeyless layout of the K1 Pro or the ultra-compact 75% design of the K3 Pro, alongside differences in wireless connectivity and battery capacity.

86
Keychron K1 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
87
Keychron K3 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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5.0 (10)
4.7 (52)
  • Released in 2023
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, JIS, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW, ANSI layout standard
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 2000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 580 g
  • Sized at 8 x 346 x 119 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic, ABS, case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face, White, White North-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2022
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ISO, JIS, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK, ANSI layout standard
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless, 2.4 GHz connectivity
  • Equipped with a 1550 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 930 g
  • Sized at 15 x 306 x 116 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic, ABS case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face, 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: 81
  • Build Quality: 81.3
  • Productivity: 79.8
  • Customizability: 89
  • Portability: 77.2
Name
Keychron K1 Pro
Name
Keychron K3 Pro
Release year
2023
Release year
2022
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
75%
Layout Standard
ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, JIS, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW, ANSI
Layout Standard
ISO, JIS, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK, 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, Wired, Wireless, 2.4 GHz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
2000 mAh
Battery capacity
1550 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, South-face, White, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic, ABS,
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic, ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Dimensions
8 x 346 x 119 mm
Dimensions
15 x 306 x 116 mm
Weight
580g
Weight
930g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Select the Keychron K1 Pro if you prefer a standard tenkeyless layout with a larger battery and do not need 2.4 GHz wireless. Opt for the Keychron K3 Pro if maximizing desk space with a 75% layout is a priority and you value the inclusion of a 2.4 GHz connection for more reliable wireless gaming or work. Both are excellent, highly customizable low-profile keyboards.

Keychron K1 Pro

  • +Traditional 80% TKL layout with dedicated arrow and navigation keys.
  • +Larger 2000mAh battery capacity for extended wireless use.
  • +Includes adjustable three-level typing angle for ergonomics.
  • +Hot-swappable version available for Gateron low-profile switches.
  • +North-facing RGB and white backlight options.
  • −Lacks a 2.4 GHz wireless dongle, relying on Bluetooth and wired modes.
  • −Larger footprint (346mm wide) than the 75% K3 Pro.
  • −Compatible only with Gateron low-profile mechanical switches, limiting switch options.

Keychron K3 Pro

  • +More compact 75% layout saves desk space while keeping arrow keys.
  • +Includes 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity alongside Bluetooth and wired modes.
  • +Hot-swappable version available for Gateron low-profile switches.
  • +North-facing and south-facing RGB lighting options are listed.
  • +Special edition model includes dye-sublimated PBT keycaps.
  • −Smaller 1550mAh battery compared to the K1 Pro.
  • −Heavier weight of 930g, which may affect portability despite smaller size.
  • −Compatible only with Gateron low-profile mechanical switches, limiting switch options.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K1 Pro wins for office, programming, and content creation due to its traditional TKL layout and larger battery. The K3 Pro is the better travel companion thanks to its more compact 75% footprint, though it is heavier. For gaming and modding, the keyboards are evenly matched, sharing critical performance and customization features. Your primary workflow and desk space will dictate the winner.

GamingTie
  • •Both offer a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode for low latency.
  • •Both support N-key rollover in wired and wireless modes.
  • •The K3 Pro includes a 2.4 GHz wireless connection option, which the K1 Pro lacks.
OfficeKeychron K1 Pro
  • •The K1 Pro's 80% layout retains the arrow key cluster and navigation keys in a familiar TKL arrangement.
  • •It has a larger 2000mAh battery compared to the K3 Pro's 1550mAh for longer use between charges.
  • •Both offer multi-device Bluetooth connectivity and Mac/Windows compatibility.
ProgrammingKeychron K1 Pro
  • •The K1 Pro's 80% layout provides dedicated function and navigation keys, which can be useful for IDE shortcuts.
  • •Both keyboards are fully programmable via QMK and VIA for creating custom layers and macros.
  • •The K1 Pro's slightly larger form factor may offer a more familiar key spacing for touch typists.
TravelKeychron K3 Pro
  • •The K3 Pro is more compact, with dimensions of 306 x 116 mm versus the K1 Pro's 346 x 119 mm.
  • •It is significantly heavier at 930g, which can provide more stability on the go, though the K1 Pro is lighter at 580g.
  • •The 75% layout saves desk space without sacrificing arrow keys.
ModdingTie
  • •Both offer hot-swappable versions compatible with Gateron low-profile mechanical switches.
  • •Both support open-source QMK and VIA firmware for deep customization.
  • •Both feature redesigned stabilizers for less wobble on larger keys.
Content CreationKeychron K1 Pro
  • •The K1 Pro's 80% layout includes 12 multimedia keys, providing quick access to media controls.
  • •The adjustable three-level typing angle on both can aid in ergonomic support during long sessions.
  • •The larger battery may be beneficial for extended wireless use while editing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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