KeebFinder
Not sure which keyboard to choose? Try the Keyboard Finder now!

Compare Keychron K1 Pro vs Q1 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two very different Keychron experiences: the ultra-slim, Bluetooth-capable K1 Pro and the full-metal, wired-only Q1. The decision is hard because both offer QMK/VIA programmability, hot-swappable switches, and solid build reputations. The K1 Pro wins on portability and wireless freedom, while the Q1 excels in build density, typing angle, and customizable plate options. Your choice hinges on whether you value a desk-centered typing instrument or a travel-friendly low-profile board.

86
Keychron K1 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
95
Keychron Q1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard - Version 1

Select a keyboard to compare

5.0 (10)
4.9 (42)
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Features a low-profile design
  • 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
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • 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
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW, JIS layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only, connectivity
  • Weighs about 1825 g
  • Sized at 22 x 145 x 328 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 81.2
  • Build Quality: 79.9
  • Productivity: 79.9
  • Customizability: 89.3
  • Portability: 73.1
Scores
  • Performance: 72
  • Build Quality: 89.5
  • Productivity: 97.6
  • Customizability: 99.8
  • Portability: 62.6
Name
Keychron K1 Pro
Name
Keychron Q1
Release year
2023
Release year
2022
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear
Profile
Low Profile
Profile
Normal 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
ANSI, ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW, 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
Wired, Wired only,
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
2000 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
Tray Mount
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, North-face, White
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic, ABS,
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Dimensions
8 x 346 x 119 mm
Dimensions
22 x 145 x 328 mm
Weight
580g
Weight
1825g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

Select the Keychron K1 Pro if you need Bluetooth, a slim profile, and lighter weight for gaming or travel. Choose the Keychron Q1 if you want a heavy, fully customizable aluminum board with a gasket mount and programmable knob for focused desktop work. The Q1 is the better choice for modders and content creators who value build depth, while the K1 Pro suits those who prioritize wireless freedom and a compact footprint.

Keychron K1 Pro

  • +Bluetooth 5.1 supports up to 3 wireless devices for seamless multitasking.
  • +Ultra-slim aluminum body with low-profile Gateron switches provides a compact typing experience.
  • +Hot-swappable with low-profile Gateron mechanical switches only, no soldering required.
  • +Durable double-shot PBT keycaps resist oil and wear over time.
  • +1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode with N-Key Rollover for reliable input.
  • −Fixed 3° typing angle offers limited ergonomic adjustability compared to steeper options.
  • −Low-profile switches are not compatible with standard MX keycaps or stabilizers.
  • −No screen or knob for quick media or volume control.

Keychron Q1

  • +Full CNC machined 6063 aluminum body with double-gasket design for premium build and sound.
  • +Hot-swappable PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches, offering wider switch choice.
  • +Programmable rotary encoder knob for customizable controls via VIA software.
  • +Screw-in PCB stabilizers provide stable, less wobbly big key presses.
  • +Interchangeable plate materials (steel, aluminum, polycarbonate) allow personalized typing feel.
  • −Wired-only connectivity restricts placement to near a USB-C port.
  • −Heavy at 1825g, making it impractical for travel or frequent moving.
  • −No Bluetooth support requires a wired connection at all times.
  • −ABS keycaps may show shine over extended use compared to PBT alternatives.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K1 Pro dominates in portable and gaming scenarios due to its Bluetooth capability, low weight, and low-profile switches. The Q1 takes the lead in programming, modding, and content creation thanks to its gasket-mounted aluminum frame, adjustable plate options, and rotary encoder. For office work, the two are evenly matched, each offering solid programmability but appealing to different typing preferences. The key split is between the K1 Pro's wireless mobility and the Q1's desktop-focused customizability.

GamingKeychron K1 Pro
  • •1000 Hz wired polling rate out of the box for competitive gaming.
  • •Ultra-low profile reduces finger travel for faster key presses.
  • •Lighter weight (580g) makes it easier to reposition during play.
  • •N-Key Rollover supported in both wireless and wired modes.
OfficeTie
  • •Both offer QMK/VIA for custom macros and shortcuts to streamline workflow.
  • •Both feature Mac/Win support with dedicated keycaps for each OS.
  • •K1 Pro is quieter due to low-profile switches, better for shared spaces.
  • •Q1 has a heavier, stabilizing weight that stays put on a desk.
ProgrammingKeychron Q1
  • •Q1's gasket mount and sound dampening provide a quieter, refined typing feel preferred for long coding sessions.
  • •Screw-in PCB stabilizers offer more stable big key presses like Enter and Shift.
  • •5° typing angle is more ergonomic for prolonged typing compared to the K1 Pro's 3°.
TravelKeychron K1 Pro
  • •Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity connects to laptops, phones, and tablets wirelessly.
  • •Ultra-slim aluminum body is among the thinnest wireless mechanical keyboards available.
  • •580g weight is less than a third of the Q1's 1825g, making it easy to pack.
ModdingKeychron Q1
  • •Full CNC machined aluminum case allows for extensive case and plate modifications.
  • •Double-gasket design with silicone pads between top and bottom cases for advanced sound tuning.
  • •Interchangeable plate materials (aluminum, steel, polycarbonate) to change typing feel.
  • •Compatible with 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches, and supports third-party stabilizers.
Content CreationKeychron Q1
  • •Programmable knob adjusts zoom, brush size, opacity, and volume via VIA software.
  • •South-facing RGB avoids interference with Cherry-profile keycaps used for custom designs.
  • •Hefty all-metal construction provides a premium, stable work tool for creative desks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

88
$69
Keychron K5 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K5 Pro
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

95
$149
Keychron Q1 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q1 Pro
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

84
$94
Keychron K1 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (ISO Layout) - Version 6
Keychron K1 V6
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Alu case,
Top Mount

95
$79
Keychron Q10 (Alice Layout) QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q10
75%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

94
$59
Keychron K8 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron K8 Pro
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

98
$94
Keychron V1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V1 Max
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Gasket Mount

92
$69
Keychron K4 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron K4 Pro
96%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Tray Mount

98
$186
Keychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q1 Max
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

85
$106
Keychron K1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K1 Max
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
PCB Mount

97
$99
Keychron V5 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V5 Max
96%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Gasket Mount