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Compare Keychron K1 Pro vs Q1 HE Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Keychron's ultra-portable and premium performance lines. The K1 Pro offers a unique low-profile, tenkeyless design, while the Q1 HE is a feature-rich 75% keyboard built for customization and competitive gaming. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize a slim, travel-friendly form factor or demand the latest adjustable magnetic switch technology and robust aluminum construction.

86
Keychron K1 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
100
Keychron Q1 HE QMK Wireless Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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5.0 (10)
4.0 (34)
  • 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
  • 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
  • Features ABS, PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face, White, White North-face RGB lighting
  • Has Magnetic, Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-DE, ANSI, JIS layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Enables rapid trigger functionality
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only connectivity
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 4000 g
  • Sized at 23 x 145 x 328 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Features PBT, ABS, keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face, White, White South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 81.2
  • Build Quality: 79.9
  • Productivity: 79.9
  • Customizability: 89.3
  • Portability: 73.1
Scores
  • Performance: 100
  • Build Quality: 90
  • Productivity: 96.8
  • Customizability: 99.4
  • Portability: 81.2
Name
Keychron K1 Pro
Name
Keychron Q1 HE
Release year
2023
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Magnetic, Linear, Tactile, Clicky
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
ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-DE, 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, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz;8000 Hz
Battery capacity
2000 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
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, White, White South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic, ABS,
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS,
Dimensions
8 x 346 x 119 mm
Dimensions
23 x 145 x 328 mm
Weight
580g
Weight
4000g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you want a thin, light keyboard for a clean desk setup, travel, or a quiet office, the Keychron K1 Pro is the practical option. If your budget allows and you seek the ultimate in gaming performance, typing customization, and a premium metal build, the Keychron Q1 HE is the superior, albeit much heavier, investment.

Keychron K1 Pro

  • +Ultra-slim, low-profile design with a 3° typing angle for ergonomic typing.
  • +Lightweight at 580g, making it highly portable.
  • +Compatible with a wide range of low-profile Gateron mechanical switches.
  • +Offers both Bluetooth 5.1 and wired connectivity with a 1000Hz polling rate.
  • +Includes adjustable feet for three levels of typing angle support.
  • −Limited to low-profile Gateron mechanical switches only for hot-swapping.
  • −Smaller 2000mAh battery compared to higher-end models.
  • −Tray mount design may offer less typing consistency than gasket mounts.

Keychron Q1 HE

  • +Features Gateron double-rail magnetic switches with adjustable actuation points (0.2-3.8mm) and rapid trigger.
  • +Premium all-aluminum body with a double-gasket mount design for improved sound and feel.
  • +High-capacity 4000mAh battery for extended wireless use.
  • +Supports 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth 5.2, and wired connectivity, all with low-latency performance.
  • +Includes advanced features like screw-in PCB stabilizers and sound-dampening foam.
  • −Very heavy at 4000g, limiting portability.
  • −Hot-swappable socket is compatible only with specific Gateron magnetic switches.
  • −Higher price point reflecting its premium feature set.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Q1 HE is the clear choice for gaming and modding enthusiasts, thanks to its magnetic switches and extensive customization. The K1 Pro wins for office use and travel due to its lightweight, low-profile design. For programming, both are excellent due to their programmability, making the choice more about layout preference. Content creators may lean towards the Q1 HE for its macro potential and premium build.

GamingKeychron Q1 HE
  • •The Q1 HE features adjustable actuation points (0.2-3.8mm) and dynamic rapid trigger for competitive play.
  • •It offers a 1000Hz polling rate in both wired and 2.4 GHz wireless modes.
  • •It uses Gateron double-rail magnetic switches with TMR sensors for precise input.
OfficeKeychron K1 Pro
  • •The K1 Pro's low-profile design and 3° typing angle promote a more ergonomic, desk-friendly posture.
  • •Its lighter weight (580g) and slimmer dimensions make it easier to manage on a cluttered desk.
  • •It supports seamless Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity for switching between multiple devices.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both keyboards support QMK and VIA firmware for deep key remapping and macro creation.
  • •Both offer hot-swappable switch options for customizing the typing feel.
  • •The K1 Pro has an 80% layout, while the Q1 HE has a 75% layout, both saving space while retaining essential keys.
TravelKeychron K1 Pro
  • •The K1 Pro is significantly lighter at 580g compared to the Q1 HE's 4000g.
  • •Its ultra-slim, low-profile design is more packable.
  • •It has a built-in 2000mAh battery, which may require less frequent charging than a larger battery during travel.
ModdingKeychron Q1 HE
  • •The Q1 HE features a double-gasket mount design and includes screw-in PCB stabilizers for acoustic tuning.
  • •It has a full aluminum body and offers a barebones kit option.
  • •Its plate material options include aluminum and polycarbonate for sound customization.
Content CreationKeychron Q1 HE
  • •The Q1 HE's 4-in-1 dynamic keystroke feature allows for multiple actions on a single key, useful for macro commands.
  • •Its premium all-aluminum construction provides a stable, resonant typing feel often preferred for long sessions.
  • •The included knob on some versions offers quick media control.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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