Keychron K1 V6 vs K3 V380% TKL vs 75% Compact Low-Profile
Choose the K1 V6 for its dedicated 2.4 GHz wireless and Hall Effect switches, or the K3 V3 for a more compact and slightly lighter travel companion.
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Which one should you get?
Get the
Keychron K1 V6
80% TKL
- Includes 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity alongside Bluetooth 5.2.
- Features Hall Effect switches for potential longevity and consistency.
- Larger 2000mAh battery capacity.
- Larger and heavier (346mm wide, 596g) than the K3 V3.
- Uses ABS keycaps, which may develop shine over time.
- The vendor description notes it is only compatible with specific low-profile mechanical switches.
Get the
Keychron K3 V3
75% Compact Low-Profile
- More compact 75% layout (306mm wide) saves desk space.
- Lighter weight at 540 grams.
- Keycap material listing includes PBT as an option alongside ABS.
- Lacks the 2.4 GHz wireless dongle and Hall Effect switches found on the K1 V6.
- Smaller 1550mAh battery.
- Compact layout combines the function row, requiring a layer key for F-keys.
Your primary need dictates the choice. If a stable 2.4 GHz connection for gaming, Hall Effect technology, or a full TKL layout is important, the Keychron K1 V6 is the better option. If saving every millimeter of desk space and minimizing weight for portability is the top priority, the Keychron K3 V3 is the superior compact keyboard. Both are excellent for customization thanks to QMK and hot-swap sockets.
The differences that matter
Skip the 40-row spec sheet. These are the specs that change how each board feels, sounds, and fits your desk.
Keychron K1 V6
Keychron K3 V3
Layout size
80%
75%
Battery
2,000 mAh
1,550 mAh
A larger battery means fewer cables during the day
Mount style
Top Mount
PCB Mount, Plate Mount, Top Mount
Weight
596 g
540 g
Heavier boards stay planted and lighter ones travel
Keycaps
ABS
ABS, PBT
- Keychron K1 V6
- Keychron K3 V3
- Performance
- 8282
- Build quality
- 7983
- Productivity
- 8080
- Customizability
- 8889
- Portability
- 7377
- Connection: Bluetooth, Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Low profile
- Max polling rate: 1,000 Hz
- Case material: ABS, Aluminum
- Switch options: Clicky, Linear, Tactile
What will you mostly use it for?
The K1 V6 takes the lead for gaming and office use due to its additional 2.4 GHz wireless, Hall Effect switches, and larger TKL layout. The K3 V3 is the clear choice for travel thanks to its smaller 75% footprint and reduced weight. For programming and modding, the keyboards are evenly matched, offering identical firmware and hardware customization. Content creators may lean toward the K1 V6 for its dedicated media controls.
Pick the Keychron K1 V6
- The K1 V6 includes a 2.4 GHz wireless dongle for a potentially more stable connection.
- It features Hall Effect switches, which are noted for their durability and consistent actuation.
- Both have a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode, but the K1 V6 offers an additional wireless mode.
Keychron K1 V6 vs K3 V3 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
6 of 25 specs differ
Keychron K1 V6
Keychron K3 V3
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Low profile
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Media keys
Connection
Max polling rate
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Typing angle
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
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Keychron K1 V6 vs K3 V3: your questions
The main differences are the layout size and wireless options. The K1 V6 is an 80% TKL keyboard with 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth, and it features Hall Effect switches. The K3 V3 is a more compact 75% keyboard that uses Bluetooth and wired connectivity only.
The Keychron K3 V3 is better for a small desk. It has a 75% layout measuring 306mm in width, which is significantly more compact than the 346mm wide K1 V6. This saves valuable desk space.
Yes, both the Keychron K1 V6 and K3 V3 support QMK and VIA firmware. This allows for deep customization of key mappings, layers, and macros through the Keychron Launcher web app or other compatible tools.
Yes, the hot-swappable versions of both keyboards allow you to change switches without soldering. However, the manufacturer states they are only compatible with Keychron Milk POM or Gateron/Keychron low-profile mechanical switches.
The Keychron K1 V6 has a larger 2000mAh battery, while the K3 V3 has a 1550mAh battery. This suggests the K1 V6 may offer longer use between charges, though actual battery life depends on usage patterns and backlight settings.
Yes, both keyboards are compatible with macOS and Windows. They include keycaps for both operating systems, and the Keychron Launcher web app supports macOS for customization.
The K1 V6 uses ABS keycaps. The K3 V3 listing includes both PBT and ABS as keycap materials. Both keyboards feature Low-profile Spherical Angle (LSA) profile keycaps designed for shine-through backlighting.
According to the manufacturer's description, both keyboards have a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode. In wireless Bluetooth mode, the polling rate is 90 Hz.
Yes, both models feature enhanced acoustic foam. The K1 V6 listing mentions IXPE and latex foam with EPDM foam. The K3 V3 listing mentions IXPE, latex, and EPDM foam for a quieter typing experience.
Hall Effect switches use a magnetic sensor to detect key presses, which can offer high durability and consistent actuation. Only the Keychron K1 V6 is listed as having Hall Effect switch compatibility.
Both offer adjustable typing angles. The K1 V6 offers angles of 3.37°, 4.2°, and 6.7°. The K3 V3 offers 2.5°, 4.2°, and 6.5°. The choice is subjective, but the K1 V6's larger frame may provide more wrist support area.
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