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Compare Keychron K1 SE V5 vs K1 V5 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two nearly identical Keychron low-profile tenkeyless keyboards. The choice is difficult because both share core specs like Bluetooth 5.1, hot-swappable options, and a 2000mAh battery. The decision hinges on subtle but meaningful differences in construction, price, and included features that cater to different priorities.

69
Keychron K1 SE Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (Version 5)
69
Keychron K1 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (Version 5)

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2.4 (166)
4.8 (1458)
  • Released in 2021
  • Built with the ANSI, JIS layout standard
  • Released in 2020
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
Scores
  • Performance: 64.3
  • Build Quality: 67.8
  • Productivity: 68.4
  • Customizability: 70.9
  • Portability: 74
Scores
  • Performance: 63.4
  • Build Quality: 67.4
  • Productivity: 67.3
  • Customizability: 70.2
  • Portability: 73.8
Name
Keychron K1 SE V5
Name
Keychron K1 V5
Release year
2021
Release year
2020
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
ANSI, JIS
Layout Standard
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
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
-
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
Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic
Keycaps Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
-
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your budget and material preference are the deciding factors. Opt for the Keychron K1 if a full aluminum build and proven user satisfaction are your top priorities. Choose the Keychron K1 SE if you want adjustable typing angles, broader mechanical hot-swap compatibility, and a lower cost, and are willing to accept a plastic bottom case and mixed user reviews.

Keychron K1 SE V5

  • +Includes two-level adjustable rubber feet for ergonomic typing angles.
  • +Offers a hot-swappable version for low-profile Gateron mechanical switches.
  • +Constructed with a reinforced aluminum top case and plastic bottom.
  • +Listed at a slightly lower price point than the standard K1.
  • −Uses a plastic bottom case instead of a full aluminum body.
  • −Has significantly lower user review scores (2.4/5) compared to the K1.
  • −Vendor description notes some user reports of unstable Bluetooth connectivity.

Keychron K1 V5

  • +Built with a full aluminum body structure for a premium feel.
  • +Has exceptionally high user review scores (4.8/5).
  • +Vendor page shows available low-profile PBT keycap sets for customization.
  • +Includes keycaps for both Windows and Mac operating systems.
  • −Lacks the adjustable rubber feet mentioned for the K1 SE.
  • −Vendor description states it is unavailable in a low-profile Gateron mechanical hot-swappable version.
  • −Carries a slightly higher price for the full aluminum construction.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K1 SE holds slight advantages for office use and modding due to its adjustable feet and broader hot-swap switch compatibility. For gaming, programming, travel, and content creation, the keyboards are functionally equivalent, making the decision purely about build materials and price. The K1's primary appeal is its full aluminum construction for a more premium feel.

GamingTie
  • •Both offer low-profile optical switches with a claimed 0.2 ms latency.
  • •Both support hot-swappable switches for customizing feel.
  • •Both have the same 80% layout and connectivity options.
OfficeKeychron K1 SE V5
  • •The K1 SE includes two-level adjustable rubber feet for ergonomic support, which the K1 listing does not mention.
  • •Its plastic bottom case may dampen sound slightly compared to a full metal body.
  • •It is listed at a slightly lower price point.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both share the same 80% ANSI layout.
  • •Both offer multi-device Bluetooth for switching between machines.
  • •Both include Mac and Windows keycaps for OS compatibility.
TravelTie
  • •Both have identical low-profile, tenkeyless form factors.
  • •Both feature the same 2000mAh battery and wireless capabilities.
  • •Both use a combination of aluminum and plastic in their construction, keeping weight manageable.
ModdingKeychron K1 SE V5
  • •The K1 SE offers a hot-swappable version for low-profile Gateron mechanical switches, according to its vendor page.
  • •The K1 vendor description only specifies hot-swappability for its optical switch version.
  • •This provides more switch compatibility options for the K1 SE.
Content CreationTie
  • •Both keyboards feature multimedia keys.
  • •Both offer 18 types of RGB backlighting with adjustable levels.
  • •The identical layouts provide the same shortcut key accessibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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