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Compare Keychron K1 SE vs K13 Pro Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two of Keychron's low-profile, wireless tenkeyless keyboards. The choice is difficult because both share core features like hot-swap capability, Bluetooth 5.1, and a slim aluminum design. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize the K13 Pro's open-source QMK/VIA firmware and extensive layout options, or the K1 SE's availability with ultra-low latency optical switches.

66
Keychron K1 SE Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (US ANSI Layout)
87
Keychron K13 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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0.0 (0)
4.5 (8)
  • Released in 2021
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White RGB lighting
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Built with the ISO, JIS, ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK layout standard
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Weighs about 580 g
  • Sized at 8 x 346 x 119 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Aluminum, Plastic case
  • Features ABS, PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face, White North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 66.1
  • Build Quality: 60.4
  • Productivity: 66.5
  • Customizability: 71.6
  • Portability: 77.1
Scores
  • Performance: 81
  • Build Quality: 81.4
  • Productivity: 79.9
  • Customizability: 89.2
  • Portability: 73
Name
Keychron K1 SE
Name
Keychron K13 Pro
Release year
2021
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Profile
Low Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
80%
Layout Size
80%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ISO, JIS, ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK
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
1000 Hz
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
-
Mount Style
Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, White
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum, Plastic
Keycaps Material
-
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
8 x 346 x 119 mm
Weight
-
Weight
580g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

For most users, the Keychron K13 Pro is the more versatile choice due to its superior firmware support and broader layout selection. Only choose the Keychron K1 SE if your primary requirement is access to low-profile optical switches, as it sacrifices programmability and layout options for that specific feature.

Keychron K1 SE

  • +Offers a choice between Gateron mechanical and Keychron optical low-profile switches.
  • +Vendor description highlights 0.2 ms ultra-low latency for its optical switch option.
  • +Includes two levels of adjustable rubber feet for ergonomic support.
  • +Constructed with a reinforced aluminum top case and a plastic bottom with a steel plate for structure.
  • −Only available in ANSI layout, limiting options for international users.
  • −Lacks support for advanced firmware customization like QMK or VIA.
  • −Vendor description notes its hot-swappable sockets are not compatible with normal profile MX-style switches.

Keychron K13 Pro

  • +Supports QMK and VIA firmware for extensive programmability and key remapping.
  • +Available in a wide array of layout standards including ANSI, ISO, JIS, and several ISO regional variants.
  • +Specifies a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode for low latency.
  • +Comes with low-profile double-shot PBT keycaps and redesigned stabilizers.
  • +Features three levels of adjustable typing angle.
  • −According to its vendor, QMK firmware does not support low-profile optical switches, limiting hot-swap options to mechanical ones.
  • −Its listed weight of 580g may be slightly heavier than some ultra-portable keyboards.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K13 Pro holds clear advantages for gamers seeking a high polling rate and for programmers or modders who require QMK/VIA firmware support. For office work, travel, and content creation, the keyboards are closely matched, sharing core wireless and low-profile features. The K1 SE's unique offering is its optional optical switches, which may appeal to users prioritizing that specific switch technology.

GamingKeychron K13 Pro
  • •The K13 Pro lists a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode, which is specified for competitive gaming.
  • •Its vendor description states the 1000 Hz polling rate makes latency 'hardly noticeable even in competitive games'.
  • •The K1 SE vendor page mentions 0.2 ms ultra-low latency for its optical switches, but does not specify a polling rate.
OfficeTie
  • •Both offer multi-device Bluetooth connectivity for switching between a laptop, phone, and tablet.
  • •Both include keycaps for Mac and Windows operating systems.
  • •Both feature low-profile switches and designs aimed at productivity.
ProgrammingKeychron K13 Pro
  • •The K13 Pro supports QMK and VIA firmware for deep key remapping and macro programming.
  • •Its vendor description highlights the open-source QMK firmware for 'endless possibilities'.
  • •It offers a wider range of layout standards including ISO, JIS, and ANSI, which is beneficial for international programmers.
TravelTie
  • •Both are 80% (tenkeyless) layout keyboards, saving space.
  • •Both have identical 2000mAh battery capacities.
  • •Both utilize a low-profile design described as 'ultra-slim' by their vendors.
ModdingKeychron K13 Pro
  • •The K13 Pro supports QMK/VIA, allowing for extensive firmware-based customization.
  • •It comes with redesigned stabilizers and north-facing RGB, as noted in its specifications.
  • •While both are hot-swappable, the K13 Pro's QMK support is explicitly stated as not compatible with optical switches, defining its modding ecosystem.
Content CreationTie
  • •Both keyboards feature multimedia keys for controlling media playback.
  • •Both offer RGB backlighting with multiple effects.
  • •The wireless functionality of both allows for a clean desk setup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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