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Compare Keychron K1 SE vs K3 Pro Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for users deciding between Keychron's two popular low-profile wireless keyboards. The choice is difficult because both share core features like hot-swap capability, multi-device Bluetooth, and a slim aluminum frame. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize the K3 Pro's extensive software customization and slightly smaller footprint, or the K1 SE's larger TKL layout and the availability of optical switch options.

66
Keychron K1 SE Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (US ANSI Layout)
87
Keychron K3 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard - Image: 3

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0.0 (0)
4.6 (54)
  • Released in 2021
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 2000 mAh battery
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White RGB lighting
  • Released in 2022
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ISO, JIS, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK, ANSI layout standard
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless, 2.4 GHz connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 1550 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 930 g
  • Sized at 15 x 306 x 116 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic, ABS case
  • Features ABS, PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face, 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: 80.9
  • Build Quality: 81.3
  • Productivity: 79.8
  • Customizability: 89.1
  • Portability: 77.2
Name
Keychron K1 SE
Name
Keychron K3 Pro
Release year
2021
Release year
2022
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Low Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
80%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ISO, JIS, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK, 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, 2.4 GHz
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
2000 mAh
Battery capacity
1550 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, South-face, White, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic, ABS
Keycaps Material
-
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
15 x 306 x 116 mm
Weight
-
Weight
930g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you want the absolute deepest level of customization for keys and layers, the Keychron K3 Pro is the clear winner with its QMK/VIA support and high polling rate. If you prefer a more traditional TKL size, need the optional optical switches, or prioritize a larger battery, the Keychron K1 SE is a solid alternative, albeit with less software flexibility.

Keychron K1 SE

  • +Offers an 80% TKL layout with dedicated function row.
  • +Available with both low-profile Gateron mechanical and Keychron optical switch options.
  • +Features a larger 2000mAh battery capacity.
  • +Includes two-level adjustable rubber feet for ergonomic support.
  • +Vendor description highlights an aluminum top case with a reinforced frame.
  • −Lacks support for QMK or VIA programming software.
  • −Vendor description does not specify a polling rate for gaming performance.
  • −Only available in an ANSI layout, limiting regional options.
  • −Hot-swap feature is limited to specific low-profile optical or Gateron versions.

Keychron K3 Pro

  • +Supports QMK and VIA firmware for extensive key remapping and macros.
  • +Specifies a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode for lower latency.
  • +Available in a wide variety of ISO and ANSI layouts for international users.
  • +Comes with double-shot PBT or dye-sublimated PBT keycaps for better durability.
  • +Features three levels of adjustable typing angle and redesigned stabilizers.
  • −Has a smaller 1550mAh battery capacity.
  • −Officially compatible only with Gateron low-profile mechanical switches for hot-swapping.
  • −The 75% layout may require more use of function layers for some users compared to TKL.
  • −Wireless polling rate is listed at 90Hz, which is lower than its wired performance.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K3 Pro wins in more specialized categories, particularly for programming and modding due to its QMK/VIA support, and for travel due to its smaller size and known weight. It also has a slight edge for gaming with its specified high polling rate. The K1 SE is a contender for content creation and users who prefer a larger TKL layout with dedicated function keys. For general office use, both keyboards are equally capable.

GamingKeychron K3 Pro
  • •The K3 Pro lists a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode, which the K1 SE vendor description does not specify.
  • •The K3 Pro's vendor page states its 1000 Hz polling rate is engineered for competitive gaming.
  • •The K3 Pro includes N-key rollover for both wireless and wired modes.
OfficeTie
  • •Both keyboards offer multi-device Bluetooth connectivity for switching between computers.
  • •Both are listed as compatible with Mac and Windows and include OS-specific keycaps.
  • •Both feature low-profile switches and a slim design suitable for shared workspaces.
ProgrammingKeychron K3 Pro
  • •The K3 Pro supports QMK and VIA firmware for deep key remapping and macro creation.
  • •The K3 Pro's 75% layout retains arrow and navigation keys while saving desk space.
  • •Its vendor description highlights the ability to configure different keymaps for Mac and Windows.
TravelKeychron K3 Pro
  • •The K3 Pro has a smaller 75% layout (306mm wide) compared to the K1 SE's 80% layout.
  • •The K3 Pro is listed at 930g, providing a concrete weight for portability consideration.
  • •Both offer wireless operation, but the more compact size of the K3 Pro is easier to pack.
ModdingKeychron K3 Pro
  • •The K3 Pro supports QMK/VIA, allowing for extensive firmware-level customization.
  • •It comes with double-shot PBT keycaps (dye-sublimated on the Special Edition), which are more durable than standard ABS.
  • •While both are hot-swappable, the K3 Pro's open-source firmware support offers more modding potential.
Content CreationKeychron K1 SE
  • •The K1 SE's 80% layout includes dedicated function keys, which can be useful for shortcut-heavy applications.
  • •Its larger form factor may provide a more familiar typing experience for extended writing sessions.
  • •The vendor description for the K1 SE mentions 18 types of RGB backlight effects for aesthetic customization.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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