Keychron K11 Max vs K9 MaxAlice 65% or 60% Low Profile?

The K11 Max uses a 65% Alice layout with 68 keys and an ABS plus aluminum frame, while the K9 Max is a 60% layout with 61 keys and an ABS frame. The K11 Max also adds a programmable rotary knob, which the K9 Max does not list. Both share QMK firmware, a 1000 Hz polling rate on 2.4 GHz and wired, and low-profile PBT keycaps.

The K11 Max has the edge for ergonomics because it uses an Alice layout designed for a more natural typing position. One reviewer notes that after adjusting to the Alice layout, standard layouts feel cramped. The K9 Max uses a standard low-profile layout with three levels of adjustable typing angle.

Yes, the K11 Max includes a programmable aluminum rotary encoder. Keychron states you can customize keys and macros on the knob through the Keychron Launcher web app. The K9 Max vendor listing does not mention a knob.

Both offer hot-swap only as an optional version, so you need to select the hot-swappable variant at purchase. The K11 Max hot-swap version accepts Gateron or Keychron low-profile mechanical switches, and Keychron notes QMK does not support low-profile optical switches. The K9 Max hot-swap compatibility is limited to Keychron Milk POM switches.

The K9 Max is more portable, weighing 426 g against 520 g for the K11 Max. Its 60% body measures 287 x 97.5 mm versus 346 x 115 mm on the K11 Max. Both are low profile with 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth and wired options.

The K11 Max uses a 2000 mAh battery rated up to 95 hours, while the K9 Max uses a 1550 mAh battery rated up to 73 hours. Both figures come from Keychron and depend on backlight and connection settings. The K11 Max capacity is larger.

Both keyboards support Mac and Windows layouts, and Keychron includes keycaps for both systems with extra esc and enter keys. The Keychron Launcher web app works on macOS, Windows and Linux. Keychron also notes you can configure different keymaps for Mac and Windows devices.

The K9 Max uses Keychron Milk POM switches, described as built with POM and POK materials and pre-lubed for a smooth feel. The vendor lists Red, Brown and Banana options. The K11 Max uses Gateron low-profile mechanical switches with Red and Brown options.

The K11 Max frame is listed as ABS plus aluminum, so it is a mixed-material build rather than a full metal case. The K11 Max vendor page describes it as having an aluminum body in its ultra-slim section. The K9 Max frame is ABS only.

Both list a 1000 Hz polling rate on 2.4 GHz and wired modes. In Bluetooth mode, the K11 Max lists 90 Hz and the K9 Max lists 120 Hz. For latency-sensitive use, the 2.4 GHz or wired connection is the relevant mode on both.

One customer review reports key chatter, where keys register as multiple inputs, on both wireless and Bluetooth connections. The reviewer notes it may be specific to their unit. The K9 Max does not list any comparable wireless complaints in its single review.

Both use QMK firmware and the Keychron Launcher web app for remapping and macros. Keychron states the Launcher runs in Chrome, Edge or Opera and requires connecting the keyboard in wired mode. It also notes the Launcher is web-based and works across operating systems.