Not sure which keyboard to choose? Try the Keyboard Finder now!

Compare Keychron K11 Pro vs K15 Max Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for users drawn to Keychron's low-profile Alice layout but torn between size and connectivity. The K11 Pro offers a more compact 65% form factor, while the K15 Max provides a 75% layout with additional keys. Both share core features like QMK/VIA programmability, hot-swap sockets for low-profile switches, and PBT keycaps, making the choice hinge on your need for a function row and wireless performance versus ultimate desk space savings.

88
Keychron K11 Pro (Alice Layout) QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
89
Keychron K15 Max (Alice Layout) QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard

Select a keyboard to compare

5.0 (2)
4.1 (14)
  • Released in 2023
  • Available in a 65% layout
  • Comes with a knob
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Weighs about 510 g
  • Sized at 11 x 346 x 115 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face, White North-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2024
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a PCB Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Weighs about 700 g
  • Sized at 29 x 370 x 143 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Aluminum case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 79.7
  • Build Quality: 82
  • Productivity: 87.2
  • Customizability: 93.2
  • Portability: 89.1
Scores
  • Performance: 81
  • Build Quality: 79.8
  • Productivity: 92.7
  • Customizability: 89
  • Portability: 79.3
Name
Keychron K11 Pro
Name
Keychron K15 Max
Release year
2023
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Low Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
65%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Alice
Layout Ergonomics
Alice
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, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
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
Tray Mount
Mount Style
PCB Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, White
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
11 x 346 x 115 mm
Dimensions
29 x 370 x 143 mm
Weight
510g
Weight
700g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

Your priority dictates the choice. If you need the lowest-latency wireless for gaming or value having direct access to a function row for office and programming work, the Keychron K15 Max is the logical pick. If saving desk space, traveling frequently, or using a knob for creative controls is more important, the more compact and knob-equipped Keychron K11 Pro is the better option, provided you can manage without 2.4 GHz wireless.

Keychron K11 Pro

  • +Includes a programmable aluminum rotary encoder knob for media and macro control.
  • +More compact and portable 65% Alice layout, measuring 346 x 115 mm and weighing 510g.
  • +Tray mount design with an aluminum and plastic case construction.
  • +Offers a lower starting price point according to listed vendor pricing.
  • +Knob support is listed as a specific extra feature in the metadata.

  • Lacks a 2.4 GHz wireless connection, offering only Bluetooth and wired modes.
  • The 65% layout requires using function layers for arrow keys and a dedicated function row.
  • Some user reviews criticize the placement of the Fn keys adjacent to the space bars.

Keychron K15 Max

  • +Features a 2.4 GHz wireless connection with a 1000 Hz polling rate alongside Bluetooth and wired.
  • +75% Alice layout includes a dedicated function row and more readily accessible navigation keys.
  • +Vendor description specifies interior IXPE acoustic foam and latex foam for sound dampening.
  • +PCB mount style, which can offer a different typing feel compared to tray mount.
  • +Sound dampening is listed as an explicit extra feature in the metadata.

  • Larger and heavier at 370 x 143 mm and 700g, making it less portable.
  • Does not include a rotary encoder knob.
  • Carries a higher typical price based on the listed vendor price ranges.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K15 Max is the more versatile choice for general productivity, gaming, and programming due to its larger layout and 2.4 GHz wireless. The K11 Pro excels in portability and for content creators who value its dedicated knob, trading some keys for a smaller footprint. For hardware modding, both are equally capable platforms with hot-swap sockets and strong firmware support.

GamingKeychron K15 Max
  • The K15 Max includes a 2.4 GHz wireless connection with a 1000 Hz polling rate for low-latency gaming.
  • Its 75% layout retains dedicated arrow keys without requiring a function layer.
  • The vendor description mentions interior IXPE and latex foam for acoustic dampening, which may provide a more focused sound profile.
OfficeKeychron K15 Max
  • The 75% layout includes a dedicated function row and navigation cluster, reducing reliance on key combinations for common shortcuts.
  • It supports 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth, and wired connectivity for flexible device switching.
  • The vendor page states it includes LSA profile keycaps, which are sculpted for ergonomics.
ProgrammingKeychron K15 Max
  • The dedicated function row (F1-F12) is easily accessible for IDE shortcuts.
  • The larger 75% layout provides more immediate key access compared to the 65% K11 Pro.
  • Both keyboards offer full QMK and VIA support for complex macro and layer programming.
TravelKeychron K11 Pro
  • The K11 Pro is significantly smaller (346 x 115 mm vs 370 x 143 mm) and lighter (510g vs 700g).
  • Its 65% Alice layout is more compact while retaining split ergonomics.
  • It offers Bluetooth and wired connectivity, sufficient for use with laptops and tablets on the go.
ModdingTie
  • Both keyboards are hot-swappable, compatible with Gateron low-profile mechanical switches.
  • Both support open-source QMK firmware and VIA for software customization.
  • Both feature north-facing RGB, PBT keycaps, and redesigned stabilizers mentioned in the vendor descriptions.
Content CreationKeychron K11 Pro
  • The K11 Pro includes a programmable rotary encoder knob for controlling timelines, brush size, or volume.
  • Its compact size frees up desk space for graphics tablets or other peripherals.
  • The vendor description highlights the knob's customization for creative workflows via the Keychron Launcher app.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

95
$79
Keychron Q10 (Alice Layout) QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q10
75%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

83
$94
Keychron K3 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (ISO Layout) - Version 3
Keychron K3 V3
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Top Mount

94
$84
Keychron K3 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K3 Max
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Plate Mount

87
$83
Keychron K3 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K3 Pro
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

84
$83
Keychron K7 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K7 Pro
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

85
$106
Keychron K1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K1 Max
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
PCB Mount

87
$67
Keychron K13 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K13 Pro
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

84
$94
Keychron K1 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (ISO Layout) - Version 6
Keychron K1 V6
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Top Mount

86
$67
Keychron K1 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K1 Pro
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

84
$109
Keychron K13 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K13 Max
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
PCB Mount