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Compare Keychron K15 Max vs S1 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two low-profile 75% mechanical keyboards from Keychron. The K15 Max offers a unique Alice ergonomic layout and versatile wireless connectivity, while the S1 delivers a heavier, all-metal CNC-machined build. The decision is hard because both share similar low-profile Gateron switches, QMK/VIA support, and 1000 Hz polling, but they cater to different priorities in ergonomics, portability, and construction.

-25% off
89
Keychron K15 Max (Alice Layout) QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
85
Keychron S1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard

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4.1 (14)
4.8 (18)
  • Released in 2024
  • Offers Alice ergonomics
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a PCB Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 2000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 700 g
  • Sized at 29 x 370 x 143 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Aluminum case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White RGB lighting
  • Released in 2022
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Weighs about 960 g
  • Sized at 8 x 118 x 310 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 80.8
  • Build Quality: 79.5
  • Productivity: 92.7
  • Customizability: 88.7
  • Portability: 79.3
Scores
  • Performance: 81.7
  • Build Quality: 81.3
  • Productivity: 80
  • Customizability: 89.3
  • Portability: 63.1
Name
Keychron K15 Max
Name
Keychron S1
Release year
2024
Release year
2022
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Low Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Alice
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, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
2000 mAh
Battery capacity
-
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
PCB Mount
Mount Style
Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, White
Backlight
 
Rgb, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
29 x 370 x 143 mm
Dimensions
8 x 118 x 310 mm
Weight
700g
Weight
960g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

The Keychron K15 Max is the better choice if you need wireless flexibility, an ergonomic Alice layout, and a lighter keyboard for travel. The Keychron S1 is worth considering if you prefer a heavier, all-metal build and prioritize typing stability over wireless convenience. Ultimately, your decision hinges on whether wireless versatility and ergonomic design or premium metal construction matter more.

Keychron K15 Max

  • +Wireless connectivity via Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz, as stated in the product description.
  • +Ergonomic Alice layout intended to reduce typing strain.
  • +Interior IXPE acoustic foam and latex foam for a quieter typing experience.
  • +Lighter weight at 700g compared to the S1.
  • +Includes 12 multimedia keys for convenient media control.
  • −Alice layout may require a learning curve and can feel slower than standard layouts according to user reviews.
  • −Hot-swappable version is limited to Gateron/Keychron low-profile mechanical switches per the vendor.
  • −Build quality is mixed as it uses an ABS and aluminum frame rather than full metal.

Keychron S1

  • +Full CNC-machined aluminum body for a premium, solid feel.
  • +Heavier at 960g, providing stability during use.
  • +Steel plate contributes to a distinct typing feel and durability.
  • +Adjustable typing angles of 3° and 6° for ergonomic customization.
  • −Wired-only connectivity, no wireless (Bluetooth or 2.4 GHz) options.
  • −Heavier and more difficult to pick up and move around according to user reviews.
  • −RGB keycaps are not shine-through, making backlighting less useful in low light as noted by users.
  • −Some users report quality control issues with stabilizers requiring disassembly.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron K15 Max is the stronger choice for office, programming, travel, and content creation due to its lighter weight, wireless options, ergonomic Alice layout, and extra keys. For gaming and modding, the two keyboards tie because both share a 1000 Hz polling rate, N-Key Rollover, hot-swappable switches, and QMK/VIA firmware support. The S1 does not win any use case outright, as its primary advantage—a heavier all-metal construction—does not directly benefit the evaluated scenarios as much as the K15 Max's portability and ergonomics.

GamingTie
  • •Both offer 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode according to their specifications.
  • •Both support N-Key Rollover for reliable simultaneous key presses.
  • •Neither product listing mentions specific gaming-focused features like adjustable actuation or additional macro keys beyond QMK remapping.
OfficeKeychron K15 Max
  • •The K15 Max supports Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless, allowing easy connection to multiple devices like computers, phones, and tablets.
  • •The Alice ergonomic layout is designed to reduce hand strain during long typing sessions.
  • •The K15 Max includes interior IXPE acoustic foam for quieter keystrokes, beneficial in shared workspaces.
ProgrammingKeychron K15 Max
  • •The K15 Max's Alice layout places the 'B' key under the left hand, which some developers find more natural for typing.
  • •Both have QMK/VIA support for full key remapping, but the K15 Max includes extra macro keys (one to the right of left spacebar and one to the left of 'N') as noted in user reviews.
  • •The K15 Max offers wireless connectivity to easily switch between coding on a desktop and testing on other devices.
TravelKeychron K15 Max
  • •The K15 Max weighs 700g, which is lighter than the S1 at 960g, making it easier to carry.
  • •The K15 Max supports both 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth wireless, reducing cable clutter and offering flexible connection options on the go.
  • •The K15 Max has a 2000mAh battery for extended wireless use, as noted in its specifications.
ModdingTie
  • •Both boards support hot-swappable Gateron low-profile mechanical switches, allowing easy switch changes without soldering.
  • •Both offer QMK and VIA support for extensive firmware customization of keymaps, macros, and lighting.
  • •The K15 Max uses a PCB mount while the S1 uses a tray/plate mount, but neither vendor description details a standard mounting system that is more mod-friendly.
Content CreationKeychron K15 Max
  • •The K15 Max includes 12 multimedia keys as per its specifications, providing quick access to common functions like play/pause and volume.
  • •Wireless connectivity (Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz) allows for a cleaner desk setup and easier switching between editing tools and devices.
  • •The K15 Max's Alice layout can reduce wrist fatigue during long editing sessions, based on its ergonomic design.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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