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

Compare Keychron K2 HE vs Q1 V1 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Keychron's feature-rich wireless model and their classic wired custom board. Both are 75% keyboards with hot-swap PCBs, QMK/VIA support, and premium materials, making the choice difficult. The K2 HE offers modern magnetic switch technology and multi-device connectivity, while the Q1 V1 focuses on a traditional, high-flex typing experience from its all-metal gasket mount construction.

99
Keychron K2 HE Wireless Magnetic Switch Custom Keyboard
93
Keychron Q1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection - Version 1

Select a keyboard to compare

4.6 (68)
4.5 (1175)
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Linear, Magnetic switch options
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-CH, ISO-Nordic, JIS layout standard
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Enables rapid trigger functionality
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1743 g
  • Sized at 30 x 127 x 41 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Wood, ABS, Resin case
  • Features PBT, ABS, PC keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face, White, White North-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Built with the ISO, JIS, ANSI layout standard
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Weighs about 1700 g
  • Sized at 22 x 145 x 328 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Features ABS, PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 93.3
  • Build Quality: 90.8
  • Productivity: 96.9
  • Customizability: 99.5
  • Portability: 81.4
Scores
  • Performance: 72.6
  • Build Quality: 89.7
  • Productivity: 97.9
  • Customizability: 99.9
  • Portability: 64.8
Name
Keychron K2 HE
Name
Keychron Q1 V1
Release year
2024
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Linear, Magnetic
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-CH, ISO-Nordic, JIS
Layout Standard
ISO, JIS, 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, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
4000 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
Tray Mount
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, North-face, White
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, Wood, ABS, Resin
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS, PC
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Dimensions
30 x 127 x 41 mm
Dimensions
22 x 145 x 328 mm
Weight
1743g
Weight
1700g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you value a clean desk, need to switch between multiple devices, or want to experiment with cutting-edge magnetic switch features like adjustable actuation, the Keychron K2 HE is the more versatile and modern option. If your setup is permanently wired and you prefer the nuanced, flexible feel of a gasket-mounted aluminum keyboard with extensive standard switch compatibility, the Keychron Q1 V1 remains a compelling, tactile-focused choice.

Keychron K2 HE

  • +Advanced Gateron double-rail magnetic switches with adjustable actuation points (0.2-3.8mm) and Rapid Trigger.
  • +Triple-mode connectivity (2.4 GHz, Bluetooth 5.2, wired) with a 1000 Hz polling rate on wireless and wired modes.
  • +Includes multiple sound-dampening foams (EVA, EPDM, silicone pad) and screw-in stabilizers out of the box.
  • +Wide range of layout options including multiple ISO layouts (UK, DE, Nordic, etc.).
  • +4000mAh battery enables cord-free use.
  • −Magnetic hot-swap sockets are compatible only with Gateron double-rail magnetic switches, limiting switch options.
  • −Some user reviews mention a relatively short included USB-C cable.
  • −The bottom case is made of ABS plastic, whereas the top is aluminum or aluminum/wood.

Keychron Q1 V1

  • +Full CNC-machined aluminum case with a gasket mount design for a flexible typing feel.
  • +Hot-swappable PCB supports standard 3-pin and 5-pin MX mechanical switches for broad compatibility.
  • +Knob version includes a programmable rotary encoder for macros and media control.
  • +South-facing RGB LEDs prevent interference with Cherry and OEM profile keycaps.
  • +Includes a premium coiled aviator cable with a Type-C to Type-A adapter.
  • −Wired-only connectivity, with no wireless or battery option.
  • −The manufacturer notes some compatibility issues with MT3 and XDA profile keycaps on non-knob versions.
  • −Heavier weight (1700g) and lack of wireless may limit placement flexibility.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K2 HE is the clear choice for mobile and gaming-focused users, thanks to its wireless connectivity and customizable magnetic switches. The Q1 V1 excels for stationary enthusiasts who prioritize the specific typing feel of a gasket mount and the creative utility of a programmable knob. For general typing and programming, both keyboards are equally capable, sharing core features like QMK support and a sensible 75% layout.

GamingKeychron K2 HE
  • •The K2 HE's magnetic switches support adjustable actuation points from 0.2 to 3.8 mm and Rapid Trigger, features highlighted by the manufacturer for gaming.
  • •It offers a 1000 Hz polling rate over both its 2.4 GHz wireless and wired connections for low-latency input.
  • •Features like Last Key Priority (LKP) and Analog Mode, as described in its product page, are tailored for gaming responsiveness.
OfficeKeychron K2 HE
  • •The K2 HE connects via Bluetooth to up to three devices, facilitating easy switching between a computer, phone, and tablet.
  • •Its 4000mAh battery provides wireless operation, reducing cable clutter on a desk.
  • •It includes Mac and Windows keycaps and system toggles for compatibility in mixed-OS environments.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both keyboards support full key remapping and macros via open-source QMK firmware and the VIA/Keychron Launcher software.
  • •Both feature a 75% layout that retains arrow keys and function row while saving space.
  • •Both come with PBT keycaps for durability during long typing sessions.
TravelKeychron K2 HE
  • •The K2 HE is wireless, eliminating the need to carry or connect a cable when moving.
  • •It has a built-in battery, whereas the Q1 V1 is strictly wired.
  • •While both are similarly heavy, the K2 HE's wireless functionality offers more setup flexibility on the go.
ModdingKeychron Q1 V1
  • •The Q1 V1 features a gasket mount design, which the manufacturer states provides a flexible typing feel and is a popular modding platform.
  • •Its hot-swap PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin MX-style mechanical switches, offering broad switch compatibility.
  • •The product listing notes it supports third-party screw-in PCB stabilizers for easy upgrades.
Content CreationKeychron Q1 V1
  • •The Q1 V1's knob version allows the encoder to be programmed for creative macros like zooming or brush size adjustment, per its description.
  • •Its south-facing RGB LEDs avoid interference with Cherry-profile keycaps, which is beneficial for aftermarket keycap sets often used in custom setups.
  • •The all-aluminum CNC case provides a stable, premium base for long work sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

96
$149
Keychron Q3 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q3 Pro
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

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

93
$114
Keychron V3 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V3 Max
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Gasket Mount

95
$86
Keychron Q1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard - Version 1
Keychron Q1
75%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

100
$104
Lemokey P1 QMK/VIA Custom Gaming Keyboard
Keychron Lemokey P1
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

98
$94
Keychron V1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V1 Max
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Gasket Mount

92
$114
Keychron V3 Ultra 8K Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V3 Ultra
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Gasket Mount

94
$85
Keychron Q8 Pro (Alice Layout) QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q8 Pro
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

87
$149
Minilo98 Pro
Varmilo Minilo98 Pro
98%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Metal case,
Gasket Mount

93
$97
Keychron V1 Ultra 8K Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V1 Ultra
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Gasket Mount