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Compare Keychron K3 vs K3 Pro Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for users deciding between Keychron's original K3 and its upgraded K3 Pro, two popular low-profile wireless keyboards. Both share a 75% layout, hot-swappable switches, and multi-device Bluetooth, making the choice difficult. The decision hinges on whether you value the K3 Pro's added features like QMK/VIA support and a 2.4 GHz dongle, or if the simpler K3 meets your needs at a potentially lower cost.

65
Keychron K3 Ultra-slim Wireless Mechanical Keyboard FR-ISO Layout
87
Keychron K3 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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0.0 (0)
4.7 (52)
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Built with the ISO-FR, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Uses a Plate Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Made with a Aluminum, ABS case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2022
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • 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
  • 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: 62.8
  • Build Quality: 61.7
  • Productivity: 66.7
  • Customizability: 69.5
  • Portability: 78.2
Scores
  • Performance: 81
  • Build Quality: 81.3
  • Productivity: 79.8
  • Customizability: 89
  • Portability: 77.2
Name
Keychron K3
Name
Keychron K3 Pro
Release year
2023
Release year
2022
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Low Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ISO-FR, ISO, 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
1550 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
Plate Mount
Mount Style
Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face, White, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, ABS
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
15 x 306 x 116 mm
Weight
-
Weight
930g
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Pros and Trade-offs

The Keychron K3 Pro is the definitive upgrade, worth the investment for anyone needing robust programmability, a reliable 2.4 GHz connection, or broader mechanical switch compatibility. Stick with the original Keychron K3 if your primary needs are a proven, ultra-slim low-profile keyboard for basic wireless typing across devices, and you do not plan on deep customization.

Keychron K3

  • +Emphasized ultra-slim and lightweight aluminum body design.
  • +Hot-swappable for Keychron's proprietary low-profile optical switches.
  • +Includes 17 extra keycaps for macOS/Windows customization.
  • +Two-level adjustable rubber feet for typing angle adjustment.
  • −Lacks 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity, offering only Bluetooth and wired.
  • −Uses proprietary low-profile optical switches, limiting third-party switch compatibility.
  • −No support for QMK, VIA, or advanced key remapping software.

Keychron K3 Pro

  • +Supports QMK and VIA firmware for extensive key remapping and macros.
  • +Adds a 2.4 GHz wireless connection alongside Bluetooth 5.1 and wired.
  • +Compatible with Gateron low-profile mechanical switches for broader modding.
  • +Features a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode and three-level adjustable typing angle.
  • −Heavier at 930g compared to the K3's unspecified weight, likely due to added features.
  • −QMK firmware does not support low-profile optical switches, limiting hot-swap to Gateron mechanical types.
  • −The vendor description notes some users experienced Bluetooth range limitations in specific setups like HTPC.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K3 Pro is the clear choice for users who prioritize customization, whether for gaming latency, programming macros, or content creation shortcuts, thanks to its QMK support and 2.4 GHz wireless. The original K3 remains a competent, ultra-slim option for general office use and travel where advanced programmability is not required. For modders, the K3 Pro's mechanical switch compatibility and open firmware offer a significantly more flexible platform.

GamingKeychron K3 Pro
  • •The K3 Pro lists a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode, which the K3's specifications do not mention.
  • •The K3 Pro includes a 2.4 GHz wireless connection for lower latency gaming, while the K3 is limited to Bluetooth and wired.
  • •The K3 Pro vendor page states its 1000 Hz polling rate is engineered for competitive gaming.
OfficeTie
  • •Both keyboards offer Bluetooth connectivity for switching between multiple devices like laptops and tablets.
  • •Both are explicitly compatible with macOS and Windows and include keycaps for both operating systems.
  • •Both feature a 75% layout with multimedia keys for compact productivity.
ProgrammingKeychron K3 Pro
  • •The K3 Pro supports QMK and VIA firmware for deep key remapping and macro creation, which the K3 does not.
  • •The K3 Pro vendor description mentions using the Keychron Launcher web app to master any keys or macro commands.
  • •The K3 Pro supports a wider array of layout standards (ISO, JIS, ANSI), which may benefit international programmers.
TravelKeychron K3
  • •The K3 vendor description emphasizes its ultra-slim, lightweight aluminum body as one of the thinnest in the world.
  • •Both share the same 1550mAh battery, but the K3's potentially slimmer profile could offer a marginal portability advantage.
  • •Both offer Bluetooth, eliminating the need to carry a dongle, though the K3 Pro's 2.4 GHz option requires one.
ModdingKeychron K3 Pro
  • •The K3 Pro supports QMK/VIA open-source firmware, allowing for extensive software customization not available on the K3.
  • •The K3 Pro is compatible with Gateron low-profile mechanical switches, while the K3 uses proprietary Keychron optical switches, limiting third-party switch options.
  • •The K3 Pro vendor page mentions redesigned stabilizers for less wobble on larger keys.
Content CreationKeychron K3 Pro
  • •The K3 Pro's QMK/VIA support allows for custom shortcuts and macros tailored to editing software workflows.
  • •The K3 Pro offers three levels of adjustable typing angle for ergonomic support during long sessions, while the K3 has a fixed 6° angle with two-level feet.
  • •The ability to connect via 2.4 GHz (K3 Pro) can provide a more stable connection for shortcut-heavy work compared to Bluetooth-only on the K3.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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