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Compare Keychron K3 vs K3 QMK V3 Differences Side by Side

This comparison helps buyers decide between the Keychron K3 and the new Keychron K3 QMK V3, two ultra-slim 75% low-profile wireless mechanical keyboards. The decision is difficult because both share a similar design and battery, but the K3 QMK V3 introduces QMK firmware, a 1000 Hz polling rate, and Hall Effect switches, while the original K3 offers a PBT keycap option at a lower price. This guide focuses on the trade-offs between advanced programmability and a more affordable entry point.

65
Keychron K3 Ultra-slim Wireless Mechanical Keyboard FR-ISO Layout
77
Keychron K3 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (ISO Layout) - Version 3

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  • Released in 2023
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Built with the ISO-FR, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Made with a Aluminum, ABS case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Built with the ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, ANSI layout standard
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Weighs about 540 g
  • Sized at 19 x 306 x 116 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Aluminum case
  • Features ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 62.7
  • Build Quality: 61.7
  • Productivity: 66.8
  • Customizability: 69.6
  • Portability: 78.2
Scores
  • Performance: 84.6
  • Build Quality: 71.2
  • Productivity: 73.9
  • Customizability: 79.2
  • Portability: 77.7
Name
Keychron K3
Name
Keychron K3 QMK V3
Release year
2023
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear
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, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, 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
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
Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, ABS
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
19 x 306 x 116 mm
Weight
-
Weight
540g
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Pros and Trade-offs

If you need absolute control over your keymap, macros, and latency, buy the Keychron K3 QMK V3. It offers QMK firmware, a faster polling rate, and N-Key rollover for a more responsive experience. If you are on a tighter budget and value the durability of PBT keycaps, the standard Keychron K3 is a great low-profile option that covers all the basics well.

Keychron K3

  • +Offers PBT keycaps, which are generally more resistant to wear and shine than ABS.
  • +Available at a lower price point in the market.
  • +Features an aluminum case build.
  • +Includes both a keycap puller and a switch puller in the box.
  • −Lacks QMK firmware support for advanced programming.
  • −Uses a plastic plate instead of an aluminum one.
  • −Does not have N-Key rollover, based on available specs.
  • −Uses optical switches which are not compatible with standard MX switches.

Keychron K3 QMK V3

  • +Supports QMK firmware for deep customization via the Keychron Launcher web app.
  • +Features a 1000 Hz polling rate on wired mode for faster response.
  • +Includes N-Key rollover for both wireless and wired modes.
  • +Has redesigned stabilizers for less wobble on larger keys.
  • −ABS keycaps may be more prone to shine over time.
  • −Higher price point compared to the standard Keychron K3.
  • −Does not include a keycap puller in the box as per vendor description.
  • −Some users report weak tactile feedback and a built-in positive tilt.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K3 QMK V3 takes the lead for Gaming, Programming, Modding, and Content Creation due to its QMK firmware, 1000 Hz polling rate, and Hall Effect switches. For Office use, the original K3 is a better value because of its lower price and PBT keycap option. For Travel, they tie because both share the same compact size, low profile design, and battery capacity.

GamingKeychron K3 QMK V3
  • •1000 Hz polling rate on wired mode for lower latency.
  • •Hall Effect switch support as per vendor description.
  • •N-Key rollover for both wired and wireless modes.
OfficeKeychron K3
  • •PBT keycap material option is generally more durable than ABS.
  • •Lower starting price points available in the market.
  • •Slim aluminum body and 6 degree typing angle are comfortable.
ProgrammingKeychron K3 QMK V3
  • •QMK firmware allows for unlimited key remapping and macro creation.
  • •Customization via the Keychron Launcher web app on any browser.
  • •Three levels of adjustable typing angle for ergonomic comfort.
TravelTie
  • •Both have a compact 75% layout and a 1550mAh battery.
  • •Both offer Bluetooth wireless connectivity.
  • •Both use low profile switches for a slim design.
ModdingKeychron K3 QMK V3
  • •QMK firmware offers much deeper customization than the original.
  • •Hall Effect switch support is a unique modding path.
  • •Hot-swappable version compatible with Gateron/Keychron low-profile mechanical switches.
Content CreationKeychron K3 QMK V3
  • •QMK macro support can streamline video/audio editing workflows.
  • •N-Key rollover ensures every keypress is registered during shortcuts.
  • •Higher polling rate can improve responsiveness in creative software.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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