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

Compare Keychron K3 Max SE vs K3 V3 Differences Side by Side

This comparison matters for anyone looking at Keychron's slim 75% line who needs to decide between a dedicated 2.4 GHz wireless mode or a more traditional Bluetooth-only wireless design. The K3 Max SE introduces a 2.4 GHz connection and a unique wooden side frame, while the K3 V3 offers broader key layout options and a lighter aluminum top case. Both share the same low profile and hot swappable switch support, but their connectivity and build material differences define their best use cases.

83
Keychron K3 Max SE QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
83
Keychron K3 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (ISO Layout) - Version 3

Select a keyboard to compare

5.0 (1)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2026
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Weighs about 566 g
  • Sized at 20 x 319 x 126 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Wood case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Released in 2024
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-SW, ISO-Nordic layout standard
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Uses a Top Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Weighs about 540 g
  • Sized at 19 x 306 x 116 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Aluminum case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 80.3
  • Build Quality: 73.9
  • Productivity: 88.8
  • Customizability: 86.9
  • Portability: 79.8
Scores
  • Performance: 82
  • Build Quality: 81.7
  • Productivity: 70.3
  • Customizability: 89.9
  • Portability: 74.7
Name
Keychron K3 Max SE
Name
Keychron K3 V3
Release year
2026
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
75%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-SW, ISO-Nordic
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
Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
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
-
Mount Style
Top Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Wood
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Dimensions
20 x 319 x 126 mm
Dimensions
19 x 306 x 116 mm
Weight
566g
Weight
540g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

If you prioritize low-latency wireless connectivity for gaming or need a quieter, more durable typing experience for content creation, the Keychron K3 Max SE is the better choice with its 2.4 GHz mode and PBT keycaps. If you require an ISO layout for programming or prefer a sturdier aluminum build for modding, the Keychron K3 V3 offers more flexibility. Both are excellent low profile 75% keyboards, but the decision ultimately comes down to whether you need the 2.4 GHz dongle or the ISO key layout.

Keychron K3 Max SE

  • +Dedicated 2.4 GHz wireless mode with 1000 Hz polling rate for ultra-low latency gaming
  • +LSA double-shot PBT keycaps are more durable and resistant to oil and shine
  • +Interior EPDM and bottom case acoustic foam layers for a quieter, more cushioned typing experience
  • +Unique wooden side frame adds a natural aesthetic and improves grip
  • −Bluetooth polling is limited to 125 Hz, which is slower than the K3 V3's 90 Hz, but not noticeable for general use
  • −No adjustable typing angle, which may reduce ergonomic comfort for some users
  • −The ABS plastic bottom case may feel less premium than the K3 V3's aluminum frame

Keychron K3 V3

  • +Available in multiple ISO layouts (UK, German, Swiss, Nordic) for international users
  • +Aluminum top frame provides a sturdier and more premium build quality
  • +Three adjustable typing angles (2.5, 4.2, and 6.5 degrees) for better ergonomic support
  • +Redesigned stabilizers with less wobble on large keys like the space bar and enter key
  • −No 2.4 GHz wireless option and Bluetooth polling is limited to 90 Hz, which may not be ideal for competitive gaming
  • −Standard ABS keycaps are less durable and more prone to shine compared to the K3 Max SE's PBT keycaps
  • −Heavier at 540 g compared to the K3 Max SE's 566 g, but the difference is minimal

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The K3 Max SE wins for gaming due to its 2.4 GHz wireless mode, while the K3 V3 takes the lead for programming thanks to its multiple ISO layout options. For office use, the two keyboards are evenly matched, both offering Bluetooth 5.2 and Mac/Windows compatibility. Content creators and travelers will benefit from the K3 Max SE's PBT keycaps, acoustic foam, and 2.4 GHz connectivity, while modders may prefer the K3 V3's top mount design and aluminum frame.

GamingKeychron K3 Max SE
  • •Supports a dedicated 2.4 GHz wireless mode with a 1000 Hz polling rate for low latency gaming
  • •Bluetooth polling limited to 125 Hz, but the 2.4 GHz option provides a more responsive connection for gaming
  • •K3 V3 relies on Bluetooth (90 Hz polling) or wired mode, which lacks the same wireless gaming performance
OfficeTie
  • •Both keyboards use a compact 75% layout that saves desk space while retaining essential keys
  • •Both support Bluetooth 5.2 for wire-free multitasking with up to three devices
  • •Both have Mac and Windows keycap support and are compatible with both operating systems
  • •The K3 V3's adjustable typing angles (2.5, 4.2, 6.5 degrees) may offer better ergonomic wrist support for long typing sessions
ProgrammingKeychron K3 V3
  • •K3 V3 offers multiple ISO layouts (UK, German, Swiss, Nordic) which are essential for programmers with non-US key requirements
  • •Both keyboards support QMK and VIA for full key remapping and macro creation, but the K3 V3's layout variety is a decisive advantage for international users
  • •The K3 V3's redesigned stabilizers provide less wobble on big keys like the space bar, improving typing reliability
TravelKeychron K3 Max SE
  • •K3 Max SE is only 20 mm thick at the back, making it easier to slip into a laptop bag
  • •Includes a 2.4 GHz dongle for instant wireless connection without Bluetooth pairing, ideal for frequent device switching
  • •Battery life is rated up to 120 hours on wireless, reducing the need for frequent charging on trips
ModdingKeychron K3 V3
  • •K3 V3 uses a top mount and PCB mount design, which is more familiar to modders and allows for easier case and plate swapping
  • •The K3 V3's aluminum frame offers a sturdier foundation for modifications compared to the K3 Max SE's ABS and wood construction
  • •Both keyboards are hot swappable, but the K3 V3's wider availability of ISO layout replacement keycaps is a plus for modders
Content CreationKeychron K3 Max SE
  • •K3 Max SE features LSA double-shot PBT keycaps, which are more durable and resistant to oil and shine from heavy use
  • •The interior EPDM acoustic foam and bottom case acoustic foam provide a quieter typing experience, beneficial for recording or studio environments
  • •2.4 GHz wireless ensures a stable, low-latency connection to a workstation, avoiding Bluetooth dropouts during editing

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

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

78
$94
Keychron K3 Ultra 8K Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron K3 Ultra
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK

68
$96
Keychron K3 Ultra-slim Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (Version 2)
Keychron K3 V2
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
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

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

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

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

77
$90
Keychron K3 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (ISO Layout) - Version 3
Keychron K3 QMK V3
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
QMK,
HE,
Alu case,
Plate Mount

83
$100
Keychron K2 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (ISO Layout) - Version 3
Keychron K2 QMK V3
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
PCB Mount