Compare Keychron K3 Max SE vs K4 HE Differences Side by Side

The Keychron K4 HE is better for gaming due to its advanced magnetic switch features. It offers an adjustable actuation point from 0.2 to 3.8 mm, Rapid Trigger, and Dynamic Keystrokes (DKS), which provide faster and more precise inputs. The K3 Max SE uses standard mechanical low-profile switches without these gaming-specific capabilities.

Yes, the K3 Max SE is suitable for programming. Its 75% layout provides all essential keys in a compact form factor, and full QMK and VIA support allows for extensive key remapping and macro creation. The low-profile switches and quiet typing experience with acoustic foam may also be beneficial in shared workspaces.

Both keyboards offer wireless connectivity via 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth, as well as USB-C wired mode. The K3 Max SE uses Bluetooth 5.2, while the vendor description for the K4 HE also states Bluetooth 5.2. Both support a 1000 Hz polling rate over wired and 2.4 GHz connections.

The Keychron K3 Max SE is significantly more portable. It weighs 566g compared to the K4 HE's 1090g, has a much slimmer profile with a front height of 16.46 mm, and its compact 75% layout takes up less desk space. The K4 HE is a full-size keyboard that is nearly twice as heavy.

Yes, both keyboards feature hot-swappable PCBs. The K3 Max SE is compatible with Keychron Milk POM low-profile switches. The K4 HE is designed for Gateron Double-Rail Magnetic switches, and the manufacturer notes it does not support other magnetic switch brands such as Gateron Magnetic Jade or KS-20 series.

Yes, the K4 HE supports Dynamic Rapid Trigger. This feature activates or deactivates keys based on travel distance rather than predefined actuation points, allowing for faster repeated keystrokes. The vendor describes this as providing an advantage in fast-paced gameplay.

The K3 Max SE comes with low-profile LSA double-shot PBT keycaps that are not shine-through. The K4 HE has different keycaps depending on the version: the Standard Version comes with Cherry profile double-shot shine-through PBT keycaps, while the Special Edition features OSA profile double-shot PBT keycaps that are not shine-through.

The K4 HE has a larger 4000mAh battery, while the K3 Max SE has a 1550mAh battery. However, the K3 Max SE's vendor claims up to 120 hours of wireless working time, compared to the K4 HE's claim of up to 110 hours. Actual battery life will vary based on usage, but the K4 HE's larger battery capacity is notable.

No, the K3 Max SE uses standard low-profile mechanical switches, which have a fixed actuation point. Customizing the actuation point is a feature exclusive to the K4 HE's Gateron Double-Rail magnetic switches, which allow adjustment from 0.2 to 3.8 mm in 0.1 mm increments via the Keychron Launcher web app.

Yes, the K4 HE is compatible with both macOS and Windows. The vendor description states it includes a system toggle and comes with an additional set of customized keycaps for both operating systems. The K3 Max SE also supports both Mac and Windows with a dedicated Mac layout.

The fully assembled version of the K4 HE includes the keyboard PCB, the case with an aluminum plate, keycaps (including both Mac and Windows keycaps), and Gateron double-rail magnetic switches. The vendor also mentions accessories like the Keychron Silicone Palm Rest and keycap sets available for purchase.

Both keyboards are designed for a quieter typing experience. The K3 Max SE uses EPDM acoustic foam and bottom case acoustic foam to reduce noise. The K4 HE includes multiple foam layers (EVA, EPDM, silicone pad, PET film), and the vendor describes its sound as 'soft and thocky.' User reviews for the K4 HE mention it is 'super quiet.'