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Compare Keychron K3 V3 vs S1 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two of Keychron's 75% low-profile mechanical keyboards. The choice is difficult because both share core features like QMK/VIA programmability, hot-swap sockets, and a 1000Hz polling rate. The decision ultimately hinges on whether you prioritize the wireless connectivity and lighter build of the K3 V3 or the premium, full-metal construction and potentially lower price of the wired-only S1.

83
Keychron K3 QMK Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (ISO Layout) - Version 3
85
Keychron S1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard

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0.0 (0)
4.8 (18)
  • Released in 2024
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-SW, ISO-Nordic layout standard
  • Uses a Top Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 1550 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 540 g
  • Sized at 19 x 306 x 116 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Aluminum case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face, White North-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2022
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Weighs about 960 g
  • Sized at 8 x 118 x 310 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 82
  • Build Quality: 81.7
  • Productivity: 70.3
  • Customizability: 89.9
  • Portability: 74.7
Scores
  • Performance: 81.5
  • Build Quality: 81.5
  • Productivity: 80
  • Customizability: 89.5
  • Portability: 62.9
Name
Keychron K3 V3
Name
Keychron S1
Release year
2024
Release year
2022
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, ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-SW, ISO-Nordic
Layout Standard
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
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
1550 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
Top Mount
Mount Style
Tray 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
ABS, Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
19 x 306 x 116 mm
Dimensions
8 x 118 x 310 mm
Weight
540g
Weight
960g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require wireless operation, plan to move the keyboard frequently, or need a specific ISO layout, the Keychron K3 V3 is the clear option. If you prefer a stationary setup, want the heft and feel of an all-metal keyboard, and are working within a tighter budget, the wired Keychron S1 delivers excellent core features for less.

Keychron K3 V3

  • +Offers both Bluetooth 5.2 and wired connectivity for flexible use.
  • +Lighter weight (540g) and includes a 1550mAh battery for portability.
  • +Provides multiple ISO layout options (UK, German, Swiss, Nordic).
  • +Features enhanced acoustic foams (IXPE, EPDM, latex) for sound dampening.
  • +Includes adjustable feet for three typing angles (2.5°, 4.2°, 6.5°).
  • −Uses a combination of ABS and aluminum for the case, not full metal.
  • −Wireless polling rate is 90Hz, lower than the wired 1000Hz mode.
  • −Hot-swap sockets are listed as compatible only with specific low-profile mechanical switches (Keychron Milk POM or Gateron/Keychron).

Keychron S1

  • +Built with a full CNC machined aluminum body and steel plate for a premium feel.
  • +Comes with double-shot PBT keycaps for better durability and feel.
  • +Often available at a lower price point than the K3 V3.
  • +Described by the vendor as having parts that are easy to assemble for customization.
  • −Wired-only connectivity (USB-C), with no wireless option.
  • −Substantially heavier at 960g, reducing portability.
  • −Hot-swap sockets only support Gateron low-profile mechanical switches.
  • −Only offers ANSI layout, with no ISO options listed.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron K3 V3 wins for mobile and flexible use cases like Office and Travel due to its wireless features and lighter weight. The Keychron S1 is the stronger pick for Modding enthusiasts who value its all-metal construction. For stationary, performance-focused tasks like Gaming and Programming, the keyboards are evenly matched, sharing critical specs like polling rate and programmability.

GamingTie
  • •Both offer a 1000Hz polling rate for low latency.
  • •Both support N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
  • •The K3 V3's wireless mode has a 90Hz polling rate, which may be less ideal for competitive gaming compared to its wired mode.
OfficeKeychron K3 V3
  • •The K3 V3 supports Bluetooth 5.2 for connecting to up to three devices, easing multitasking.
  • •Its lighter weight (540g) and wireless design make it easier to move around a desk or between setups.
  • •It offers multiple ISO layout options (UK, DE, Swiss, Nordic) for international users.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both have full QMK and VIA support for deep key remapping and macro programming.
  • •Both use a 75% layout that retains arrow and navigation keys while saving space.
  • •Both include Mac and Windows keycaps for cross-platform compatibility.
TravelKeychron K3 V3
  • •The K3 V3 is significantly lighter at 540g versus the S1's 960g.
  • •Bluetooth connectivity removes the need for a cable when on the go.
  • •It includes a 1550mAh battery for cordless use.
ModdingKeychron S1
  • •The S1 features a full CNC machined aluminum body and steel plate, offering a more premium base for modifications.
  • •Its vendor description highlights that every part is designed to be easy to assemble and customize.
  • •It uses plate-mounted stabilizers which are common and often easier to modify than other types.
Content CreationKeychron K3 V3
  • •Wireless connectivity via Bluetooth provides a cleaner desk setup for filming or streaming.
  • •The ability to switch between multiple devices (laptop, tablet) can streamline a multi-device workflow.
  • •Adjustable typing angles (2.5°, 4.2°, 6.5°) on the K3 V3 may offer better ergonomic support during long sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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