Keychron Q1 vs Q1 V1ISO Layouts vs PBT Keycaps Choice

The primary differences are the included keycaps and layout support. The Q1 comes with ABS shine-through keycaps and explicitly supports many regional ISO layouts. The Q1 V1 includes double-shot PBT keycaps and has a more generalized ISO layout listing.

The Q1 V1 includes double-shot PBT keycaps, which are generally more durable and resistant to shine than the ABS keycaps included with the Q1. However, the Q1's ABS keycaps are shine-through, allowing for better RGB lighting effects.

Yes, both the Keychron Q1 and Q1 V1 feature hot-swappable sockets on the PCB. This allows you to install or change switches without soldering, and both support 3-pin and 5-pin MX-style mechanical switches.

Yes, both the Keychron Q1 and Q1 V1 have full support for QMK firmware and the VIA configuration software. This allows for deep customization of keymaps, layers, macros, and the programmable knob.

Both keyboards are available in versions with a programmable knob. The vendor listings show 'Knob' versions for both the Q1 and Q1 V1, which can be customized for volume, zoom, or other macros via VIA software.

Both have south-facing RGB LEDs to prevent interference with Cherry-profile keycaps. However, the Q1 V1 vendor description notes some customers have reported compatibility issues with MT3 and XDA profile keycaps, suggesting a potential advantage for the Q1 in this area.

Yes, both keyboards are designed with Mac compatibility in mind. Their vendor descriptions state they include keycaps for both macOS and Windows and have a system toggle to switch between layouts for each operating system.

Both the Keychron Q1 and Q1 V1 use a gasket mount design. The Q1's description specifically mentions a 'Double-Gasket Design' with silicone pads between the cases to reduce metal resonance and improve typing sound.

The keyboards themselves do not include a wrist rest. However, the vendor page for the Q1 shows optional Keychron resin and silicone palm rests available for separate purchase that are compatible with 75% layout keyboards.

The fully assembled Keychron Q1 comes with Gateron G Pro switches. The fully assembled Q1 V1 comes with either Keychron K Pro switches or Gateron Phantom switches, depending on the configuration selected at purchase.

No, both the Keychron Q1 and Q1 V1, as listed in the provided specifications, are wired-only keyboards. They connect via a USB Type-C cable and do not offer Bluetooth or 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity.