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Compare Keychron Q1 vs Q1 V2 SE Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers seeking a premium 75% wired keyboard with extensive customization. The Q1 and Q1 V2 SE look similar on paper but diverge in layout support and version updates. The Q1 offers a wide range of ISO layouts and barebones options, making it a favorite for modders. The Q1 V2 SE, available only in ANSI with a pre-built assembly, targets those who want a polished out-of-box experience with extra sound absorption. The choice hinges on whether you prioritize layout variety and DIY modding or a refined, ready-to-use build.

95
Keychron Q1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard - Version 1
89
Keychron Q1 V2 w/ Knob Special Edition Aluminum 75% Hotswap RGB Win + Mac Mechanical Keyboard

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4.9 (42)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2022
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW, JIS layout standard
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only, connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Weighs about 1825 g
  • Sized at 22 x 145 x 328 mm
  • Features ABS, PBT keycaps
  • Released in 2023
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Uses a Plate Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
Scores
  • Performance: 72.1
  • Build Quality: 89.5
  • Productivity: 97.6
  • Customizability: 99.8
  • Portability: 62.8
Scores
  • Performance: 73.6
  • Build Quality: 83.9
  • Productivity: 97.9
  • Customizability: 95.5
  • Portability: 67.2
Name
Keychron Q1
Name
Keychron Q1 V2 SE
Release year
2022
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW, JIS
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
Wired, Wired only,
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
-
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
Gasket Mount
Mount Style
Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
22 x 145 x 328 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
1825g
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

The Keychron Q1 is the better choice for modders and users who need specific ISO layouts, especially with its barebones kit options. The Q1 V2 SE is ideal for those who prefer a premium pre-built experience with extra sound dampening from the factory but can work with ANSI. Your decision should be based on layout needs and your desire for a DIY project versus a refined out-of-box keyboard.

Keychron Q1

  • +Supports multiple ISO layouts including DE, UK, Nordic, Swiss, French, and Spanish.
  • +Available in fully assembled and barebones kit forms for DIY builders.
  • +Double-gasket design with silicone pads between top and bottom cases for improved acoustics.
  • +Offers multiple plate material choices including aluminum, steel, and polycarbonate.
  • +Proven track record with 42 reviews and a high average rating.
  • −Lacks the V2's extra sound absorption updates from the vendor description.
  • −Not available in the special edition yellow colorway of the V2 SE.
  • −Some users note the default keycaps have faint shine-through for RGB.

Keychron Q1 V2 SE

  • +Updated V2 design with extra sound absorbing foam for a quieter typing experience.
  • +Pre-built assembly saves time for users who want a ready-to-use keyboard.
  • +Featuring new and improved aluminum case design with steel plate.
  • +Includes keycaps designed for the special edition yellow color theme.
  • −Only available in ANSI layout, limiting options for users who need ISO.
  • −No barebones kit option, reducing flexibility for custom part selection.
  • −Limited availability with no in-stock vendors and no customer reviews available.
  • −Higher price point compared to the Q1 based on available vendor pricing.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

For gaming, the Q1 V2 SE's pre-built design and extra sound absorption give it a slight edge. Both keyboards tie for office and content creation tasks, offering similar layout and customization features. The original Q1 wins for programming and modding due to its broader ISO layout support and barebones availability. Neither is ideal for travel due to their wired-only connectivity and heavy weight.

GamingKeychron Q1 V2 SE
  • •The Q1 V2 SE comes pre-built, saving setup time for gaming.
  • •The Q1 V2 SE includes extra sound absorption foam for a quieter gaming experience.
  • •Both offer 1000 Hz polling and hot-swappable switches.
  • •The Q1 V2 SE features an updated aluminum case design with a steel plate.
OfficeTie
  • •Both use a compact 75% layout that saves desk space.
  • •Both support Mac and Windows layouts with easy switching.
  • •Both have south-facing RGB and sound dampening features.
  • •Both include screw-in PCB stabilizers for stable typing.
ProgrammingKeychron Q1
  • •The Q1 supports multiple ISO layouts (DE, UK, Nordic, etc.) for international programmers.
  • •The Q1 is available as a barebones kit, letting programmers select their preferred switches.
  • •Both support QMK and VIA for key remapping.
TravelTie
  • •Both are wired-only, with no wireless option available.
  • •Both weigh approximately 1825g, making them heavy for travel.
  • •Both have a compact 75% layout, which is smaller than full-size boards.
ModdingKeychron Q1
  • •The Q1 offers barebones and fully assembled versions, ideal for DIY builders.
  • •The Q1 has a double-gasket design with silicone pads for flexible modding.
  • •The Q1 supports multiple plate materials including polycarbonate and aluminum.
  • •The Q1 has a wider variety of color options for the case.
Content CreationTie
  • •Both include a programmable knob for tasks like zooming and volume control.
  • •Both support QMK and VIA software for macro customization.
  • •Both feature south-facing RGB to minimize interference with keycap profiles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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