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.

Model
	95	89	Select a keyboard to compare
Rating	4.9 stars (42 reviews)	0.0 stars (0 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	Released in 2022 Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options Built with the ANSI, ISO, JIS, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW layout standard Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style 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 Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear switch options Built with the ANSI layout standard Uses a Plate Mount mounting style
Score	Scores Performance: 72.5 Build Quality: 89.3 Productivity: 97.3 Customizability: 99.8 Portability: 65.3	Scores Performance: 73.3 Build Quality: 84.1 Productivity: 97.9 Customizability: 95.3 Portability: 67.9
Name	Name Keychron Q1	Name Keychron Q1 V2 SE
Release year	Release year 2022	Release year 2023
Switch Options	Switch Options Linear, Tactile, Clicky	Switch Options Clicky, Tactile, Linear
Profile	Profile Normal Profile	Profile Normal Profile
Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable
Layout Size	Layout Size 75%	Layout Size 75%
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ANSI, ISO, JIS, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW	Layout Standard ANSI
Layout Ergonomics	Layout Ergonomics Normal	Layout Ergonomics Normal
Knob Support	Knob Support	Knob Support
Display Support	Display Support	Display Support
Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support
Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys
USB-C	USB-C	USB-C
USB passthrough	USB passthrough	USB passthrough
Connection	Connection Wired, Wired only	Connection Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate	Polling Rate 1000 Hz	Polling Rate -
Battery capacity	Battery capacity -	Battery capacity -
Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support
QMK Support	QMK Support	QMK Support
VIA Support	VIA Support	VIA Support
VIAL Support	VIAL Support	VIAL Support
N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover
Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger
Mount Style	Mount Style Gasket Mount	Mount Style Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers
Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening
Backlight	Backlight Rgb, South-face	Backlight Rgb, South-face
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material Aluminum	Case Material Aluminum
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material ABS, PBT	Keycaps Material -
Dimensions	Dimensions 22 x 145 x 328 mm	Dimensions -
Weight	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