KeebFinder
Not sure which keyboard to choose? Try the Keyboard Finder now!

Compare Keychron Q1 vs V1 Max Differences Side by Side

This comparison helps buyers decide between two 75% keyboards from Keychron that share a similar layout and gasket mount design but target different priorities. The Q1 features a full CNC machined aluminum body and double-gasket construction for a solid, premium feel, while the V1 Max offers both 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth 5.1 wireless connectivity in a lighter ABS plastic chassis. The decision is hard because both support QMK/VIA, hot-swappable switches, and screw-in stabilizers, so your choice hinges on whether you value build heft and material quality or wireless convenience and lower weight.

94
Keychron Q1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard - Version 1
98
Keychron V1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

Select a keyboard to compare

4.9 (42)
4.3 (32)
  • Released in 2022
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, JIS, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW layout standard
  • Supports Wired, Wired only, connectivity
  • Weighs about 1825 g
  • Sized at 22 x 145 x 328 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Features ABS, PBT keycaps
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-PT, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 770 g
  • Sized at 22 x 149 x 329 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Plastic case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 72.7
  • Build Quality: 89.1
  • Productivity: 97.3
  • Customizability: 99.8
  • Portability: 64.8
Scores
  • Performance: 83.3
  • Build Quality: 86.5
  • Productivity: 97.4
  • Customizability: 99.5
  • Portability: 79.2
Name
Keychron Q1
Name
Keychron V1 Max
Release year
2022
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, JIS, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW
Layout Standard
ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-PT, ISO, 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
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
-
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
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
Gasket 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
ABS, Plastic
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Dimensions
22 x 145 x 328 mm
Dimensions
22 x 149 x 329 mm
Weight
1825g
Weight
770g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

If you prioritize a premium typing feel with a solid aluminum chassis and don't mind being tethered to a cable, the Keychron Q1 is the better choice, especially for desk-bound programmers and content creators who will appreciate the programmable knob and double-gasket dampening. If wireless freedom, lighter travel weight, and longer-lasting PBT keycaps are more important, the Keychron V1 Max offers strong value with its 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth connectivity, though you should be aware of potential long-term reliability concerns noted in reviews.

Keychron Q1

  • +Full CNC machined 6063 aluminum body with polished, anodized, and sandblasted finish.
  • +Double-Gasket Design with silicone pads between top and bottom cases to reduce metal resonance.
  • +Programmable knob supports custom key or macro assignment via VIA software.
  • +Multiple plate material choices (aluminum, steel, polycarbonate) for tuning typing feel.
  • +High 99.8/100 customizability score per internal metrics, reflecting broad modding support.
  • −Heavy 1825g weight makes it impractical for frequent travel or carrying.
  • −Wired-only connectivity limits desk cable management options.
  • −Fixed 5° typing angle lacks adjustable feet for varied ergonomic preferences.
  • −ABS keycaps may develop shine over time, unlike the V1 Max's PBT caps.

Keychron V1 Max

  • +Dual wireless connectivity via 2.4 GHz (1000 Hz polling) and Bluetooth 5.1 for flexible setups.
  • +Lightweight 770g design with adjustable typing angles (3.5°/7.1°/9.5°) for ergonomic comfort.
  • +4000mAh rechargeable battery offers up to 190 hours of use with backlight off.
  • +Double-shot PBT keycaps resist oil and fading, providing longer-lasting legends.
  • +N-Key Rollover supported in both wireless and wired modes.
  • −ABS plastic case lacks the premium feel and weight of the Q1's aluminum construction.
  • −Some user reviews report key chatter and connectivity issues after several months of use.
  • −Only one plate material (polycarbonate) is included, limiting sound customization out of the box.
  • −No dedicated knob on the barebone version, and the fully assembled knob version may still require VIA setup.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

For gaming and travel, the V1 Max wins due to its wireless 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth connectivity, lower weight, and N-Key Rollover support. Programming and content creation favor the Q1 because of its rigid aluminum build, double-gasket design, and programmable knob. Office and modding duties are evenly matched, as both share gasket mounting, QMK/VIA customization, and hot-swappable sockets. Overall, the choice comes down to whether wireless freedom or premium material quality matters more for your daily use.

GamingKeychron V1 Max
  • •2.4 GHz wireless mode offers a 1000 Hz polling rate for low latency without a cable.
  • •Bluetooth 5.1 connects to multiple devices for flexible setups.
  • •N-Key Rollover supported in both wireless and wired modes.
  • •Lighter 770g weight makes it easier to reposition during gameplay.
OfficeTie
  • •Both keyboards use a gasket mount design and sound dampening for quieter typing.
  • •Both offer QMK/VIA support for custom productivity macros and key remapping.
  • •The Q1's aluminum body provides a premium desk presence, while the V1 Max's wireless capability reduces cable clutter.
  • •Both include screw-in stabilizers for stable big keys.
ProgrammingKeychron Q1
  • •Full CNC machined aluminum body with 6063 aluminum provides a stable, rigid typing platform.
  • •Double-Gasket Design reduces metal resonance for a cleaner typing sound.
  • •Programmable knob can be customized via VIA for tasks like scrolling code or adjusting brush size.
  • •5° fixed typing angle offers a consistent ergonomic posture.
TravelKeychron V1 Max
  • •Weighs only 770g, significantly lighter than the Q1's 1825g.
  • •Wireless connectivity via 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth 5.1 eliminates the need for a cable.
  • •4° typing angle with adjustable feet (3.5°/7.1°/9.5°) suits different on-the-go surfaces.
  • •ABS plastic case is more durable against bumps during transport.
ModdingTie
  • •Both support hot-swappable 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches and come with screw-in PCB stabilizers.
  • •Both offer QMK/VIA firmware for full key remapping and macro customization.
  • •The Q1 offers multiple plate material options (aluminum, steel, polycarbonate) for tuning flex and sound.
  • •The V1 Max uses a PC plate and gasket mount, which is a solid base for foam and tape mods.
Content CreationKeychron Q1
  • •Programmable knob can be mapped to zoom, brush size, opacity, or volume via VIA software.
  • •Aluminum construction reduces vibration for a stable typing feel during long editing sessions.
  • •15 programmable macro keys offer quick access to editing shortcuts.
  • •South-facing RGB with shine-through ABS keycaps provides clear backlight in dim studios.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

95
$149
Keychron Q1 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q1 Pro
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

97
$44
Keychron V1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron V1
75%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Tray Mount

94
$94
Keychron V3 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V3 Max
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Gasket Mount

96
$89
Keychron V6 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V6 Max
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Gasket Mount

100
$104
Lemokey P1 QMK/VIA Custom Gaming Keyboard
Keychron Lemokey P1
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

99
$129
Keychron K2 HE Wireless Magnetic Switch Custom Keyboard
Keychron K2 HE
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

93
$97
Keychron V1 Ultra 8K Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V1 Ultra
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Gasket Mount

98
$186
Keychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q1 Max
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

87
$83
Keychron K3 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K3 Pro
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

98
$99
Keychron V5 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V5 Max
96%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Gasket Mount