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Compare Keychron Q1 V1 vs Q1 Max Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Keychron's foundational Q1 V1 and its feature-packed wireless successor, the Q1 Max. Both share a 75% layout, gasket-mounted aluminum construction, and deep QMK/VIA programmability, making the choice difficult. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize the lower cost and specific plate options of the V1 or require the wireless connectivity and enhanced acoustic tuning of the Max.

93
Keychron Q1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection - Version 1
98
Keychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard

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4.5 (1175)
3.9 (95)
  • Built with the ISO, JIS, ANSI layout standard
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Weighs about 1700 g
  • Sized at 22 x 145 x 328 mm
  • Features ABS, PBT keycaps
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-CH, JIS layout standard
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1724 g
  • Sized at 23 x 145 x 328 mm
  • Features PBT keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 72.6
  • Build Quality: 89.7
  • Productivity: 97.9
  • Customizability: 99.9
  • Portability: 64.8
Scores
  • Performance: 82
  • Build Quality: 89
  • Productivity: 96.9
  • Customizability: 99.5
  • Portability: 81.3
Name
Keychron Q1 V1
Name
Keychron Q1 Max
Release year
2023
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ISO, JIS, ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-CH, JIS
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
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
22 x 145 x 328 mm
Dimensions
23 x 145 x 328 mm
Weight
1700g
Weight
1724g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your budget and need for wireless connectivity are the primary decision factors. If you require the freedom of wireless operation for a clean desk or multi-device workflow, the Keychron Q1 Max is the justified upgrade. If you primarily use a stationary, wired setup and want to allocate more budget towards switches, keycaps, or other mods, the original Q1 V1 remains an excellent and highly customizable foundation.

Keychron Q1 V1

  • +More affordable entry point into the Q1 series aluminum custom keyboard ecosystem.
  • +Offers a choice between aluminum and steel plate materials for tuning typing feel and sound.
  • +Extensive community support and proven modding platform with many documented modifications.
  • +Includes hot-swappable PCB, QMK/VIA support, and screw-in stabilizers for high customizability.
  • −Wired-only connectivity (USB-C) limits placement and adds cable management.
  • −The manufacturer's description notes some users have reported compatibility issues with MT3 and XDA profile keycaps due to the plate design.
  • −Lacks the enhanced acoustic foam layers and double-gasket design found in the newer Max model.

Keychron Q1 Max

  • +Triple-mode connectivity with 2.4 GHz wireless, Bluetooth 5.1, and wired USB-C.
  • +Features multiple layers of enhanced acoustic foams (IXPE, PET, Latex) and a double-gasket design for improved sound.
  • +Includes a 4000mAh rechargeable battery for extended wireless use.
  • +Uses a polycarbonate plate and a more powerful ARM Cortex-M4 MCU with 256KB Flash memory.
  • −Commands a higher price than the Q1 V1.
  • −Some early user reviews mention firmware update issues leading to key chatter, advising caution.
  • −Heavier weight (1724g) due to the internal battery, though similar to the V1.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Q1 Max is the clear choice for mobile and wireless-centric uses like office work, travel, and content creation, thanks to its triple-mode connectivity and large battery. For stationary setups where a cable is acceptable, the Q1 V1 remains a compelling and more affordable option, especially for modders who value its lower entry cost and plate material choices. Both are equally capable for programming due to their shared firmware support, while gamers may appreciate the Max's wireless flexibility.

GamingKeychron Q1 Max
  • •The Q1 Max offers a 1000 Hz polling rate over its 2.4 GHz wireless connection, matching its wired performance for lag-free gaming.
  • •Its wireless capability provides a cleaner desk setup without cable management concerns.
  • •Both keyboards share the same 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode.
OfficeKeychron Q1 Max
  • •Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity allows the Q1 Max to pair with up to three devices, such as a computer, phone, and tablet.
  • •The 4000mAh battery offers up to 180 hours of use with backlighting off, reducing cable clutter.
  • •It includes a system toggle and keycaps for both macOS and Windows.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both keyboards support QMK and VIA for deep key remapping and macro programming.
  • •The 75% layout on both models saves desk space while retaining essential navigation keys.
  • •Hot-swappable sockets on both allow easy switch experimentation for preferred typing feel.
TravelKeychron Q1 Max
  • •Wireless functionality eliminates the need to carry or connect a cable on the go.
  • •Bluetooth allows connection to laptops or tablets without using a USB port.
  • •Both are heavy aluminum boards (over 1700g), but the Q1 Max's wireless adds practical portability.
ModdingKeychron Q1 V1
  • •The Q1 V1 is available at a lower price point, making it a more cost-effective base for modifications.
  • •It offers a choice of aluminum or steel plate material, providing different acoustic and flex characteristics.
  • •It is a proven, widely available platform with extensive community modding support and guides.
Content CreationKeychron Q1 Max
  • •The programmable knob, present on both, can be mapped to media controls, brush size, or timeline scrubbing.
  • •Wireless connectivity via 2.4 GHz or Bluetooth offers a cleaner workspace for filming or streaming.
  • •The manufacturer states the Q1 Max features enhanced acoustic foams (IXPE, PET, Latex) for a more pleasing sound profile during recording.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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