Keychron Q1 V1 vs V1Aluminum vs Plastic Build Comparison

The core physical difference is the case material. The Q1 V1 has a full CNC machined aluminum body, while the V1 uses an ABS plastic housing. This results in a major weight difference, with the Q1 V1 weighing 1700g and the V1 weighing 995g.

Yes, both the Keychron Q1 V1 and the V1 fully support open-source QMK firmware and VIA software for key remapping and macro creation. Keychron provides a web-based Launcher app for both models to facilitate this customization.

Yes, both keyboards are hot-swappable. Their PCBs support both 3-pin and 5-pin MX-style mechanical switches, allowing you to install or change switches without any soldering required.

The typing feel differs primarily due to the mounting style. The Q1 V1 uses a gasket mount, which the manufacturer states provides a flexible feel with up to 2.5mm of flex. The V1 uses a tray mount design, which typically offers a more rigid typing experience.

Both keyboards come with double-shot PBT keycaps in the OSA profile, which Keychron describes as having OEM height with an SA-like shape. Both sets include additional keycaps for switching between Mac and Windows layouts.

The Keychron V1 is significantly more portable. It weighs 995g compared to the Q1 V1's 1700g, making it over 700g lighter. Both have the same wired-only connectivity and a similar 75% footprint.

Both keyboards are available in variants with and without a programmable aluminum knob. You can select a 'Fully Assembled Knob' or 'Barebone Knob' version for both the Q1 V1 and the V1.

Both keyboards use screw-in PCB stabilizers. The Q1 V1 specifically mentions Gateron screw-in stabilizers. This design makes them more stable and easier to modify or upgrade compared to clip-in stabilizers.

Yes, both the Keychron Q1 V1 and V1 feature south-facing RGB LEDs. This orientation prevents interference with Cherry-profile or OEM-profile keycaps and is designed to better illuminate the keyboard from the typist's angle.

Both have south-facing LEDs for broad compatibility. However, Keychron's vendor page for the Q1 V1 includes a note that some customers have reported compatibility issues with MT3 and XDA profile keycaps, suggesting a potential advantage for the V1 in this specific area.

Yes, both keyboards are designed for dual-system use. They include a physical toggle switch to change between macOS and Windows modes, and each comes with an extra set of keycaps tailored for each operating system.

The listed polling rate for both keyboards is 1000 Hz. The vendor description for the V1 specifically states this polling rate makes latency 'hardly noticeable even in competitive games'.