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Compare Keychron Q1 HE vs Q4 HE Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Keychron's two premium wireless Hall Effect keyboards. The choice is difficult because both share core high-end features like Gateron double-rail magnetic switches, QMK/VIA programmability, and an aluminum gasket-mount design. The decision ultimately hinges on whether you prioritize the extra functionality of a 75% layout or the extreme compactness of a 60% form factor.

100
Keychron Q1 HE QMK Wireless Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
90
Keychron Q4 HE QMK Wireless Custom Keyboard

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4.0 (34)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Magnetic, Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-DE, ANSI, JIS layout standard
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Weighs about 4000 g
  • Sized at 23 x 145 x 328 mm
  • Features PBT, ABS, keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face, White, White South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2025
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky, Magnetic switch options
  • Available in a 60% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Weighs about 1415 g
  • Sized at 33 x 121 x 303 mm
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 100
  • Build Quality: 90
  • Productivity: 96.9
  • Customizability: 99.5
  • Portability: 81.1
Scores
  • Performance: 90.7
  • Build Quality: 85.1
  • Productivity: 94.3
  • Customizability: 92.2
  • Portability: 90.3
Name
Keychron Q1 HE
Name
Keychron Q4 HE
Release year
2023
Release year
2025
Switch Options
Magnetic, Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky, Magnetic
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
60%
Layout Standard
ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-DE, ANSI, 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
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz;8000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
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, White, White South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS,
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Dimensions
23 x 145 x 328 mm
Dimensions
33 x 121 x 303 mm
Weight
4000g
Weight
1415g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Select the Keychron Q1 HE if your workflow relies on dedicated arrow and function keys, or if you want the flexibility of multiple layout standards and higher polling rates. Opt for the Keychron Q4 HE if maximizing desk space is your top priority and you are comfortable using keyboard layers to access missing keys. Both deliver a premium, customizable typing experience with Hall Effect technology.

Keychron Q1 HE

  • +75% layout includes arrow keys, function row, and navigation keys without layers.
  • +Metadata lists an 8000 Hz polling rate option for potentially lower latency.
  • +Supports a wide array of layout standards including multiple ISO variants.
  • +Available in a barebones kit version for custom builds.
  • +Vendor description mentions a double-gasket design and removable acoustic pad for sound tuning.
  • −Much larger and heavier (4000g, 145x328mm) than the Q4 HE.
  • −The vendor states switch compatibility is limited to Gateron double-rail magnetic switches from Keychron.
  • −Higher price range based on listed vendor prices.

Keychron Q4 HE

  • +Extremely compact 60% form factor (1415g, 121x303mm) saves desk space.
  • +Vendor description highlights enhanced acoustic foams, PET film, and latex in its construction.
  • +Includes analog mode for variable input control, as mentioned in its product description.
  • +Lower starting price based on listed vendor prices.
  • −60% layout lacks dedicated arrow keys, function row, and navigation cluster, requiring layer use.
  • −Metadata shows a 1000 Hz polling rate without an 8000 Hz option.
  • −Only supports ANSI layout standard, per its metadata.
  • −No customer reviews are available yet.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron Q1 HE is the more versatile choice, winning in scenarios that benefit from extra keys like office work, programming, and content creation. Its potential for higher polling rates also gives it an edge for gaming. The Keychron Q4 HE's primary advantage is its compact 60% size, making it the clear winner for travel and minimal desk setups. For modding, the Q1 HE offers more initial configuration options like plate choices.

GamingKeychron Q1 HE
  • •The Q1 HE's metadata lists an 8000 Hz polling rate option, while the Q4 HE is listed at 1000 Hz.
  • •The 75% layout provides dedicated arrow keys for in-game menus and navigation without layers.
  • •Both feature rapid trigger and adjustable actuation points for magnetic switches.
OfficeKeychron Q1 HE
  • •The Q1 HE's 75% layout includes dedicated arrow keys, delete, and function row, reducing reliance on key combinations.
  • •It supports a wider range of layout standards (ANSI, JIS, ISO variants) per its metadata, which may be important for international users.
  • •Both offer wireless connectivity and Mac/Windows support for flexible desk setups.
ProgrammingKeychron Q1 HE
  • •The dedicated arrow keys, function row, and navigation cluster on the Q1 HE are frequently used in IDEs and text editors.
  • •The wider layout standard support can accommodate different regional key needs.
  • •Both keyboards offer full QMK and VIA support for creating complex macros and layers.
TravelKeychron Q4 HE
  • •The Q4 HE is significantly smaller (121 x 303 mm vs 145 x 328 mm) and lighter (1415g vs 4000g) according to the metadata.
  • •Its 60% footprint takes up less space in a bag or on a cramped desk.
  • •Both have the same 4000mAh battery and wireless connectivity for cord-free use.
ModdingKeychron Q1 HE
  • •The Q1 HE's metadata lists a gasket mount with PCB mount style and offers a choice of aluminum or polycarbonate plate material.
  • •It is available in a DIY kit/barebones version according to its extra features list.
  • •Both are hot-swappable for magnetic switches and feature screw-in stabilizers.
Content CreationKeychron Q1 HE
  • •The dedicated media keys and knob support listed in the Q1 HE's features provide direct control for audio/video editing.
  • •The function row offers quick access to software shortcuts.
  • •Both support multi-action keystrokes via magnetic switches, which can be programmed for complex macros.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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