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

Compare Keychron Q1 HE vs L1 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two premium 75% aluminum wireless keyboards from Keychron. The choice hinges on whether you prioritize the advanced, software-tunable features of magnetic Hall Effect switches or the wider ecosystem and familiarity of standard mechanical switches. Both share high-quality construction, wireless connectivity, and programmability, making the core switch technology the defining trade-off.

100
Keychron Q1 HE QMK Wireless Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
96
Lemokey L1 QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Gaming Keyboard

Select a keyboard to compare

4.0 (34)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Magnetic, Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • 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
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Enables rapid trigger functionality
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only connectivity
  • 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 2024
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW layout standard
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Weighs about 1887 g
  • Sized at 33 x 369 x 146 mm
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 100
  • Build Quality: 89.9
  • Productivity: 96.9
  • Customizability: 99.6
  • Portability: 81.4
Scores
  • Performance: 82.1
  • Build Quality: 88
  • Productivity: 97.1
  • Customizability: 97.2
  • Portability: 81.6
Name
Keychron Q1 HE
Name
Keychron L1
Release year
2023
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Magnetic, Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-DE, ANSI, JIS
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW
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
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
Dimensions
23 x 145 x 328 mm
Dimensions
33 x 369 x 146 mm
Weight
4000g
Weight
1887g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!
Show more

Pros and Trade-offs

Your priority should guide this decision. For gamers who want to fine-tune every key press with features like rapid trigger and adjustable actuation, the Keychron Q1 HE is the specialized tool. If you prefer the traditional mechanical switch experience with vast customization options, or need a more portable board, the Lemokey L1 is the more versatile and compatible choice. Both deliver premium build quality and wireless convenience.

Keychron Q1 HE

  • +Gateron double-rail magnetic switches with adjustable actuation points (0.2-3.8mm).
  • +Supports dynamic rapid trigger and multiple actions per keystroke for gaming.
  • +Features a double-gasket design and includes an acoustic pad for sound tuning.
  • +Offers an 8000 Hz polling rate option according to its metadata.
  • +Constructed with an aluminum plate and case for a solid feel.
  • −Substantially heavier (4000g), which reduces portability.
  • −Hot-swap socket is compatible only with specific Gateron magnetic switches, limiting options.
  • −The vendor notes it does not support other magnetic switch brands like Gateron Magnetic Jade.
  • −Higher starting price based on vendor listings.

Keychron L1

  • +Hot-swap PCB supports a wide range of 3-pin and 5-pin MX-style mechanical switches.
  • +Lighter weight (1887g) makes it easier to transport.
  • +Includes a creative roller design with a built-in connection mode toggle.
  • +Vendor claims an average latency of less than 2 ms for its 2.4 GHz wireless mode.
  • +Comes with Cherry profile double-shot PBT keycaps.
  • −Lacks the adjustable actuation and rapid trigger features of magnetic switches.
  • −Uses Bluetooth 5.1 versus the Q1 HE's 5.2, as per vendor specs.
  • −No user reviews are available yet, making real-world performance less documented.
  • −The polycarbonate plate may offer a different typing feel compared to aluminum.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Q1 HE is the definitive choice for competitive gaming due to its magnetic switch features like rapid trigger and adjustable actuation. For travel, the L1's lighter weight gives it a clear edge. In modding, the L1's compatibility with a wide range of standard mechanical switches offers more flexibility. For office work, programming, and content creation, both keyboards are equally capable, sharing core features like programmability, wireless connectivity, and a practical layout.

GamingKeychron Q1 HE
  • •The Q1 HE features adjustable actuation points from 0.2 to 3.8 mm for per-key sensitivity tuning.
  • •It supports dynamic rapid trigger for faster key repetition based on travel distance.
  • •The vendor description states it can assign multiple actions to a single key based on press depth.
OfficeTie
  • •Both offer tri-mode connectivity (2.4 GHz, Bluetooth, wired) for multi-device use.
  • •Both include Mac and Windows keycaps and system toggles for cross-platform compatibility.
  • •Each has a 4000mAh battery for extended wireless use.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both keyboards support full programmability via QMK and VIA firmware for key remapping and macros.
  • •Both use a 75% layout which retains arrow and navigation keys in a compact form.
  • •Each features hot-swappable PCBs for changing switch feel without soldering.
TravelKeychron L1
  • •The L1 is significantly lighter at 1887g compared to the Q1 HE's 4000g.
  • •Both share the same compact 75% layout footprint for portability.
  • •Both offer wireless modes to reduce cable clutter.
ModdingKeychron L1
  • •The L1's hot-swap PCB is compatible with most 3-pin and 5-pin MX-style mechanical switches, offering a vast aftermarket.
  • •The Q1 HE is compatible only with specific Gateron double-rail magnetic switches, limiting switch choices.
  • •Both have screw-in stabilizers and gasket mounts for internal customization.
Content CreationTie
  • •Both include a programmable knob for media control or custom macros.
  • •Full QMK/VIA support allows for complex shortcut and macro creation for editing software.
  • •The compact 75% layout saves desk space for graphics tablets or other peripherals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

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

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

96
$149
Keychron Q3 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q3 Pro
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

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

98
$219
Keychron Q3 HE QMK Wireless Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q3 HE
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Metal case,
Gasket Mount

93
$149
Keychron Q2 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard (US Layout)
Keychron Q2 Pro
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

95
$205
Keychron Q2 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q2 Max
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

98
$94
Keychron V1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V1 Max
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Gasket Mount

95
$186
Keychron Q3 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q3 Max
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

96
$199
Keychron Q5 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q5 Max
96%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

Keychron Q1 HE vs L1: Magnetic Hall Effect vs Standard Mechanical