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Compare Keychron Q1 HE vs Qwertykeys QK80 Mk2 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for keyboard enthusiasts deciding between a performance-focused pre-built and a versatile custom kit. The Keychron Q1 HE is a feature-complete 75% board with advanced magnetic switches, while the Qwertykeys QK80 Mk2 is a TKL kit emphasizing personalization and a unique leaf-spring mount. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize cutting-edge gaming features or the process of building and tailoring a keyboard from the ground up.

100
Keychron Q1 HE QMK Wireless Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
87
Qwertykeys QK80 Mk2 Keyboard

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4.0 (34)
1.0 (2)
  • 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
  • Comes with a knob
  • Includes a No display
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Enables rapid trigger functionality
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 4000 g
  • Sized at 23 x 145 x 328 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Features PBT, ABS, keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face, White, White South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2025
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Includes a Yes, TFT display
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 8000 mAh battery
  • Made with a Copper, Aluminum, Steel case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 100
  • Build Quality: 90
  • Productivity: 96.9
  • Customizability: 99.5
  • Portability: 81.1
Scores
  • Performance: 68.4
  • Build Quality: 89.3
  • Productivity: 84
  • Customizability: 85.6
  • Portability: 87.1
Name
Keychron Q1 HE
Name
Qwertykeys QK80 Mk2
Release year
2023
Release year
2025
Switch Options
Magnetic, Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
-
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
80%
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
 
TFT
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
-
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
Battery capacity
8000 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
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Copper, Aluminum, Steel
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS,
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
23 x 145 x 328 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
4000g
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you want a top-tier gaming keyboard with the latest magnetic switch technology, ready to use out of the box, the Keychron Q1 HE is the superior option. If your goal is to build a personalized keyboard from a kit, with unique features like a screen and deep acoustic tuning potential, the Qwertykeys QK80 Mk2 is the more appropriate project board.

Keychron Q1 HE

  • +Equipped with Gateron Double-Rail Magnetic Hall Effect switches for adjustable actuation and rapid trigger.
  • +High 1000 Hz polling rate in both wired and 2.4 GHz modes for responsive gaming.
  • +Tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth 5.2, 2.4GHz, wired) with cross-platform Mac/Windows support.
  • +Premium construction with a 6063 aluminum case, double-gasket mount, and screw-in stabilizers.
  • +Fully assembled option available with PBT keycaps and extensive QMK/VIA programmability.

  • Hot-swap socket is compatible only with specific Gateron magnetic switches, limiting switch choices.
  • Heavy weight (listed as 1735g assembled) reduces portability.
  • The 75% layout may lack dedicated keys some users prefer.

Qwertykeys QK80 Mk2

  • +Sold as a highly customizable DIY kit with multiple plate, PCB, and case color options.
  • +Unique features include a TFT LCD screen, dot-matrix LED panel, and leaf-spring mount.
  • +Includes an extensive accessory pack with foams, stabilizers, and a protective case.
  • +Offers a TKL layout which retains the function row and navigation cluster.

  • Lacks the high-performance gaming features like Hall Effect switches and adjustable actuation points.
  • Long estimated production and ship time (12 weeks per vendor description).
  • No pre-assembled option; requires building and sourcing your own switches and keycaps.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron Q1 HE is the clear choice for gaming and office productivity, thanks to its Hall Effect switches and robust wireless features. For modding enthusiasts and content creators focused on aesthetics, the QK80 Mk2's kit-based nature and integrated screen offer superior customization. Programmers have a tie, with the choice boiling down to a preference for the Q1 HE's 75% compactness or the QK80's TKL layout.

GamingKeychron Q1 HE
  • Features Hall Effect magnetic switches with adjustable actuation points (0.2-3.8 mm) and rapid trigger.
  • Offers a 1000 Hz polling rate in both wired and 2.4 GHz wireless modes.
  • Supports assigning multiple actions to a single key based on press depth.
OfficeKeychron Q1 HE
  • Includes tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired) for switching between multiple devices.
  • Comes with Mac and Windows keycaps and a system toggle for cross-platform use.
  • The vendor description mentions a 100-hour battery life with backlighting off.
ProgrammingTie
  • Both keyboards support QMK/VIA for extensive key remapping and macro programming.
  • The Q1 HE has a 75% layout, while the QK80 Mk2 is a TKL, offering different trade-offs between compactness and dedicated keys.
  • Both feature hot-swappable PCBs for trying different switches.
TravelKeychron Q1 HE
  • The 75% layout is more compact than the QK80 Mk2's TKL layout.
  • Includes a protective case in the box, according to the vendor description.
  • Offers reliable wireless connectivity with a 4000mAh battery.
ModdingQwertykeys QK80 Mk2
  • Sold as a DIY kit with extensive customization options for plates (FR4, Aluminum, POM), PCBs, and case colors.
  • Includes a comprehensive foam set (PET, IXPE, PCB, Case foam) and an accessory pack for modifications.
  • Features a unique leaf-spring mount and ball-catch disassembly mechanism for easy tinkering.
Content CreationQwertykeys QK80 Mk2
  • Features a TFT LCD screen and dot-matrix LED panel for displaying time, connectivity status, or custom graphics.
  • The TKL layout provides dedicated function and navigation keys useful for shortcuts.
  • Offers a wide selection of spray-coated and anodized colorways for aesthetic setups.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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