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Compare Keychron Q1 Max vs Mxrskey CK650 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a feature-rich 75% keyboard and a more portable 65% kit. The Keychron Q1 Max offers extensive layout support and premium firmware, while the Mxrskey CK650 prioritizes a smaller footprint and longer battery life. The decision hinges on whether you need dedicated function and navigation keys or maximum desk space and wireless endurance.

98
Keychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
78
MXRSKEY CK650 Aluminum Gasket DIY Barebones Kit

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3.9 (96)
0.0 (0)
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-CH, JIS layout standard
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1724 g
  • Sized at 23 x 145 x 328 mm
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Available in a 65% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Equipped with a 8000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 950 g
  • Sized at 30 x 346 x 105 mm
Scores
  • Performance: 82
  • Build Quality: 89.1
  • Productivity: 96.9
  • Customizability: 99.5
  • Portability: 81.2
Scores
  • Performance: 57.9
  • Build Quality: 72.4
  • Productivity: 86.7
  • Customizability: 82.8
  • Portability: 94.2
Name
Keychron Q1 Max
Name
Mxrskey CK650
Release year
2023
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
-
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
65%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-CH, 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
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 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
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
23 x 145 x 328 mm
Dimensions
30 x 346 x 105 mm
Weight
1724g
Weight
950g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

For most users who value a complete key set, superior customization software, and a premium typing experience, the Keychron Q1 Max is the recommended choice. Opt for the Mxrskey CK650 if your primary needs are portability, a lower price, and maximizing wireless battery life, and you are comfortable with a 65% layout and its associated firmware limitations.

Keychron Q1 Max

  • +Explicit support for QMK and VIA firmware for deep customization.
  • +Includes multiple acoustic foam layers (IXPE, PET, Latex) and a double-gasket design for sound dampening.
  • +Offers extensive layout compatibility (ANSI, ISO, JIS, and multiple European ISO variants).
  • +Uses screw-in PCB stabilizers and a polycarbonate plate.
  • +Vendor-provided specs confirm a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired and 2.4 GHz modes.

  • Heavier at 1724g, making it less portable.
  • Smaller 4000mAh battery compared to the CK650.
  • Higher price point based on listed vendor prices.

Mxrskey CK650

  • +Lighter weight of 950g and more compact 65% layout.
  • +Larger 8000mAh battery capacity.
  • +Generally more affordable based on listed vendor prices.
  • +Includes an FR4 plate option according to its metadata.

  • Lacks explicitly stated support for QMK or VIA firmware.
  • Uses plate-mounted stabilizers, which may offer less tuning potential than screw-in types.
  • No polling rate is specified in the provided information.
  • Only supports ANSI layout, with no mention of ISO variants.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron Q1 Max is the more versatile choice for stationary, productivity-focused tasks like office work, programming, gaming, and content creation, thanks to its layout and firmware. The Mxrskey CK650 wins for travel due to its lighter weight and more compact form factor. For modding, the Q1 Max's documented foam layers and superior stabilizer type give it an edge.

GamingKeychron Q1 Max
  • The Keychron Q1 Max has a specified 1000 Hz polling rate in its 2.4 GHz and wired modes for lower latency.
  • Its 75% layout retains the F-row for quick access to in-game macros or commands.
  • The manufacturer states its ARM Cortex-M4 chip and 1000 Hz polling rate make latency 'hardly noticeable' in competitive games.
OfficeKeychron Q1 Max
  • The Q1 Max's 75% layout includes arrow keys and a column of navigation keys (Insert, Delete, etc.), which are useful for document editing.
  • It offers extensive layout support including ANSI, ISO, and multiple European ISO variants, beneficial for international offices.
  • Keychron's listing includes dedicated Mac and Windows keycaps and a system toggle for seamless switching between operating systems.
ProgrammingKeychron Q1 Max
  • The 75% layout provides dedicated arrow keys and navigation cluster, which are frequently used in coding environments.
  • Full QMK and VIA firmware support allows for deep key remapping and macro creation for development workflows.
  • The vendor description highlights positive reviews from programmers who appreciate the typing experience for coding.
TravelMxrskey CK650
  • The Mxrskey CK650 is significantly lighter at 950g compared to the Q1 Max's 1724g.
  • Its 65% layout is more compact, taking up less space in a bag.
  • It features a larger 8000mAh battery, which the vendor suggests accommodates a variety of occasions like trips.
ModdingKeychron Q1 Max
  • The Keychron Q1 Max explicitly supports QMK and VIA for extensive firmware customization.
  • Its vendor description details multiple acoustic foam layers (IXPE, PET, Latex) and a double-gasket design for sound tuning.
  • It uses screw-in PCB stabilizers, which are generally preferred by modders for their stability over plate-mounted ones.
Content CreationKeychron Q1 Max
  • The inclusion of a knob on the Q1 Max provides quick control for volume or timeline scrubbing.
  • The 75% layout offers more readily accessible keys for shortcut-heavy applications compared to a 65% board.
  • QMK/VIA support allows for creating complex macros tailored to video or photo editing software.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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