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

Compare Keychron Q1 Pro vs Q1 V2 SE Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two premium 75% aluminum keyboards that share the Keychron Q family DNA but take different paths. The Q1 Pro brings Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless, a PC plate, and double-gasket design for a softer typing experience. The Q1 V2 SE is a wired-only special edition with a steel plate and updated sound absorption for a firm, clackier feel. The decision hinges on whether you need wireless flexibility or prefer the focused simplicity of a wired enthusiast build.

95
Keychron Q1 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
89
Keychron Q1 V2 w/ Knob Special Edition Aluminum 75% Hotswap RGB Win + Mac Mechanical Keyboard

Select a keyboard to compare

5.0 (41)
0.0 (0)
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Built with the ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW, ANSI layout standard
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless, 2.4 GHz connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1825 g
  • Sized at 23 x 145 x 328 mm
  • Features ABS, PBT keycaps
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Uses a Plate Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
Scores
  • Performance: 82.5
  • Build Quality: 89.2
  • Productivity: 97.5
  • Customizability: 99.9
  • Portability: 81.8
Scores
  • Performance: 73.6
  • Build Quality: 83.9
  • Productivity: 97.9
  • Customizability: 95.5
  • Portability: 67.2
Name
Keychron Q1 Pro
Name
Keychron Q1 V2 SE
Release year
2023
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW, ANSI
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, Wired, Wireless, 2.4 GHz
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
Battery capacity
-
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
Plate 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
ABS, PBT
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
23 x 145 x 328 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
1825g
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

If you need a versatile daily driver that can move between a desktop, laptop, and tablet without wires, the Keychron Q1 Pro is the obvious choice with its Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz options. If you prefer a stiff typing feel from a steel plate and are building a permanent wired desk setup, the Q1 V2 SE offers a compelling special edition package. For most users, the Q1 Pro's flexibility will be the deciding factor.

Keychron Q1 Pro

  • +Bluetooth 5.1 and 2.4 GHz wireless for connecting up to 3 devices as described by the manufacturer
  • +4000 mAh battery provides extended wireless use with up to 300 hours backlight off as stated by the manufacturer
  • +Double-gasket design with a PC plate for a softer, more flexible typing feel and reduced acoustic resonance as described by the manufacturer
  • +Available in multiple ISO layout options including UK, German, French, and Nordic
  • +High customer review rating with 5/5 from 41 reviews

  • Heavier build at 1736g which reduces portability compared to smaller wireless keyboards
  • KSA profile keycaps are non-shine-through which may reduce RGB visibility as stated by the manufacturer
  • Wireless mode polling rate drops to 90 Hz as stated by the manufacturer, which may be a consideration for high-speed gaming

Keychron Q1 V2 SE

  • +Steel plate provides a stiffer, more rigid typing feel for users who prefer less flex
  • +Special edition with a unique aesthetic that is no longer widely available as noted in a customer review
  • +Updated sound absorption foam and case gaskets as described on the vendor page for a dampened typing sound
  • +Gateron screw-in PCB mount stabilizers included for stable big-key performance

  • Wired-only connectivity with no Bluetooth or 2.4 GHz options available
  • Only available in the ANSI layout standard, which limits layout choices
  • No battery included, making it unsuitable for portable or travel use
  • No customer reviews available on the vendor site, though the product listing shows 1 review on a related page

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

Across most use cases, the Q1 Pro edges ahead due to its wireless capabilities and more flexible gasket design. The Q1 V2 SE matches it in modding potential and firmware customization. For productivity and creative tasks, the Q1 Pro's Bluetooth connectivity and soft typing feel are clear advantages. The Q1 V2 SE remains a strong choice for users who prioritize a firm, consistent typing feel and do not need wireless.

GamingKeychron Q1 Pro
  • Supports 1000 Hz polling rate over wired and 2.4 GHz wireless as stated by the manufacturer, while the Q1 V2 SE does not have a stated polling rate
  • Wireless 2.4 GHz connectivity reduces cable clutter for desktop gaming setups
  • Lighter PC plate may offer a faster, more responsive feel than the steel plate
OfficeKeychron Q1 Pro
  • Bluetooth 5.1 allows connection to up to 3 devices for seamless multitasking across a laptop, phone, and tablet as stated by the manufacturer
  • 4000 mAh battery supports long wireless sessions with up to 300 hours with backlight off as stated by the manufacturer
  • Double-gasket design and PC plate reduce acoustic resonance for a quieter office environment
ProgrammingKeychron Q1 Pro
  • Wireless connectivity allows quick switching between a desktop and other devices without replugging
  • Double-gasket design and PC plate provide a comfortable, flexible typing feel for long coding sessions as described by the manufacturer
  • Fully programmable with QMK and VIA for custom keymaps and macros
TravelKeychron Q1 Pro
  • Built-in 4000 mAh battery and Bluetooth 5.1 enable true wireless portable use as stated by the manufacturer
  • Weighs 1736g which is portable for a full aluminum keyboard, though still heavy compared to plastic boards
  • Wireless connectivity eliminates the need to carry a cable
ModdingTie
  • Both keyboards feature hot-swap sockets compatible with 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches as stated in their respective listings
  • Both support open-source QMK and VIA firmware for full keymap and macro customization
  • Both use screw-in PCB stabilizers for better big-key feel
Content CreationKeychron Q1 Pro
  • Wireless connectivity allows the keyboard to be moved freely around a desk during creative work
  • Programmable knob can be customized for zooming, brush size, or volume as stated by the manufacturer
  • Flexible double-gasket design provides a softer, less fatiguing feel for long editing sessions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

95
$86
Keychron Q1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard - Version 1
Keychron Q1
75%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket 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

100
$160
Keychron Q1 HE QMK Wireless Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q1 HE
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
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

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

96
$59
Keychron Q1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard - Version 2
Keychron Q1 V2
75%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

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

95
$189
Keychron Q3 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q3 Max
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

97
$44
Keychron V1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron V1
75%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Tray Mount

83
$145
Minilo75 Pro
Varmilo Minilo75 Pro
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
Gasket Mount