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

Compare Keychron Q1 Pro vs Q3 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers torn between the wireless versatility of a compact 75% board and the traditional layout of a full-sized TKL. The Keychron Q1 Pro offers Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz connectivity in a slightly smaller package, while the Q3 sticks to a wired connection but provides a dedicated F-row and navigation cluster in an 80% layout. Both share a premium full aluminum build, double-gasket design, and QMK/VIA programmability, but the choice comes down to whether portability or a more standard layout matters more for your workflow.

95
Keychron Q1 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
97
Keychron Q3 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard

Select a keyboard to compare

5.0 (41)
4.7 (319)
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW, ANSI layout standard
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless, 2.4 GHz connectivity
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1825 g
  • Sized at 23 x 145 x 328 mm
  • Features ABS, PBT keycaps
  • Released in 2022
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky, Silent switch options
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, JIS, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-SW, ISO-UK layout standard
  • Supports Wired, Wired only, connectivity
  • Weighs about 2000 g
  • Sized at 20 x 137 x 365 mm
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 82.5
  • Build Quality: 89.2
  • Productivity: 97.5
  • Customizability: 99.8
  • Portability: 81.9
Scores
  • Performance: 71.7
  • Build Quality: 91
  • Productivity: 97.4
  • Customizability: 99.6
  • Portability: 57.4
Name
Keychron Q1 Pro
Name
Keychron Q3
Release year
2023
Release year
2022
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky, Silent
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
80%
Layout Standard
ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW, ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, JIS, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-SW, ISO-UK
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
1000 Hz
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
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
ABS, PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Dimensions
23 x 145 x 328 mm
Dimensions
20 x 137 x 365 mm
Weight
1825g
Weight
2000g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

Your decision hinges on your need for wireless functionality and layout preference. If you value a clutter-free desk and the ability to switch between devices, the full metal Keychron Q1 Pro's wireless versatility and compact 75% layout are the clear winners. However, if you prefer a standard TKL layout with a dedicated navigation cluster and are comfortable with a wired-only setup, the Keychron Q3 offers a premium typing experience that may also come at a more accessible price point.

Keychron Q1 Pro

  • +Wireless connectivity via Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz, paired with a 4000mAh battery for extended use.
  • +Compact 75% layout with a programmable knob and a function row, saving desk space.
  • +PC plate and double-gasket design contribute to a flexible typing feel and customized sound profile.
  • +KSA double-shot PBT keycaps are included in the fully assembled version, offering oil resistance and durability.
  • +Lighter weight (1825g) compared to the Q3, making it slightly easier to move.
  • −Wireless polling rate drops to 90 Hz, which may be a consideration for competitive gamers over a wired connection.
  • −The front height is 22.6 mm without keycaps, which may necessitate a palm rest for some users as noted in reviews.
  • −The 75% layout lacks the dedicated navigation cluster found on a full TKL, which some users may prefer.
  • −Generally higher price than the Q3, particularly in its wireless configuration.

Keychron Q3

  • +Classic 80% TKL layout with dedicated F-row and navigation keys for a standard desktop feel.
  • +Steel plate and double-gasket design provide a solid typing experience with a potentially different sound profile.
  • +Offered at a wide range of price points from $59 to $164, often a more budget-friendly entry into premium mechanical keyboards.
  • +Heavier at 2000g, providing a very stable, planted feel on a desk during intense typing or gaming.
  • −Wired-only connectivity restricts desk setup flexibility and does not support multi-device switching.
  • −Heavier weight (2000g) and larger dimensions (20 x 137 x 365 mm) make it less portable.
  • −The included ABS keycaps may be less durable and more prone to shine over time compared to PBT alternatives.
  • −Lacks an internal battery, requiring a constant connection to a USB port for power and data.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron Q1 Pro emerges as the winner in Gaming, Office, Travel, and Content Creation largely due to its wireless capabilities and smaller profile. For Programming and Modding, the two keyboards are tied because both offer the same core customization features with slightly different plate materials and layouts that cater to different preferences. The Q3 holds its own best for users who prioritize a standard TKL layout and are willing to forgo wireless for a potentially lower cost.

GamingKeychron Q1 Pro
  • •Offers both 1000 Hz wired and 90 Hz wireless polling rates for flexible gaming setups.
  • •Slightly lighter at 1825g for easier repositioning on a desk.
  • •Includes a 4000mAh battery, allowing for extended wireless gaming sessions without cable interference.
OfficeKeychron Q1 Pro
  • •Wireless connectivity (Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz) simplifies desk management and switching between devices.
  • •The compact 75% layout saves desk space while retaining essential keys and a function row.
  • •Programmable knob can be used for volume control or app-specific shortcuts to boost productivity.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both feature QMK/VIA support for full key remapping and macro creation tailored to coding workflows.
  • •Both have a programmable knob that can be assigned to actions like zoom or line navigation.
  • •The Q1 Pro offers wireless flexibility for moving between workstations, while the Q3's dedicated navigation keys may be preferred for some workflows.
TravelKeychron Q1 Pro
  • •Smaller dimensions (23 x 145 x 328 mm) and lighter weight (1825g) make it more portable than the Q3.
  • •Wireless connectivity via Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz eliminates the need for cables on the go.
  • •The 4000mAh battery supports extended use away from a power source.
ModdingTie
  • •Both offer hot-swappable PCBs (3 and 5 pin), QMK/VIA firmware, and screw-in PCB stabilizers for easy customization.
  • •The Q1 Pro uses a PC plate, while the Q3 uses a steel plate, offering different sound and flex profiles for modders to explore.
  • •Both support knob add-ons and are available as barebone kits for entirely custom builds.
Content CreationKeychron Q1 Pro
  • •Wireless connectivity allows for a cleaner desk setup, which can be beneficial for video or photo work.
  • •The programmable knob can be mapped to timeline scrubbing, brush size adjustment, or zoom controls.
  • •The compact layout reduces the keyboard's footprint, leaving more room for a graphics tablet or other creative tools.

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

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

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
$54
Keychron V3 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V3
80%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Tray Mount

93
$59
Keychron Q2 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q2
65%,
Hotswap,
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

92
$59
Keychron Q7 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q7
70%,
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

94
$59
Keychron K8 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron K8 Pro
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
VIA,
QMK,
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