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Compare Keychron Q1 Pro vs V1 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Keychron's premium and budget-friendly 75% custom mechanical keyboards. The choice is difficult because both share core features like hot-swappable PCBs, QMK/VIA programmability, and a knob option, but differ fundamentally in construction, connectivity, and price. Your decision hinges on how much you value wireless freedom and a metal chassis versus a lower-cost, wired-only solution.

95
Keychron Q1 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
97
Keychron V1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard

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5.0 (40)
2.5 (60)
  • Released in 2023
  • Built with the ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW, ANSI layout standard
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • 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
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Features ABS, PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2022
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, JIS, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK, ISO-NO layout standard
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Weighs about 995 g
  • Sized at 18 x 149 x 329 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, ABS case
  • Features PBT, ABS, keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face, White, White South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 82.5
  • Build Quality: 89.2
  • Productivity: 97.6
  • Customizability: 100
  • Portability: 82.1
Scores
  • Performance: 90.8
  • Build Quality: 89.1
  • Productivity: 97.8
  • Customizability: 99.4
  • Portability: 64.6
Name
Keychron Q1 Pro
Name
Keychron V1
Release year
2023
Release year
2022
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
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, ISO, JIS, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK, ISO-NO
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;8000 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
Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face, White, White South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Plastic, ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS,
Dimensions
23 x 145 x 328 mm
Dimensions
18 x 149 x 329 mm
Weight
1825g
Weight
995g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your budget and need for wireless operation are the primary deciding factors. The Keychron Q1 Pro justifies its higher cost with a premium aluminum build, multi-device wireless connectivity, and a sophisticated gasket-mount design. The Keychron V1 delivers nearly all the same core customizability and programmability in a lighter, wired-only plastic package at a much more accessible price point.

Keychron Q1 Pro

  • +Offers Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, and wired connectivity for maximum flexibility.
  • +Constructed from a CNC-machined aluminum case for a premium feel and durability.
  • +Includes a 4000mAh rechargeable battery for extended wireless use.
  • +Features a double-gasket mount design with a polycarbonate plate for a specific typing feel.
  • +Comes with KSA profile double-shot PBT keycaps in the fully assembled version.
  • −Substantially heavier at 1825g, making it less portable.
  • −More expensive than the V1, representing a higher initial investment.
  • −Wireless polling rate is listed at 90 Hz, which is lower than its wired mode.

Keychron V1

  • +Significantly more affordable, offering a lower cost of entry.
  • +Much lighter at 995g, easier to move or transport.
  • +Lists an 8000 Hz polling rate option for potentially ultra-low latency.
  • +Available in a frosted translucent plastic case variant.
  • +Comes with OSA profile double-shot PBT keycaps.
  • −Wired-only connectivity, lacking wireless options.
  • −Case is made of ABS plastic, which may feel less premium than metal.
  • −Uses a tray mount design instead of a gasket mount.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Q1 Pro is the clear choice for office and content creation users who need wireless connectivity and a premium build. The V1 wins for gaming due to its high polling rate option and for travel because of its lighter weight. For programming and modding, both keyboards are equally capable, sharing extensive programmability and customization features.

GamingKeychron V1
  • •The V1 lists an 8000 Hz polling rate option, potentially offering lower latency.
  • •Its lighter weight (995g) may allow for easier repositioning on a desk.
  • •The wired-only connection ensures a consistent, lag-free signal.
OfficeKeychron Q1 Pro
  • •The Q1 Pro offers Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless for connecting to multiple devices.
  • •Its aluminum case may provide a more premium, professional aesthetic.
  • •A 4000mAh battery supports extended wireless use between charges.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both keyboards support QMK and VIA for deep key remapping and macros.
  • •Both are available in a 75% layout, preserving arrow and function keys.
  • •Each offers a programmable knob for workflow customization.
TravelKeychron V1
  • •The V1 is significantly lighter at 995g compared to the Q1 Pro's 1825g.
  • •Its plastic case may be more resistant to minor impacts during transport.
  • •The lack of a battery simplifies travel, as it requires no charging.
ModdingTie
  • •Both are hot-swappable, supporting 3-pin and 5-pin MX-style switches.
  • •Both feature screw-in PCB stabilizers for easy customization.
  • •Each is available as a barebones kit, allowing for complete personalization.
Content CreationKeychron Q1 Pro
  • •Wireless connectivity allows for a cleaner desk setup for filming or photography.
  • •The manufacturer describes the aluminum rotary encoder as enhancing creative workflow.
  • •The ability to switch between multiple devices wirelessly can streamline a multi-computer workflow.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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