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Compare Keychron Q1 Pro vs Varmilo VPT87 Beijing Opera Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a premium, compact 75% layout and a more traditional tenkeyless (TKL) design. Both keyboards offer triple-mode wireless connectivity and hot-swappable switches, making the choice difficult. The Keychron Q1 Pro emphasizes a high-end aluminum build and extensive programmability, while the Varmilo VPT87 focuses on a space-saving form factor with practical features like a 2-step kickstand.

95
Keychron Q1 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
68
Varmilo VPT87 Beijing Opera TKL Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard

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5.0 (41)
0.0 (0)
  • 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
  • Comes with a knob
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • 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
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Uses a Plate Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Made with a ABS case
  • Features PBT keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 82.5
  • Build Quality: 89.2
  • Productivity: 97.5
  • Customizability: 99.9
  • Portability: 81.8
Scores
  • Performance: 76.5
  • Build Quality: 55.6
  • Productivity: 79.1
  • Customizability: 72.2
  • Portability: 74.8
Name
Keychron Q1 Pro
Name
Varmilo VPT87 Beijing Opera
Release year
2023
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, 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
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
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
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
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
ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
23 x 145 x 328 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
1825g
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your priority should dictate the choice. If you value a premium metal build, deep software and hardware customization, and don't mind the weight, the Keychron Q1 Pro is the more capable and enthusiast-oriented board. If you prefer a lighter, more portable TKL keyboard with straightforward wireless functionality and practical built-in features like a kickstand, the Varmilo VPT87 is the sensible option, albeit with more limited customization.

Keychron Q1 Pro

  • +Full CNC-machined aluminum case construction for a premium, solid feel.
  • +Extensive customization via open-source QMK and VIA firmware support.
  • +Includes a programmable aluminum knob for media or application control.
  • +Double-gasket mount design with polycarbonate plate and silicone pads for sound dampening.
  • +Available in numerous ISO and ANSI layouts, and as a barebones kit.
  • −Heavy at 1825 grams, reducing portability.
  • −Wireless polling rate is 90 Hz, which is lower than the Varmilo's 2.4GHz rate.
  • −The KSA profile keycaps may have a steeper learning curve compared to more common profiles.

Varmilo VPT87 Beijing Opera

  • +TKL (80%) layout offers a familiar form factor while saving desk space.
  • +Includes practical features like a 2-step kickstand and a 3-way cord channel for cable management.
  • +Double-layer silicone sound absorption is noted in the vendor description.
  • +Uses thick dye-sublimated PBT keycaps for durability.
  • −Case is constructed from ABS plastic, not metal.
  • −Lacks advanced programmability features like QMK or VIA support.
  • −Only available in ANSI layout, limiting options for international users.
  • −No mention of a barebones kit option or screw-in stabilizers.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron Q1 Pro is the clear choice for users who prioritize customization, whether for programming, gaming macros, or content creation workflows, thanks to its QMK/VIA support and programmable knob. It also wins for modding due to its gasket mount design and barebones availability. The Varmilo VPT87 is better suited for travel thanks to its likely more portable TKL form factor and included kickstand. For general office use, both are competent, offering quiet typing and multi-device wireless.

GamingKeychron Q1 Pro
  • •The Q1 Pro offers a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode, which the Varmilo also has, but its wireless polling is specified at 90 Hz versus the Varmilo's 250 Hz for 2.4GHz.
  • •The Q1 Pro's aluminum case and gasket mount design may provide a more stable, resonant-free typing feel during intense sessions.
  • •Both support N-key rollover, but the Q1 Pro's programmability via QMK/VIA allows for extensive macro creation for games.
OfficeTie
  • •Both keyboards offer quiet switch options (silent types for Varmilo, pre-lubed K Pro for Keychron) and sound dampening features.
  • •Both support multi-device Bluetooth connectivity for switching between a computer and other devices.
  • •The Varmilo's TKL layout may be more familiar in an office setting, while the Q1 Pro's 75% layout saves similar desk space.
  • •Both include Mac and Windows compatibility with dedicated keycaps or system toggles.
ProgrammingKeychron Q1 Pro
  • •The Q1 Pro's support for QMK and VIA firmware allows for limitless key remapping and layer creation, which is highly valuable for coding shortcuts.
  • •It offers a programmable aluminum knob that can be set to control volume, scroll, or other functions useful in an IDE.
  • •The Q1 Pro is available in multiple ISO layouts (UK, German, Nordic, etc.), which is beneficial for international programmers.
TravelVarmilo VPT87 Beijing Opera
  • •The Varmilo VPT87 has a TKL (80%) layout, which is generally more compact than the Q1 Pro's 75% layout, though specific dimensions are not provided for the Varmilo.
  • •The Varmilo's ABS case is likely lighter than the Q1 Pro's 1825g aluminum construction.
  • •The Varmilo listing mentions a 2-step kickstand for typing angle adjustment on the go, a feature not mentioned for the Q1 Pro.
ModdingKeychron Q1 Pro
  • •The Q1 Pro features a gasket mount design with a polycarbonate plate and screw-in stabilizers, offering a more flexible and mod-friendly foundation.
  • •Its open-source QMK/VIA support provides deep firmware customization not indicated for the Varmilo.
  • •It is available as a DIY barebones kit, allowing users to install their own switches and keycaps from the start.
  • •The vendor description details a double-gasket design and silicone pads for acoustic tuning, highlighting its mod-oriented construction.
Content CreationKeychron Q1 Pro
  • •The Q1 Pro's programmable knob can be mapped to precise controls like brush size, zoom, or timeline scrubbing in creative software.
  • •Advanced programmability via QMK/VIA allows for complex macros and shortcuts tailored to editing workflows.
  • •The aluminum construction and premium build may provide a more satisfying, durable tool for long creative sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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