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Compare Keychron Q1 V2 vs Q1 V1 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two generations of Keychron's popular Q1 custom mechanical keyboard. Both share a 75% layout, aluminum case, and extensive programmability, making the choice difficult. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize the V2's refined acoustics and build or the V1's specific layout and plate material options. We'll break down the differences for gaming, work, and customization.

96
Keychron Q1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard - Version 2
93
Keychron Q1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection - Version 1

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4.9 (616)
4.5 (1175)
  • Released in 2022
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Weighs about 1825 g
  • Sized at 23 x 145 x 328 mm
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Released in 2023
  • Built with the ISO, JIS, ANSI layout standard
  • Weighs about 1700 g
  • Sized at 22 x 145 x 328 mm
  • Features ABS, PBT keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 71.8
  • Build Quality: 89.3
  • Productivity: 97.4
  • Customizability: 99.6
  • Portability: 62.2
Scores
  • Performance: 72.7
  • Build Quality: 89.7
  • Productivity: 97.9
  • Customizability: 99.9
  • Portability: 64.8
Name
Keychron Q1 V2
Name
Keychron Q1 V1
Release year
2022
Release year
2023
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
ANSI
Layout Standard
ISO, JIS, 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
Wired, Wired only
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
-
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
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Dimensions
23 x 145 x 328 mm
Dimensions
22 x 145 x 328 mm
Weight
1825g
Weight
1700g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your choice depends on your specific priorities. Opt for the Keychron Q1 V2 if you value the latest acoustic refinements like the double-gasket design and want assured compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket keycaps. Choose the Keychron Q1 V1 if you need ISO or JIS layout support, prefer a slightly lighter keyboard, or want the specific typing feel of an aluminum plate.

Keychron Q1 V2

  • +Double-gasket design with added silicone pads for reduced metal resonance.
  • +Steel plate is standard, which may appeal to users seeking a firmer or different sound signature.
  • +Manufacturer claims improved third-party keycap compatibility with a sharper top case.
  • +Available in a wider array of color options according to the vendor listing.
  • +Comes with Gateron G Pro switches in some configurations, which are factory pre-lubed.
  • −Heavier at 1825g, which may be less desirable for frequent movement.
  • −The vendor description notes knob color may slightly differ from the case on some colors.
  • −Primarily focused on ANSI layout, with ISO offered as a separate collection.

Keychron Q1 V1

  • +Lighter weight of 1700g may be preferable for some users.
  • +Offers ISO, JIS, and ANSI layout support in its base specifications.
  • +Includes an aluminum plate by default, which can offer a more flexible typing feel.
  • +Vendor description mentions it includes two case foams in the retail version for sound dampening.
  • −Keychron's product page notes some customers reported compatibility issues with MT3 and XDA profile keycaps.
  • −Available in fewer color options based on the vendor selection.
  • −Lacks the V2's double-gasket structure with silicone pads.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The keyboards tie in most categories due to their shared core DNA. The Q1 V1 has a slight edge for travel due to its lower weight. The Q1 V2 is the clear choice for modders, specifically for its double-gasket design and improved keycap compatibility claims from Keychron. For gaming, office work, programming, and content creation, the feature sets are effectively identical.

GamingTie
  • •Both keyboards have a 1000 Hz polling rate for responsive input.
  • •Both offer hot-swappable sockets for trying different switch types.
  • •The identical 75% layout saves desk space for mouse movement.
OfficeTie
  • •Both include multimedia keys and a programmable knob for volume control.
  • •Both offer Mac and Windows compatibility with included keycaps.
  • •Each has a 5° typing angle for comfort during long sessions.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both feature full QMK and VIA support for deep key remapping and macros.
  • •The 75% layout retains arrow and navigation keys while being compact.
  • •Hot-swappable PCBs allow for switch tuning to preference.
TravelKeychron Q1 V1
  • •The Q1 V1 is slightly lighter at 1700g compared to the V2's 1825g.
  • •Both are wired-only and equally portable, but the weight difference is a factor.
  • •Their dimensions are nearly identical, offering no size advantage.
ModdingKeychron Q1 V2
  • •The Q1 V2 features a double-gasket design with silicone pads for enhanced sound dampening.
  • •Keychron states the V2's top case has sharper corners for better compatibility with third-party keycaps like MT3 and SA.
  • •It includes a steel plate by default, which can offer a different typing feel than aluminum.
Content CreationTie
  • •Both have a programmable knob assignable to brush size, zoom, or timeline scrubbing via VIA.
  • •South-facing RGB on both prevents interference with Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • •The programmability is identical, allowing for customized creative workflows.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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