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

Compare Keychron Q1 V2 vs Q1 Pro Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Keychron's two flagship 75% aluminum keyboards. The choice hinges on whether wireless connectivity and a specific plate material are worth a higher price. Both share a high degree of customizability with QMK/VIA support, hot-swap sockets, and a gasket-mounted design, making the decision a matter of core features versus budget.

96
Keychron Q1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard - Version 2
95
Keychron Q1 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

Select a keyboard to compare

4.9 (616)
5.0 (41)
  • Released in 2022
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Released in 2023
  • 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
  • Features ABS, PBT keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 71.8
  • Build Quality: 89.3
  • Productivity: 97.4
  • Customizability: 99.6
  • Portability: 62.2
Scores
  • Performance: 82.5
  • Build Quality: 89.2
  • Productivity: 97.5
  • Customizability: 99.9
  • Portability: 81.8
Name
Keychron Q1 V2
Name
Keychron Q1 Pro
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, ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-FR, ISO-ES, ISO-SW, 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
Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless, 2.4 GHz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
-
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
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
23 x 145 x 328 mm
Weight
1825g
Weight
1825g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

Your budget and need for wireless operation are the deciding factors. If you require seamless switching between multiple devices or work in a cable-averse setup, the Q1 Pro's premium is justified. If your keyboard stays at a single desk and you prioritize spending on keycaps, switches, or other mods, the Q1 V2 delivers the same premium aluminum and modding platform for less.

Keychron Q1 V2

  • +Lower starting price point for the core aluminum build.
  • +Includes a steel plate for a firmer, more resonant typing feel.
  • +Wide variety of color and switch options are listed in its vendor page.
  • +Double-gasket design with silicone pads for sound dampening.
  • +Top case designed for better compatibility with third-party keycaps like MT3 and SA.

  • Wired-only connectivity limits placement and device switching.
  • Lacks a battery, eliminating cord-free use.
  • Fewer default layout options, primarily ANSI according to the metadata.

Keychron Q1 Pro

  • +Tri-mode connectivity with Bluetooth 5.1, 2.4 GHz, and wired USB-C.
  • +Includes a 4000mAh rechargeable battery for wireless operation.
  • +Comes with a polycarbonate plate for a more flexible typing feel.
  • +Officially supports a wide range of ISO layouts (UK, DE, FR, ES, etc.).
  • +Uses a more powerful STM32L432 MCU with 128KB Flash for firmware.

  • Commands a higher price than the Q1 V2.
  • Wireless mode operates at a lower 90 Hz polling rate compared to 1000 Hz wired.
  • Listed color and pre-built switch options are more limited than the Q1 V2.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Q1 Pro is the more versatile choice, winning for office use, travel, and content creation due to its wireless multi-device connectivity. It also holds a slight edge for gaming with its dual wired/wireless polling rates. The Q1 V2 is the value pick for modders, offering the same high-quality aluminum foundation at a lower cost. For programming, both are equally capable due to their shared programmability and layout.

GamingKeychron Q1 Pro
  • The Q1 Pro offers a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode with the added convenience of wireless connectivity.
  • Its vendor description states the wireless mode has a 90 Hz polling rate for lag-free use when not tethered.
  • Both support N-key rollover, but the Q1 Pro explicitly lists it for both wireless and wired modes.
OfficeKeychron Q1 Pro
  • Wireless Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity allows pairing with up to three devices, ideal for multitasking between a laptop, phone, and tablet.
  • Includes a 4000mAh battery for extended cord-free use.
  • The vendor page states it saves separate layouts for macOS and Windows, streamlining system switching.
ProgrammingTie
  • Both keyboards have identical 75% layouts and support full programmability via QMK and VIA.
  • Both feature hot-swappable PCBs for easy switch experimentation.
  • Each includes a programmable aluminum knob for mapping macros or commands.
TravelKeychron Q1 Pro
  • Wireless operation removes the need to manage a cable on the go.
  • While both are heavy aluminum boards, the Q1 Pro's wireless capability adds practical portability.
  • Bluetooth connectivity is more convenient for use with laptops or tablets in different locations.
ModdingKeychron Q1 V2
  • The Q1 V2 typically has a lower starting price, offering a more affordable base for modifications.
  • It comes with a steel plate, providing a different typing feel and sound profile compared to the Q1 Pro's polycarbonate plate.
  • It maintains the same core modding features: gasket mount, screw-in stabilizers, and hot-swap sockets.
Content CreationKeychron Q1 Pro
  • Wireless connectivity reduces desk clutter for a cleaner workspace.
  • The programmable knob can be mapped to creative software controls like brush size or timeline scrubbing.
  • Ability to switch seamlessly between a desktop and a tablet via Bluetooth aids in multi-device workflows.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

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

95
$86
Keychron Q1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard - Version 1
Keychron Q1
75%,
Hotswap,
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

97
$59
Keychron Q3 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q3
80%,
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

96
$54
Keychron V3 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V3
80%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Tray 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

93
$59
Keychron Q2 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q2
65%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

92
$59
Keychron Q4 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q4
60%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount