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

Compare Keychron Q12 vs Leopold FC900R OE Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a modern, enthusiast-focused keyboard and a traditional, reliable workhorse. The Keychron Q12 offers extensive programmability and a unique left-side numpad, while the Leopold FC900R provides a familiar full-size layout with genuine Cherry switches. The decision hinges on whether you value customization and layout innovation or prefer a proven, plug-and-play design.

96
Keychron Q12 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Leopold FC900R OE Black Purple Double Shot PBT Mechanical Keyboard

Select a keyboard to compare

4.5 (18)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Available in a 96% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO layout standard
  • Offers Southpaw ergonomics
  • Comes with a knob
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Weighs about 2491 g
  • Sized at 20 x 145 x 409 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Uses a Plate Mount mounting style
  • Made with a Plastic case
  • Offers No RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 73.5
  • Build Quality: 89.4
  • Productivity: 97.9
  • Customizability: 100
  • Portability: 45.9
Scores
  • Performance: 47.7
  • Build Quality: 49.1
  • Productivity: 60.8
  • Customizability: 47.5
  • Portability: 42.3
Name
Keychron Q12
Name
Leopold FC900R OE
Release year
2023
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
96%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Southpaw
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
-
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
Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Backlight
 
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
20 x 145 x 409 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
2491g
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you want to customize every aspect of your typing experience, from switches and keymaps to acoustics and layout, the Keychron Q12 is the superior tool. If you prefer a reliable, traditional keyboard that works perfectly out of the box with a standard layout, the Leopold FC900R is a straightforward option. Consider the Q12 an investment in a customizable platform, and the FC900R as a finished product.

Keychron Q12

  • +Extensive customization via QMK and VIA firmware support.
  • +Unique southpaw 96% layout with left-side numpad for ergonomics and desk space.
  • +Premium build with a full CNC aluminum case and steel plate.
  • +Hot-swappable PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
  • +Includes a programmable aluminum knob and features a double-gasket mount design.
  • −Very heavy at 2491 grams, limiting portability.
  • −Southpaw layout requires an adjustment period for most users.
  • −Wired-only connectivity.
  • −Higher price point relative to the Leopold.

Leopold FC900R OE

  • +Classic, familiar full-size 104-key layout.
  • +Pre-built with genuine Cherry MX switches in multiple variants, including silent options.
  • +Includes dedicated multimedia keys and internal sound dampening.
  • +Reportedly compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux systems.
  • −Switches are not hot-swappable, requiring soldering to change.
  • −Plastic case and plate construction.
  • −Lacks programmable firmware or RGB lighting.
  • −No reviews are available to gauge real-world user experience.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron Q12 is the clear choice for users focused on gaming, programming, modding, or content creation, thanks to its high-performance specs and deep customization. The Leopold FC900R suits those who prioritize a traditional, ready-to-use full-size keyboard for general office or travel use, where its plug-and-play nature is an advantage. For standard office tasks, both are competent, offering cross-platform compatibility and quiet operation.

GamingKeychron Q12
  • •The Keychron Q12 has a specified 1000 Hz polling rate for lower latency.
  • •Its southpaw layout with left-side numpad frees up desk space for mouse movement.
  • •The aluminum case and gasket mount may provide a more stable, premium feel.
OfficeTie
  • •Both keyboards offer Mac and Windows support.
  • •The Leopold FC900R has dedicated multimedia keys.
  • •The Keychron Q12's programmable knob can be mapped to volume or other office controls.
  • •Both feature sound-dampening materials for a quieter environment.
ProgrammingKeychron Q12
  • •The Keychron Q12 supports QMK and VIA for extensive key remapping and macro creation.
  • •Its 96% southpaw layout retains a numpad while saving space.
  • •Hot-swappable sockets allow for easy switch changes to suit typing preference.
TravelLeopold FC900R OE
  • •The Leopold FC900R is a standard full-size layout, requiring no user adaptation.
  • •It is a pre-built unit, requiring no assembly or tweaking on the go.
  • •The Keychron Q12 is significantly heavier at 2491g.
ModdingKeychron Q12
  • •The Keychron Q12 is hot-swappable, supports QMK/VIA, and is available as a barebones kit.
  • •It features a gasket mount, screw-in stabilizers, and a steel plate for modding foundations.
  • •The vendor description highlights a double-gasket design and silicone pads for acoustic tuning.
Content CreationKeychron Q12
  • •The Keychron Q12's programmable knob can be mapped to zoom, brush size, or timeline scrubbing.
  • •QMK/VIA support allows for complex macros tailored to editing software.
  • •The southpaw layout can improve ergonomics when using a mouse and numpad simultaneously.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

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

95
$100
Keychron Q6 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q6
100%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

93
$114
Keychron V3 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V3 Max
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Gasket Mount

83
$119
Keychron V6 Ultra 8K Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V6 Ultra
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
Metal 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

76
$139
Nuphy Air100 (ISO-DE) White
Nuphy Air100 V3
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

96
$106
Keychron K10 HE Wireless Magnetic Switch Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K10 HE
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

82
$129
Vortex Multix 104 VIA Autumn Hotswap Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Vortex Multix 104 VIA
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
Backlight,
VIA,
QMK,
Plate 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

67
$109
Gateron x invictus Gaming iG 98 Splashing Ink 98% Hotswap Bluetooth + 2.4 GHz. RGB Mechanical Keyboard
Gateron iG 98
98%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
Plate Mount