Keychron Q13 Max vs Q13 UltraQMK or 8K polling

The Q13 Ultra is the more gaming-focused choice if polling rate is a priority, with 8000 Hz listed for 2.4 GHz and wired modes. The Q13 Max lists 1000 Hz polling, and its vendor describes that rate for 2.4 GHz and wired modes.

The Q13 Max is listed at 1000 Hz, with its vendor specifying 1000 Hz in 2.4 GHz and wired modes. The Q13 Ultra lists 8000 Hz, and its vendor describes that rate for 2.4 GHz and wired modes.

The Q13 Max lists QMK and VIA support. The Q13 Ultra is described by Keychron as using ZMK firmware and Keychron Launcher.

Keychron lists the Q13 Ultra for up to 660 hours with backlighting off and up to 200 hours with RGB at the lowest brightness. The Q13 Max metadata lists a 4000 mAh battery, while its vendor description gives up to 300 hours with backlighting off and up to 100 hours with RGB at the lowest brightness.

Both are 96% ANSI Alice keyboards, but the Q13 Max lists a split spacebar and the Q13 Ultra lists a normal spacebar. Choose based on whether you want the split-spacebar arrangement.

Both models are listed as hot-swappable. Keychron says their sockets support most 3-pin and 5-pin MX-style mechanical switches, including examples such as Cherry, Gateron, and Kailh.

Yes. Keychron describes per-key RGB, Mix RGB, and a static white option for the Q13 Ultra. Its South-facing LEDs mean shine-through legends stay dark, and some sculpted keycaps can clip the LEDs.

Both are heavy aluminum Alice keyboards, listed at 2405 g for the Q13 Max and 2440 g for the Q13 Ultra. The Ultra has a vendor-stated battery life of up to 660 hours with backlighting off, while the Max is listed with a 4000 mAh battery.

Both have South-facing LEDs, and the listed compatibility rule says shine-through legends stay dark. Some sculpted keycaps can also clip the LED on either board.

The Q13 Max lists both QMK and VIA support and a DIY kit or barebones option. The Q13 Ultra offers ZMK and Launcher, along with hot-swappable switches and a vendor-described customizable assembly.

Both list Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, and wired connectivity. The Q13 Max vendor description specifies Bluetooth 5.2, while the Q13 Ultra description specifies Bluetooth 5.3.

The Q13 Max vendor lists Gateron Jupiter Red, Brown, or Banana switches for assembled configurations, plus a barebones option. The Q13 Ultra vendor lists Keychron Silk POM Red, Brown, or Banana switches.