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Compare Keychron S1 vs V10 Max Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two Keychron 75% keyboards with very different priorities: the S1 offers an all-metal low-profile design with a wired-only connection, while the V10 Max provides a plastic Alice ergonomic layout with wireless and gasket mount. The decision is hard because both are hot-swappable with QMK/VIA support at a similar price, but they serve different use cases. The S1 targets users who want solid build and a slim typing angle, while the V10 Max appeals to those seeking ergonomic relief and wireless convenience.

85
Keychron S1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
95
Keychron V10 Max (Alice Layout) QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard

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4.8 (18)
5.0 (7)
  • Released in 2022
  • Features a low-profile design
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Weighs about 960 g
  • Sized at 8 x 118 x 310 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2024
  • Offers Alice ergonomics
  • Comes with a knob
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 958 g
  • Sized at 19 x 141 x 387 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, ABS case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 81.5
  • Build Quality: 81.6
  • Productivity: 80.1
  • Customizability: 89.6
  • Portability: 62.8
Scores
  • Performance: 86.6
  • Build Quality: 85.3
  • Productivity: 100
  • Customizability: 99.7
  • Portability: 81.8
Name
Keychron S1
Name
Keychron V10 Max
Release year
2022
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Low Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Alice
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, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
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
Tray Mount
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, North-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Plastic, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
8 x 118 x 310 mm
Dimensions
19 x 141 x 387 mm
Weight
960g
Weight
958g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

If you value a solid metal build and a low-profile typing angle, and wire-free operation is not a priority, the Keychron S1 delivers a premium feel in a slim package. However, for most users seeking ergonomic comfort and wireless flexibility, the Keychron V10 Max offers a more versatile experience with its Alice layout, gasket mount, and dual wireless modes.

Keychron S1

  • +Full CNC aluminum body provides a premium, solid build.
  • +Low-profile design with a front height of only 7.8mm without keycaps.
  • +22 types of RGB backlight effects with north-facing LEDs.
  • +Ultra-low-power ARM Cortex-M4 MCU with 128KB Flash for QMK/VIA.
  • −Wired-only connectivity limits portability and desk setup options.
  • −Steel plate and tray mount result in stiffer typing feel.
  • −Compatible only with Gateron low profile MX switches for hot-swap.
  • −North-facing RGB may cause interference with OEM or Cherry profile keycaps.

Keychron V10 Max

  • +Alice layout improves ergonomics and wrist positioning.
  • +Wireless support includes 2.4 GHz (1000 Hz) and Bluetooth 5.1.
  • +Gasket mount design with PC plate for a softer, quieter typing feel.
  • +Screw-in PCB stabilizers reduce wobble on large keys.
  • +Hot-swappable with 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches for broad compatibility.
  • −ABS plastic housing feels less premium than all-metal builds.
  • −Alice layout requires adjustment time for touch typists.
  • −Bluetooth mode caps polling rate at 90 Hz, unsuitable for competitive gaming.
  • −Higher front height of 18.7mm may require a palm rest.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The V10 Max wins in most use cases thanks to its wireless connectivity, ergonomic Alice layout, and gasket mount design. The S1 ties in programming because both share key remapping and switch hot-swap support. The S1 only comes out ahead for users who prioritize the all-metal low-profile build and are willing to stay wired.

GamingKeychron V10 Max
  • •Supports 2.4 GHz wireless with 1000 Hz polling rate for low latency gaming.
  • •Gasket mount and PC plate provide a softer, quieter typing experience.
  • •South-facing RGB avoids interference with aftermarket keycaps.
OfficeKeychron V10 Max
  • •Wireless connectivity (Bluetooth 5.1 and 2.4 GHz) reduces desk clutter.
  • •Alice layout improves wrist positioning for long typing sessions.
  • •Includes sound dampening and screw-in stabilizers for quieter operation.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both support QMK and VIA for full key remapping and macros.
  • •Both have hot-swappable switches and 1000 Hz polling rate.
  • •V10 Max offers an ergonomic Alice layout, while S1 has a standard 75% layout.
TravelKeychron V10 Max
  • •Wireless support (Bluetooth 5.1 and 2.4 GHz) allows use without cables.
  • •Larger battery (4000mAh) supports extended wireless use.
  • •Lighter weight relative to the all-metal S1 for easier carrying.
ModdingKeychron V10 Max
  • •Gasket mount design with PC plate is easier to customize than tray mount.
  • •Supports 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches for broader switch compatibility.
  • •Screw-in PCB stabilizers offer greater stability and modding potential.
  • •Available as a barebones kit for building from scratch.
Content CreationKeychron V10 Max
  • •Alice layout reduces wrist strain during long editing sessions.
  • •Wireless connectivity allows flexible desk setups.
  • •Knob support for quick volume or timeline control.
  • •Higher productivity score based on layout and features.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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