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Compare Keychron V1 Max vs V1 Ultra Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Keychron's two premium 75% wireless keyboards. The V1 Max and V1 Ultra share a gasket-mount design, hot-swap sockets, and similar form factors, making the choice difficult. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize ultra-low latency gaming performance and modern firmware or broader layout compatibility and a more established software suite.

98
Keychron V1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
93
Keychron V1 Ultra 8K Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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4.3 (16)
5.0 (1)
  • Released in 2023
  • Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-PT, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Sized at 22 x 149 x 329 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Plastic case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2026
  • Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Runs at a 8000 Hz polling rate
  • Sized at 29 x 329 x 149 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, ABS case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, South-face, Rgb South-face, White South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 83.1
  • Build Quality: 86.3
  • Productivity: 97.3
  • Customizability: 99.4
  • Portability: 79.3
Scores
  • Performance: 91.1
  • Build Quality: 84
  • Productivity: 97.8
  • Customizability: 95.3
  • Portability: 80
Name
Keychron V1 Max
Name
Keychron V1 Ultra
Release year
2023
Release year
2026
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-PT, ISO, ANSI
Layout Standard
ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO, 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
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
8000 Hz
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
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, White, South-face, White South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Plastic
Case Material
Plastic, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
22 x 149 x 329 mm
Dimensions
29 x 329 x 149 mm
Weight
770g
Weight
770g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require the absolute lowest latency for gaming or value not charging for months, the V1 Ultra's 8K polling and long battery are compelling. If you need specific ISO layouts, prefer the QMK/VIA software environment, or want to start from a barebones kit, the V1 Max is the better option. Both are excellent, fully-featured wireless keyboards.

Keychron V1 Max

  • +Supports multiple ISO layouts (UK, German, Nordic, French, Spanish, etc.) for international users.
  • +Available in a barebones kit version for custom builds.
  • +Uses the mature, open-source QMK and VIA firmware ecosystem.
  • +Includes Gateron Jupiter switches in the assembled version.
  • +Has a proven track record with user reviews available.
  • −Lower 1000 Hz polling rate compared to the Ultra's 8000 Hz.
  • −Shorter maximum wireless battery life (up to 190 hours).
  • −Uses Bluetooth 5.1, while the Ultra uses Bluetooth 5.3.

Keychron V1 Ultra

  • +Features an 8000 Hz polling rate in both wired and 2.4 GHz wireless modes.
  • +Offers exceptional battery life, rated for up to 660 hours with lighting off.
  • +Utilizes ZMK firmware with a 1MB flash MCU for advanced wireless features.
  • +Includes multiple layers of acoustic foam (PET, EPDM, bottom case foam) for sound dampening.
  • +Comes with pre-lubed Keychron Silk POM switches.
  • −Only available in ANSI layout, with no ISO options listed.
  • −No barebones kit option is mentioned, only fully assembled.
  • −Lacks the established user review history of the V1 Max.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The V1 Ultra is the clear pick for gamers and travelers due to its 8000 Hz polling rate and vastly superior battery life. The V1 Max wins for programmers and modders, thanks to its extensive ISO layout support and availability as a barebones kit. For office use and content creation, the keyboards are evenly matched, sharing core productivity features and connectivity.

GamingKeychron V1 Ultra
  • •The V1 Ultra offers an 8000 Hz polling rate in both wired and 2.4 GHz wireless modes, compared to the V1 Max's 1000 Hz.
  • •Keychron's listing for the V1 Ultra emphasizes its high-speed performance for competitive gaming.
  • •Both feature N-key rollover and south-facing RGB, but the Ultra's higher polling rate is a clear advantage for latency-sensitive play.
OfficeTie
  • •Both keyboards offer tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, wired) for flexible device switching.
  • •Each includes Mac and Windows keycaps and system toggles for cross-platform use.
  • •Their 75% layouts save desk space while retaining essential keys like function rows and arrows.
ProgrammingKeychron V1 Max
  • •The V1 Max supports a wide array of ISO layouts (UK, German, Nordic, etc.), which is crucial for international programmers.
  • •It uses the established QMK and VIA firmware, which are widely supported in the developer community for deep customization.
  • •Both have hot-swap sockets and programmable layers, but the Max's layout support is a unique advantage.
TravelKeychron V1 Ultra
  • •The V1 Ultra is listed with a battery life of up to 660 hours with backlight off, significantly longer than the V1 Max's 190 hours.
  • •Both share identical weight (770g) and a 75% form factor, making them equally portable.
  • •The Ultra's extended battery reduces the frequency of needing to charge while on the move.
ModdingKeychron V1 Max
  • •The V1 Max is explicitly listed as available in a DIY kit/barebones version, offering a lower entry point for custom builds.
  • •It uses the widely adopted QMK and VIA firmware, which have extensive community documentation and modding support.
  • •Both are hot-swappable with screw-in stabilizers and gasket mounts, but the barebones option gives the Max an edge for builders.
Content CreationTie
  • •Both keyboards feature a knob for media control and multimedia keys, useful for editing workflows.
  • •Each offers per-key RGB customization through their respective web launchers for aesthetic setups.
  • •Their similar layouts and typing experiences provide a consistent foundation for long typing sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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