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Compare Keychron V1 Max vs V2 Max Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two highly similar wireless, customizable keyboards from Keychron. The decision is difficult because both the V1 Max and V2 Max share core features like QMK/VIA support, gasket mounts, hot-swap sockets, and triple-mode connectivity. The primary difference comes down to layout size: the V1 Max uses a 75% form factor, while the V2 Max uses a 65% layout. Your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize having dedicated function and navigation keys or a smaller footprint on your desk.

98
Keychron V1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
94
Keychron V2 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard

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4.3 (32)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-PT, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Weighs about 770 g
  • Sized at 22 x 149 x 329 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Plastic case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 65% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Weighs about 696 g
  • Sized at 23 x 123 x 330 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, ABS case
  • Features PBT keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 83.2
  • Build Quality: 86.3
  • Productivity: 97.3
  • Customizability: 99.4
  • Portability: 79.2
Scores
  • Performance: 77.7
  • Build Quality: 85.4
  • Productivity: 94
  • Customizability: 99.7
  • Portability: 88.7
Name
Keychron V1 Max
Name
Keychron V2 Max
Release year
2023
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
65%
Layout Standard
ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-PT, ISO, ANSI
Layout Standard
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
1000 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, 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
23 x 123 x 330 mm
Weight
770g
Weight
696g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

Your choice should be dictated by layout preference and use case. If you regularly use function keys, arrow keys, and navigation keys without wanting to press a layer modifier, the Keychron V1 Max is the logical choice, especially for office or programming work. If maximizing desk space or portability is your primary goal, and you are comfortable using keyboard layers for missing keys, the more compact Keychron V2 Max is the better option. Both offer an identical foundation of wireless connectivity, customizability, and typing feel.

Keychron V1 Max

  • +75% layout includes a dedicated function row and navigation cluster.
  • +Wide ISO layout support (UK, DE, Nordic, French, Spanish, etc.).
  • +Includes sound-dampening foam for a quieter typing experience.
  • +South-facing RGB LEDs prevent interference with Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • +Backed by a high volume of positive user reviews.
  • −Larger and heavier (770g) than the V2 Max, making it less portable.
  • −The vendor description does not mention a magnetic dongle storage slot.
  • −Some user reviews mention issues with key chatter developing over time.

Keychron V2 Max

  • +More compact 65% layout saves desk space and is easier to transport.
  • +Lighter weight at 696g.
  • +Includes a magnetic storage slot for its Type-C and Type-A wireless receivers.
  • +Shares the same high customizability with QMK/VIA and hot-swap support.
  • −Lacks dedicated function keys and a navigation cluster, requiring the use of layers.
  • −Only available in ANSI layout, with no ISO options listed.
  • −No user reviews are available to gauge long-term reliability.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The V1 Max is the consistent winner for stationary, key-intensive tasks like office work, programming, and gaming due to its more complete 75% layout. The V2 Max takes the lead for travel thanks to its smaller 65% size and lower weight. For modding, both keyboards are equally capable platforms. Content creators may lean toward the V1 Max for its extra readily accessible keys, though both include a control knob.

GamingKeychron V1 Max
  • •The 75% layout retains the F-row for quick access to in-game macros or commands.
  • •Both share a 1000 Hz polling rate in 2.4 GHz and wired modes for responsive input.
  • •The V1 Max's slightly wider stance may offer more stability during intense use.
OfficeKeychron V1 Max
  • •The dedicated function row and navigation cluster (Page Up/Down, etc.) are beneficial for spreadsheet and document navigation.
  • •Supports a wide range of ISO layouts (UK, DE, Nordic, etc.), which is crucial for international office use.
  • •Both keyboards include Mac and Windows keycaps and a system toggle for cross-platform compatibility.
ProgrammingKeychron V1 Max
  • •The dedicated function keys are often used for IDE shortcuts and debugging.
  • •The separate arrow keys and navigation cluster aid in code navigation.
  • •Full QMK and VIA support on both allows for deep key remapping and macro creation.
TravelKeychron V2 Max
  • •The 65% layout is more compact, with a width of 123mm versus 149mm on the V1 Max.
  • •It is lighter at 696g compared to 770g for the V1 Max.
  • •The V2 Max description highlights a magnetic storage slot for its dual wireless receivers, keeping them secure during transport.
ModdingTie
  • •Both feature hot-swappable PCBs compatible with 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches.
  • •Both use a gasket mount design with a polycarbonate plate and screw-in stabilizers.
  • •Both are supported by open-source QMK firmware and the Keychron Launcher for programming.
Content CreationKeychron V1 Max
  • •The dedicated media keys and knob on both are useful for timeline scrubbing and volume control.
  • •The 75% layout's function row can be mapped to application-specific shortcuts in video or photo editing software.
  • •The additional keys reduce reliance on layers for common editing commands.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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