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Compare Keychron V1 Max vs V4 Max Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Keychron's two compact wireless Max series keyboards. The choice is difficult because both share core features like QMK/VIA programmability, gasket mounts, and triple-mode connectivity. The decision ultimately hinges on whether you prioritize the 75% layout's included navigation cluster or the 60% layout's extreme compactness.

98
Keychron V1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
92
Keychron V4 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
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • 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 60% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Weighs about 645 g
  • Sized at 28 x 123 x 305 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, ABS case
  • Features PBT keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 83.1
  • Build Quality: 86.3
  • Productivity: 97.3
  • Customizability: 99.4
  • Portability: 79.2
Scores
  • Performance: 78.5
  • Build Quality: 85.7
  • Productivity: 94.8
  • Customizability: 97.4
  • Portability: 88.4
Name
Keychron V1 Max
Name
Keychron V4 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
60%
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
28 x 123 x 305 mm
Weight
770g
Weight
645g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Select the Keychron V1 Max if your workflow relies on dedicated arrow keys, a function row, or you need specific ISO language layouts. Opt for the Keychron V4 Max if minimizing your desk footprint is the top priority and you are comfortable using keyboard layers to access missing keys. Both are excellent, highly customizable wireless boards at a similar price point.

Keychron V1 Max

  • +75% layout includes arrow keys, function row, and navigation cluster without a numpad.
  • +Wide ISO layout support for UK, German, Nordic, Spanish, French, Italian, and Portuguese regions.
  • +Knob support is available in certain pre-built configurations for media control.
  • +Includes pre-lubed Gateron Jupiter switches in the fully assembled version.
  • −Larger and heavier (770g, 329mm long) than the V4 Max, taking up more desk space.
  • −The vendor description mentions some users have reported key chatter issues over time.
  • −Only available in ANSI layout for the knob version, with ISO layouts being a separate collection.

Keychron V4 Max

  • +Extremely compact 60% layout (305mm long) saves significant desk space.
  • +Lighter weight (645g) enhances portability.
  • +Includes dual 2.4 GHz receivers (Type-C and Type-A) with magnetic storage in the case.
  • +Comes with double-shot PBT keycaps in the fully assembled version.
  • −60% layout lacks dedicated arrow keys, function row, and navigation cluster, requiring layer usage.
  • −Only supports ANSI layout, with no ISO options mentioned.
  • −No mention of a knob version in the available configurations.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The V1 Max is the more versatile choice for productivity-focused tasks like office work, programming, and content creation, thanks to its larger 75% layout with dedicated keys. The V4 Max excels in portability for travel due to its smaller 60% form factor. For gaming and general use, the V1 Max has a slight edge with its navigation cluster, while both keyboards are equally capable for modding enthusiasts.

GamingKeychron V1 Max
  • •The 75% layout includes dedicated arrow keys, useful for in-game menus or macros.
  • •Both offer a 1000 Hz polling rate in 2.4 GHz and wired modes for low latency.
  • •The V1 Max's slightly larger form may provide more stability during intense use.
OfficeKeychron V1 Max
  • •The V1 Max supports numerous ISO layouts (UK, DE, Nordic, etc.), crucial for international users.
  • •Its 75% layout retains arrow keys and a column of function keys for spreadsheet navigation.
  • •Both include system toggles and keycaps for macOS and Windows compatibility.
ProgrammingKeychron V1 Max
  • •The dedicated arrow keys and function row on the V1 Max are valuable for code navigation and IDE shortcuts.
  • •Both keyboards feature full QMK and VIA support for creating complex macros and layers.
  • •The V1 Max's wider layout may be more comfortable for long typing sessions.
TravelKeychron V4 Max
  • •The V4 Max is smaller (123mm x 305mm) and lighter (645g), making it easier to pack.
  • •Its 60% layout maximizes portability by removing the function row and navigation cluster.
  • •Both have the same 4000mAh battery for long wireless use.
ModdingTie
  • •Both are hot-swappable, supporting 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches.
  • •Both feature a gasket mount design, screw-in PCB stabilizers, and sound-dampening foam for internal modifications.
  • •Both use QMK open-source firmware and the Keychron Launcher for deep software customization.
Content CreationKeychron V1 Max
  • •The V1 Max's knob support (in some configurations) allows for quick media or brush size control.
  • •The extra keys on the 75% layout can be mapped to application-specific shortcuts.
  • •The inclusion of multimedia keys, as listed in its features, is beneficial for video/audio editing workflows.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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