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Compare Keychron V1 Max vs Monsgeek M1 V5 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two popular 75% wireless mechanical keyboards with gasket mounts. The choice is difficult because both offer hot-swap sockets, VIA support, and multi-mode connectivity, but diverge sharply on core materials, weight, and availability. The Keychron is a lighter, plastic-bodied board with extensive layout support and QMK firmware, while the Monsgeek is a substantially heavier aluminum kit focused on a premium feel.

98
Keychron V1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
81
Monsgeek M1 V5 VIA DIY Kit (ISO)

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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
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 770 g
  • Sized at 22 x 149 x 329 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Plastic case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Released in 2025
  • Available in a Unknown layout
  • Built with the ISO, ISO-DE, ANSI, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic layout standard
  • Equipped with a 8000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1875 g
  • Sized at 33 x 333 x 146 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Features PBT keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 83.1
  • Build Quality: 86.3
  • Productivity: 97.3
  • Customizability: 99.4
  • Portability: 79.2
Scores
  • Performance: 65.2
  • Build Quality: 79.9
  • Productivity: 85
  • Customizability: 85.7
  • Portability: 66.9
Name
Keychron V1 Max
Name
Monsgeek M1 V5
Release year
2023
Release year
2025
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Switch Options
-
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
Unknown
Layout Standard
ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-PT, ISO, ANSI
Layout Standard
ISO, ISO-DE, ANSI, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic
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
8000 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
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
22 x 149 x 329 mm
Dimensions
33 x 333 x 146 mm
Weight
770g
Weight
1875g
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Pros and Trade-offs

For most users, the Keychron V1 Max is the more practical and versatile choice. Its combination of extensive software support, multiple layout options, and lighter build makes it ready for work, play, and travel. Only choose the Monsgeek M1 V5 if your priority is the unmistakable heft and feel of an aluminum chassis and you are comfortable with a heavier, potentially harder-to-find kit that uses VIA instead of QMK.

Keychron V1 Max

  • +Extensive layout support with many pre-built ISO options (UK, DE, Nordic, ES, FR, etc.).
  • +Supports both QMK and VIA firmware for advanced programmability via a web app.
  • +Includes dedicated Mac and Windows keycaps with a system toggle switch.
  • +Lighter weight (770g) and slimmer profile for better portability.
  • +Comes in fully assembled and barebone versions with Gateron Jupiter switches.
  • −Case is made of ABS plastic, which may feel less premium than metal alternatives.
  • −Smaller 4000mAh battery compared to some competitors.
  • −Some user reviews mention issues with key chatter developing over time.

Monsgeek M1 V5

  • +CNC-machined aluminum case provides a premium, solid feel.
  • +Larger 8000mAh battery capacity for extended wireless use.
  • +Features a tool-less 'Rapid Disassemble' ball-catch mechanism for easy opening.
  • +Includes a PORON plate foam for sound dampening.
  • −Very heavy at 1875g, making it less portable.
  • −Layout size is unspecified, though vendor description suggests a 75% layout.
  • −No user reviews are available, and it was listed as out of stock at the time of writing.
  • −Lacks QMK support, offering only VIA for customization.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron V1 Max wins in most scenarios due to its software flexibility, broader layout support, and lighter portability. It is the clear choice for office workers needing Mac/Windows compatibility, programmers who value QMK, and anyone who travels with their keyboard. The modding and content creation categories are a tie, as both boards offer excellent foundational features like hot-swap, gasket mounts, and knobs. The Monsgeek M1 V5's primary advantage is its aluminum case, which appeals to users seeking a specific, heavier premium feel.

GamingKeychron V1 Max
  • •The Keychron V1 Max has a confirmed 1000 Hz polling rate in its 2.4 GHz and wired modes.
  • •Its lighter weight of 770g may be preferable for quick desk adjustments.
  • •The manufacturer states its ARM MCU and 1000 Hz polling rate make latency 'hardly noticeable' for competitive games.
OfficeKeychron V1 Max
  • •The V1 Max includes dedicated Mac and Windows keycaps and a system toggle for easy switching.
  • •It offers a wider range of pre-configured ISO layouts, including UK, German, Nordic, French, Spanish, and more.
  • •Its lighter weight makes it easier to transport between home and office.
ProgrammingKeychron V1 Max
  • •It supports both QMK and VIA for deep, open-source key remapping and macro programming.
  • •The 75% layout retains arrow and navigation keys while saving space.
  • •The Keychron Launcher web app allows for configuration from any computer with a browser.
TravelKeychron V1 Max
  • •The V1 Max is significantly lighter at 770g compared to the M1 V5's 1875g.
  • •It has a smaller footprint (329mm x 149mm vs. 333mm x 146mm) and is slimmer (22mm vs. 33mm front height).
  • •Its 4000mAh battery, while smaller, still provides up to 190 hours of wireless use with lighting off.
ModdingTie
  • •Both keyboards are hot-swappable, supporting 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches.
  • •Both feature gasket mount designs, polycarbonate plates, and sound dampening foam.
  • •Both support VIA for software customization and include screw-in stabilizers.
Content CreationTie
  • •Both keyboards include a knob for media control and volume adjustment.
  • •Both offer south-facing RGB lighting, which is compatible with Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • •The multi-device Bluetooth connectivity on both is useful for switching between a computer and a tablet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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