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Compare Keychron V1 Max vs Qwertykeys Neo65 Core Plus Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a highly customizable, feature-packed plastic keyboard and a more focused, premium aluminum kit. The Keychron V1 Max offers a 75% layout, extensive software support, and RGB lighting out of the box. The Qwertykeys Neo65 Core Plus provides a heavier aluminum unibody case, a tuned internal structure for a specific sound, and a simpler, no-RGB aesthetic. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize software features and a complete package or material quality and a particular acoustic philosophy.

98
Keychron V1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
77
Qwertykeys Neo65 Core Plus Keyboard

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4.3 (32)
5.0 (6)
  • 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
  • Comes with a knob
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • 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
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2025
  • Available in a 65% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO layout standard
  • Equipped with a 4400 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1340 g
  • Sized at 18 x 313 x 111 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Offers No RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 83.1
  • Build Quality: 86.3
  • Productivity: 97.3
  • Customizability: 99.4
  • Portability: 79.2
Scores
  • Performance: 53.6
  • Build Quality: 80.4
  • Productivity: 80.7
  • Customizability: 69.7
  • Portability: 89.1
Name
Keychron V1 Max
Name
Qwertykeys Neo65 Core Plus
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
65%
Layout Standard
ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-PT, ISO, ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO
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
4400 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
 
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Plastic
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
22 x 149 x 329 mm
Dimensions
18 x 313 x 111 mm
Weight
770g
Weight
1340g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. For a ready-to-use, highly customizable keyboard with strong software support, media controls, and a practical 75% layout, the Keychron V1 Max is the better value. If your priority is a premium aluminum build with a specific acoustic tuning philosophy and you don't mind building the keyboard yourself, the Qwertykeys Neo65 Core Plus offers distinct material quality at a competitive price for a kit.

Keychron V1 Max

  • +Extensive programmability with open-source QMK and VIA firmware support.
  • +Comes in a fully assembled version with OSA profile PBT keycaps and Gateron Jupiter switches.
  • +Offers a 75% layout with dedicated arrow and navigation keys.
  • +Includes south-facing RGB backlighting with non-shine-through keycaps.
  • +Supports multi-device Bluetooth and a 1000 Hz polling rate over 2.4 GHz wireless.
  • −Case is constructed from ABS plastic, not aluminum.
  • −The 75% layout is larger and less portable than a 65% keyboard.
  • −Some user reviews mention issues with key chatter developing over time.

Qwertykeys Neo65 Core Plus

  • +Features a premium aluminum unibody case with a choice of anodized or spray-coated colors.
  • +Includes a substantial brass or copper weight, contributing to a 1.34kg heft for a solid feel.
  • +Engineered internal structure aims for a natural, foam-free acoustic profile.
  • +Offers a dual-mounting system (gummy O-ring or PCB gasket) and magnetic connectors for easy disassembly.
  • −Lacks any form of RGB lighting.
  • −Only available as a DIY kit, requiring the user to source switches and keycaps separately.
  • −The vendor lists an estimated fulfillment time of 12 weeks after ordering.
  • −The 65% layout lacks dedicated function keys, requiring layers for some inputs.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron V1 Max is the clear choice for productivity-focused tasks like office work, programming, and gaming due to its feature set and 75% layout. It also dominates in modding thanks to its open-source firmware support. The Qwertykeys Neo65 Core Plus wins for travel based on its smaller 65% size. For content creation, the choice is a tie, balancing the V1 Max's media controls against the Neo65's premium build quality.

GamingKeychron V1 Max
  • •The Keychron V1 Max offers a 1000 Hz polling rate in its 2.4 GHz and wired modes, as stated by the manufacturer.
  • •Its 75% layout retains dedicated function and navigation keys useful for in-game shortcuts.
  • •South-facing RGB backlighting is included for aesthetic customization.
OfficeKeychron V1 Max
  • •The V1 Max supports multi-device Bluetooth connectivity, with the manufacturer stating it can connect to three devices.
  • •It includes system toggles and extra keycaps for both macOS and Windows compatibility.
  • •The 75% layout provides arrow keys and a column of function keys without a full-size footprint.
ProgrammingKeychron V1 Max
  • •Full QMK and VIA support allows for deep key remapping and macro programming.
  • •The 75% layout includes dedicated arrow and navigation keys, which are often preferred for coding.
  • •Hot-swappable sockets support a wide variety of switch types for personalized typing feel.
TravelQwertykeys Neo65 Core Plus
  • •The Neo65 Core Plus has a smaller 65% layout, resulting in a more compact footprint.
  • •It is listed as supporting tri-mode connectivity (wired, 2.4GHz, Bluetooth) for cable-free use.
  • •Despite its aluminum construction, its 65% form factor is inherently more portable than a 75% board.
ModdingKeychron V1 Max
  • •The V1 Max explicitly supports QMK and VIA for limitless firmware customization.
  • •It is available as a fully assembled unit or a barebones kit, offering flexibility from the start.
  • •The product listing confirms compatibility with both 3-pin and 5-pin MX-style switches.
Content CreationTie
  • •The V1 Max offers a knob version for media control, a useful feature for editing workflows.
  • •Both keyboards are hot-swappable, allowing creators to choose switches optimal for long typing or gaming sessions.
  • •The Neo65's heavier, solid build may provide a more stable, premium feel during extended use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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