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Compare Keychron V1 Max vs Varmilo VA Series V2 Summit R1 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a modern, feature-rich custom keyboard and a traditional, prebuilt model. The Keychron V1 Max offers extensive modding potential and wireless connectivity, while the Varmilo Summit R1 provides a simpler, out-of-the-box TKL layout. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize future-proof customization or immediate, no-fuss usability.

98
Keychron V1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Varmilo VA Series V2 Summit R1 White LED TKL Mechanical Keyboard

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4.3 (32)
0.0 (0)
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • 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
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 770 g
  • Sized at 22 x 149 x 329 mm
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Uses a Plate Mount mounting style
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, White, North-face, White North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 83.2
  • Build Quality: 86.3
  • Productivity: 97.3
  • Customizability: 99.4
  • Portability: 79.2
Scores
  • Performance: 53.5
  • Build Quality: 50.3
  • Productivity: 61.2
  • Customizability: 53.5
  • Portability: 54.9
Name
Keychron V1 Max
Name
Varmilo VA Series V2 Summit R1
Release year
2023
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
80%, 100%
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
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
Battery capacity
-
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
Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Backlight
 
White, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Plastic
Case Material
ABS, Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
22 x 149 x 329 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
770g
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

The Keychron V1 Max is the clear recommendation for users who want a future-proof, versatile keyboard that can adapt to their evolving needs through wireless use, switch swapping, and firmware programming. Opt for the Varmilo VA Series V2 Summit R1 only if you specifically require a simple, prebuilt TKL keyboard with a standard layout and have no plans for modification. The V1 Max delivers significantly more features and flexibility for a similar price point.

Keychron V1 Max

  • +Tri-mode wireless connectivity with Bluetooth 5.1 and a 1000 Hz 2.4 GHz dongle.
  • +Extensively customizable with hot-swap sockets, QMK/VIA firmware, and a gasket mount design.
  • +Includes sound dampening foam, a polycarbonate plate, and screw-in PCB stabilizers.
  • +Comes with double-shot PBT keycaps and dedicated Mac/Windows keycaps.
  • +Available in multiple ISO language layouts and as a barebones kit.
  • −The OSA profile keycaps are not shine-through, which may limit RGB visibility.
  • −Some user reviews mention potential key chatter issues developing over time.
  • −The compact 75% layout lacks a dedicated function row, which some users may miss.

Varmilo VA Series V2 Summit R1

  • +Features a traditional tenkeyless (TKL) layout with dedicated navigation keys.
  • +Uses thick dye-sublimated PBT keycaps for durability.
  • +Includes white LED backlighting and multimedia keys.
  • +Prebuilt and ready to use out of the box with no assembly required.
  • −Lacks wireless connectivity, operating only in wired mode.
  • −Switches are not hot-swappable, requiring soldering to change.
  • −Limited to ANSI layout and lacks advanced customization features like programmability or a gasket mount.
  • −Vendor listings indicate it is frequently out of stock or available for pre-order.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron V1 Max is the dominant choice for most scenarios, particularly gaming, office work, programming, and travel, due to its wireless versatility, compact form, and customization tools. It also stands alone for modding enthusiasts. The Varmilo Summit R1's primary appeal is its traditional TKL layout for users who need dedicated navigation keys without any setup. For content creation, the choice depends on whether you value programmable layers or a standard function row.

GamingKeychron V1 Max
  • •The Keychron V1 Max has a specified 1000 Hz polling rate for its 2.4 GHz and wired modes.
  • •Its gasket mount design with a polycarbonate plate may offer a softer, more responsive typing feel.
  • •The 75% layout saves desk space for larger mouse movements.
OfficeKeychron V1 Max
  • •The V1 Max offers tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, wired) for flexible device switching.
  • •It includes dedicated Mac and Windows keycaps and a system toggle for multi-OS use.
  • •Sound dampening foam and a gasket mount design contribute to a quieter typing experience.
ProgrammingKeychron V1 Max
  • •Full programmability via open-source QMK and VIA firmware allows for complex macros and key remaps.
  • •The 75% layout retains arrow and navigation keys while being compact.
  • •Hot-swappable sockets allow easy switch changes for personalized tactile feedback.
TravelKeychron V1 Max
  • •The V1 Max is wireless with a 4000mAh battery, eliminating the need for a constant cable connection.
  • •Its 75% layout and 770g weight make it more compact and portable than a full-size TKL.
  • •Bluetooth 5.1 allows connection to multiple devices like laptops and tablets.
ModdingKeychron V1 Max
  • •The V1 Max is hot-swappable, supporting both 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches without soldering.
  • •It features a gasket mount design, a polycarbonate plate, and screw-in stabilizers for acoustic tuning.
  • •It is available in a barebones kit and supports extensive firmware customization with QMK/VIA.
Content CreationTie
  • •Both keyboards offer multimedia keys for controlling media playback.
  • •The V1 Max's programmability is useful for application-specific shortcuts.
  • •The Varmilo's TKL layout provides dedicated function keys that some creators may prefer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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