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Compare Keychron V1 vs V1 Max Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Keychron's two popular 75% custom keyboards. The choice is difficult because both share core features like QMK/VIA programmability, hot-swap sockets, and a compact layout. The decision ultimately hinges on whether you prioritize the wired V1's potential for higher polling rates and lower cost, or the V1 Max's wireless connectivity, gasket mount design, and built-in battery.

97
Keychron V1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
98
Keychron V1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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2.5 (61)
4.3 (32)
  • Released in 2022
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, JIS, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK, ISO-NO layout standard
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Weighs about 995 g
  • Sized at 18 x 149 x 329 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, ABS case
  • Features PBT, ABS, keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face, White, White South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-PT, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • 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
Scores
  • Performance: 90.8
  • Build Quality: 89.2
  • Productivity: 97.9
  • Customizability: 99.5
  • Portability: 64.7
Scores
  • Performance: 83.2
  • Build Quality: 86.3
  • Productivity: 97.3
  • Customizability: 99.4
  • Portability: 79.2
Name
Keychron V1
Name
Keychron V1 Max
Release year
2022
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, JIS, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK, ISO-NO
Layout Standard
ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-PT, ISO, 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
Wired, Wired only
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz;8000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
-
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
Tray Mount
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face, White, White South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic, ABS
Case Material
ABS, Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS,
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Dimensions
18 x 149 x 329 mm
Dimensions
22 x 149 x 329 mm
Weight
995g
Weight
770g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you want the absolute lowest potential latency for gaming and prefer a lower-cost, wired-only board, the Keychron V1 is the clear pick. If wireless freedom, a lighter build, and a gasket-mounted typing experience are more valuable for your desk setup or on-the-go use, the V1 Max is worth the extra investment. Both are excellent platforms for customization.

Keychron V1

  • +Supports an 8000 Hz polling rate for potentially lower latency.
  • +Often available at a lower price point than the V1 Max.
  • +Offers a choice between polycarbonate and steel plate materials.
  • +Includes pre-lubed Keychron K Pro switches in assembled versions.
  • +Tray mount design may appeal to users preferring a firmer typing feel.
  • −Wired-only connectivity limits desk cleanliness and mobility.
  • −Heavier at 995g compared to the V1 Max.
  • −Lacks a built-in battery for cordless operation.

Keychron V1 Max

  • +Offers triple-mode connectivity: Bluetooth 5.1, 2.4 GHz, and wired.
  • +Includes a 4000mAh rechargeable battery for wireless use.
  • +Features a gasket mount design with a polycarbonate plate for a softer typing feel.
  • +Lighter weight of 770g enhances portability.
  • +Comes with Gateron Jupiter switches in assembled versions.
  • −Listed polling rate is 1000 Hz, without the 8000 Hz option of the V1.
  • −Typically commands a higher price than the standard V1.
  • −Wireless functionality depends on battery charge management.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The V1 Max wins for mobile and flexible use cases like Office and Travel due to its wireless features and lighter weight. The standard V1 has an edge for competitive Gaming with its support for a higher polling rate. For stationary, customization-focused tasks like Programming and Modding, the keyboards are evenly matched. Content creators may lean toward the V1 Max for its wireless convenience and potentially better sound profile.

GamingKeychron V1
  • •The V1 supports an 8000 Hz polling rate option, while the V1 Max is listed at 1000 Hz.
  • •The V1's listed tray mount and optional steel plate may provide a firmer, more immediate response preferred by some gamers.
  • •A wired-only connection eliminates potential wireless latency or interference.
OfficeKeychron V1 Max
  • •The V1 Max offers Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity for a cleaner desk and device switching.
  • •Its 4000mAh battery provides cord-free operation.
  • •The gasket mount and polycarbonate plate, according to Keychron, aim for a quieter typing experience.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both keyboards offer full QMK and VIA support for deep key remapping and macros.
  • •Both use a 75% layout with function keys and navigation cluster.
  • •Both include Mac and Windows keycaps and system toggles for cross-platform work.
TravelKeychron V1 Max
  • •The V1 Max is lighter at 770g compared to the V1's 995g.
  • •Wireless functionality means one less cable to manage when moving.
  • •The built-in battery allows use without a direct power connection.
ModdingTie
  • •Both are hot-swappable, supporting 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches.
  • •Both support QMK/VIA for firmware customization and include screw-in PCB stabilizers.
  • •Both are available in barebone kits without switches and keycaps.
Content CreationKeychron V1 Max
  • •Wireless connectivity offers more flexibility for desk setup and filming.
  • •The programmable knob, present on both, can be mapped to media or editing controls.
  • •The gasket mount design may offer a more pleasing acoustic profile for audio-sensitive work.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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