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Compare Keychron V1 vs Lemokey X1 Differences Side by Side

This comparison helps buyers decide between two entry-level wired mechanical keyboards from Keychron, the V1 and the Lemokey X1. The decision is difficult because both offer QMK/VIA programmability and hot-swappable switches at competitive prices, yet they target different priorities. The V1 is a feature-rich 75% board with a gasket mount and knob, ideal for enthusiasts. The X1 is a no-frills 80% TKL designed for maximum affordability and simple red backlighting. Buyers must weigh the V1's extensive customization against the X1's lower price point.

97
Keychron V1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
88
Lemokey X1 QMK/VIA Wired Mechanical Keyboard

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2.5 (61)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2022
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, JIS, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK, ISO-NO layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • 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 2024
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Weighs about 837 g
  • Sized at 37 x 357 x 129 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Plastic case
  • Features ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 90.9
  • Build Quality: 89.2
  • Productivity: 97.9
  • Customizability: 99.5
  • Portability: 64.7
Scores
  • Performance: 75.4
  • Build Quality: 83
  • Productivity: 95.4
  • Customizability: 89.4
  • Portability: 58.3
Name
Keychron V1
Name
Keychron Lemokey X1
Release year
2022
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
80%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, JIS, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-UK, ISO-NO
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
Wired, Wired only
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz;8000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
-
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
Tray Mount
Mount Style
Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face, White, White South-face
Backlight
 
North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic, ABS
Case Material
ABS, Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS,
Keycaps Material
ABS
Dimensions
18 x 149 x 329 mm
Dimensions
37 x 357 x 129 mm
Weight
995g
Weight
837g
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Pros and Trade-offs

For the vast majority of users, the Keychron V1 is the clear recommendation due to its vastly superior customizability, gasket mount, programmable knob, and higher feature set. The Lemokey X1 is only worth considering if your budget is extremely constrained and you require a basic, functional TKL keyboard with QMK/VIA support. The V1 justifies its higher cost with tangible benefits across gaming, productivity, and modding that the X1 cannot match.

Keychron V1

  • +Gasket mount design for a more cushioned and dampened typing feel compared to a traditional tray mount.
  • +Programmable aluminum rotary knob for custom keybinds and macros like volume or zoom.
  • +Supports both 1000 Hz and 8000 Hz polling rates for reduced gaming latency.
  • +South-facing RGB LEDs prevent interference when using alternative keycap profiles like Cherry or OEM.
  • +Offers a barebones DIY kit version for users who want to choose their own switches and keycaps.

  • Heavier and larger than some compact options, which may limit portability.
  • ABS plastic case may not feel as premium as aluminum alternatives available at higher price points.
  • Some user reviews mention potential long-term durability concerns with key registration.

Keychron Lemokey X1

  • +Very low price point of $34, making it one of the most affordable programmable mechanical keyboards.
  • +80% TKL layout provides dedicated function and arrow keys for immediate usability.
  • +Features 14+ red backlighting modes with shine-through keycaps for easy key visibility.
  • +Three-level adjustable typing angle (2 and 7 degrees) for basic ergonomic customization.

  • Tray mount design is basic and less refined for sound and feel compared to a gasket mount.
  • North-facing LEDs can cause interference with certain aftermarket keycap profiles, like Cherry.
  • Uses plate-mounted stabilizers, which are generally less stable than the V1's screw-in PCB stabs.
  • Only available with an ANSI layout standard, limiting layout options for international users.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron V1 is the winner across all use cases due to its superior flexibility, build quality, and features. It consistently provides better options for gaming with its higher polling rate, for office work with its compact layout and knob, and for modding with its gasket mount. The Lemokey X1 is only viable for users who prioritize the absolute lowest cost and need a no-frills TKL board. In every category considered, the V1 offers significant advantages that justify its higher price.

GamingKeychron V1
  • Offers a higher 8000 Hz polling rate option for lower latency.
  • Includes a programmable knob that can be mapped for in-game volume or zoom controls.
  • South-facing RGB avoids interference with thicker keycap profiles used by some gamers.
  • Gasket mount design may provide a more cushioned feel during long sessions.
OfficeKeychron V1
  • 75% layout saves desk space, leaving more room for documents and a mouse.
  • Includes a programmable knob for quick volume or screen brightness adjustments.
  • Comes with sound dampening and a gasket mount for a quieter typing experience.
  • Supports multiple layout standards including ANSI and ISO, offering broader compatibility.
ProgrammingKeychron V1
  • Full QMK and VIA support allows deep remapping of keys and macros.
  • Programmable knob can be set to actions like zooming or switching tabs.
  • Available with a polycarbonate plate option, which can offer a different typing feel.
  • Higher customizability score for tailoring the layout to specific coding workflows.
TravelKeychron V1
  • 75% layout is more compact than the 80% TKL, fitting better in a bag.
  • Heavier weight (995g) may feel more stable on a desk, though less portable.
  • Dimensions (329 mm length) are shorter than the X1, making it easier to pack.
  • Robust build with screw-in stabilizers is less likely to develop issues on the move.
ModdingKeychron V1
  • Gasket mount design is highly sought after for modding and sound customization.
  • Supports both steel and polycarbonate plates for different typing experiences.
  • Screw-in PCB stabilizers are preferred by modders over plate-mounted ones.
  • Scores significantly higher in customizability (99.5 vs 89.4) due to more flexible construction.
Content CreationKeychron V1
  • Programmable knob is ideal for creative workflows like timeline scrubbing or brush adjustment.
  • South-facing RGB allows for use with custom keycap profiles often preferred by creators.
  • 75% layout provides a balance of functionality and desktop space for editing tools.
  • VIA software enables complex macro creation for repetitive editing tasks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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