Monsgeek M1 vs M375% vs TKL Aluminum DIY Kit Comparison
Choose the Monsgeek M1 for a more compact layout and a kit that includes more modding accessories out of the box.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Monsgeek M1
75%
- More compact 75% layout saves desk space.
- Kit includes Teflon pads and tape for force break and tape mods out of the box.
- Includes a PC positioning plate and multiple Poron foam layers (bottom pad, sandwich cotton, switch pad).
- Lacks an explicitly stated polling rate in its provided specifications.
- The vendor description contains a contradictory note stating one version does not support QMK/VIA, while metadata says it does.
- Only available in a linear or clicky switch type configuration from the metadata.
Get the
Monsgeek M3
TKL Aluminum DIY Kit Comparison
- TKL layout provides dedicated function and navigation keys in a familiar format.
- Vendor specifications explicitly state a 1000Hz polling rate in wired mode.
- Comes with a polycarbonate plate and a comprehensive foam kit including an IXPE switch pad.
- Larger TKL footprint uses more desk space than a 75% board.
- Heavier at 2000g compared to the M1's 1900g.
- The vendor description does not mention the inclusion of modding accessories like Teflon pads or tape, though it lists them in the 'Included Foam' section.
Select the Monsgeek M3 if you prioritize a traditional TKL layout with a confirmed high polling rate for gaming. Opt for the Monsgeek M1 if you want a more space-efficient 75% board and value a kit that includes specific modding accessories like Teflon pads and tape from the start. Both are strong entry points into custom aluminum keyboards.
The differences that matter
Skip the 40-row spec sheet. These are the specs that change how each board feels, sounds, and fits your desk.
Monsgeek M1
Monsgeek M3
Layout size
75%
80%
Case material
Aluminum, Copper
Aluminum
Switch options
Clicky, Linear
Linear
Knob
Yes
No
Weight
1,900 g
1,700 g
- Monsgeek M1
- Monsgeek M3
- Performance
- 7176
- Build quality
- 8875
- Productivity
- 9878
- Customizability
- 9980
- Portability
- 6561
- Connection: Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Mount style: Gasket Mount
What will you mostly use it for?
The M3 takes a slight lead for traditional office and gaming use due to its TKL layout and confirmed high polling rate. The M1 is the better choice for modders seeking a kit with more included accessories and for those wanting a more compact 75% form factor. For programming and content creation, the decision is a tie, boiling down to layout preference, as both offer robust programmability.
Pick the Monsgeek M3
- The M3's TKL layout provides dedicated function keys without a numpad, a common preference for gaming.
- The M3's vendor page explicitly lists a 1000Hz polling rate in wired mode.
- Both have N-key rollover and south-facing RGB.
Monsgeek M1 vs M3 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
11 of 23 specs differ
Monsgeek M1
Monsgeek M3
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Screw-in stabilizers
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Knob
Display
Media keys
Connection
USB-C
Case material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
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Monsgeek M1 vs M3: your questions
The primary difference is the layout. The M1 is a 75% keyboard, which is more compact and integrates the function row, while the M3 is a Tenkeyless (TKL) layout that retains a dedicated function row and navigation cluster in a larger form factor.
Yes, both the Monsgeek M1 and M3 feature hot-swappable PCBs. This allows you to easily install and change mechanical switches without soldering.
According to their metadata, both keyboards list support for QMK and VIA. However, a note in the M1's vendor description mentions one version may not support it, so verifying with the specific seller is recommended for the M1.
The Monsgeek M1's vendor description explicitly states it comes with extra Teflon pads for a force break mod and tape for a tape mod included in the kit. This gives the M1 a slight edge for beginners wanting to experiment with mods immediately.
Both the Monsgeek M1 and M3 use a gasket mount design. This mounting style aims to provide a softer, more flexible typing feel and can improve acoustic performance by isolating the plate and PCB from the case.
Yes. The M1 includes unassembled Akko screw-in stabilizers, according to its vendor page. The M3 also includes an Akko screw-in stabilizer kit as part of the barebones package.
Both keyboards feature aluminum cases. The M1's metadata lists aluminum and copper as case materials, while its vendor description specifies a CNC aluminum case. The M3 is listed with an aluminum case and a polycarbonate plate.
Yes, both the Monsgeek M1 and M3 feature south-facing RGB LEDs on their PCBs. South-facing LEDs improve compatibility with Cherry-profile keycaps and provide better backlighting from the typist's perspective.
The Monsgeek M1 is more portable due to its smaller 75% layout and slightly lower weight (1900g vs 2000g). However, both are heavy, wired aluminum kits not designed for frequent travel.
Both kits include a coiled USB cable and stabilizers. The M1's listing mentions a PC positioning plate and multiple foam layers. The M3 includes a foam kit with plate foam, case foam, an IXPE switch pad, Teflon strips, and tape.
Yes, the hot-swappable sockets in both the M1 and M3 are compatible with most common 3-pin and 5-pin MX-style mechanical switches, including brands like Cherry, Gateron, and TTC.
The Monsgeek M1's extra features list includes 'Knob Support'. The M3's vendor description and specifications do not mention a knob, suggesting the M1 may offer this as a configurable or included option.
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