Monsgeek M1 vs M3
Get the Monsgeek M1 for QMK/VIA support, a knob, and its 75% layout, or the Monsgeek M3 for an 80% TKL layout and its vendor-described preset RGB modes.
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Which one should you get?
Get the
Monsgeek M1
Knob
Build quality in the top 5% of 75% boards under $100.
- QMK and VIA support are listed, along with knob support and multimedia keys.
- Linear and clicky switch types are listed.
- The vendor description names 3mm case foam, PET insulation, Poron padding, and extra tape and Teflon pads for optional mods.
- South-facing LEDs. Shine-through legends stay dark, and some sculpted keycaps can clip the LED.
- No numpad.
Get the
Monsgeek M3
Build quality in the top 20% of 80% boards under $200.
- The 80% TKL layout provides more keys than a 75% layout while still omitting the numpad.
- The vendor describes approximately 18 preset RGB backlighting modes.
- South-facing LEDs. Shine-through legends stay dark, and some sculpted keycaps can clip the LED.
- No numpad.
Choose the M1 for its metadata-listed QMK/VIA support, knob, multimedia keys, and linear or clicky switch options. Choose the M3 if its 80% TKL layout and vendor-described preset RGB modes matter more to you. Both are wired, hot-swappable gasket-mount kits, and neither has a numpad.
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
Heavier boards stay planted and lighter ones travel
- Monsgeek M1
- Monsgeek M3
- Performance
- 7075
- Build quality
- 8874
- Productivity
- 9878
- Customizability
- 9980
- Portability
- 6561
- Connection: Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Mount style: Gasket Mount
What will you mostly use it for?
The M1 takes the edge in these use cases for its listed QMK/VIA support, knob, and smaller 75% layout. Its vendor description also supplies more specific modding details, including foam layers and optional mod materials. The M3 remains a reasonable pick for buyers who prefer its 80% TKL layout or want the preset lighting modes described by its vendor. Neither board includes a numpad, and both are wired.
Pick the Monsgeek M1
- The M1 supports linear and clicky switch types, while the M3 is listed with linear switches.
- The M1 has metadata-listed QMK support and VIA support for buyers prioritizing those customization features.
- Both listings specify N-Key Rollover.
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 M1 is listed as a 75% keyboard with QMK/VIA support and knob support, while the M3 is an 80% TKL board. The M3 vendor description also highlights approximately 18 preset RGB modes.
The M1 product metadata lists both QMK and VIA support. Its vendor description also contains a note saying that a particular version does not support QMK/VIA, so check the exact version before buying.
QMK and VIA are not listed for the M3. Its vendor description says all keys are programmable with a software driver.
Knob support is listed among the M1's extra features. The M3's listed features do not mention a knob.
Neither board has a numpad, according to their compatibility details. The M1 is a 75% layout, and the M3 is an 80% TKL layout.
Both product listings identify hot-swappable sockets. The M1 vendor description specifies TTC hot-swappable sockets and says it supports Cherry, TTC, Outemu, Gateron, and other 3- or 5-pin mechanical switches.
The M1 metadata lists linear and clicky switch types, while the M3 is listed with linear switches. Both are hot-swappable according to their product listings.
The M1 is the 75% model, while the M3 is an 80% TKL model. The listed dimensions are 33 x 147 mm for the M1 and 20 x 340 x 130 mm for the M3.
Both are listed as wired keyboards with USB-C connectivity. The M3 vendor description specifically identifies its connection as USB-C wired.
The M3 vendor describes approximately 18 preset backlighting modes and adjustable brightness and flow rate levels. The product metadata also lists south-facing RGB lighting.
Both boards have south-facing LEDs, and their compatibility details warn that shine-through legends stay dark. Some sculpted keycaps may also clip the LED.
The M1 vendor description names 3mm case foam, a PET insulation layer, and Poron padding layers. It also mentions extra Teflon pads and tape for optional Force Break and tape mods.
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