If you want the keys to be exceedingly responsive then go with the K3 V2 with Keychron Low-Profile Optical switches. You barely have to touch a key for it to register. This can be problematic for those who rest their fingers somewhat heavily on the keys when not typing or for those used to normal profile keyboards. If phantom keystrokes are a worry for you then the Gateron Low-Profile Mechanical switches require a little more force and travel to register. You can change switches at your convenience should you purchase the Hot-Swappable version of either keyboard. The keycaps are also made of different materials. The K3 V2 keycaps are made of ABS which are cheaper and therefore wear more easily over time. They also allow more light through from the backlight resulting in more legible symbols and vibrant colors. The K3 Max has keycaps made of PBT which cost more to manufacture and are more durable. However they have a more bland, dull and matte finish while also not allowing as much light through resulting in softer tones. I work in low light and prefer the backlight to shine through and enjoy the colors. I also have yet to notice any degradation or shine on the keycaps in normal lighting but it’s only been in use for less than a year. If the backlight is white or otherwise not as important and you work under normal lighting then you may prefer the PBT keycaps of the K3 Max. Of course you can always change the keycaps for those of your choosing just as long as you realize that those choices are much more limited. This will likely remain the case given the popularity of normal profile keyboards and the Keychron specific stabilizers on the larger keys (aka Space Bar, Left Shift, Backspace and Enter / Return). The K3 Max also has QMK / VIA support should you want access to macros and shortcuts but at the expense of losing optical switch compatibility. If you plan on mainly using the keyboard for working in normal light, aren’t excited about the backlight, or don’t plan on gaming as much then the K3 Max might be preferable. I tend to work in low light and game occasionally so the backlight colors and key responsiveness convinced me to stick with the K3 V2…. for now. Hope this helps. Answer from Naychan on reddit.com
RTINGS
rtings.com › home › keyboard
Keychron K3 vs K3 (Version 2): Which Keyboard Is Better? - RTINGS.com
January 20, 2020 - The K3 V2 is the upgraded version of the K3, and its main differences are that it now has two incline settings for better ergonomics, and there's an additional aluminum plate in the board that reduces the amount of flex.
Keychron
keychron.com › pages › keyboards-comparison
Keyboards Comparison – Keychron
Keychron V2 Max · 65% Keychron V4 Max · 60% Keychron V8 Max · 65% Alice · K QMK · Keychron K2 Version 3 · 75% Compact · Keychron K4 Version 3 · 96% Compact · Keychron K5 Version 2 · 100% Full Size Slim · Keychron K10 Version 2 · 100% Full Size · Keychron K8 Version 2 · 80% Compact · Keychron K3 Version 3 ·
Videos
09:22
Keychron K3 Pro vs K3 v2 - Which Keyboard is Best for YOU? - YouTube
Keychron K3 VERSION 2 (K3V2) - better than Version 1?
11:13
KeyChron K3 V2 Keyboard Review - YouTube
13:03
Keychron K3 V2 : Le clavier RGB Bluetooth 5.3 ultra fin ! 💻✨ ...
16:13
Honest Review: Keychron K3 V3 Low Profile Mechanical Keyboard - ...
05:46
Keychron K3 Version 3: What's New and What’s Missing? - YouTube
Keychron
keychron.com › blogs › news › difference-among-keychron-keyboards
Difference among Keychron keyboards
Keychron V2 Max · 65% Keychron V4 Max · 60% Keychron V8 Max · 65% Alice · K QMK · Keychron K2 Version 3 · 75% Compact · Keychron K4 Version 3 · 96% Compact · Keychron K5 Version 2 · 100% Full Size Slim · Keychron K10 Version 2 · 100% Full Size · Keychron K8 Version 2 · 80% Compact · Keychron K3 Version 3 ·
Reddit
reddit.com › r/keychron › should i get k3 v2 or k3 v3 or k3 max?
r/Keychron on Reddit: Should i get K3 V2 or K3 V3 or K3 Max?
January 23, 2025 - K3 V3 (AKA K3 QMK) is QMK/VIA while the K3 V2 is not. The latter doesn't even have configuration software. Base K (non QMK/Pro/Max) is also kind of notorious for bad Bluetooth, but I don't use wireless boards so that's not a factor I really ...
Keychron
keychron.com › pages › differences-of-low-profile-keyboards
Differences of Low-Profile Keyboards – Keychron
Keychron V2 Max · 65% Keychron V4 Max · 60% Keychron V8 Max · 65% Alice · K QMK · Keychron K2 Version 3 · 75% Compact · Keychron K4 Version 3 · 96% Compact · Keychron K5 Version 2 · 100% Full Size Slim · Keychron K10 Version 2 · 100% Full Size · Keychron K8 Version 2 · 80% Compact · Keychron K3 Version 3 ·
Reddit
reddit.com › r/keychron › how’s the keychron k3 v2?
r/Keychron on Reddit: How’s the keychron K3 v2?
May 11, 2024 -
Hey guys I’m trying to figure what’s the best keychron keyboard between k3 v2 or the k3 max
Top answer 1 of 4
3
If you want the keys to be exceedingly responsive then go with the K3 V2 with Keychron Low-Profile Optical switches. You barely have to touch a key for it to register. This can be problematic for those who rest their fingers somewhat heavily on the keys when not typing or for those used to normal profile keyboards. If phantom keystrokes are a worry for you then the Gateron Low-Profile Mechanical switches require a little more force and travel to register. You can change switches at your convenience should you purchase the Hot-Swappable version of either keyboard. The keycaps are also made of different materials. The K3 V2 keycaps are made of ABS which are cheaper and therefore wear more easily over time. They also allow more light through from the backlight resulting in more legible symbols and vibrant colors. The K3 Max has keycaps made of PBT which cost more to manufacture and are more durable. However they have a more bland, dull and matte finish while also not allowing as much light through resulting in softer tones. I work in low light and prefer the backlight to shine through and enjoy the colors. I also have yet to notice any degradation or shine on the keycaps in normal lighting but it’s only been in use for less than a year. If the backlight is white or otherwise not as important and you work under normal lighting then you may prefer the PBT keycaps of the K3 Max. Of course you can always change the keycaps for those of your choosing just as long as you realize that those choices are much more limited. This will likely remain the case given the popularity of normal profile keyboards and the Keychron specific stabilizers on the larger keys (aka Space Bar, Left Shift, Backspace and Enter / Return). The K3 Max also has QMK / VIA support should you want access to macros and shortcuts but at the expense of losing optical switch compatibility. If you plan on mainly using the keyboard for working in normal light, aren’t excited about the backlight, or don’t plan on gaming as much then the K3 Max might be preferable. I tend to work in low light and game occasionally so the backlight colors and key responsiveness convinced me to stick with the K3 V2…. for now. Hope this helps.
2 of 4
3
Some differences (far from exhaustive): K3 V2 Pros Less expensive (25%) than the K3 Max Cons Not QMK / Via -capble, thus extremely limited customisation (this association is only true in the Keychron universe, not in general). For example, except for very few configuration options, key can't be remapped. It may be possible to do host (computer) side, but it comes with its own complications. It may also be possible to get QMK anyway by going exotic , but it may require a lot of work and complications. The Prt Sc button only works in Windows mode(?). If it wasn't crippled, the Num Lock button would only work in Windows mode (?). No per-key RGB lighting The Bluetooth connection is not very reliable and has (inherently) high latency, measured as 30 ms. High latency in wired mode, measured as 16 ms K3 Max Pros QMK-capable, thus fully programmable (much better than any other mainstream commercial offering). The difficulty varies, from very easy keymapping with Via to very involved coding in C . '2.4 GHz ' wireless option. It is far more reliable than Bluetooth and has lower latency, close to the wired mode ( measured as 4 ms). Low latency in wired mode, measured as 3 ms Cons Per-key RGB lighting is possible, but it (practically) requires (simple) coding in C and is not dynamic (compiling and flashing is required for every change). There have been many attempts to make it more dynamic and easier, but there isn't a mainstream solution (it may take years, if ever). 25% more expensive than the K3 V2 (though not so bad in absolute terms). Both Pros As Keychron low-profile keyboards, both have RGB north-facing lighting, thus no unwanted light bleed . Cons The selection of keycaps is limited. Most users have trouble with the Bluetooth connection. It is far from seamless. Notes The RTINGS.com measurements should be cross checked with other sources. Latency may not matter, depending on what the keyboard is going to be used for. References K3 V2 product page . A 75% wired and wireless (Bluetooth only) slim mechanical keyboard. K3 Max product page . A 75% wired and wireless (both Bluetooth and '2.4 GHz ') low-profile QMK/Via-capable mechanical keyboard
Keychron
keychron.com › blogs › news › what-s-new-on-the-k3-version-2
What’s new on the K3 version 2
November 22, 2023 - The most vital part worth emphasizing is the newly reinforced body structure, which in general, enhances the whole build quality of the K3 V2. A SGCC galvanized steel plate is attached/fixed on the K3 V2’s plastic bottom frame in order to strengthen the body structure while ensuring a stable wireless transmission capability.
Reddit
reddit.com › r/keychron › keychron k3 v2?
r/Keychron on Reddit: KEYCHRON K3 V2?
June 5, 2020 -
I am so confused. I ordered a keychron k3, but when it came in it was a little different than advertised. And for the better. The switches looked a bit different, with an orange base, and the feet were adjustable. The website advertised the weird rubber slide-ins, but I was welcomed with something better. Does anyone know why they don't just advertise this? I think it is only available for browns at the moment, as that was the one I got. (white backlight, optical brown) See picture. Please don't mind my android quality camera.
Top answer 1 of 11
3
I think it’s really cool that they started putting adjustable feet on the K3; I saw a new comment on an older YouTube video about how someone got one like yours today, too (unless you’re the same dude?). I just ordered one this evening and hope I got the adjustable feet too (though I ordered one with optical reds and a bag of blue switches just in case).
2 of 11
1
I got mine a couple of months ago and I got the "old" version (optical black). My guess is that they'll update the pictures one their site once all the stock- and in-production of the old version are sold. Better to advertise old version and send a new-and-improved version, than someone expecting the new version and ending up getting the old one, IMO.
Either way, good on ya for getting the new version!
KeebFinder
keeb-finder.com › keyboards › compare › keychron-k3-qmk-wireless-mechanical-keyboard-version-3-vs-keychron-k3-wireless-mechanical-keyboard-4735774457945
Keychron K3 V3 vs K3 Ultraslim Version 2 Side by Side ...
Explore the comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Keychron K3 V3 and Keychron K3 Ultraslim Version 2 and view their biggest differences. The detailed comparison table allows you to see all the essential features, specifications, and benefits of each keyboard at a glance.
Reddit
reddit.com › r/keychron › k2 vs k3: choose which should i keep?
r/Keychron on Reddit: K2 vs K3: Choose which should I keep?
September 27, 2021 - Probably not until forever given the reputation of Keychron (software promise issue) TLDR; I can’t choose between the two cause both of them are perfect for me with some minor issues. I can’t keep both because the wife says so. If I am keeping the K3, I will still need another keyboard for my studies in Japan except if Keychron have replacement PBT keycaps with Japanese letters.
Reddit
reddit.com › r/keychron › k3 vs k3 pro
r/Keychron on Reddit: K3 vs K3 Pro
May 10, 2023 -
Hi,
New to mechanical keyboards and looking at getting a low profile keyboard, and considerding the k3 is probably the size I would get. But when looking on the website the main differences I can see are:
K3:
-Hot-swappable
K3-Pro
-QMK/VIA
Am I missing anything here?
Thanks
KeebFinder
keeb-finder.com › keyboards › compare › keychron-k3-hotswap-optical-vs-keychron-v3
Compare Keychron K3 vs V3 Differences Side by Side
Explore the comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Keychron K3 and Keychron V3 and view their biggest differences. The detailed comparison table allows you to see all the essential features, specifications, and benefits of each keyboard at a glance. Whether you're looking for performance, ...
KeebFinder
keeb-finder.com › keyboards › compare › keychron-k3-wireless-mechanical-keyboard-4735774457945-vs-keychron-v3
Keychron K3 Ultraslim Version 2 vs V3 Side by ...
Explore the comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Keychron V3 and Keychron V3 Max and view their biggest differences. The detailed comparison table allows you to see all the essential features, specifications, and benefits of each keyboard at a glance.
KeebFinder
keeb-finder.com › keyboards › compare › keychron-k3-non-backlight-ultra-slim-wireless-mechanical-keyboard-version-2-vs-keychron-k3-qmk-wireless-mechanical-keyboard-version-3
Keychron K3 NonBacklight UltraSlim Version 2 vs K3 V3 ...
Explore the comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Keychron K3 Max and Keychron K3 V3 and view their biggest differences. The detailed comparison table allows you to see all the essential features, specifications, and benefits of each keyboard at a glance.
Reddit
reddit.com › r/keychron › keychron k3v2 or k3 max?
r/Keychron on Reddit: Keychron K3v2 or K3 Max?
August 30, 2024 -
Hi,
i need some advice. I’m looking for an office keyboard and got the K3v2 at home for gaming / office with the optical brown switches.
It’s a great keyboard and even survived a full cup of tea spilled over it.
So, I’m thinking about getting the K3v2 for my office job or – would it make sense to take the k3 Max?
I’ve read a lot about switches and keys – and heard some sound-tests on YT (Useless) but I’m wondering if some of you had to make the same discission, what the choose and if they are happy with their choice.
For my use case, office, I don’t need the Backlight, VIA for turning off keys or reconfiguration would be great but it’s not a must have.
1000mhz connection – I don’t care, will use a cable anyway.
Only important thing is the low profile keys :)
Best regards.
Top answer 1 of 4
2
Hi guys, quick update. My K3 Max arrived yesterday. Thank you so much for the recommendation NOT to buy the K3v2. The Max is so much better. Way heavier, keys (PTB Double shoot), nice tap sound, great look and feel. Even the switches are “better” – the v2’s are also great, but they klick more smoothly. Only disappointment is the LED Backlight – it’s just not necessary and does not work verry well. So just get the K3 Max, epaxially because it’s just a few bucks more.
2 of 4
1
Do NOT buy anything from the old, original non-Pro/non-Max K-series. K Pro, K Max, V, V Max, Q, Q Pro or Q Max are fine (though no low profile models in the V and Q lines).
Reddit
reddit.com › r/keychron › k3 version 2 - any good?
r/Keychron on Reddit: K3 Version 2 - Any good?
February 4, 2024 -
Hi, I use a Mac and own an MX Mechanical Mini, but it has terrible issues with the ambient/proximity sensors. I have gone through 2 of them and even when my computer is asleep the backlight NEVER shuts off. I have emailed Logitech support a dozen times and it was a nightmare. I have also used an Apple Magic keyboard, but it is ridiculously flat so I ruled that out.
Thus I narrowed it down to the K3 Version 2 because a regular height mechanical keyboard just seems too tall for me. It seems like the K3 Version 2 gets really good reviews on Amazon and is pretty popular.
That said, I watched some reviews and some people mention the K3 version 2 has ABS keycaps, Bluetooth issues and is hard to type on, but a lot of people seem to be happy with it. Does anyone else have issues with it or is it a pretty good keyboard?
Top answer 1 of 6
1
This is a Fakespot Reviews Analysis bot. Fakespot detects fake reviews, fake products and unreliable sellers using AI. Here is the analysis for the Amazon product reviews: Name: Keychron K3 Version 2, 84 Keys Ultra-Slim Wireless Bluetooth/USB Wired Mechanical Keyboard with White LED Backlit, Low-Profile Gateron Mechanical Brown Switch Compatible with Mac Windows Company: Visit the Keychron Store Amazon Product Rating: 4.5 Fakespot Reviews Grade: B Adjusted Fakespot Rating: 4.5 Analysis Performed at: 05-31-2023 Link to Fakespot Analysis | Check out the Fakespot Chrome Extension! Fakespot analyzes the reviews authenticity and not the product quality using AI. We look for real reviews that mention product issues such as counterfeits, defects, and bad return policies that fake reviews try to hide from consumers. We give an A-F letter for trustworthiness of reviews. A = very trustworthy reviews, F = highly untrustworthy reviews. We also provide seller ratings to warn you if the seller can be trusted or not.
2 of 6
1
I had a good experience with a k3v2 non hot-swappable, it's a great keyboard until I needed to buy a k17pro because I needed the numpad, 96% layout is perfect since I have small space to work from. I bought mine k3v2 with gateron red switches. Be sure to pick a hot-swappable model if you're undecided and want to try different switches. I also prefer low profile since I use my chromebook really often, and switch to Samsung s23 ultra to use whatsapp, since I'm bit to lazy to catch it 😂
The Verge
theverge.com › tech › reviews
Keychron K3 wireless keyboard review: compact with compromises | The Verge
Keychron K3 (RGB)
The Keychon K3 keyboard is a wireless mechanical keyboard with low-profile switches. It’s got a 75 percent layout, hot-swappable switches, and comes with Mac and Windows keycaps in the box.