Q series all the way They have better build quality, force break mod from factory, foam, QMK/VIA compatible Really good value for money Answer from Enginseer68 on reddit.com
Reddit
reddit.com › r/keychron › which one should i get q1 v2 or q3
r/Keychron on Reddit: Which one should I get Q1 v2 or Q3
January 8, 2023 -
Hello people,
I've been researching the mechanical keyboards, and I came to a conclusion to get either a Q1 version 2, or a Q3.
I have no preference between 75% and TKL, both are perfectly fine.
What I would like to hear from you is how satisfied are you with your Q1/Q3, does one have a better sound isolation, less ping, etc. Which one is easier to mode to have better acoustics?
It would be perfect to have someone who typed on both Q1 and Q3.
Thanks a lot!
Top answer 1 of 5
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While I know you asked for someone who has used both, I can only offer info on using the Q1v2. I didn't have any ping issues on the stock board. Mods I have done with few issues tape mod swapped plate to FR4 swapped switches to aliaz swapped keycaps to SA profile None of the changes were particularly difficult. I will say that unless you utilize the extra keyspace, I've been pretty happy with using a 75% board. It gives me my main keys, and in a slightly smaller profile. Also, when swapping switches/keycaps, it was nice having fewer things to swap around. Probably not a major issue overall, but I did appreciate it in the moment.
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I have the Q1. I don't have the Q3, but I do have other TKLs, so I think I can add my two cents. If you get a Q3, you won't have to adapt to a new set up, because if you've been using full size, a TKL is basically the same as a full-size minus the numpad. If you use the keys in between the main KB and the numpad, then a TKL makes a lot of sense. The only thing that I don't like about the Q3 is where they positioned the knob. If you get the Q1, you will have to recalibrate your typing because the arrow keys are closer to the main board. The right SHIFT key is also smaller. If you use the DELETE key routinely, then it will be a bit weird clicking all the way on the top of the keyboard in order to use the DELETE key in the Q1, because you will most likely expect it to be next to the backwards slash key. The last column of keys on the Q1 is Pg Up, Pg Dn, and Home, which is a weird combination for me. I don't really use those, and it would be better (at least for me) to use Home, End, and something else. Because the Q1 keys are remappable, I was able to do just that. Of course, that means being able to use VIA or QMK for remapping purposes. Depending on the keycaps that you have, working with the 3 keys to the right of the Q1 may be tricky, especially if you plan to remap.
KeebFinder
keeb-finder.com › keyboards › compare › keychron-q1-vs-keychron-q3-qmk-custom-mechanical-keyboard
Compare Keychron Q1 V2 vs Q3 US
Explore the comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Keychron Q1 V2 and Keychron Q3 US 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.
Videos
07:13
Same Mods! Keychron Q1 vs Q2 - YouTube
11:46
Keychron Q2 Keyboard Review After 2 Months! - YouTube
13:02
Keychron EXPLAINED! The BEST Keychron Series for Your Needs 2025 ...
17:33
MAX Comparison: Keychron 75% Showdown (Q1 + V1) - YouTube
r/MechanicalKeyboards on Reddit: Keychron Q1+V1 MAX - Audio ...
19:36
Keychron Q1 vs Keychron V1 - YouTube
Kinetic Labs
kineticlabs.com › blog › an-overview-of-keychrons-q-series-keyboards
An Overview of Keychron's Q-Series Keyboards
The Keychron Q3 is a fully aluminum TKL mechanical keyboard that starts at $164 and can go all the way up to $204 depending on what variant you select. It pretty much features all of the same things that the other keyboards in the Q series have. QMK and VIA support, Gasket Mounted, and has support for a volume knob as well.
Reddit
reddit.com › r/keychron › keychron q1 vs q2
r/Keychron on Reddit: Keychron Q1 vs Q2
October 22, 2021 -
Coming from a ducky SF. Was thinking of picking up a keychron Q2 but now not sure if I should go with the Q1 knob version instead. Anyone have any insights between the two? Thank you!
Top answer 1 of 4
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Q2 reviews will be happening shortly but they’ve taken all they learnt from the Q1 and leveraging it for the Q2. They’ve also refined the Q1. Both will be great options, and I’m pretty sure the Q2 will have a knob variation. Just comes down to preference on layout! If you like the 65 Q2, interested in seeing what a 75 is like Q1. I feel as if you’ll be satisfied with either choice!
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I was so set on Q2 myself. Then it was delayed again, then wanted to try 75% layout and decided on Q1 knob version since they will be both the same other than the layout. Then that was delayed another week as well lol. But still going with the Q1 because I decided I wanted another keyboard but in the 60% layout that allowed arrow keys. I have a 65% durgod pre-built atm. Plus the barebone Q1/Q2 with knob will be the same price.
Keychron
keychron.com › blogs › news › difference-among-keychron-keyboards
Difference among Keychron keyboards
Keychron Q3 Pro · 80% Compact · Keychron Q11 · 75% Split Design · Keychron Q10 · 75% Keychron Q8 · 65% Keychron V2 · 65% Keychron Q2 Pro · 65% Keychron Q5 Pro · 96% Keychron Q1 Pro · 75% Compact · Keychron Q4 Pro · 60% Keychron Q8 Pro · 65% Alice · Keychron Q10 Pro ·
RTINGS
rtings.com › home › keyboard
Keychron Q1 vs Q3: Which Keyboard Is Better? - RTINGS.com
January 20, 2020 - The Q1 comes in a 75% compact form factor, while the Q3 is a TKL size, meaning that the Q3 has more buttons overall, and it also has more space between the alphanumeric keys and the navigational cluster.
Reddit
reddit.com › r/keychron › keychron k3 or q1 for general typing and programming?
r/Keychron on Reddit: Keychron K3 or Q1 for general typing and programming?
September 23, 2022 -
Hi folks, I'm looking to pick up a mechanical keyboard for general typing and programming.
I haven't used a mechanical keyboard for years but I'm certain I want a 75% keyboard as it matches my Magic Keyboard I use most of the time. I am torn whether to spend more on the Q1 or get a K3.
Does the Q1 offer a more comfortable typing experience or is it mostly down to the difference in build quality?
Any thoughts on which is the better one to go for in general?
Also, would you pick Red, Yellow or Brown switches?
Top answer 1 of 15
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Q series all the way They have better build quality, force break mod from factory, foam, QMK/VIA compatible Really good value for money
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I would recommend the Q1v2. I have the original K1 with low-profile mechanical Blue switches and did not like the feel of them while typing. That said, the low-profile switches used in the K3 today are different from the original K1 (and hopefully better quality). I also have a K6 and do not like how the arrow keys are right next to the Shift, Control, End, and Return keys. The exploded layout of the Q1 suits me better. The Q1 also allows you to hot-swap your keys. So if you find you don't like the Red, Browns, or Blues, you can always replace them. K3 is only hot-swappable with the optical switches, and there's far less selection than regular switches. You may also want to consider the more affordable V1, which is like the Q1 but in a plastic housing more similar to the K-series. Note both the V1 and Q1 do not support Bluetooth. On the other hand, the K3 does not support keyboard customization software like the V1 and Q1. If you want Bluetooth, Hot-Swappable switches, and customization, also look at the K8 Pro. It is a little bigger than the K3 or Q1/V1. The K6 Pro is worth looking at, but you lose the separate ESC and Tilde keys, the function row, and the arrow key cluster is not exploded.
Reddit
reddit.com › r/keychron › q version differences?
r/Keychron on Reddit: Q Version Differences?
May 4, 2024 -
Hi everyone.
I could use some assistance in buying a keyboard, since I'm not quite sure of the differences despite researching quite a bit.
What is the main differences on The Q1, Q1 Pro & Q1 Max?
Most sellers in Denmark aren't selling the Q1 Max, but I did want the most premium product at that point.
Only the Q1 Max is sold by Maxgaming.dk but currently out of stuck and no date for restock.
Then there's the posibility about buying it on the keychron store in Germany, but for that matter I do need the Nordic Layout for the letters Æ, Ø and Å.
Mostly I'm looking to buy the barebone version and mod it a little by myself, buying switches and keycaps. So I'm not even sure if the Q1, Q1 Pro and Q1 Max makes a difference in the end.
What do YOU think?
Top answer 1 of 3
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The main difference is the wireless capability, with Bluetooth only for Q Pro and both Bluetooth and "2.4 GHz " for Q Max. The Q series is already premium, though the Max is newer and may have seen new development in sound design, etc. A trap could be a Q1 (not the current Q1 V2), for example, from some old stock. I think the original Q1 is based on the ATmega32U4 microcontroller and thus the space for Via macros is severely limited (1 KB total, of which some is used for other purposes than Via macros). This is important for any serious use of macros (though it could be mitigated somewhat by migrating mature Via macros to be implemented as QMK macros (requires custom C code). But it may be an unnecessary complication). It is a real trap. Some Q series keyboards may be on sale , but they are not Q1 V2. And some of the "special edition" (SE) keyboards in the Q series are also based on the old microcontroller. For instance, the SE version of the Q1 V2 is based on the old microcontroller. Also note that some resellers' information may be inaccurate. For example, they may give the impression it is Q1 V2 when in fact it is an original Q1 (that they want to clear the stock of by putting it on sale). I don't think it is deliberate, just a consequence of Keychron's confusing naming schemes. Or the information is incorrect on the Keychron' website, e.g., for the ISO variants (claims V2, but are in fact the original (and listed as "sold out" where it should say "no longer produced, but the V2 versions of the ISO variants will be introduced in 2025" (as an example))). One way to check is the model number/ SKU number (e.g., "Q1-F3"), but I don't know if it is different between Q1 V2 and the original Q1. And it itself may be in error if they have just copied it off Keychron's website. The SKU number is on a sticker on the box, so if the SKU numbers for Q1 V2 and the original Q1 are different, a reliable method is to somehow get that information. (The space for Via macros is limited by default, but it can be changed to be essentially unlimited by using most or all of the available memory in a modern (ARM) microcontroller. A Via macro takes 9 bytes per key action (both key press and key release is counted. And both normal keys and modifier keys are counted, both key press and key release). My longest macro is 320 key actions; thus, that macro alone takes up 2.8 KB as a Via macro. Via macros have many limitations, but most can be overcome .)
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If you go to: https://www.keychron.com/products/keychron-q1-max-qmk-via-wireless-custom-mechanical-keyboard And scroll WAY DOWN there is a comparison chart comparing the q, q pro and q max models.
Reddit
reddit.com › r/mechanicalkeyboards › keychron q1 v1 vs v2 differences
r/MechanicalKeyboards on Reddit: Keychron Q1 V1 vs V2 differences
May 5, 2022 - I don't have a V1 to compare it to, but case ping isn't too bad on the V2. More replies ... Thanks for sharing! I was just about to order a Q1 when I discovered that there are two versions out there and Keychron seems to still sell V1 alongside V2. The shop where I was going to order does not explicitly state if it is a V1 or V2.
Keychron
keychron.com › home › keychron q1 qmk custom mechanical keyboard - version 2
Keychron Q1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard - Version 2
Keychron Q1 version 2 is a fully customized 75% layout mechanical keyboard packed with all premium features and unlimited possibilities. Q1 is an all-metal keyboard that allows customizable capabilities for every key switch, keycap, knob, and stabilizer. It’s made for your personalized experience ...
KeebFinder
keeb-finder.com › keyboards › compare › keychron-q1-vs-keychron-q3-qmk-tkl-keyboard
Keychron Q1 V2 vs Q1 Max Specs
Explore the comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Keychron Q1 V2 and Keychron Q1 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.
Keychron
keychron.com › pages › difference-between-v1-and-q1
Difference between V1 and Q1 – Keychron
Keychron Q3 Pro · 80% Compact · Keychron Q11 · 75% Split Design · Keychron Q10 · 75% Keychron Q8 · 65% Keychron V2 · 65% Keychron Q2 Pro · 65% Keychron Q5 Pro · 96% Keychron Q1 Pro · 75% Compact · Keychron Q4 Pro · 60% Keychron Q8 Pro · 65% Alice · Keychron Q10 Pro ·
Trusted Reviews
trustedreviews.com › home › keychron q1 review
Keychron Q1 (Version 2) Review
Keychron Q1 Review
The Keychron Q1 is a keyboard with oodles of customisation options, allowing you to pick both the keys and switches. Introduction
Building your own custom keyboard is becoming increasingly popular, and recent years have seen plenty of manufacturers providing more and more customisation options to allow customers to scratch that itch.
Enter the Keychron Q1 (Version 2), an option from one of the more established custom manufacturers that brings with it a sturdy CNC’d aluminium frame alongside PBT keycaps, a hotswappable PCB and convenient means of customisation.
As a barebones kit, the
Keychron
keychron.com › pages › keyboards-comparison
Keyboards Comparison – Keychron
Keychron Q3 Pro · 80% Compact · Keychron Q11 · 75% Split Design · Keychron Q10 · 75% Keychron Q8 · 65% Keychron V2 · 65% Keychron Q2 Pro · 65% Keychron Q5 Pro · 96% Keychron Q1 Pro · 75% Compact · Keychron Q4 Pro · 60% Keychron Q8 Pro · 65% Alice · Keychron Q10 Pro ·
KeebFinder
keeb-finder.com › keyboards › compare › keychron-q1-vs-keychron-q2-qmk-custom-mechanical-keyboard
Keychron Q1 V2 vs Q2 US Side by Side Comparison
Explore the comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Keychron Q1 V2 and Keychron Q2 US 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.
Keychron
keychron.com › home › keychron q1 qmk custom mechanical keyboard - version 1
Keychron Q1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard - Version 1
Keychron Q1 is a fully customized 75% layout mechanical keyboard packed with all premium features and unlimited possibilities. Q1 is an all-metal keyboard that allows customizable capabilities for every key switch, keycap, and stabilizer. It’s made for your personalized experience and a more ...
Keychron
keychron.com › home › keychron q1 max qmk/via wireless custom mechanical keyboard
Keychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q1 Max is a full metal QMK/VIA wireless mechanical keyboard featuring 2.4 GHz and a 1000 Hz polling rate. Customize any key or create macro commands through VIA software as usual, and connect the Q1 Max with up to 3 devices through Bluetooth for seamless multitasking across Mac, Windows, ...
Keychron
keychron.ca › home › keychron q1 max qmk/via wireless custom mechanical keyboard (us ansi layout)
Keychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard (US ANSI L – Keychron Canada
Keychron Q1 Max is a full metal QMK/VIA wireless mechanical keyboard featuring 2.4 GHz and a 1000 Hz polling rate. Customize any key or create macro commands through VIA software as usual, and connect the Q1 Max with up to 3 devices through Bluetooth for seamless multitasking across Mac, Windows, ...