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Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless Review | 64 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£240
Avg. price in US: ~$190
Layout size: 75%
Connection type: USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth
Switch type: mechanical
Polling rate: 1000 Hz

Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless review. Compare 64 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among keyboards and if it is worth buying.

7.0

Very good

6.7

Good

8.3

Excellent

3.5
Gaming
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Polling rate
24.0%
1.0
Rapid trigger
20.0%
1.0
Adjustable actuation
16.0%
10
Hot-swappable switches
12.0%
10
Onboard memory
6.4
Typing
Score components:
28.0%
4.0
Wrist rest included
24.0%
10
Legend method
20.0%
4.0
Adjustable feet
15.0%
5.1
Typing angle
13.0%
10
Pre-lubed stabilizers
10
Programming
Score components:
30.0%
10
QMK support
26.0%
10
VIA support
18.0%
10
Mac compatibility
14.0%
10
Multi-device pairing
12.0%
10
Connection type

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

Verdict

The Keychron Q1 Max is a premium 75% layout wireless mechanical keyboard featuring a robust CNC-machined 6063 aluminum body and a double-gasket mount design for a flexible, cushioned typing experience. It offers versatile tri-mode connectivity via 2.4 GHz (1000 Hz polling rate), Bluetooth 5.1 (up to three devices), and USB-C, powered by an ARM Cortex-M4 MCU with QMK/VIA support for extensive key remapping and macros. Key specs include hot-swappable Gateron Jupiter switches, south-facing RGB, screw-in PCB stabilizers, KSA profile double-shot PBT keycaps, and a 4,000 mAh battery. Main pros include its exceptional build quality, advanced multi-layer acoustic foam for a refined 'thocky' sound, and a customizable programmable knob. However, notable cons include its significant weight (approx. 1.7kg) which limits portability, lack of adjustable feet, and reports of occasionally over-lubed stabilizers.

Technical Specifications of Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless

Overall score

7.0

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the keyboard.

When it matters: When you prefer a keyboard that has already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.

Switches

3.2

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Switch type

What it is: Identifies the switch technology used by the keyboard, such as mechanical, optical, or Hall effect.

When it matters: When you are choosing between different response technologies and their long-term behavior.

Importance: HIGH

mechanical

Switch feel

What it is: Describes the keypress character, such as linear, tactile, or clicky.

When it matters: When the sensation of each keypress changes comfort, control, and noise level for your use.

Importance: HIGH

linear / tactile

Switch name

What it is: States the specific switch model used by the keyboard.

When it matters: When the exact switch model matters because small tuning differences affect your preference.

Importance: MEDIUM

Gateron Jupiter

Actuation force

What it is: Measures how much force is needed to actuate a key.

When it matters: When finger fatigue, accidental presses, or key resistance matters to your typing style.

Importance: HIGH

45 g

Min actuation distance

What it is: Measures the shortest key travel needed to register an input.

When it matters: When faster key response matters and you want the shortest possible trigger point under your fingers.

Importance: MEDIUM

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Design

5.0

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Keyboard type

What it is: Identifies the keyboard technology, such as mechanical, membrane, optical, or Hall effect.

When it matters: When you need a keyboard built around a specific switch technology or feel profile.

Importance: HIGH

mechanical

Layout size

What it is: States the keyboard form factor and how much of the standard keyset it includes.

When it matters: When desk space, portability, or access to a full key set affects how you work or play.

Importance: HIGH

75%

Layout standard

What it is: Specifies the regional layout standard, such as ANSI, ISO, or JIS.

When it matters: When you need a regional key layout that matches your language habits or keycap set.

Importance: MEDIUM

ANSI

N. of keys

What it is: States how many keys are present on the keyboard.

When it matters: When you need a certain number of keys for shortcuts, navigation, or a numpad.

Importance: MEDIUM

Profile

What it is: Describes whether the keyboard uses a low-profile or standard-height design.

When it matters: When key height changes your typing comfort, travel distance, or the overall desk setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

standard

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Connectivity & Power

7.9

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Connection type

What it is: Specifies how the keyboard connects, such as USB, 2.4 GHz wireless, or Bluetooth.

When it matters: When latency, cable management, or wireless flexibility is part of your buying decision.

Importance: HIGH

Multi-device pairing

What it is: Shows whether the keyboard can stay paired with multiple devices for quicker switching.

When it matters: When you switch regularly between a laptop, tablet, and other devices on one desk.

Importance: HIGH

Bluetooth version

What it is: States the Bluetooth generation supported for wireless pairing.

When it matters: When wireless stability, compatibility, and energy efficiency are part of what you compare.

Importance: MEDIUM

Mac compatibility

What it is: Shows whether the keyboard is intended to work properly with macOS layouts, shortcuts, or legends.

When it matters: When you need the keyboard to work properly with macOS shortcuts and key mapping.

Importance: HIGH

Battery life

What it is: Estimates how long the keyboard can run on a full charge.

When it matters: When the keyboard needs to last through workweeks, travel, or long gaming stretches without constant charging.

Importance: HIGH

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Features

6.8

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RGB lighting

What it is: Shows whether the keyboard includes customizable RGB lighting effects.

When it matters: When visual customization and desk aesthetics matter to your setup.

Importance: HIGH

Per-key RGB

What it is: Shows whether each key can be lit and controlled independently instead of sharing one uniform lighting zone.

When it matters: When customizing each key individually matters for visuals, games, or shortcut visibility.

Importance: HIGH

RGB zones

What it is: States how many RGB lighting zones can be controlled separately.

When it matters: When you want more lighting control than a simple all-at-once backlight can provide.

Importance: LOW

Underglow / side lighting

What it is: Shows whether the case includes lighting around the underside or outer edges in addition to the keys themselves.

When it matters: When edge lighting is part of the visual style you want from the keyboard.

Importance: MEDIUM

Backlight direction

What it is: Specifies whether the switches use north-facing or south-facing backlighting.

When it matters: When you care about switch compatibility, keycap interference, or lighting placement.

Importance: LOW

south-facing

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Materials

10

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Case material

What it is: Describes the main material used for the keyboard case.

When it matters: When build feel, rigidity, and overall finish influence your sense of quality.

Importance: HIGH

aluminum

Plate material

What it is: Describes the material used for the mounting plate beneath the switches.

When it matters: When keyboard stiffness, sound profile, and bottom-out feel matter more than the switch spec sheet alone.

Importance: HIGH

polycarbonate

Keycap material

What it is: Describes the material used to make the keycaps.

When it matters: When surface texture, wear resistance, and sound of the keycaps affect your choice.

Importance: HIGH

PBT

Keycap profile

What it is: Describes the shape and height profile of the keycaps.

When it matters: When key shape and sculpting affect comfort, wrist angle, and the sound of each press.

Importance: MEDIUM

OSA

Legend method

What it is: Describes how the legends are applied to the keycaps, which affects durability and visibility.

When it matters: When you care about how long key legends stay readable after heavy use.

Importance: MEDIUM

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Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless vs the average keyboard

Why is Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless better than the average keyboard?

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Volume control wheel
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless includes a volume wheel, the average keyboard does not. 38.8% of keyboards include a volume wheel.
What it is: Shows whether the keyboard includes a dedicated wheel or roller for hardware volume control.
When it matters: When frequent hardware volume control matters enough that you do not want to rely on function-key shortcuts.
Importance: MEDIUM
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless includes a volume wheel, the average keyboard does not. 38.8% of keyboards include a volume wheel.
Supports QMK
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless supports QMK, the average keyboard does not. 28.8% of keyboards support QMK.
What it is: Shows whether the keyboard supports QMK firmware for deeper remapping and behavior customization.
When it matters: When deep remapping, macros, and firmware-level customization matter to your workflow.
Importance: HIGH
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless supports QMK, the average keyboard does not. 28.8% of keyboards support QMK.
Supports VIA
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless supports VIA, the average keyboard does not. 27.1% of keyboards support VIA.
What it is: Shows whether the keyboard supports VIA for live remapping and configuration without rebuilding firmware manually.
When it matters: When quick live remapping without rebuilding firmware is important to you.
Importance: HIGH
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless supports VIA, the average keyboard does not. 27.1% of keyboards support VIA.
210 mm narrower width
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless is narrower than the average keyboard (145 mm vs 355 mm). The average keyboard width is 355 mm.
What it is: Measures the keyboard from side to side.
When it matters: When the keyboard has to match limited desk width or fit inside a specific setup.
Importance: MEDIUM
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless is narrower than the average keyboard (145 mm vs 355 mm). The average keyboard width is 355 mm.145 mm vs 355 mm
210 mm narrower width
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless is narrower than the average keyboard (145 mm vs 355 mm). The average keyboard width is 355 mm.
Volume control wheel
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless includes a volume wheel, the average keyboard does not. 38.8% of keyboards include a volume wheel.
Supports QMK
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless supports QMK, the average keyboard does not. 28.8% of keyboards support QMK.
Supports VIA
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless supports VIA, the average keyboard does not. 27.1% of keyboards support VIA.

Why is Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless worse than the average keyboard?

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76.6% higher weight
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless weighs more than the average keyboard (1,724 g vs 976 g). The average keyboard weighs 976 g.
6 fewer keys
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless has fewer keys than the average keyboard (81 vs 87). The average keyboard has 87 keys.
No adjustable feet
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless does not have adjustable feet, the average keyboard does. 85.5% of keyboards have adjustable feet.
1 h longer charging time
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless charges more slowly than the average keyboard (5 h vs 4 h). The average keyboard takes 4 h to charge.
Older Bluetooth version
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless uses an older Bluetooth version than the average keyboard (5.1 vs 5.2). The average keyboard uses Bluetooth 5.2.
0.3 mm longer minimum actuation distance
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless has a longer minimum actuation distance than the average keyboard (2 mm vs 1.7 mm). The average keyboard has a minimum actuation distance of 1.7 mm.
No per-key RGB lighting
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless does not have per-key RGB, the average keyboard does. 77% of keyboards offer per-key RGB.
Zone or preset RGB only.
No per-key RGB lighting
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless does not have per-key RGB, the average keyboard does. 77% of keyboards offer per-key RGB.
Zone or preset RGB only.
What it is: Shows whether each key can be lit and controlled independently instead of sharing one uniform lighting zone.
When it matters: When customizing each key individually matters for visuals, games, or shortcut visibility.
Importance: HIGH
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless does not have per-key RGB, the average keyboard does. 77% of keyboards offer per-key RGB.
0.3 mm longer minimum actuation distance
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless has a longer minimum actuation distance than the average keyboard (2 mm vs 1.7 mm). The average keyboard has a minimum actuation distance of 1.7 mm.
What it is: Measures the shortest key travel needed to register an input.
When it matters: When faster key response matters and you want the shortest possible trigger point under your fingers.
Importance: MEDIUM
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless has a longer minimum actuation distance than the average keyboard (2 mm vs 1.7 mm). The average keyboard has a minimum actuation distance of 1.7 mm.2 mm vs 1.7 mm
76.6% higher weight
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless weighs more than the average keyboard (1,724 g vs 976 g). The average keyboard weighs 976 g.
What it is: Measures the total mass of the keyboard.
When it matters: When you care whether the keyboard feels easy to carry or heavy enough to stay planted on the desk.
Importance: HIGH
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless weighs more than the average keyboard (1,724 g vs 976 g). The average keyboard weighs 976 g.1724 g vs 976 g
1 h longer charging time
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless charges more slowly than the average keyboard (5 h vs 4 h). The average keyboard takes 4 h to charge.
What it is: Measures how long the battery needs for a full recharge.
When it matters: When short charging windows matter and you do not want the keyboard tied to a cable for too long.
Importance: MEDIUM
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless charges more slowly than the average keyboard (5 h vs 4 h). The average keyboard takes 4 h to charge.5 h vs 4 h
6 fewer keys
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless has fewer keys than the average keyboard (81 vs 87). The average keyboard has 87 keys.
What it is: States how many keys are present on the keyboard.
When it matters: When you need a certain number of keys for shortcuts, navigation, or a numpad.
Importance: MEDIUM
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless has fewer keys than the average keyboard (81 vs 87). The average keyboard has 87 keys.81 vs 87
84.6% more expensive
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless is more expensive than the average keyboard (£240 vs £130).
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless is more expensive than the average keyboard (£240 vs £130).£240 vs £130
No adjustable feet
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless does not have adjustable feet, the average keyboard does. 85.5% of keyboards have adjustable feet.
What it is: Shows whether the keyboard includes feet that let you raise or tilt the typing angle.
When it matters: When your comfort depends on changing typing angle without buying a separate stand or wrist support.
Importance: MEDIUM
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless does not have adjustable feet, the average keyboard does. 85.5% of keyboards have adjustable feet.
Older Bluetooth version
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless uses an older Bluetooth version than the average keyboard (5.1 vs 5.2). The average keyboard uses Bluetooth 5.2.
What it is: States the Bluetooth generation supported for wireless pairing.
When it matters: When wireless stability, compatibility, and energy efficiency are part of what you compare.
Importance: MEDIUM
Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless uses an older Bluetooth version than the average keyboard (5.1 vs 5.2). The average keyboard uses Bluetooth 5.2.5.1 vs 5.2

Connectivity & Power

Graphic comparison of Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless and

Attribute category

Attribute

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

What customers like about Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless?

Excellent build quality with a solid, premium CNC-machined aluminum body
Smooth and satisfying typing experience provided by pre-lubed Gateron Jupiter switches
Versatile triple-mode connectivity including 2.4 GHz wireless, Bluetooth 5.1, and USB-C wired
Deep, 'thocky' sound profile thanks to a double-gasket design and multiple layers of acoustic foam
Extensive customisation via QMK/VIA and the user-friendly Keychron Launcher web app
Includes hot-swappable sockets for easy 3-pin or 5-pin switch changes without soldering
Reliable 1,000 Hz polling rate on 2.4 GHz and wired modes for low-latency gaming

What customers dislike about Keychron Q1 Max QMK VIA Wireless?

High price point compared to entry-level mechanical keyboards
Stock screw-in stabilizers have been described by some users as poor quality or 'rattly'
High keyboard profile may require an additional wrist rest for long-term comfort
Learning QMK/VIA for complex custom layers can be challenging for beginners
Lack of visible indicator for Caps Lock due to south-facing LEDs and non-shine-through keycaps
Support from Keychron can be difficult to navigate according to some community feedback

Expert reviews

trustedreviews.com

05/02/2024

Keychron Q1 Max Review - Trusted Reviews

The Trusted Reviews review rates the Keychron Q1 Max 4.5/5 stars, highlighting its premium, CNC-machined aluminum chassis and KSA-profile keycaps for a satisfying, premium typing experience. It features excellent versatility with tri-mode connectivity (wired, Bluetooth, 2.4GHz) and open-source QMK/VIA customization, making it an ideal, though heavy, desktop peripheral. YouTube ·...Read more

xda-developers.com

17/03/2024

Keychron Q1 Max review: A gorgeous aluminum mechanical keyboard with full wireless

The Keychron Q1 Max is a premium, 75% form factor wireless mechanical keyboard that stands out for its exceptionally sturdy, heavy aluminum build quality, weighing nearly 1.8kg. Built like a tank with zero flex, it features a double-gasket design and extensive internal layers of sound-dampening foam that deliver a vastly superior, muted typing experience compared to more...Read more

appleinsider.com

13/03/2024

Keychron Q1 Max review: cushy, comfortable, costly

The Keychron Q1 Max is a premium, 75% mechanical keyboard designed for both office use and gaming setups, retailing at $209 for a fully assembled model or $189 for a barebone version. Built with a heavy, CNC-machined 6063 aluminum chassis weighing nearly four pounds, it features hot-swappable, factory-lubed Gateron Jupiter switches and customizable multi-layer acoustic padding. It...Read more

kitguru.net

05/07/2024

Keychron Q1 Max Keyboard Review

The Keychron Q1 Max wireless 75% mechanical keyboard earned an impressive overall score of 9.0 out of 10 from KitGuru due to its stellar customisable design. The fully assembled layout comes equipped with highly durable KSA double-shot PBT keycaps and factory-tuned Gateron Jupiter mechanical switches. The internal design pairs a flexible polycarbonate (PC) plate with multi-device...Read more

rtings.com

13/03/2024

Keychron Q5 Max [Q1 Max, Q2 Max, etc.] Review

The RTINGS review of the Keychron Q Max series highlights these wireless mechanical keyboards as outstanding options for both office use and competitive gaming, featuring a heavy, CNC-machined solid aluminum chassis with a cushioned, double-gasket mounted typing experience. They offer a true 1000Hz polling rate in both wired and 2.4GHz wireless modes, paired with a hot-swappable PCB...Read more

forbes.com

18/02/2024

Keychron’s Q1 Max Mechanical Keyboard Is A Superb Piece Of Engineering

Mark Sparrow's review highlights the Keychron Q1 Pro as a premium 75% mechanical keyboard, praising its robust, CNC-machined aluminum chassis and versatile dual-connectivity supporting both wired USB-C and Bluetooth 5.1. The review emphasizes the excellent typing experience, enhanced by pre-lubed switches, south-facing RGB, and extensive QMK/VIA customization software for remapping...Read more

lesnumeriques.com

11/02/2026

Keychron Q1 Max Review: The luxury of Mac/Windows mechanical keyboards comes at a price

Keychron Q1 Max Review Summary The Keychron Q1 Max is a premium, 75% layout mechanical keyboard tailored for macOS and Windows office users, priced at approximately €230. It features an exceptionally heavy 1.72 kg chassis made from 6063 aluminium alloy, delivering a highly durable and stable desk experience, though its weight limits portability. The keyboard offers versatile...Read more

smartworld.it

04/08/2025

Best mechanical keyboards January 2026: gaming, typing, and more

summary of the keyboard buying guide: This buying guide highlights the best mechanical keyboards available in 2026, categorised by specific user needs such as gaming, productivity, and wireless performance. For gaming enthusiasts, standout models like the ASUS ROG Azoth and Razer Huntsman V3 Pro TKL offer ultra-responsive performance, featuring factory-lubricated switches or...Read more

Video reviews

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