Keychron has a keyboard for everyone, but it can be hard to know which one to choose.
Here is a breakdown of the key differences between the various Keychron series:
Enthusiast and Customization-Focused Series (Q, V, S)
Q Series
This is Keychron’s premium line, aimed at enthusiasts. Keyboards in this series feature a full CNC machined aluminum case, a double-gasket mounting design for a flexible typing feel, and are fully customizable [33, 35, 36]. Base Q-series models are wired only, but they are fully compatible with QMK/VIA software for key remapping [22, 36].
Q Pro Series
These keyboards build on the Q series by adding Bluetooth wireless connectivity [33, 44].
Q Max Series
The top-tier “Max” versions are an upgrade to the Q Pro series. They add a 2.4GHz wireless connection with a 1000Hz polling rate for low-latency gaming and include additional layers of acoustic foam for an improved typing sound and feel [22, 33, 52].
V Series
This series is positioned as a more budget-friendly entry into the world of custom keyboards. It combines features from the Q and K series, offering QMK/VIA support in an ABS plastic case [22, 45]. Base V-series models are wired-only and typically use a tray mount design [26, 32].
V Max Series
An upgrade to the V series, the V Max models add wireless connectivity (both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth) and feature a gasket mount design for a typing feel closer to the premium Q series [22].
S Series
This is a top-of-the-line low-profile keyboard. It features a full CNC machined aluminum body, is wired-only, and supports QMK/VIA customization [22, 50].
Mainstream and Wireless Series (K)
K Series
This is Keychron’s most popular line, known for its wireless (Bluetooth) connectivity and more affordable price point. These keyboards have a lighter build than the Q series, typically with a plastic case and an optional aluminum frame [33, 35]. Base K-series models are generally not programmable [22]. The series includes both normal and low-profile designs [33].
K Pro Series
An upgraded version of the K series, the K Pro line adds QMK/VIA compatibility, a gasket-mount design, PBT keycaps, and improved sound-absorbing foam [22, 33, 34].
K Max Series
Taking the K Pro series a step further, the K Max versions add a 2.4GHz wireless connection with a 1000Hz polling rate, making them suitable for gaming [22, 33].
- https://green-keys.info/en/keychron-keyboard-types-and-features-explained-find-out-how-to-choose-the-right-one-for-you/
- https://www.keychron.com/blogs/news/keychron-q-vs-k-series?srsltid=AfmBOop536EpAcEDkt5CA_keM85ETyZJwpOZrlhmPygFPA4lTcxPsLvA
Gaming-Focused Series (Lemokey)
Lemokey is Keychron’s sub-brand focused on gaming [65, 67]. These keyboards are designed for performance with features like low-latency wireless connections.
L-Series
These are premium gaming keyboards with full metal bodies, 2.4GHz wireless, and QMK/VIA support [56, 68, 81]. The L3 is a tenkeyless (TKL) keyboard with a volume dial and macro buttons, distinguished from the Keychron Q3 Pro by its 2.4GHz dongle and Cherry-profile keycaps [65]. The L4 is another TKL model but without the extra macro buttons and dial [81].
P-Series
A more budget-friendly gaming line from Lemokey [81]. The P1, for example, is a 75% layout keyboard [54].
X-Series
The X-series consists of entry-level, wired-only gaming keyboards [79].
Budget, Entry-Level, and Specialized Series
HE (Hall Effect) Series
HE is not a standalone series but rather a technology variant within other series, such as the Q1 HE, K2 HE, and Lemokey L5 HE [22, 25, 71]. These keyboards use magnetic switches that allow for unique gaming features like customizable actuation points, rapid trigger functionality, and assigning multiple actions to a single keystroke. They are typically programmed using the brand’s Launcher web app [22, 62].
C Series
This is Keychron’s entry-level, wired-only mechanical keyboard line, ideal for first-time users [22, 45]. The C Pro series is an upgraded version that adds support for QMK/VIA customization [22].
B Series
This is a non-mechanical, scissor-switch series designed to be thin, light, and portable, with a very long battery life. Despite being an entry-level model, it supports keymap changes [22, 25].
Collaboration Series
These are models developed in partnership with other brands, such as the OnePlus Featuring Keyboard 81 Pro [22].
Combo
This refers to product bundles that include a keyboard and a mouse, like the Lemokey X2 with an M55 mouse, rather than a separate keyboard series [73].
Comparison Table
Series | Target Audience/Tier | Case Material | Mounting Style | Connectivity | Customization (QMK/VIA) | Key Features |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Q Series | Enthusiast, Premium [33, 46] | Full CNC Aluminum [22, 33] | Double Gasket [31, 33] | Wired Only [22, 35] | Yes [22, 36] | Premium build, highly customizable, quiet and elegant typing feel [35]. |
Q Pro Series | Enthusiast, Premium | Full CNC Aluminum [44] | Double Gasket [22] | Wired, Bluetooth [22, 33] | Yes [22, 44] | Adds wireless connectivity to the Q Series [33]. |
Q Max Series | Enthusiast, High-End Gaming | Full CNC Aluminum [22] | Double Gasket [51] | Wired, Bluetooth, 2.4GHz [22, 33] | Yes [22, 33] | Adds 1000Hz polling rate via 2.4GHz and extra acoustic foam for superior performance and feel [22, 33]. |
V Series | Budget-Friendly Custom [45, 46] | ABS Plastic [22, 26] | Tray Mount (Gasket on Max) [22, 31] | Wired Only (base models) [22] | Yes [22] | An affordable entry point for keyboard customization, combining features of Q and K series [22]. |
V Max Series | Mid-Range Wireless Custom | ABS Plastic [22] | Gasket Mount [22] | Wired, Bluetooth, 2.4GHz [22] | Yes [22] | Upgrades the V series with wireless options and an improved gasket mount for better typing feel [22]. |
K Series | Mainstream, Everyday Use [46] | Plastic w/ Aluminum Frame option [33, 26] | Tray Mount [33] | Wired, Bluetooth [22, 33] | No (base models) / Yes (newer models) [22, 26] | Most popular series; lightweight and portable. Includes normal and low-profile options [33, 35]. |
K Pro Series | Mid-Range Programmable | Plastic w/ Aluminum Frame [26] | Gasket Mount [33] | Wired, Bluetooth [22, 33] | Yes [22, 33] | Upgrades the K series with programmability, better switches, and improved acoustics [33, 34]. |
K Max Series | Mid-Range Gaming & Work | Plastic w/ Aluminum Frame [22] | Gasket Mount [51] | Wired, Bluetooth, 2.4GHz [22, 33] | Yes [22] | Adds low-latency 2.4GHz wireless to the K Pro series, making it great for gaming [33]. |
HE Series | Gaming & Precision Typing | Varies (Aluminum or Plastic) [22] | Varies (Gasket Mount) [22] | Wired, Bluetooth, 2.4GHz [22] | Yes (via Launcher App) [22, 62] | Uses magnetic (Hall Effect) switches for adjustable actuation, rapid trigger, and multi-action keys [22, 71]. |
Lemokey L, P, X | Gaming [25, 65] | L-Series: Aluminum [81], P/X-Series: Plastic [79, 81] | Varies (Gasket or Tray) | Wired, Bluetooth, 2.4GHz (L/P Series) [56] | Yes [56] | Keychron’s gaming sub-brand with a focus on performance, low latency, and gamer aesthetics [65, 67]. |
C Series | Budget, Entry-Level [22, 45] | ABS Plastic [22] | Tray Mount | Wired Only [22, 45] | No (base) / Yes (Pro) [22] | A straightforward, affordable mechanical keyboard. C Pro adds programmability [22]. |
B Series | Office, Travel [25, 46] | ABS Resin [22] | Scissor-switch | Wired, Bluetooth, 2.4GHz [22] | Yes [22] | A non-mechanical, ultra-slim keyboard with very long battery life [22]. |
S Series | Premium Low-Profile [45] | Full CNC Aluminum [22, 50] | Gasket Mount | Wired Only [22, 50] | Yes [22, 50] | The top-of-the-line low-profile keyboard, offering a slim design with a premium, full-metal body [22]. |
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