Keychron has made quite a name for itself over the last couple of years, producing incredibly customizable mechanical keyboards that are built to last. Whether you want a compact 60% keyboard for gaming or an ergonomic keyboard that will keep your hands and wrists comfortable throughout the whole workday, Keychron has a keyboard for you. The best thing is, no matter your comfort with DIY keyboards, Keychron makes the custom keyboard space very approachable for newcomers and experienced builders alike.
The Best Keychron Keyboards For 2024
Keychron Q2 Pro
- Brand
- Keychron
- Wireless
- Bluetooth 5.1
- Backlight
- RGB
- Switch Type
- K Pro Red, K Pro Brown, K Pro Banana
- Replaceable Keys
- Yes, hot-swappable
- Wired operation
- Yes
The Keychron Q2 Pro is the best wireless mechanical hot-swappable keyboard from Keychron, and that's saying a lot. It comes with a CNC aluminum body, KSA PBT keycaps, wireless or wired connectivity, and the ability to connect up to 3 devices. It comes in 3 color options - Carbon Black, Silver Gray, and Shell White. The Q2 Pro features a double-gasket design for better noise reduction and stability.
Checkbox: control the expandable behavior of the extra info- Polling rate
- 1000 Hz wired
- Battery
- 4000 mAh
- Num Pad
- No, TKL
- Compatible Devices
- Windows, Mac
- Bluetooth
- 5.1
- Multi-device pairing
- Yes, 3 devices
- Keycaps
- PBT
- Internal Sound Dampening
- Yes
- Dedicated control knob
- Comes with Mac and Windows keycaps
- Great form factor for a daily driver
- Excellent typing experience
- No 2.4GHz wireless option
- Fairly expensive
The Keychron Q2 Pro is an excellent example of what Keychron is capable of. It is incredibly well-built and gorgeously designed, and regardless of whether you go for a pre-built or DIY kit, it provides an excellent typing experience. If you are looking for a new daily driver, the Q2 Pro truly can do it all and look good while doing it.
The Q2 Pro is not the most affordable option from Keychron, but with its full metal construction and KSA PBT keycaps, this keyboard is built to last and can easily be your go-to keyboard for years to come. In a world of tech that is typically thrown aside in a year or so, it is nice to see an option that can last for a while. Plus, thanks to the hot-swappable PCB and ease of repair, it can be fixed even if you do run into issues. While this can be said for most Keychron keyboards, it is really exemplified with the Q2 Pro.
You have a variety of switches to choose from when picking up the Q2 Pro. However, regardless of which one you choose, this keyboard delivers an excellent typing experience. The TKL form factor makes it incredibly easy to use for gaming or work. The included sound-dampening foam makes every keypress satisfying, and depending on what switch you choose, you can make this keyboard as loud or quiet as you like.
Keychron Q3
- Wireless
- No
- Backlight
- South-facing RGB LED
- Media Controls
- Programmable Rotary Knob
- Battery
- N/A
- Num Pad
- No
- Switch Type
- Gateron G Pro
The Keychron Q3 is a fully customizable mechanical keyboard to push the typing experience to the top. Built with a full aluminum CNC machined body, double-gasket design, and QMK/VIA support, the Q3 is designed for premium typing comfort and endless possibilities.
Checkbox: control the expandable behavior of the extra info- Replaceable Keys
- Yes
- Number of Keys
- 87
- Compatible Devices
- Windows, MacOS, and Linux
- Wired operation
- USB-C cable
- Dimensions
- 137 mm W X 365.1 mm L X
- Polling rate
- 1000 Hz
- Material
- Full CNC machined aluminum Body and Steel Plate
- Multi-device pairing
- No
- Internal Sound Dampening
- Double-Gasket Sound Dampening
- Durable construction
- Fully compatible with Windows and macOS
- All keys are macro-programmable
- Gasket mount design
- Default keycaps are not ideal
- Hollow typing sound
Like the Q2 Pro, the Q3 is a prime example of why Keychon has built such an excellent reputation. The frame is entirely made of aluminum, there is plenty of sound dampening, and the pre-lubed Gateron G Pro switches are an absolute joy to use. This well-built keyboard is ideal for users eager to try some modifications without concerns over build quality and who prefer a wired connection.
Despite its fairly compact form factor, this keyboard is heavy. This is a good thing for most mechanical keyboards, unlike enthusiast-grade mice. The aluminum body makes this keyboard very stable on all desk surfaces, and even when you are heavily typing on this keyboard, it will not move around or have any flex. However, unlike the Q2 Pro, which has a very solid sound when typing, the Q3 sounds a bit hollow at times. Making the typical satisfying thock more of a ping, which can annoy some users.
Because of this more hollow sound, the Q3 is an excellent option for a DIY project keyboard. There is a fairly large community around many Keychron keyboards discussing the best ways to customize your keyboard for the best sound possible, and the Q3 is very fun to play around with. It has plenty of room to try out different sound-dampening techniques, and the case is fairly standard, making a great base for DIY projects.
Keychron C1 Hot-swappable Wired Mechanical Keyboard
- Switch options
- Red, Blue, Brown
- Keycaps
- Double-shot ABS
- Supported operating systems
- Windows, macOS
- Hot-swappable
- Yes
- Connectivity
- USB Type-c Cable
- Dimensions
- 14" x 5.1" x 1.5"
The Keychron C1 is a tenkeyless, hot-swappable mechanical keyboard made for Mac and Windows. Players can personalize the 87 keys with ease, as the keyboard is compatible with almost all the MX-style 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches. Designed with reliability in mind, the C1 comes with USB Type-C wired connection with a detachable cable, ensuring a stable connection with laptops or PCs.
With a unique Mac layout, the C1 has all the necessary multimedia and function keys while still being compatible with Windows. Extra keycaps for both Mac and Windows operating systems are included.
- Weight
- 26.1oz
- Number of Keys
- 87
- Num Pad
- No
- Very affordable price point
- Retro design is very well done
- Excellent typing experience
- Windows and macOS keycaps included
- Stabilizers rattle a bit
- No software utility
Keychron is not the typical go-to brand if you are looking for a budget option, but thankfully, if you are sure you want a Keychron keyboard but aren't in the position to buy one of their higher-end models, the Keychron C1 is an excellent choice.
Built with the same principles as Keychron's flagship models with a hot-swappable PCB and easy customization options, the main difference between the C1 and something like the Q2 Pro is the build materials. This keyboard is made mostly out of plastic, but it is still surprisingly durable. The C1 probably won't be your daily driver keyboard for years to come, but it will certainly last you quite some time while delivering an excellent experience.
Just like all other Keychron keyboards, the C1 can be bought as a barebones kit or fully built. Either way, you can get this keyboard with pretty much any switch you want. However, because the price is so low, there is no sound-dampening foam included with this keyboard, which does make it a fair bit louder, but you can easily install some if you would like.
Keychron K1 Max
- Wireless
- Yes
- Backlight
- Per-Key RGB
- Media Controls
- Yes
- Battery
- 2000 mAh
- Switch Type
- Gateron low-profile mechanical
- Replaceable Keys
- Yes
Keychron K1 Max is an ultra-slim wireless custom mechanical keyboard. Measuring 22mm thick, this keyboard is easily one of the thinnest mechanical keyboards on the market, and it is also fully hot-swappable. Whether you are on the go or just prefer the feel of a low-profile keyboard the K1 Max delivers an unrivaled responsive typing experience in an incredibly thin form factor.
Checkbox: control the expandable behavior of the extra info- Number of Keys
- 87
- Compatible Devices
- Windows, macOS, Linux
- Dimensions
- 346 x 118.5 x 24.1 mm
- Bluetooth
- 5.1
- Multi-device pairing
- Yes
- Charging
- USB-C
- Keycaps
- Double-shot PBT
- Internal Sound Dampening
- Yes
- Polling rate
- 1,000 Hz
- Excellent typing experience
- Easy to carry
- Great battery life
- Hot-swappable switches
- USB-C port is in an awkward position
- Not as many low-profile switches to choose from
While full-thickness mechanical keyboards provide a full sound and are easier to customize, low-profile keyboards are much easier to use on the go and are great for a minimalist design. Keychron has a couple of low-profile options, but the Keychron K1 Max is a perfect choice if you want a low-profile mechanical keyboard that is also fairly affordable.
Despite the low-profile design, Keychron retains the hot-swappable PCB on this keyboard for easy customization and repairability. Low-profile mechanical keyboards are getting more common, but it is still rare to see ones with hot-swappable PCBs. The two main competitors to the K1 Max are the Lofree Flow and the Nuphy Air 75 V2. However, if you know you won't swap out the switches, you can also save a few bucks and get a PCB with soldered-on switches that deliver the same performance.
Some mechanical keyboard enthusiasts write off low-profile keyboards as gimmicky options, but the K1 Max proves them wrong with an excellent typing experience that rivals traditionally sized mechanical keyboards in an incredibly thin form factor. The K1 Max won't deliver the same thock as full-thickness keyboards, but each key press is responsive and super satisfying to type on.
Keychron Q8
- Brand
- Keychron
- Wireless
- No
- Backlight
- South-facing RGB LED
- Media Controls
- Yes
- Switch Type
- Gateron G Pro
The Keychron Q8 is a 65% Alice layout all-metal mechanical keyboard. With its all-metal CNC machined body, full-size layout, double-gasket design, QMK/VIA support, and knob option, the Q8 meets all practical needs and gives users a high-end typing experience. The hot-swappable sockets are mounted on the PCB, so users can install or change the switches without soldering. The PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin MX mechanical switches.
Checkbox: control the expandable behavior of the extra info- Replaceable Keys
- Yes
- Wired operation
- USB-C wired
- Dimensions
- 136 mm x 358 mm x 31.5 mm
- Polling rate
- 1000 Hz
- Unique Alice layout
- Excellent build quality
- Very comfortable to use all day long
- Stylish design
- Steep learning curve
Keychron offers a few ergonomic variations, but the Keychron Q8 is easily among the best. The Q8's Alice layout sets it apart from the rest of the lineup, separating the keyboard into two clusters angled toward each other. If you are looking for an ergonomic keyboard that breaks the mold of the typical keyboard, it is hard to go wrong with the Keychron Q8.
This keyboard combines the separation of a split design with the familiarity of a unibody design. To make the learning curve a bit easier, Keychron has included the "B" key on both the left and right sides of the keyboard. There is a switch on the bottom of the keyboard to switch between Mac or Windows mode, and it also comes with customized keycaps for both operating systems, so there is no guessing at keys.
Keychron Q60 Max
- Switch options
- Gateron Jupiter Brown, Red and Banana
- Keycaps
- PBT
- Supported operating systems
- Windows/macOS/Linux
- Hot-swappable
- Yes
- Connectivity
- 2.4 GHz/Bluetooth / Type-C wired
- Num Pad
- No
Using a modern form factor but a colorway and design choices of a classic keyboard the Keychron Q60 Max does an excellent job of meshing the two eras into one keyboard. The keyboard case is made from strong and durable 6063 aluminum, and the double gasket design creates an incredible typing experience that is satisfying to hear.
Checkbox: control the expandable behavior of the extra info- Form factor
- 60%
- Backlight
- South-facing RGB LED Lights
- Dampening
- Yes
- Battery capacity
- 4000 mAh
- Excellent typing experience
- Improved 2.4GHz wireless
- Gorgeous design
- Feels incredibly premium
- No adjustable feet
- Feels a bit cramped for users with bigger hands
By default, the Q8 can be picked up with Gateron G Pro Red, Blue, or Brown switches, but replacing these with any 3- or 5-pin MX switch is easy. With full QMK and VIA support, users can reprogram every key to their liking, including the knob in the top right of the keyboard, which is excellent for volume control or zooming in and out. While the Q8 is the 65% version, the company also offers a 75% (Q10) and even a 96% (Q13 Pro) ergonomic keyboard. The 60% form factor is easily one of the most common choices for gamers, and Keychron has various options in this form factor, but if you are looking for one of the best 60% keyboards currently on the market, the Q60 Max is an excellent option. This keyboard uses the 60% form factor nearly perfectly, and with a very fun retro design, nostalgic PC lovers will fall in love with this keyboard at first sight.
If you have never used a 60% keyboard before, there is a learning curve for switching to such a small form factor. After getting used to it, the extra desk space it provides is an absolute game-changer. Even on the smallest of desks, the Q60 Max will give you plenty of space for your mouse to game comfortably.
With 60% of keyboards targeted toward gamers, you will probably want to pick up this keyboard with the red switches, but the Gateron brown and banana switches also deliver a very satisfying typing experience. Plus, like the Q3, the Q60 Max is a very fun project keyboard to pick up as a barebones kit. You can easily make this keyboard feel and sound just like you want it to.
Key Factors for Choosing the Best Keychron Keyboard
- Form Factor: Because pretty much every Keychron keyboard is an excellent choice, the best way to start narrowing down the results is to look at the form factor that works best for you. Keychron offers keyboards from 60% to full-sized and everything in between, so there is no shortage of options. Most people will find a nice mix of compactness and functionality with the TKL form factor. However, if you need a num-pad, full-size or even 95% is a great way to go.
- Connectivity: Wired or wireless is the everlasting question when choosing a new keyboard. Keychron keyboards have impressive battery life, and the wireless connection is rock solid for all sorts of tasks, from gaming to everyday work. However, if you would rather not have to worry about that, their wired options are incredibly capable and typically a bit more affordable.
- Barebones vs Prebuilt: One of Keychron's main focuses is offering keyboards that are easy to customize, so when purchasing a keyboard from them, you get a choice of either a fully built keyboard that is ready to go out of the box or a barebones kit that you can put together yourself. Keychron makes custom DIY keyboards very approachable to all skill levels, so the barebones option is not out of the question, even if you have never built a keyboard before.
FAQ
Q: Does Keychron make good keyboards?
If you are looking for solid mechanical keyboards that are easily customizable and built to last, Keychron is an excellent brand to consider.
Q: Why are Keychron keyboards so expensive?
While Keychron keyboards are not exorbitantly expensive compared to some boutique brands, they do have a higher price point than most gaming keyboards. That extra price doesn't come without its benefits, though. Most Keychron keyboards are constructed completely out of metal and very durable materials, and thanks to their customization mindset, every one of Keychron's keyboards is incredibly easy to repair.