Table of Contents
The Keychron Q1 is a wired keyboard that is 75% smaller than the GLORIOUS GMMK PRO and has navigation keys that are spread out. It’s a board that can be changed in a lot of ways, and you can get it without switches or keycaps so you can put your own on. We got the version that was already put together.
It had Gateron Phantom Brown switches, which are light and quiet when you type on them. The switches can be changed on the fly, so you can use any ones you want. Unlike with other Keychron keyboards, there is also software that lets you set macros to any key. Even though it’s pretty tall, it doesn’t come with a wrist rest, so you might have to buy one separately.
Keychron Q1 specifications
Item Dimensions LxWxH | 0.01 x 0.01 inches |
Number of Keys | 81 |
Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth, 2.4G |
Keychron Q1 review: Design

Before getting into design, it’s important to note that this is a custom Keychron Q1 and not the fully assembled kit. With the custom one, you get to choose the key witches and keycaps, which will affect how it looks at least in part.
For my configuration, we chose keycaps that looked like they came from a Macintosh II or SE from 1987 to 1990. This made the Q1 look like an old Apple Extended Keyboard. This gives the Q1 a retro look that looks great, and the fact that the keycaps are made of dye-sublimated PBT plastic makes them feel very durable. You can buy this keyboard from its official website.
Keychron Q1 review: Software
A powerful standard for open-source firmware that works with a wide range of configuration software. Keychron says that the best way to set up the layout of the Q1 is to use the software Via, which is generally well-made and easy to use. The only thing we don’t like about the customization process is that it’s not obvious how to use the keyboard in Windows mode.
If you want to change the layout used when the keyboard is in “Windows” mode (there’s a small switch labelled Mac/Windows on the top left of the board), you’ll need to adjust “Layer 2” in Via or your QMK software of choice, which isn’t obvious at first glance.
Keychron Q1 review: Typing Experience

The Keychron Q1 is a great keyboard to type on, just like the other Keychron keyboards we’ve looked at. Keychron says that the way the keyboard is built and padded is supposed to change how it feels in certain ways, but we’re not smart enough to notice those changes. This keyboard isn’t for everyone, that’s for sure.
By no means should this be your first mechanical keyboard. This mechanical keyboard won’t change your mind if you didn’t like them before. The Keychron Q1 is big and heavy, and it’s meant to be used at a desk while it’s plugged in. There are no Bluetooth options, so it is not possible to switch between devices quickly.
Keychron Q1 review: Performance
The only thing we don’t like about how wireless works is that you can only use Bluetooth. On the other hand, keyboards like the Epomaker TH80 come with a small 2.4GHz USB dongle that can be used instead of Bluetooth. Dongles like these are useful if your main PC doesn’t have a Bluetooth receiver. Companies like Corsair, Razer, and Logitech use them to offer a higher polling rate than what’s possible with Bluetooth.
Keychron Q1 review: Price and availability
Some of these high-quality features are support for open-source firmware, which lets the layout and functionality of the keyboard be changed in an endless number of ways, hot-swappable switches that let you change how it feels to type without having to solder, and a level of construction that’s miles ahead of most mainstream keyboards at this price point of $169.
Final Words
The Keychron Q1 is a great choice for people who want to try out custom keyboards for the first time. It’s very well made, and the chassis is one of the strongest we have seen on a keyboard in a long time. The MX Clear switches feel responsive and are some of the best for typing. With switches like these, though, things can get pretty pricey, so it’s mostly a choice for enthusiasts and people with money to spend.
Keychron Q1 price Ratings
Pros
- Feels incredibly well-built.
- All keys are macro-programmable
Cons
- Expensive
FAQs
Is Keychron Q1 still good?
It is one of the best pre-built keyboards that can be switched out quickly. It’s well made, has great RGB lighting, can be customised in a lot of ways, and offers a great typing experience at a reasonable price.
Is Keychron Q1 a good keyboard?
Verdict. The Keychron Q1 is a great choice for people who want to try out custom keyboards for the first time. It’s very well made, and the chassis is one of the strongest I’ve seen on a keyboard in a long time. The MX Clear switches feel responsive and are some of the best for typing.
Is Keychron Q series good?
Then, in 2021, the Keychron Q1 came out. It was the first in a series of more than a dozen keyboards with a heavy aluminium build, a layout and switches that could be changed, and a great typing feel. They are some of the best keyboards you can buy off the shelf for the money.