Review: Keychron Q1 HE is the ultimate keyboard for gamers and pros
Of all the mechanical keyboards I have tested I've not come across a real stinker, but the king at the moment is definitely Keychron. The keyboards are just so solid and give you a lovely typing experience every time. However, they do cost. It's not that they're overpriced but sometimes if you want the best you're going to have to pay for it.
The latest to come across my desk is the Keychron Q1 HE. It's the first 75% wireless QMK keyboard with Hall Effect Gateron double-rail magnetic switches.
What does that mean? The Hall Effect mechanism offers super-fast rapid response times and allows user to assign multiple actions to a single key, depending on how deeply it is pressed. Sounds like magic. To be honest, if you're filling out spreadsheets or writing a report, you're not going to go out of your way to try this. However, if you're a a gamer of a video editor I'd imagine with a bit of imagination you'll have a field day.
What will make you sit up straight, however, is the tactile feel of the keys themselves that will have you purring. Its small form factor means it doesn't dominate your desk, while having all the essential keys you'll need. It does not have a number pad, you'll have to get a full-sized keyboard for that.
And don't be fooled by its size into thinking the Q1 is portable. It's made of aluminum and weighs a ton! Your cat will not be knocking it off your desk anytime soon. I found the typing angle comfortable and more than a little reminiscent of an old-fashioned typewriter. Due to the weight, you can't adjust that angle.
This being a Keychron, if you're a pro user you can really get stuck in and customise the keycaps, the switches and even some of the internal components. There's also plenty of scope to make it your own by using the Keychron Launcher web app, which I found frwsshingly user-friendly for the layman.
As for connections, you can take your pick from Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless dongle or wired. The Bluetooth 5.1 support allows pairing with up to three devices. You are given keys to switch in and out depending if you're on a Mac or Windows.
I'm a shallow man in many ways so while all the tech is very cool, I found that I spent far to long playing with the 22 types of RGB backlight settings you have to choose from!
As this might indicate, the Keychron Q1 HE is really for the pros and high-end users, although its form factor makes it great in the home office environment. And, if nothing else, it's built to last. If you're a light user, it's probably a little too much. I'd still recommend getting a mechanical keyboard, but you can pick up a perfectly decent one for half the price. But for anyone else, it's well worth a look.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Geeky Gadgets
6 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
Black Myth Wukong Keyboard : CNC Machined Deluxe Edition with Custom Keycaps $259
Keychron has released their new awesome Black Myth Wukong Deluxe Edition wireless mechanical keyboard this week for $259, for enthusiast gamers and fans of the popular action RPG. The collaboration between Keychron and Game Science represents a deeper approach to themed peripherals than typical gaming merchandise. Rather than superficial branding, the keyboard integrates authentic design elements from Journey to the West mythology and the game's visual language into a mechanically sound foundation. After testing the board extensively across gaming sessions, productivity work, and customization scenarios, it's clear this isn't a typical gaming peripheral—the combination of premium materials, custom components, and game-specific design elements creates something distinctly different in the mechanical keyboard space. Build Quality and Construction The Deluxe Edition centers around a 6063 aluminum body processed through CNC machining, polishing, and sandblasting across 24 manufacturing stages. The result is a solid, dense keyboard with premium fit and finish that immediately differentiates it from standard gaming boards. The aluminum construction provides both durability and thermal management, preventing the flexing common in plastic gaming keyboards during intense sessions. Two components define the Deluxe Edition upgrade: the Ebongold Spaulder keycap crafted from solid brass, and a gourd-shaped functional knob made from durable resin with smooth painted finish. The brass keycap serves as both a decorative element and functional key, typically replacing the escape key with substantial weight and visual impact. The gourd knob handles volume, brightness, and other system controls while maintaining the authentic shape of Wukong's signature accessory from the game. Both components draw directly from Wukong's armor and accessories, but function as integral parts of the keyboard rather than mere decoration. The brass component alone likely accounts for significant manufacturing cost, as solid brass requires specialized machining and finishing processes. Ebongold Spaulder Esc Keycap The themed backplate features laser-etched artwork depicting the Dragon Palace scene from Journey to the West, providing visual depth beyond typical keyboard aesthetics. The etching quality shows fine detail work that maintains clarity even under various lighting conditions. Custom keycaps use a game-inspired font that matches the original interface typography, manufactured through PBT dye-sublimation for durability and color retention over extended use. Gourd Knob The golden paint keycaps and jade paint gourd accent keycap complete the aesthetic package, using colors that reference traditional Chinese design principles rather than arbitrary gaming color schemes. The Cherry profile design maintains ergonomic typing angles while supporting the visual theme. Technical Specifications and Performance Layout and Form Factor The 75% compact layout removes the number pad while retaining function keys and arrow cluster, optimizing desk space for gaming while maintaining productivity functionality. This form factor has gained popularity among enthusiasts for balancing compactness with functionality—you lose the numpad but keep essential navigation and function keys. The reduced footprint allows greater mouse movement range, critical for FPS and competitive gaming where low sensitivity settings require extensive mouse pad real estate. Connectivity Performance Three connection modes provide flexibility across different use cases: 2.4 GHz wireless with 1000 Hz polling rate for gaming Bluetooth 5.2 supporting up to three simultaneous device connections USB-C wired mode with 1000 Hz polling rate The wireless performance maintains consistent 1000 Hz polling in both 2.4 GHz and wired modes, ensuring competitive gaming viability without latency concerns. I tested input lag extensively using dedicated measurement tools and found no detectable difference between wired and 2.4 GHz modes during gaming sessions. Battery life extends well beyond typical usage patterns. The USB-C charging port supports standard cables, eliminating proprietary connector concerns. Bluetooth device switching works seamlessly between computer, tablet, and phone connections. The transition lag averages under two seconds, making it practical for users who switch between devices frequently throughout their workflow. Switch Technology and Customization Keychron includes pre-lubricated TTC mechanical switches in two variants: Bluish White: Tactile switches with crisp, definitive feedback and clear actuation point Golden Pink: Linear switches with strong rebound, soft actuation, and smooth travel Both switches come factory-lubricated with appropriate grades of lubricant, eliminating the scratchy feel common in gaming keyboards and providing smooth operation immediately. The lubrication quality matches what enthusiasts typically apply in custom builds, suggesting proper attention to switch preparation. The hot-swappable design supports 3-pin and 5-pin MX-style switches without soldering, enabling easy customization across virtually any mechanical switch on the market. During testing, I swapped in Cherry MX Browns, Gateron Yellows, and Kailh Box switches without issues. The switch sockets maintain solid connections and show no signs of wear after multiple swap cycles. Switch removal requires a standard switch puller tool (included in box), and the process takes seconds per switch. This opens extensive customization possibilities—you can optimize different sections of the keyboard for different purposes, such as linear switches for gaming keys and tactile switches for typing areas. Audio Engineering and Typing Experience The keyboard incorporates multiple dampening layers designed to enhance acoustic properties: 3.0mm EVA acoustic foam, IXPE foam, and PET film. Combined with gasket mount PCB design, these elements create deeper, more satisfying typing sounds while reducing ping and hollow resonance typical of gaming keyboards. The gasket mounting system uses compression points around the PCB perimeter rather than rigid mounting, increasing keyboard flexibility and providing cushioned feedback during extended typing sessions. This mounting style has become popular in custom keyboards for its balance of stability and comfort. During extended typing tests, the acoustic profile remained consistent and pleasant. The 'thocky' sound signature appeals to mechanical keyboard enthusiasts while remaining office-appropriate at moderate typing speeds. The dampening effectively eliminates case ping and reduces key impact noise without muffling the mechanical feedback that makes these switches appealing. PCB-mounted screw-in stabilizers minimize rattle and wobble on larger keys like spacebar, shift, and enter keys. These stabilizers come pre-lubricated and properly tuned, eliminating the sticky or rattling behavior common in cheaper gaming keyboards. The stabilizer tuning alone represents significant labor investment that many manufacturers skip. Software Integration and Customization QMK Firmware Foundation The board runs open-source QMK firmware on a WB32F3G71 MCU with 256K flash memory. This provides extensive customization possibilities including key remapping, macro programming, layer creation, and advanced lighting effects. The open-source nature means community-driven feature development and transparency in functionality. The 256K flash capacity supports complex configurations with multiple layers, extensive macro libraries, and detailed RGB programming. Power users can create game-specific layouts, productivity layers, and custom lighting schemes that activate based on application focus or time of day. Keychron Launcher Web Tool Instead of downloadable software, Keychron uses a web-based configuration tool accessible through Chrome, Edge, or Opera browsers. This approach offers several advantages: Real-time key programming and macro creation without software installation Cross-platform compatibility across Windows, macOS, and Linux Continuous updates delivered automatically without user intervention Secure, local configuration that doesn't require cloud connectivity or account creation The web interface provides intuitive drag-and-drop key assignment, macro recording functionality, and RGB customization tools. Advanced users can access raw QMK configuration for deeper customization possibilities. The tool successfully bridges ease-of-use for beginners with power-user functionality for enthusiasts. Visual Design and RGB Implementation South-facing RGB LEDs optimize backlight visibility from the user's perspective while maintaining compatibility with Cherry-profile keycaps. This LED placement avoids interference issues common with north-facing configurations when using aftermarket keycap sets—a consideration important for users planning future customization. The RGB system integrates thoughtfully with the overall aesthetic rather than dominating it. Default lighting profiles complement the golden and jade color scheme while supporting both gaming ambiance and professional environments. Custom RGB programming allows users to create game-specific lighting that reacts to in-game events or system status. The translucent legends on the PBT keycaps provide even light distribution without hotspots or dim areas. Even users who typically disable RGB lighting may appreciate the subtle accent lighting possible with this configuration. Real-World Performance Analysis Gaming Performance Evaluation The 1000 Hz polling rate in wireless mode matches wired performance, eliminating the typical wireless gaming compromise. During competitive FPS testing, input registration remained consistent with no dropped inputs or wireless interference. The compact layout provides ample mouse space for low-sensitivity gaming preferences. The hot-swappable switches enable game-specific optimization—linear switches for WASD movement keys, tactile switches for ability keys that benefit from feedback confirmation. This level of customization typically requires multiple keyboards or expensive custom builds. Productivity and Typing Assessment The gasket mount design and premium switches make extended typing comfortable across long work sessions. The 75% layout retains essential function keys while reducing overall footprint, suitable for mixed gaming and work setups where desk space is premium. The acoustic dampening keeps noise levels reasonable for office environments while maintaining satisfying mechanical feedback. Build Durability Testing After several weeks of intensive use, the keyboard shows no signs of wear or degradation. The aluminum construction resists flex under heavy use, while the premium keycaps maintain their appearance and texture. The brass components develop a subtle patina that enhances rather than detracts from the visual appeal. The $259 Deluxe Edition pricing reflects several premium components: solid brass keycap, custom resin knob, laser-etched backplate, extensive manufacturing processes, and game licensing costs. The combination of materials, customization options, and authentic theming targets collectors and enthusiasts rather than mainstream gaming audiences. For comparison, the standard version at $199 includes the same technical foundation but replaces brass components with themed alternatives, providing similar performance characteristics at reduced cost. The price difference specifically pays for the premium materials and limited edition components. Final Assessment The Black Myth Wukong Deluxe Edition succeeds as a premium mechanical keyboard that integrates game theming without compromising technical performance. The solid construction, comprehensive customization options, and attention to acoustic engineering justify the premium price. Strengths: Premium materials and construction quality throughout Excellent wireless performance with true 1000 Hz polling Comprehensive customization through QMK firmware and web tools Superior acoustic engineering compared to typical gaming keyboards Authentic cultural and game design integration Hot-swappable switches enable extensive personalization Considerations: Premium pricing limits appeal to mainstream gaming market 75% layout may not suit users requiring dedicated number pads Limited availability The Deluxe Edition is available now through Keychron's website for $259, with the standard version available for $199. Limited production numbers suggest availability windows may be constrained for interested buyers. Filed Under: Gaming News, Hardware, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
.jpeg%3Fwidth%3D1171%26auto%3Dwebp%26quality%3D75%26crop%3D3%3A2%2Csmart%26trim%3D&w=3840&q=100)
Scotsman
26-07-2025
- Scotsman
Keychron K2 HE and K3 Max review
The latest keyboards in Keychron's range bring different attributes to the party - but they both impress | Keychron This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on items purchased through this article, but that does not affect our editorial judgement. Consumer technology writer Gareth Butterfield tests Keychron's latest keyboards, which promise to bring serious style and substance to your setup Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Keychron is a company that continues to impress me. Their range of keyboards varies from slim and compact, to hefty and robust, and I've always found them a joy to use. Their two latest launches are the K2 HE and the K3 Max. They're both wireless, both customisable, and both beautifully made. I've been testing each one for a few weeks, and this is how they performed. Compact and lightweight, the K3 Max packs a lot of features into a small space | Keychron Starting small with one of Keychron's most compact keyboards yet, the K3 Max is a minimalist's dream. Plonk it on your desk and look at it from overhead, and it just looks like a neatly laid-out cluster of keys. There are no borders. The edges of the outer keys overhang the base. It might be small, but it's still mighty, though. There's a solid feel to it, which means it's not going to slide around, and the keys are extremely slim. It's actually only 22mm in thickness at the wider end, and 17mm at the narrow end, which makes it one of the slimmest mechanical keyboards out there. Despite this size, it packs in a hefty battery, a backlighting system, customisable keys, and adjustable angles. It's incredibly slim, but still has all the features of a normal-sized premium keyboard | Keychron Priced from £89.99, it's aimed at those who look for a premium keyboard, and you'll pay more if you want more colours, or a hot-swappable version, but it really does have the features to match up to the price point. For example, the Gateron low-profile mechanical switches are weighted beautifully, with one set making some lovely satisfying noises without being in any way loud, and another set available to give you that classic clacking sound. It can link up to PCs and Macs through 2.4 GHz wireless, Bluetooth 5.1, and it will even support wired connections. And with a 1000 Hz polling rate, gamers are likely to be impressed. There's no numerical keypad here, and the brutal slimming process does mean the keys are at a sharp angle, which won't suit everyone. Would I use it every day at my desk? Probably not. Its compact size is a great space saver, but it's better suited to travellers. And that's where it finds its niche. If you're after a premium mechanical keyboard that can slot neatly into a bag and be ready for serious work whenever you are, this is it. There are other slim mechanical keyboards out there, but they're honestly not as good as this. The K2 HE is a design classic, and feels absolutely gorgeous in the hand | Keychron I was not ready to be quite as impressed as I was by the K2 HE, but when I got it out of the box, it was a bit of showstopper. Unlike the K3 Max, it's heavy and thick. It doesn't feel like any keyboard I've picked up before. Keychron sent me the £139.99 Special Edition version, with rosewood frames. And it felt more like a piece of furniture than a keyboard. If anything, it looks old-fashioned with this wooden bezel, but the tech built in is far from antique. It has Keychron's fabulous Gateron double-rail magnetic switches, which are just the loveliest things to type on. It connects through 2.4 GHz wireless or Bluetooth 5.1, and there's an RGB backlighting system. There's a standard version without the wooden accents - but the special edition is so nice | Keychron As with the K3 Max, everything is tuneable and customisable, and the switches able to detect variations in travel of at least 0.1mm, so it's incredibly responsive. Despite its weight, it's fairly compact, but that does mean there's no numerical keypad. And it's fair to say if you go for a super-modern look on your desk, this won't be for you. Even the standard edition without those elegant wooden accents looks a trifle retro. But it's just so wonderfully tactile and comfortable to use, and so reassuringly well made, you can't help but relish in the experience of using it. I realise £130 is a lot of money for a 75% keyboard but, trust me, there are far more expensive options out there. And, unlike some of its competitors, this one feels like it's worth every penny. Canva Get beach-ready with MySweetSmile's gentle teeth whitening range £ 20.99 Buy now Buy now Sunshine, selfies and holiday cocktails – summer is here, and so are all the moments you'll want to capture with a glowing smile. Whether you're jetting off for a beach escape or heading to a sunny staycation, MySweetSmile can help you look your best. This UK best-seller offers peroxide-free, gentle whitening that works its magic without harsh ingredients or faff. Their powder is perfect for whitening before take-off, while the handy on-the-go pen is great for keeping your smile photo-ready poolside. Shop the full MySweetSmile summer-ready range here.
.jpeg%3Fwidth%3D1171%26auto%3Dwebp%26quality%3D75%26crop%3D3%3A2%2Csmart%26trim%3D&w=3840&q=100)
Scotsman
26-07-2025
- Scotsman
Keychron K2 HE and K3 Max review
The latest keyboards in Keychron's range bring different attributes to the party - but they both impress | Keychron This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on items purchased through this article, but that does not affect our editorial judgement. Consumer technology writer Gareth Butterfield tests Keychron's latest keyboards, which promise to bring serious style and substance to your setup Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Keychron is a company that continues to impress me. Their range of keyboards varies from slim and compact, to hefty and robust, and I've always found them a joy to use. Their two latest launches are the K2 HE and the K3 Max. They're both wireless, both customisable, and both beautifully made. I've been testing each one for a few weeks, and this is how they performed. Compact and lightweight, the K3 Max packs a lot of features into a small space | Keychron Starting small with one of Keychron's most compact keyboards yet, the K3 Max is a minimalist's dream. Plonk it on your desk and look at it from overhead, and it just looks like a neatly laid-out cluster of keys. There are no borders. The edges of the outer keys overhang the base. It might be small, but it's still mighty, though. There's a solid feel to it, which means it's not going to slide around, and the keys are extremely slim. It's actually only 22mm in thickness at the wider end, and 17mm at the narrow end, which makes it one of the slimmest mechanical keyboards out there. Despite this size, it packs in a hefty battery, a backlighting system, customisable keys, and adjustable angles. It's incredibly slim, but still has all the features of a normal-sized premium keyboard | Keychron Priced from £89.99, it's aimed at those who look for a premium keyboard, and you'll pay more if you want more colours, or a hot-swappable version, but it really does have the features to match up to the price point. For example, the Gateron low-profile mechanical switches are weighted beautifully, with one set making some lovely satisfying noises without being in any way loud, and another set available to give you that classic clacking sound. It can link up to PCs and Macs through 2.4 GHz wireless, Bluetooth 5.1, and it will even support wired connections. And with a 1000 Hz polling rate, gamers are likely to be impressed. There's no numerical keypad here, and the brutal slimming process does mean the keys are at a sharp angle, which won't suit everyone. Would I use it every day at my desk? Probably not. Its compact size is a great space saver, but it's better suited to travellers. And that's where it finds its niche. If you're after a premium mechanical keyboard that can slot neatly into a bag and be ready for serious work whenever you are, this is it. There are other slim mechanical keyboards out there, but they're honestly not as good as this. The K2 HE is a design classic, and feels absolutely gorgeous in the hand | Keychron I was not ready to be quite as impressed as I was by the K2 HE, but when I got it out of the box, it was a bit of showstopper. Unlike the K3 Max, it's heavy and thick. It doesn't feel like any keyboard I've picked up before. Keychron sent me the £139.99 Special Edition version, with rosewood frames. And it felt more like a piece of furniture than a keyboard. If anything, it looks old-fashioned with this wooden bezel, but the tech built in is far from antique. It has Keychron's fabulous Gateron double-rail magnetic switches, which are just the loveliest things to type on. It connects through 2.4 GHz wireless or Bluetooth 5.1, and there's an RGB backlighting system. There's a standard version without the wooden accents - but the special edition is so nice | Keychron As with the K3 Max, everything is tuneable and customisable, and the switches able to detect variations in travel of at least 0.1mm, so it's incredibly responsive. Despite its weight, it's fairly compact, but that does mean there's no numerical keypad. And it's fair to say if you go for a super-modern look on your desk, this won't be for you. Even the standard edition without those elegant wooden accents looks a trifle retro. But it's just so wonderfully tactile and comfortable to use, and so reassuringly well made, you can't help but relish in the experience of using it. I realise £130 is a lot of money for a 75% keyboard but, trust me, there are far more expensive options out there. And, unlike some of its competitors, this one feels like it's worth every penny.
