Keychron Q1 Pro
A gasket-mounted aluminum QMK/VIA wireless mechanical keyboard that sounds great but makes you question why you'd pay this much for a plastic battery case.
Design & Build
Let’s get this out of the way: the Keychron Q1 Pro is mostly aluminum. The top case, the plate, the knob – all metal. But flip it over and you’re greeted by a plastic bottom. At $199, that’s like ordering a steak and getting a side of canned vegetables. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s disappointing. The gasket mount is well-executed, giving a bouncy, flexy typing feel that’s rare in pre-built boards. The knob is smooth, the USB-C port is recessed, and the overall aesthetic is clean – if a bit generic.
Performance & Typing Feel
Typing on the Q1 Pro is a joy. The gasket mount, combined with the PC plate and included foam, produces a deep, creamy sound – not too clacky, not too muted. Out of the box, the stabilizers are passable but not great; you’ll want to lube them or swap them. The hot-swap sockets (5-pin) make switch swapping easy. I tested with Gateron G Pro Browns and they felt smooth, but the board really shines with heavier tactile or linear switches.
Wireless & Battery Life
Here’s the rub: Bluetooth only. No 2.4GHz dongle. For a $200 keyboard in 2024, that’s a miss. Latency is fine for typing, but gamers will notice. Battery life is rated at 35 hours with RGB off, which is mediocre. With RGB on, you’re looking at maybe 10 hours. The battery is a 4000mAh cell, but the power-hungry Bluetooth module and RGB drain it fast. Charging via USB-C takes about 3 hours.
Software & Features
QMK and VIA support is a huge plus. You can remap every key, create macros, and adjust lighting without installing bloatware. The board also has a physical switch for Mac/Windows layout, which is convenient. The knob is programmable, but out of the box it controls volume.
The Competition
At $199, the Q1 Pro competes with the likes of the Wooting 60HE+ (better for gaming), the Ducky One 3 Mini (cheaper, but plastic), and the original Q1 (wired, but all aluminum). If wireless is a must, the Q1 Pro is a strong contender, but the plastic bottom and battery life hold it back.
The Verdict
The Keychron Q1 Pro is a great keyboard that could have been amazing. The typing feel is top-tier, the build is mostly premium, and the software support is excellent. But the plastic bottom, mediocre battery life, and lack of 2.4GHz make it a compromise. If you’re building a wireless desk setup and value feel over perfection, it’s a solid pick. Otherwise, save $50 and get the wired Q1.