Keychron
Keychron S1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Best ergonomic mechanical keyboard for comfort-focused typists and professionals.
Experience enhanced comfort and productivity with the Keychron V8 Max, a 65% Alice layout mechanical keyboard. It offers versatile connectivity options, including high-performance 2.4 GHz wireless and Bluetooth 5.1, allowing you to connect to up to three devices seamlessly. The gasket mount design and sound-absorbing foam provide a softer, quieter typing experience. Choose between a fully assembled version with Gateron Jupiter switches and double-shot PBT keycaps, or a barebone kit for personalized customization.
$89.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
74
/ 3654
#74 in Keyboards
Price vs Category Average
-36%
Below average
Layout
65
/ % Alice Layout
Who it's for
- Power users needing personalized workflows and complex macros
- Typists seeking a premium, stable, and satisfying tactile feel
- Productivity-focused professionals optimizing limited desk real estate
Who should skip it
- Users requiring a wireless or clutter-free desk setup
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for an entry-level mechanical board
- Commuters or remote workers needing a lightweight, portable device
Performance breakdown
Ergonomic comfort
The Alice layout naturally aligns wrists to reduce long-term typing strain.
Connectivity versatility
Seamless switching between wireless, Bluetooth, and wired modes across three devices.
Typing acoustics
Gasket mounting and internal foam create a satisfying, muted sound profile.
Customization depth
QMK support and hot-swappable switches offer endless personalization for enthusiasts.
Build quality
Durable PBT keycaps and robust construction ensure a premium, lasting feel.
Input responsiveness
High-polling 2.4 GHz wireless delivers near-instantaneous feedback for demanding tasks.
Key Specs
Layout
65% Alice Layout
Connection
2.4 GHz Wireless, Bluetooth 5.1
Polling Rate
1000 Hz (2.4 GHz)
Mounting Style
Gasket Mount
Plate Material
PC (Polycarbonate)
Keycaps
Double-shot OSA PBT
Switches
Gateron Jupiter (assembled)
OS Compatibility
Windows, macOS, Linux
Features
- Ergonomic Alice layout for typing comfort.
- Low-latency 2.4 GHz wireless connection.
- Connect and switch between three devices.
- Magnetic slot for dual Type-C/A receivers.
- Easy macOS/Windows layout switching.
- Fully customizable and replaceable parts.
- Gasket mount design for a softer feel.
- Double-shot PBT keycaps for durability.
What customers say
The Keychron S1 earns high praise for its premium build quality and superior typing feel. Users consistently highlight the solid aluminum chassis, which contributes to excellent acoustics and durability. The gasket mount system is a major draw, providing a satisfyingly soft and flexible typing experience that reduces fatigue. Advanced customization is easily achieved through full QMK/VIA compatibility, offering unparalleled control over mapping. While some users upgrade stock switches and keycaps, the overall consensus is that the S1 delivers substantial value. It successfully merges high-end custom features with the convenience of a pre-built board, making it highly recommended for serious typists.
Know before you buy
The Alice layout features an ergonomic, split-angle design that encourages a more natural wrist and arm position while typing. The 65% size keeps the keyboard compact by removing the number pad and function row, saving desk space while retaining essential navigation keys.
Yes, the keyboard is fully compatible with both operating systems. It includes a physical toggle switch to easily swap between Windows and macOS layouts, and it comes with keycaps for both platforms.
The gasket mount design uses a flexible mounting system that isolates the plate from the keyboard case. This results in a softer, more cushioned typing feel and a more consistent, muted sound profile compared to traditional tray-mount keyboards.
Yes, the 2.4 GHz wireless connection provides a 1000 Hz polling rate, which offers low-latency performance suitable for gaming. For the most stable connection during competitive play, the 2.4 GHz mode is recommended over Bluetooth.
The fully assembled version comes ready to use out of the box with Gateron Jupiter switches and double-shot PBT keycaps installed. The barebone kit excludes switches and keycaps, allowing you to choose and install your own preferred components for a fully customized build.
No, this specific model does not feature backlighting. The focus is on a clean, professional aesthetic and high-quality typing feel.
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$90