Keychron
Keychron V1 QMK 75% Keyboard
Best entry-level mechanical keyboard for custom build enthusiasts.
The Keychron V1 is a compact 75% mechanical keyboard designed for users seeking customization and enhanced productivity. It's an excellent choice for keyboard enthusiasts looking to explore custom builds, typists desiring a comfortable typing experience, and creatives who can leverage its programmable controls. This keyboard features a reliable wired connection and supports QMK firmware, offering flexibility for both macOS and Windows operating systems. Its versatile design makes it suitable for a wide range of users. The Keychron V1 is an accessible and affordable 75% layout mechanical keyboard designed for custom keyboard enthusiasts. It features a solid ABS plastic casing and a tray mount design for a balanced typing experience. With QMK/VIA support, hot-swappable PCB, and south-facing RGB lighting, it offers extensive customization options. The keyboard is compatible with both macOS and Windows, and comes with OSA Doubleshot PBT keycaps and Keychron K Pro switches (Red or Brown) in its assembled versions. It's an excellent entry point into the custom keyboard world.
$44.00
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Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
1052
/ 3654
#1052 in Keyboards
Price vs Category Average
-69%
Below average
Layout Size
75
/ %
Who it's for
- Power users needing personalized layouts and complex macro workflows
- Typists seeking a premium, tactile feel on a budget
- Beginners entering the custom mechanical keyboard hobby affordably
Who should skip it
- Users requiring wireless freedom or a clutter-free desk setup
- Enthusiasts preferring the weight and acoustics of premium metal cases
- Customizers planning to install specific Cherry profile keycap sets
Performance breakdown
Customization Depth
QMK and VIA support offer near-limitless remapping and macro potential.
Typing Feel
Tray mount design provides a consistent, reliable feel for daily typing.
Switch Versatility
Hot-swappable PCB makes experimenting with different mechanical switches incredibly simple.
Acoustic Performance
Integrated foam and silicone pads effectively dampen unwanted hollow plastic resonance.
Build Quality
Sturdy ABS plastic construction offers durability without the premium metal weight.
Control Ergonomics
The rotary knob adds intuitive tactile control for volume and media.
Key Specs
Layout Size
75%
Dimensions
18 x 149 x 329 mm
Weight
995g
Case Material
Plastic, ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Connection
Wired
Mount Style
Tray Mount
QMK/VIA Support
Yes
Features
- Compact 75% layout for a balance of functionality and desk space
- QMK/VIA Support for extensive customization
- Hot-swappable PCB allows for easy switch changes
- South-facing RGB lighting for vibrant aesthetics
- Includes sound-absorbing foam and case silicone pad for improved acoustics
- Comes with screw-in PCB stabilizers for enhanced stability
- Available in barebone or assembled configurations
- System toggle for macOS and Windows with saved layouts
- Optional knob version available for added control
- Includes a rotary knob for intuitive control of volume or other functions
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Keychron V1 QMK 75% Keyboard for its exceptional quality and outstanding value. Many highlight the satisfying typing experience, attributing it to the robust build and well implemented gasket mount design. Users appreciate the premium feel and sound profile, often noting it surpasses expectations for its price point. The extensive customization options, including QMK VIA support and hot swappable switches, further enhance its appeal, making it a highly recommended choice for both newcomers and enthusiasts seeking a feature rich, high quality keyboard without a premium cost.
Know before you buy
Yes, the Keychron V1 features a hot-swappable PCB. This allows you to easily pull out and replace the mechanical switches with any compatible 3-pin or 5-pin MX-style switch without needing to solder.
Absolutely. The keyboard includes a physical toggle switch on the back that lets you easily switch between macOS and Windows layouts, and it comes with specific keycaps for both operating systems.
QMK and VIA software allow you to remap every key on the keyboard, create custom macros, and adjust lighting effects. It gives you complete control over your layout, which is especially useful for creative workflows or gaming.
Yes, the rotary knob is fully programmable via VIA. By default, it is set to control volume, but you can customize it to handle tasks like zooming, adjusting brush sizes, or scrolling through media.
The V1 uses a tray mount design and includes sound-absorbing foam and a silicone pad to improve acoustics. While it is an entry-level board, these features provide a more refined, dampened sound and a consistent feel compared to standard office keyboards.
No, the Keychron V1 is a wired-only keyboard. It connects to your computer using the included USB-C cable, ensuring a stable, low-latency connection without the need for batteries.
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