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Geeky GK61 Gaming Keyboard vs Keychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

Researched, not hands-on tested.How we review ›

all judged against mechanical keyboards at a similar price

The Keychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard scores 7.7/10 overall, ahead of the Geeky GK61 Gaming Keyboard at 4.6/10.

The Keychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard leads on typing feel, build quality, customisation, connectivity, layout and ergonomics and battery and software.

The biggest difference is build quality, where the Keychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard scores 9/10 to the Geeky GK61 Gaming Keyboard's 4/10.

GK61 Gaming Keyboard - US Layout

Geeky GK61 Gaming Keyboard

4.6/10verdict: skip

The GK61 is a wired 60% mechanical keyboard for buyers who want a small, hot-swappable board with RGB lighting on a tight budget. It suits people who are happy with an ANSI US layout and a choice of six switch types. It is less suited to anyone who wants QMK or VIA, wireless connections or a full-size layout.

Typically about £32.30 in the UK when we researched itCheck price at Amazon UK (opens in a new tab, affiliate link)

Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Details

Keychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

Keychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

7.7/10verdict: buy

The Keychron Q1 Max is for typists who want a premium 75% wireless board with a metal case and full control over the keymap. It suits people who work across macOS, Windows and Linux and want to swap switches without soldering. It is less suited to anyone who wants a light, low-profile board or relies mainly on Bluetooth.

Typically about £219.99 in the UK when we researched itSearch Amazon UK (opens in a new tab, affiliate link)

Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Details

Scores, criterion by criterion

CriterionWeightGeeky GK61 Gaming KeyboardKeychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Typing feel25%5/107/10
Build quality20%4/109/10
Customisation20%5/109/10
Connectivity15%5/107/10
Layout and ergonomics10%4/106/10
Battery and software10%4/107/10
Overall4.6/107.7/10

Specifications

SpecGeeky GK61 Gaming KeyboardKeychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
LayoutANSI US (QWERTY), 60% form factor, 61 keys75%, ANSI, with knob
SwitchesBlack, Blue, Brown, Red, Speed Yellow, Speed Silver (Amazon UK variant: Mechanical Red)Gateron Jupiter Red, Brown or Banana; hot-swappable
Hot-swappableYes (Mechanical and Optical models; GK61 SE has no hot-swap)Yes; sockets accept 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches
ConnectivityUSB-C wired, 1.5 m detachable cable2.4 GHz, Bluetooth (up to 3 devices), wired; 1000 Hz polling on 2.4 GHz and wired, 90 Hz on Bluetooth
Firmware (QMK / VIA)Windows software; no QMK or VIA support documentedQMK with VIA support; Keychron Launcher web app for remapping and macros; macOS, Windows and Linux
KeycapsABS, doubleshot, OEM profileKSA double-shot PBT, not shine-through (ANSI/UK)
Batterynot listed4000 mAh; rated up to 180 hours with backlight off

Strengths and weaknesses

Geeky GK61 Gaming Keyboard

  • + Hot-swap sockets on most models
  • + Six switch types to choose from
  • + Owners praise value and RGB lighting
  • − Windows software only, no QMK or VIA
  • − Stabiliser and key rattle reports
  • − ABS case and keycaps; build reports mixed

Skip it if:

  • Buyers who want QMK or VIA remapping without Windows-only software
  • Anyone who needs a UK ISO layout or a full-size keyboard
  • People who want Bluetooth or 2.4GHz wireless connections
Read the full Geeky GK61 Gaming Keyboard review ›

Keychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

  • + Full aluminium CNC case with gasket mount
  • + QMK/VIA firmware and hot-swap sockets for 3-pin and 5-pin switches
  • + UK-ISO layout available, with 2.4GHz, Bluetooth and wired modes
  • − Heavy at about 1.72 kg, and thick
  • − Stabiliser rattle reported on some units
  • − Bluetooth polls at only 90Hz and can stutter

Skip it if:

  • Buyers who want a light keyboard to carry between desks
  • People who rely mainly on Bluetooth and need a high polling rate
  • Anyone who wants a full-size or tenkeyless layout
Read the full Keychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard review ›

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