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Keychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard vs Logitech MX Mechanical Mini Wireless 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 Logitech MX Mechanical Mini Wireless Keyboard at 5.1/10.

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

The Logitech MX Mechanical Mini Wireless Keyboard leads on battery and software.

The biggest difference is customisation, where the Keychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard scores 9/10 to the Logitech MX Mechanical Mini Wireless Keyboard's 3/10.

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

Logitech MX Mechanical Mini Wireless Keyboard

Logitech MX Mechanical Mini Wireless Keyboard

5.1/10verdict: good, not the best

The MX Mechanical Mini suits people who want a compact wireless keyboard with a choice of switch type and long battery life. It fits those who pair it with up to three devices and don't need deep remapping. Buyers who want QMK, VIA or a confirmed UK ISO layout should read the limits below first.

Typically about £129.99 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

CriterionWeightKeychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical KeyboardLogitech MX Mechanical Mini Wireless Keyboard
Typing feel25%7/105/10
Build quality20%9/106/10
Customisation20%9/103/10
Connectivity15%7/106/10
Layout and ergonomics10%6/103/10
Battery and software10%7/108/10
Overall7.7/105.1/10

Specifications

SpecKeychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical KeyboardLogitech MX Mechanical Mini Wireless Keyboard
Layout75%, ANSI, with knobCompact 65%/75% (sources conflict; Best Buy lists Compact 60%); 312.60 × 131.55 × 26.10 mm, 612 g; UK ISO not selectable on UK store page
SwitchesGateron Jupiter Red, Brown or Banana; hot-swappableTactile Quiet, Clicky or Linear, chosen at purchase
Hot-swappableYes; sockets accept 3-pin and 5-pin MX switchesnot listed
Connectivity2.4 GHz, Bluetooth (up to 3 devices), wired; 1000 Hz polling on 2.4 GHz and wired, 90 Hz on BluetoothBluetooth Low Energy and Logi Bolt USB receiver; Easy-Switch pairs up to three devices
Firmware (QMK / VIA)QMK with VIA support; Keychron Launcher web app for remapping and macros; macOS, Windows and LinuxNot QMK or VIA; customisation via Logi Options+ on Windows and macOS
KeycapsKSA double-shot PBT, not shine-through (ANSI/UK)ABS
Battery4000 mAh; rated up to 180 hours with backlight offRechargeable Li-Po, 1500 mAh, USB-C; up to 15 days with backlighting, up to 10 months with it off

Strengths and weaknesses

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 ›

Logitech MX Mechanical Mini Wireless Keyboard

  • + Battery lasts up to 10 months with backlight off
  • + Sturdy chassis with no flex, according to owners
  • + Tactile Quiet, Clicky or Linear switches at purchase
  • − Owners report stabiliser rattle and noise
  • − No QMK or VIA; remapping limited to Logi Options+
  • − UK ISO not selectable on the UK store page

Skip it if:

  • Anyone who wants QMK, VIA or open-firmware remapping
  • Typists who need a confirmed UK ISO layout or adjustable tilt
  • Buyers sensitive to stabiliser rattle in a shared space
Read the full Logitech MX Mechanical Mini Wireless Keyboard review ›

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