Keychron Q1 HE
VERDICT
Keychron took the premium custom keyboard hobby and made it accessible. The Q1 HE uses magnetic switches that have no physical contact points, meaning they last forever (100 million keystrokes). The "Rapid Trigger" feature is a cheat code for gamers, allowing for instant inputs the moment you lift your finger.
The Big Picture
This is a 75% layout keyboard (compact but keeps the F-keys and arrows). The body is CNC-machined aluminum, weighing nearly 2kg. It sits on your desk like a rock. It supports 2.4Ghz wireless (for gaming), Bluetooth (for work), and USB-C. It works perfectly with both Mac and Windows, with physical switches to toggle between modes.
🧲 Magnetic Switches
The Tech: Hall Effect.
Customization: Via the web app, you can set the actuation point from 0.1mm (hair-trigger) to 4.0mm (deep press). You can even assign two actions to one key: a light press to "walk" and a deep press to "run" in games.
🔇 Acoustic Foam
Thocky sound.
Build: It comes pre-installed with sound-absorbing foam and silicone gaskets. This eliminates the metallic "ping" sound found in cheap keyboards, producing a deep, satisfying "thock" sound with every keystroke.
✅ The Pros
- Durability: Built like a tank; will likely outlast your computer.
- Connectivity: 1000Hz polling rate on 2.4Ghz wireless (Lag-free gaming).
- Software: Web-based configuration (no bloatware to install).
- Hot-Swappable: You can change switches easily if you want a different feel.
❌ The Cons
- Weight: Not portable at all (too heavy to carry in a backpack).
- Price: Premium pricing ($219) for a keyboard.
- Height: The front is high; you absolutely need a wrist rest (often sold separately) for comfort.
🤔 Should you buy it?
YES if you type all day or play competitive shooters (Valorant/CS2).
NO if you prefer low-profile keyboards (get the NuPhy Air75 V2) or want something silent for a library.
See the showdown: Keychron Q1 HE vs. Wooting 60HE Comparison