Head-to-head · Best Mechanical Keyboards

Keychron Q1 vs Mode SixtyFive

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Mode SixtyFive comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.3 vs 4.4). The gap is mostly about Collectors and serious typists seeking customization — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #5 in Best Mechanical Keyboards

Keychron Q1

4.3

3 sources$60as of Aug 1

A 75% layout in a CNC aluminum case, the Keychron Q1 pairs gasket mounting with QMK/VIA support, and the typing experience is what keeps enthusiasts buying it. Build quality and customization are the strong suits. Weight and price are the arguments against, and the stabilizers may need work out of the box.

Strengths

— Premium aluminum CNC-milled case with excellent build quality
— Hot-swappable PCB compatible with most mechanical switches
— Gasket-mounted design for soft, satisfying typing feel

Watch-outs

— Heavy and bulky - not ideal for portable use
— Expensive compared to plastic alternatives
— Barebones version requires own switches/keycaps

$60 · Buy at keychron.com Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #3 in Best Mechanical Keyboards

Mode SixtyFive

4.4

4 sources3 derived$299as of Aug 3

Mode Designs built the SixtyFive on its 2021 R1 predecessor, refining the technology around user feedback. Tom's Hardware praised it as a 'renewed classic' that delivers an 'intoxicatingly innovative keystroke feel.' The aluminum construction is heavy-duty, the block mount system is selectable, and semi-custom orders let you pick color and configuration. The $299 MSRP and limited international distribution, particularly in Japan, will put some buyers off. Serious typists and collectors after a high-end, customizable 65% layout are the fit; anyone on a budget or needing local support should look elsewhere.

Strengths

— Premium build quality with a massive aluminum body and accent bar that enhances both aesthetics and durability
— Innovative selectable block mount design allows for customization of keyswitches and mounting options
— Exceptional keystroke feel with a unique tactile response that stands out among 65% keyboards

Watch-outs

— Limited global availability with no Japanese sales vendors, making international purchase challenging
— Price point of $299 may be prohibitive for budget-conscious enthusiasts

Full review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Keychron Q1

The Keychron Q1 covers the same wired 75% aluminum gasket-mount territory as the Glorious GMMK Pro but can be bought fully assembled, making it the easier first board. It trades the wireless connectivity of its sibling the Keychron Q3 Max for a lower price, lacks the analog Hall-effect rapid-trigger switches of the Wooting 60HE+, and is dramatically heavier and bulkier than the travel-friendly NuPhy Air75 V2.

Mode SixtyFive

The Mode SixtyFive distinguishes itself with its selectable block mount system and unique tactile keystroke feel, which sets it apart from the Keychron Q1 Max and Drop CTRL that offer more standard switch compatibility. While the Glorious GMMK Pro provides better RGB lighting and the NuPhy Air75 V2 offers a low-profile design, the SixtyFive's semi-custom ordering system and premium aluminum construction make it ideal for collectors and serious typists.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Keychron Q1	Mode SixtyFive
Layout	75% (gasket-mounted)	—
Case Material	CNC-machined aluminum	—
Mounting	Double-gasket mount	—
Switches	Hot-swap (5-pin)	—
Connectivity	USB-C wired	USB-C
Firmware	QMK/VIA	—
Weight	3.7 lb	1.5 kg
Polling Rate	8000 Hz	—
Software	QMK Launcher	—
Top Plate	Full Metal	—
Dimensions	145 mm W x 327.5 mm L x 21.6 mm H	313mm W x 114mm D x 19.5mm H
Feet	Two-stage adjustable	—
Form Factor	—	65%
Switch Type	—	Selectable block mount
Backlight	—	None
Build Material	—	Aluminum
Battery	—	None
Keycaps	—	Not included

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