Keychron Q1 Max vs Glorious GMMK Pro
Which is the better pick? We compared ratings from professional reviewers to help you decide.
Quick verdict
Keychron Q1 Max
Glorious GMMK Pro
Keychron Q1 Max scores higher with a 4.4/5 average across professional reviews from 0 sources.
The Keychron Q1 Max is the wireless evolution of the popular Q1, adding 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connectivity with an impressive 8000Hz polling rate. It maintains all the premium features of the original Q1 while offering the convenience of wireless use. The main trade-offs are higher price and slightly reduced battery life with RGB enabled.
Strengths
- +Wireless connectivity with 2.4GHz, Bluetooth, and wired options
- +8000Hz polling rate for ultra-responsive gaming
- +QMK/VIA support for deep customization
- +Premium aluminum case with gasket mount design
- +Hot-swappable PCB with broad switch compatibility
- +Long battery life with fast charging
- +South-facing RGB LEDs
- +Improved firmware efficiency with ZMK
Watch-outs
- −More expensive than wired Q1
- −Heavier than many wireless alternatives
- −Battery life decreases with RGB on
- −2.4GHz dongle can be easily lost
- −Some users report occasional connectivity issues
- −Premium price point
The Glorious GMMK Pro is a popular entry point into the custom keyboard hobby with its premium aluminum case and extensive customization options. While it offers excellent build quality and QMK/VIA support, it comes as a barebones kit requiring additional purchases. The stabilizers often need work, and the price is steep for what you get out of the box.
Strengths
- +Premium CNC aluminum case with excellent build quality
- +Hot-swappable PCB with 3-pin and 5-pin switch support
- +Rotary encoder knob included for media control
- +QMK/VIA support for deep customization
- +75% layout with arrow keys and function row
- +Gasket-mounted design for satisfying typing feel
- +RGB backlighting with south-facing LEDs
- +Wide aftermarket support for custom parts
Watch-outs
- −Barebones design requires own switches and keycaps
- −Stabilizers need lubing out of the box
- −Heavy and not portable
- −Expensive for a barebones kit
- −Firmware can be tricky to set up initially
- −Some units have PCB flex issues
Specifications comparison
| Spec | Keychron Q1 Max | Glorious GMMK Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Layout | 75% | 75% |
| Switches | Hot-swap (Gateron) | Hot-swap |
| Connectivity | BT 5.1 / 2.4GHz / USB-C | USB-C |
| Battery | 2000mAh | N/A (wired) |
| Frame | CNC Aluminum | CNC Aluminum |
| Keycaps | Double-shot PBT | ABS (stock) |