Keychron Q1 HE Keyboard Review

Keychron has stepped into the Hall Effect ring with its range of “HE” keyboards. Boasting Hall Effect Gateron double-rail magnetic switches, the “Q” HE boards take aim at enthusiast gamers who value extreme customization. This review focuses on the Q1 HE, which has a 75% layout.

Switch it up

As mentioned in the intro, the main highlight of the Keychron Q1 HE is its switches. The Hall Effect Gateron switches boast a customizable actuation point down to 0.1mm, meaning players can choose exactly when the switch activates.

Additionally, players can assign multiple functions to a key based on how far it is pressed. For example, users could have a character walk when the key is pushed halfway down, which can turn into the character sprinting when the key is pushed all the way down.

The Hall Effect advantage

In competitive shooters, Hall Effect keyboards are known for the advantage they provide in competitive shooters. Specifically, they make it easier to strafe while remaining accurate.

The feel of these switches might not be as satisfying as more traditional linears or tactiles, but the added functionality more than makes up for that. Those aiming to swap these switches out with a different set will need to consider new limitations, as the PCB only supports the magnetic variety.

Helpfully, the double-gasket design means there’s a bounce to the typing feel, which is pleasing.

Feels like quality

The outer case of the Q1 HE is impressively solid, made from aluminium. It’s reassuringly hefty, oozing a quality feel, but those considering this keyboard as a portable solution may want to think twice about the weight.

Connecting the Q1 HE is easy with its three connectivity options. There’s wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4 GHz. All work superbly well with no dropouts in my experience. I’m especially pleased with the 2.4 GHz mode and its 1,000 Hz polling rate.

The 75% layout of the Q1 HE will please many gamers who can do without the other “non-essential” keys. What’s more, it’s great to see a knob available here, which is super useful when it comes to controlling music or system sounds.

The nitpicks

When it comes to downsides, I’ve only a few nitpicks. First, I wish the stabilisers had been tuned better. Rattles from the left shift and space bar fail to rescue the “just okay” sounding switches. It’s nothing that a bit of lube won’t fix, but I was hoping a QA pass would catch this.

My other complaint comes down to the fixed angle of the Q1 HE. You either have to get used to it or choose another keyboard. I’d love to see feet included in the box to customize the height.

Disclosure: Review sample provided by Keychron.