Keychron V3 vs V1 vs V6 – Full Comparison

So, how do you understand which Keychron model is the right one for you – the V1, the V3, or the V6?

And in this article, I’m going to give you the real, no-fluff comparison between the three that any normal human.

😄 Trust me, if you’re a gamer, writer, designer, or just someone tired of your boring old keyboard, you’ll want to read every word.

What Are the Keychron V1, V3, and V6?

Let’s start with the basics, but don’t worry, I’ll keep it fun and informative. The Keychron V Series is a family of affordable, high-quality mechanical keyboards made for customization, hot-swapping, and comfort. 

All three models share Keychron’s signature smooth typing experience, but they have some critical differences when it comes to layout, size, feel, and even vibe.

• The Keychron V1 is a 75% layout keyboard.
• The Keychron V3 is a tenkeyless (TKL) layout.
• The Keychron V6 is a full-size keyboard with a numpad.

They’re all compatible with QMK/VIA, come with great stabilizers, and they’re hot-swappable, which is a HUGE win for people like me who love experimenting with different switches.

Curious about how switches work? Check out this awesome deep dive into key switches I wrote.

Now let’s go one by one so you get the full picture. You’ll see what makes each model unique, and by the end, you’ll know exactly which one to get.

🟠 Keychron V1: Compact and Customizable

The Keychron V1 is one of the most popular models in the V-series. It has a 75% layout, meaning you get all the essential keys (function row, arrow keys, and navigation cluster) without the bulk of a numpad.

This makes it perfect for small desks or people who like a tidy workspace.

Why I Love the V1

I’ll be real with you: I use the V1 for my day-to-day work. Its compact size is a dream for productivity without feeling cramped. It’s also the most beginner-friendly when it comes to modding.

If you’re dipping your toes into the mechanical keyboard hobby, this is the place to start.

• Layout: 75% with all the essentials
• Feel: Extremely comfortable for typing
• Build: Plastic case but solid, with south-facing RGB
• Connectivity: Wired only (USB-C)

This keyboard is quiet enough for shared workspaces and great for productivity-focused users. I love that I can pop out switches and change them anytime – no soldering, just pure plug-and-play.

Want a deeper look at what makes a keyboard good for productivity? Check out my article on the best keyboards for different professions.

Pros of the V1

• Super compact and desk-friendly
• Hot-swappable switches
• VIA compatibility for key remapping
• Great for beginners

Cons of the V1

• No numpad (could be a dealbreaker for some)
• Plastic build (but hey, it’s quality plastic)

🔵 Keychron V3: The TKL Masterpiece

Next up is the Keychron V3 – a Tenkeyless layout that strikes a perfect balance between form and function. If you want a bit more space than the V1, but you don’t need a full numpad, this is your guy.

What Makes the V3 Special

This keyboard is a bit larger than the V1, which means you have more room for your hands to breathe while keeping the desk clutter-free. It’s also ideal for gamers because you get more key spacing, which is critical in competitive settings. I used it during long gaming sessions, and my hands thanked me later.

• Layout: TKL (Tenkeyless)
• Design: Sleek, minimal, with beautiful RGB
• Build: Sturdy plastic with a great weight
• Software: VIA-compatible, just like its siblings

If you’re gaming or doing productivity tasks but still want a more traditional keyboard feel, the V3 is like the perfect middle child. Not too big, not too small – just right.

Speaking of gaming, check this out: The best keyboards for competitive gaming – it’ll make your life easier.

Pros of the V3

• Ideal for both gamers and office work
• Sleek and clean design
• Slightly more ergonomic than the V1
• High-quality stabilizers for smooth typing

Cons of the V3

• Still no numpad (if you love spreadsheets, look elsewhere)
• A little bulkier than the V1

🟢 Keychron V6: Full Size, Full Power

Now we’re talking full-size beast mode. The Keychron V6 is the go-to for people who want it all. It includes a numpad, full navigation cluster, and even better ergonomics due to its extended layout.

Why the V6 Is a Heavy Hitter

I’ll admit, I use the V6 whenever I’m editing spreadsheets or doing any type of data input. The numpad alone is worth it. I know some people think full-size boards are too big, but honestly? The V6 doesn’t feel bulky thanks to its smooth design and smart layout.

• Layout: Full-size (104 keys)
• Weight: Heavier, but balanced
• Features: Numpad, programmable keys, RGB
• Comfort: Typing on it feels luxurious

For programmers, writers, and even sound editors, this keyboard is a dream come true. Want to see which keyboards are best for music work? I’ve got an article just for that: Keyboards for music production.

Pros of the V6

• Full key access including numpad
• Best for productivity and power users
• Premium typing experience
• Great for customization and mods

Cons of the V6

• Larger footprint (you’ll need desk space)
• Slightly heavier

Comparison Table: V1 vs V3 vs V6

🔗 Want to learn more about how layout impacts typing experience? Read this piece from Wikipedia.

See More

• 
  Best Mac-Friendly Keyboards for iOS and Xcode Developers
• 
  QWERTY Layout Explained: Why It Was Designed This Way
• 
  QWERTY vs. Colemak: The Battle for Typing Efficiency

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Let me be totally honest with you: there’s no wrong choice here, but depending on how you plan to use your keyboard, one of these will fit your life better than the others.

• Go with the V1 if you’re just starting or have limited desk space.
• Choose the V3 if you want the perfect blend of size and performance.
• Pick the V6 if you need the numpad and don’t mind the larger size.

Personally? I switch between the V1 and V6 depending on what I’m doing. And hey, if you’re a modder or enthusiast like me, having multiple keyboards is totally normal.

Check out more helpful content like this on Keyboards Technology — and don’t miss this awesome tier list!

If you liked this article, don’t forget to share it with your friends, and drop a comment below telling me which Keychron model you’re using.

And hey, check out more of my blog at Keyboards Technology