keyboards.sh
Keychron K1 SE

Keychron

Keychron K1 SE

Released 2021

Researched from maker specs and published sources. Last checked Oct 18, 2026.

$60–$75

K1 SE, from Keychron's store

The K1 SE is the budget-tier low-profile TKL: ABS keycaps, a 190-hour battery rating, optical or mechanical switch options and about 550 g. The maker lists no QMK support on this version.

TKL layout Tri-mode Hot-swap QMK/VIA Low profile

Our take, based on research

The no-frills K1. The long battery rating is the main draw.

Overview

The K1 SE is a simpler K1. Keychron's page lists an 80% TKL, Bluetooth plus wired at 1000 Hz, hot-swappable low-profile Gateron mechanical or Keychron optical switches, an ABS-and-aluminum tray-mount case, LSA ABS keycaps that are not shine-through, a four-level backlight, a 2000 mAh battery rated up to 190 hours, about 550 g and 355 x 120 mm. The spec table lists macOS, Windows and Linux support but does not mention QMK or the Launcher.

No review of the SE was found. AppleInsider's K1 Pro review is the nearest evidence on the line: it praised the slim TKL, stabilizers with no spacebar wobble and three-step feet, although the Pro has QMK/VIA and PBT keycaps that the SE does not list.

The SE is for people who want the lightest, longest-lasting K1 and do not need programmability.

Pros & Cons

Strengths
  • Light at about 550 g (maker)
  • Battery rated up to 190 hours, above the K1's 160 and the K1 Max's 95 (maker)
  • Optical or mechanical low-profile switch options
  • Hot-swappable
  • Bluetooth plus wired
What Could Be Better
  • No QMK or Launcher support is listed by the maker
  • ABS keycaps that are not shine-through
  • No 2.4 GHz option
  • Simpler spec than the K1 Pro
  • No review of this model was found

Who Is This For?

Perfect For
  • Travelers and office typists who want a slim TKL with long battery life
  • Buyers who want optical low-profile switches
  • People who do not need remapping software
Maybe Not For
  • QMK/VIA users
  • Buyers who want PBT keycaps
  • Anyone who needs a dongle

Where to Buy

Specifications
Full technical details

Dimensions

355 x 120 mm

Weight

About 550 g

Case Material

ABS with aluminum Frame

Connectivity

Both


Mounting Style Tray Mount
Typing Angle Not listed
Front Height Not listed
Switch Type Low Profile
Profile Low Profile
Keycaps LSA ABS keycaps, not shine-through
PCB Hot-swap
Battery 2000 mAh, up to 190 hours
Compatible Switches Keychron low-profile

Plate Options

Not listed

Case Colors

See the store

Software Support

QMK

NKRO
RGB

Similar Keyboards

View all

Looking for something different?

Browse All Keyboards