Keychron has been working hard to refresh its mechanical keyboard lineup with features that appeal to enthusiasts. They've added better customization options through QMK/VIA and introduced new materials and case designs to enhance sound quality. Now, the Keychron K3, which is a 75% keyboard, is receiving a significant upgrade with the launch of the Keychron K3 QMK Version 3.
Major Firmware Update
One of the most notable upgrades to the K3 is the inclusion of QMK firmware. This allows users to remap keys, switch layers, and customize their keyboards using a web application. This is a big win for Linux and macOS users, as they can modify their keyboards without needing to borrow a Windows computer or set up a dual-boot system.
Portable and Lightweight Design
The Keychron K3 QMK V3 is a low-profile wireless mechanical keyboard, making it ideal for those who need a portable option. It offers both USB type-C connectivity with a polling rate of 1,000 Hz and Bluetooth options. The design includes floating keycaps, an aluminum top case/plate, and an ABS bottom case, all while keeping the weight at just 540 g.
Configuration and Sound Features
The Keychron K3 Version 3 QMK is offered in three different configurations. Along with its upgraded internals, the K3 QMK V3 features various sound-absorbing materials like latex and IXPE foams placed between the plate and PCB, as well as EPDM case foam and a PET film between the PCB and the bottom case. It's important for buyers to pay attention to which version they select since only the hot-swap version makes it easy to customize stabilizers, switches, and acoustics.
The RGB backlit version, priced at $104, is the only model currently available with hot-swappable switches. For the other two versions, users can pick between red linear and brown tactile low-profile switches. As with previous models, these switches are a collaboration between Keychron and Gateron. The K3 V3 is equipped with Keychron Low Profile 2.0 mechanical switches, which come pre-lubed and provide a balanced actuation force of 45 gf with a total travel distance of 3.1 mm. The brown tactile switch has a pre-travel distance of 1.7 mm, while the red switch has a shorter pre-travel distance of 1.3 mm.
Keycap Quality and Battery Life
Similar to its predecessor, the K3 QMK V3 features double-shot, shine-through keycaps that ensure the legends won't fade over time. However, it continues to use ABS keycaps, which many keyboard enthusiasts prefer for their feel compared to PBT. The K3 V3 also maintains the same 1550 mAh battery capacity as the V2, but with an improved controller and the upgrade to Bluetooth 5.2, the estimated battery life without backlighting has increased from 70 hours to an impressive 124 hours.
Currently, the Keychron K3 QMK V3 can only be purchased directly from Keychron, but it is expected to be available on their official Amazon store soon.
