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Keychron K9 Max specifications and in-depth review

Keychron K9 Max

Manufacturer: Keychron

The Keychron K9 Max is a mechanical keyboard with a compact (60%) layout, designed specifically for Mac users. It features a low-profile design, durable aluminum case, and RGB backlighting for a customizable typing experience.

Equipped with Keychron Milk POM Red switches, the K9 Max provides a linear feel with a 45g actuation force and 1.3mm actuation distance. It supports Bluetooth 5.2, 2.4GHz wireless, and USB connections, offering a polling rate of 1000 Hz and up to 73 hours of battery life.

Pros
  • Compact 60% layout makes the keyboard space-efficient and ideal for users with limited desk space.
  • Hot-swappable switches allow for easy customization without the need for soldering.
  • RGB backlighting with north-facing LEDs offers a customizable and visually appealing typing experience.
  • Detachable cable adds flexibility for users who need a portable or easily storable keyboard.
  • Supports Bluetooth 5.2, 2.4GHz wireless, and USB connectivity for versatile connection options.
Cons
  • No wrist rest included, which may reduce comfort during long typing sessions.
  • Does not include dedicated media keys; media controls are only accessible via the Fn key.
  • No USB passthrough or display functionality, limiting certain convenience features.
  • Lacks support for ZMK or VIA, which may limit software customization options for advanced users.
Who is this for?

The Keychron K9 Max is ideal for compact keyboard enthusiasts and Mac users seeking a space-saving, customizable solution. Its compact 60% layout makes it perfect for those with limited desk space, while the hot-swappable switches offer flexibility for users who like to experiment with different switch types. The inclusion of Bluetooth 5.2 and a detachable cable also makes it versatile for users who need both wireless and wired connectivity options, whether at home or on the go.

Who is this NOT for?

This keyboard may not be the best choice for users who require a more traditional or feature-rich setup. It lacks dedicated media keys, which may be a downside for users who rely on easy media control. Additionally, the absence of a wrist rest may lead to discomfort during extended typing sessions, and those looking for advanced software customization may find the lack of ZMK and VIA support limiting.

General info:

Keyboard type Mechanical
Keyboard layout size Compact (60%)
Profile Low-profile
connectivity Wireless & wired
connection type Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, USB
polling rate 1000 Hz
Battery life 73 hours
designed for Mac ✓
has a detachable cable ✓
height 116 mm
width 306 mm
thickness 24.5 mm
weight 426 g
Bluetooth version 5.2
release date July 2025
warranty period 1 years

The Keychron K9 Max is a compact (60%) mechanical keyboard with a low-profile design, offering both wireless and wired connectivity. It features Bluetooth 5.2 support, a 1000 Hz polling rate, and a 73-hour battery life. The keyboard is designed for Mac users and includes a detachable cable for flexible usage. With a height of 116 mm, width of 306 mm, and thickness of 24.5 mm, the keyboard weighs 426 g, making it portable yet robust.

Design:

has RGB lighting ✓
Has a backlit keyboard ✓
Case material Aluminum
Case colors Black
has adjustable feet ✓
includes a wrist rest ✕
Backlight facing direction North-facing

The Keychron K9 Max features a sleek black aluminum case and comes with customizable RGB backlighting that is north-facing for optimal lighting visibility. The keyboard includes adjustable feet for improved ergonomics, though it does not come with a wrist rest. Its modern design combines durability with style, making it a visually appealing choice for users.

Switches:

Switch type Mechanical
Switch feel Linear
Hot-swappable switches ✓
Switch name Keychron Milk POM Red Switch
Actuation distance (min) 1.3 mm
Actuation distance (max) 1.3 mm
Actuation force 45 g
Total travel distance 3.1 mm

The Keychron K9 Max features mechanical Keychron Milk POM Red switches, known for their linear feel with a smooth keypress. These switches have an actuation force of 45 g and an actuation distance of 1.3 mm, offering a fast and responsive typing experience. Additionally, the keyboard supports hot-swappable switches, allowing users to easily customize their switch preferences without soldering. The total travel distance is 3.1 mm, ensuring a comfortable and consistent typing performance.

Features:

has analog input ✕
has rapid trigger ✓
has dual actuation ✕
has adjustable actuation ✕
has NKRO ✓
has USB passthrough ✕
Has a display ✕
has QMK support ✓
has ZMK support ✕
has VIA support ✕

The Keychron K9 Max comes equipped with several advanced features, including rapid trigger support for quicker key responses and NKRO (N-Key Rollover) for unlimited simultaneous key presses. It also supports QMK firmware for extensive customization, though it does not offer support for dual actuation, adjustable actuation, USB passthrough, or displays. Additionally, the keyboard does not include analog input or VIA support, and it lacks ZMK support.

Keys & layout:

Keyboard layout ANSI (United States)
Keycap type PBT, Double-shot
uses a standard key layout ✓
Media keys Via Fn key
has a rotary dial ✕

The Keychron K9 Max features a standard ANSI (United States) keyboard layout and high-quality PBT, Double-shot keycaps for enhanced durability. Media controls are accessed via the Fn key, while the keyboard does not include a rotary dial. It maintains a traditional key layout and does not deviate from the standard configuration.

Final Verdict

The Keychron K9 Max is a versatile and compact mechanical keyboard, designed for Mac users who prioritize a space-efficient 60% layout and customizable typing experience. With features like hot-swappable switches and Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity, it offers flexibility and portability for various use cases. While it lacks some convenience features like dedicated media keys and a wrist rest, its solid build quality and functional design make it a strong choice for users seeking a compact, customizable keyboard.