Keychron is a brand known for delivering high-quality mechanical keyboards right out of the box. I previously owned a Keychron V6, but I needed a wireless option with a smaller footprint, and the Keychron V1 Max Wireless fit the bill perfectly. I was particularly impressed with the inclusion of a macOS setting and keys that match Apple's symbols. It's a relief not having to adapt to a Windows-based keyboard layout.The keyboard is a TKL (no number pad) and has a knob for controlling volume which also acts as a button (which I think will mute playing media, but I use an external sound card, so haven't tested). The button can also be customized through software.I opted for the red switches, and straight out of the box, the keyboard's feel was outstanding. The sound it produces is just the right blend of clickiness and audio feedback—what enthusiasts call 'thock' (shoutout to Hipyotech). The term 'thock' perfectly captures the tactile satisfaction you get from using this keyboard. It's a feeling you can't fully describe until you experience it, but once you do, you know.Battery Life and Lighting:With the lighting effects turned on, the Keychron V1 Max Wireless lasts about a week. When the battery is low, the lighting effects will turn off, and one key will display a red light as a warning. While I haven't tested how long it can last after this warning, it seems to run for at least a couple more hours. When you plug it in, the lights come back on, and an indicator on the back shifts from red to green once fully charged.Customization and Software:The keys and lighting effects are fully customizable via QMK/VIA, allowing you to create macros based on key combinations. This is all controlled through a web app, which I believe requires Chrome. The keyboard offers a vast selection of lighting effects, with per-key LEDs providing a richer visual experience. My favorite is the swirling beacon effect. You can also dim the lights or turn them off completely, which should extend battery life, though I haven't tested this. Lighting effects and brightness can also be controlled with key combinations that I haven't bothered learning yet.Switch and Keycap Options:The keyboard is compatible with Cherry-type switches, and Keychron offers a variety of switches and keycaps. However, you're not limited to Keychron's options. For example, I've used see-through keycaps here at Amazon on the V6 to enhance the lighting effects, and they worked seamlessly, though Mac-themed keys were missing.Connectivity and Portability:The keyboard features a USB-C port, and it comes with a basic yet functional braided USB-A to USB-C cable. Next to the port, there are two switches: one to toggle between Bluetooth, Wired, and Dongle modes, and another to switch between Mac and Windows settings.For wireless use, the keyboard can connect to multiple devices via Bluetooth (though I haven't tested it), though it’s less responsive than the dongle option, making the latter preferable for gaming. It includes both USB-A and USB-C dongles with convenient storage slots to store them, along with a USB-A to USB-C adapter. This allows you to place the dongle at the end of a USB-A cable with the adapter, saving you the trouble of reaching under your desk to plug it in. Pairing with the dongle is automatic and seamless when you switch to the dongle position.Conclusion:In summary, the Keychron V1 Max Wireless is a versatile, high-quality keyboard that offers excellent customization options and a satisfying typing experience. Whether you're a Mac user or need a reliable wireless keyboard with a smaller footprint, this keyboard is a solid choice.