Keychron’s B11 Pro adds VIA and tri‑mode wireless, but whether it truly beats the cheaper ProtoArc XK03 remains to be seen.
Keychron has just released the B11 Pro, their own iteration of the foldable, portable ergonomic keyboard, with a split, 65% Alice layout. In terms of specs, it offers:
- Layout: 65% Alice (Split-angle ergonomic layout).
- Connectivity: Tri-mode support: 2.4 GHz wireless, Bluetooth 5.3, and USB-C wired.
- Performance: A 1000 Hz polling rate on the 2.4 GHz and wired modes
- Battery Life: Rated for up to 138 hours on a single charge.
- Software: Full compatibility with the Keychron Launcher (QMK/VIA) for browser-based key remapping and macros.
- Build: Scissor-switch mechanism with concave keycaps and a soft-touch PU leather back that protects the keys when folded.
- Weight: 258g
Now if it feels like déjà vu, you’re not wrong. It looks remarkably like the ProtoArc XK03, which I’ve reviewed and found it a great keyboard to throw into a backpack for international travel.
They both have concave keys, and use scissor switches, which is a departure from Keychron’s use of mechanical switches on the rest of their range. This makes sense, as even slim mechanical switches are simply too large to fit in a form factor this small.
The key differences are found under the good. Users can customise the keys on the Keychron B11 Pro using Keychron Launcher (based on VIA), something that the ProtoArc XK03 can’t do. In addition, it also comes with a 2.4 GHz USB receiver dongle in addition to supporting Bluetooth, providing a bevy of options when it comes to wireless connectivity. Both also snap shut with magnets, keeping the keyboard protected without a separate case.
I do welcome more competition into the market to provide more options, especially in this form factor. The market for this foldable form factor are rather thin, with some good ones, like the ProtoArc XK03, and the JOMAA Portable Folding Split Keyboard, and some absolutely horrible ones.
That said, I’m not yet sure if I’ll buy this for use myself. The ProtoArc XK03 is cheaper, while providing an identical form factor. I’ve been moving away from dongle life and would use Bluetooth over a separate receiver, while I’m really not sure why I’d need to customise the keyboard when I’m primarily using it for travel, and only really need it to type emails quickly and comfortably.
The difference might be in the typing experience and the level of concave in the keys. Scissor switches are not all identical, and some are better than others. I’ll likely bring this one in for a review soon to see if the extra US$20 for the Keychron B11 Pro is justified.
Keychron B11 Pro vs ProtoArc XK03: Specs Compared
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Keychron B11 Pro |
ProtoArc XK03 |
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Design |
Foldable, 65% Alice |
Foldable, 65% Alice |
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Connectivity |
Tri-mode (2.4GHz via USB dongle / Bluetooth / Wired) |
Bluetooth Only (3 Devices) |
|
Polling Rate |
1000 Hz (2.4G/Wired) |
~125 Hz (Bluetooth) |
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Software Support |
QMK/VIA (Web) |
None |
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Keycaps |
Concave (Dished) |
Concave (dished) |
|
Battery Life |
~138 Hours |
~80-100 Hours |
|
Price (US$, 2026) |
$64.99 |
$41.99 - $51.99 |
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