Keychron C3 Pro Review

About the Keychron C3 Pro

The C3 Pro supports both Windows and Mac platforms and can toggle between layouts by pressing the FN Key + Caps keys. Thankfully, there is also software support for both platforms. Not advertised is the built-in support for Android, and Xbox Series X|S. Both my PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 consoles recognize the keyboard but are unable to control the interface nor play any game with it.

The Keychron C3 Pro available only in black. It comes with either of two variations of Keychron’s proprietary mechanical switches; red switches for a subdued sound profile and linear response and brown switches for a more tactile feel and sound. Unfortunately it's not hot-swappable, so you're stuck with the switches you order. While the only LED color is red, the keyboard does use a gasket mount found in pricier models to create a more cushioned feel while typing. Our review unit came configured with linear red switches.

There are 17 pre-programmed multi-function keys that allow you to control media playback, computer functions, and cycle between the 14 types of backlight effects. Included with the keyboard comes a USB-A to USB-C cable and a two-in-one keycap and switch remover tool.

Keychron C3 Pro Specs

• Price: $37
• Form Factor: TKL layout
• Connectivity: Detachable USB type-A to type-C cable (included)
• Dimensions: 14.35 x 5.43 x 1.25 inches
• Weight: 2.01lbs (912 grams)
• Material: Plastic
• Colors: Black
• Switches: Keychron Mechanical switches, linear red or tactile brown
• Special Features: Full QMK and VIA support, toggle Win/Mac support and 14 variations of (red only) backlighting, pre-applied acoustic foam

Keychron has the mechanical keyboard market cornered, from its high-end, solid aluminum Q series to the gaming-oriented Lemokey line to address any and every need. However, very few manufacturers have been able to break into the sub-$50 market to reach users who are simply looking for a great keyboard for their day-to-day needs.

Enter the Keychron C3 Pro, a budget-oriented board that cuts out extraneous features but delivers on core functionality. Either of the two switch options could be used within an office setting or an epic gaming session. Included with the keyboard is a standard USB-A to USB-C cable and a two-in-one keycap and switch remover tool.

The C3 Pro is a TKL-style wired gaming keyboard that sheds the numpad but otherwise loses no functionality. Out of the box, you have everything you need to handle any tasks set before you including controlling multi-media playback, system settings, and switching between one of 14 built-in LED light patterns.

But if you take the time to dive into customizing the experience via QMK and VIA support, the C3 Pro opens up to new and exciting features like keymapping and assigning custom macros on both MacOS and Windows platforms. QMK is a custom keyboard firmware, while VIA is an open-source keyboard configurator, and Keychron supports both across its entire product line. It’s heartening to see compatibility offered in an extreme budget product like the C3 Pro, too.

To test this keyboard's gaming prowess, I put it up against Starfield (PC), Among Us (Xbox Series S) and Baldur’s Gate 3 (PC). By no means am I the best of the best when it comes to these titles, but I didn’t perceive any issues in-game.

When not gaming, the C3 Pro acted as my dedicated work keyboard for several weeks. Working in a call center environment, I certainly put this keyboard through its paces, but it came out on top every single time. Like previous keyboards, I always compare it against my tried and true Logitech MX Mechanical keyboard that has served me proudly since day one.

It took a day or two to get used to not having the 10-key pad, but once I adjusted, I didn’t look back and thoroughly enjoyed the typing experience. The keys are very responsive and feel good to type on.

I tested the C3 Pro across several other devices and they all worked without issue. My Macbook Air M1, Dell G15, and Google Pixel Fold all had a hand in putting this review together and all worked flawlessly with the C3 Pro.

When it comes to typing on the C3 Pro, I settled at 55 wpm with 88% accuracy on Monkeytype’s typing test. Not my best score, but an improvement over my average of 53 wpm with 94% accuracy on a Logitech MX Mechanical.

Should you buy the Keychron C3 Pro?

Yes, the value proposition is outstanding

Keychron has introduced an impressive gaming keyboard that punches far above its weight in the budget category.

I can’t get over what this keyboard can do considering its sub-$40 (and sometimes sub-$30 on sale) price point. Even when compared to other similar keyboards like the Logitech G413 TKL and SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL at $35 and $46 respectively, you can’t help but marvel at the value proposition. Both share a lot in common with the C3 Pro including customizable lighting and software customization within a simple presentation, and it stands head-and-shoulders above comparable bestselling budget boards from Redragon.

What Keychron’s C3 Pro has going for it is perception and price. Both Logitech and SteelSeries keyboards showcase additional features for an added cost. Affordability is often seen (mistakenly) as lacking or cheap. With the Keychron C3 Pro, you get the perfect melding of form and function at a starting price point that’s too attractive to overlook. I can easily see this keyboard becoming an Amazon favorite. Following this review, I went out and bought a C3 Pro for my personal use. I’m a believer in this keyboard. You should be too.

Keychron C3 Pro

The Keychron C3 Pro is hands-down one of the best sub-$40 keyboards available, and a steal on sale.

BUY NOW

at Amazon

Meet the tester

Matthew Prunty

Contributor

@MatthewLPrunty

Matthew Prunty is a freelance gaming and tech journalist with over a decade of writing experience covering everything from video games hard and software to smartphones and PC hardware.

See all of Matthew Prunty's reviews