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Compare 8BitDo Retro 108 vs Nuphy Air75 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for users deciding between a traditional, full-size keyboard and a modern, compact one. The 8BitDo Retro 108 offers a complete 108-key layout with a nostalgic aesthetic, while the Nuphy Air75 provides an ultra-slim 75% form factor with low-profile switches. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize a dedicated numpad and function row or superior portability and a sleek desk presence. Both are tri-mode, hot-swappable, and built with PBT keycaps, making the core trade-off one of layout versus footprint.

61
8BitDo Retro 108 Tri-mode Mechanical Keyboard
-29% off
72
NuPhy Air75

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  • Released in 2025
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Uses a Top Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 2000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1350 g
  • Sized at 47 x 169 x 458 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, Aluminum case
  • Offers No RGB lighting
  • Released in 2021
  • Has Low-Profile switch options
  • Features a low-profile design
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Offers Low Profile ergonomics
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 2500 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 523 g
  • Sized at 16 x 316 x 132 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 62.7
  • Build Quality: 64.2
  • Productivity: 66.6
  • Customizability: 52.4
  • Portability: 57.4
Scores
  • Performance: 74.3
  • Build Quality: 68.9
  • Productivity: 76.3
  • Customizability: 66.9
  • Portability: 80
Name
8BitDo Retro 108
Name
Nuphy Air75
Release year
2025
Release year
2021
Switch Options
-
Switch Options
Low-Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
100%
Layout Size
75%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Low Profile
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
2000 mAh
Battery capacity
2500 mAh
Hall Effect Support
 
Hall Effect Support
 
QMK Support
 
QMK Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIAL Support
 
VIAL Support
 
N-Key Rollover
 
N-Key Rollover
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Mount Style
Top Mount
Mount Style
Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic, Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
47 x 169 x 458 mm
Dimensions
16 x 316 x 132 mm
Weight
1350g
Weight
523g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If your work demands a numpad and you value a stationary, traditional typing experience, the 8BitDo Retro 108 is the clear option. If you want a keyboard for a minimalist setup, frequent travel, or to use with a laptop, the Nuphy Air75's slim, lightweight design is far more practical. Consider the Air75's noted battery issues, but also its strong community reviews and included modding accessories.

8BitDo Retro 108

  • +Full 108-key layout with dedicated numpad and function row.
  • +Includes dual super buttons for programmable shortcuts.
  • +Top-mount design and MDA-like keycap profile for a customized typing feel.
  • +Heavier 1350g construction for desk stability.
  • +Vendor claims 200-hour battery life.

  • Very large and heavy at 1350g, not portable.
  • No RGB lighting.
  • Limited compatibility stated as Windows 10 and Android only.
  • Bulky dimensions (458 x 169 x 47 mm) consume significant desk space.

Nuphy Air75

  • +Ultra-slim 16mm low-profile design with an aluminum frame.
  • +Extremely portable at 523g with compact 75% layout.
  • +Includes RGB backlighting and side light bars with multiple effects.
  • +Vendor lists extensive laptop compatibility with magnetic AirFeet.
  • +Comes with three extra switches and keycaps for customization.

  • No dedicated numpad or function row due to 75% layout.
  • Some user reviews mention battery swelling issues after over a year.
  • Bottom case is made of ABS plastic, not aluminum.
  • Low-profile switches may not be preferred by all typists.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Nuphy Air75 wins for gaming and travel due to its low-latency wireless, compact form, and light weight. The 8BitDo Retro 108 is the better choice for office work and content creation where a full numpad and dedicated keys are essential. For programming, both are capable, leaving the choice to personal layout preference. The Air75 also has an edge for modders with its included extra components.

GamingNuphy Air75
  • The Nuphy Air75's vendor page highlights a low-latency 2.4G wireless mode for gaming.
  • Its compact 75% layout frees up more desk space for mouse movement.
  • It includes RGB backlighting with over 21 effects, which the 8BitDo lacks.
Office8BitDo Retro 108
  • The 8BitDo Retro 108's full 108-key layout includes a dedicated numpad for data entry.
  • Its vendor description states the layout is optimized for efficiency and multitasking.
  • The heavier 1350g weight provides more stability on a desk.
ProgrammingTie
  • Both keyboards are hot-swappable, allowing customization of switch feel.
  • Both feature PBT keycaps for durability during long typing sessions.
  • The 8BitDo offers more dedicated keys, while the Nuphy saves desk space.
TravelNuphy Air75
  • The Nuphy Air75 is significantly lighter at 523g versus 1350g.
  • Its dimensions (316 x 133 x 16 mm) are much more compact.
  • The vendor offers an optional NuFolio V2 case for protection on the go.
ModdingNuphy Air75
  • The Nuphy Air75 vendor page mentions it includes three extra switches and keycaps in the box.
  • Its vendor description details specific low-profile switch specifications and materials.
  • It offers RGB lighting customization via software, according to its product page.
Content Creation8BitDo Retro 108
  • The 8BitDo's full-size layout provides direct access to media shortcuts and a numpad for timeline scrubbing.
  • Its vendor description mentions programmable buttons for personalized shortcuts.
  • The included dual super buttons, per the vendor, can be mapped for specific functions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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