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Compare Nuphy Air96 V2 vs Air96 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Nuphy's two generations of the Air96 low-profile keyboard. The choice is difficult because both share the same 96% layout, aluminum frame, and 4000mAh battery. The decision hinges on whether you value the V2's upgraded firmware, enhanced sound tuning, and higher polling rate, or if the original model's established performance and software meet your needs for less.

91
Nuphy Air96V2 Low Profile Mechanical Keyboard Kit
87
NuPhy Air96 - Lunar Gray

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  • Released in 2023
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Low-Profile Mechanical switch options
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Weighs about 1020 g
  • Sized at 14 x 373 x 133 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, ABS, Plastic case
  • Released in 2022
  • Has Gateron Low-Profile 2.0 switch options
  • Offers Low Profile ergonomics
  • Weighs about 663 g
  • Sized at 13 x 373 x 133 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic case
Scores
  • Performance: 79.9
  • Build Quality: 81.8
  • Productivity: 88
  • Customizability: 94.8
  • Portability: 55.5
Scores
  • Performance: 80.7
  • Build Quality: 79.8
  • Productivity: 89
  • Customizability: 90
  • Portability: 57
Name
Nuphy Air96 V2
Name
Nuphy Air96
Release year
2023
Release year
2022
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Low-Profile Mechanical
Switch Options
Gateron Low-Profile 2.0
Profile
Low Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
96%
Layout Size
96%
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
4000 mAh
Battery capacity
4000 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
Tray Mount
Mount Style
Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, ABS, Plastic
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
14 x 373 x 133 mm
Dimensions
13 x 373 x 133 mm
Weight
1020g
Weight
663g
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Pros and Trade-offs

The Nuphy Air96 V2 is the definitive upgrade, worth the extra cost for enthusiasts and power users who will leverage its QMK/VIA firmware, faster wireless polling, and refined acoustics. The original Air96 is a sensible buy if you primarily need a reliable, low-profile wireless keyboard and do not require advanced programmability, especially if found at a significant discount.

Nuphy Air96 V2

  • +Features QMK and VIA firmware for extensive, cross-platform key remapping and lighting control.
  • +Specifies a 1000Hz polling rate for its 2.4GHz wireless connection.
  • +Includes enhanced sound-dampening with a PET sound pad and silicone spacebar tuning.
  • +Offers new switch options like Moss (tactile) and Cowberry (linear with short pre-travel).
  • +Explicitly lists Linux compatibility alongside Windows and macOS.
  • −Typically carries a higher price than the original Air96.
  • −The advanced QMK/VIA firmware may have a steeper learning curve than proprietary software.
  • −Includes fewer extra switches in the box (4) compared to the original (6).

Nuphy Air96

  • +Often available at a lower cost than the V2 model.
  • +Uses the proprietary Nuphy Console software for lighting customization, which some may find simpler.
  • +Includes six extra switches in the box for experimentation.
  • +Has a proven track record with a large number of user reviews.
  • −Lacks QMK/VIA support, limiting firmware-based customization.
  • −The product listing does not specify a polling rate for its 2.4GHz mode.
  • −Does not include the advanced internal sound-dampening materials of the V2.
  • −Linux compatibility is not explicitly mentioned in its tech specs.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Air96 V2 is the clear choice for users who prioritize customization, whether for gaming latency, programming macros, or sound modding, thanks to its QMK/VIA firmware and refined internals. For standard office use or travel, both keyboards are functionally equivalent, sharing the same form factor and battery life. The original Air96 remains a competent option if its proprietary Nuphy Console software meets your needs and you find it at a lower price point.

GamingNuphy Air96 V2
  • •The Air96 V2 specifies a 1000Hz polling rate in its 2.4GHz mode, which the original Air96's listing does not mention.
  • •The V2 includes the Cowberry switch option, which Nuphy states has a shortened 1.2mm pre-travel for a rapid firing rate.
  • •Both support N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
OfficeTie
  • •Both keyboards offer tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired) for flexible device switching.
  • •Both have the same compact 96% layout with a numpad and identical dimensions.
  • •Each model lists compatibility with Windows and macOS, with the V2 also explicitly listing Linux.
ProgrammingNuphy Air96 V2
  • •The Air96 V2 supports QMK and VIA firmware for deep, cross-platform key remapping and macro creation.
  • •The V2's vendor description highlights dedicated shortcuts for macOS Spotlight and Dictation, which can streamline workflows.
  • •Both are hot-swappable, allowing switch customization for preferred typing feel.
TravelTie
  • •Both keyboards share identical weight (663g) and slim dimensions (14mm height).
  • •They have the same large 4000mAh battery capacity.
  • •Each includes a USB-C cable and a 2.4GHz receiver for portable use.
ModdingNuphy Air96 V2
  • •The Air96 V2 adds QMK/VIA support, offering extensive firmware-based customization not mentioned for the original.
  • •The V2's internal sound tuning includes an extra PET sound pad and spacebar silicone, according to its product page.
  • •Both are hot-swappable and support a wide range of aftermarket Nuphy low-profile switches and keycaps.
Content CreationNuphy Air96 V2
  • •The V2's QMK/VIA support allows for complex macro layers to streamline editing software shortcuts.
  • •Enhanced sound tuning with a PET pad and silicone spacebar may provide a more pleasing acoustic profile for recording.
  • •The 1000Hz wireless polling rate can benefit real-time editing where latency matters.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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