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Compare Nuphy Air96 V2 vs Double shell DS102i Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two feature-rich, low-profile wireless keyboards. The Nuphy Air96 V2 offers extensive modding support and a high polling rate, while the Double Shell DS102i provides a unique, space-saving full layout. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize customizability and gaming performance or a specific compact layout at a potentially lower cost.

91
Nuphy Air96V2 Low Profile Mechanical Keyboard Kit
Double Shell DS102i Low Profile Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Low-Profile Mechanical switch options
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Available in a 96% layout
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1020 g
  • Sized at 14 x 373 x 133 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, ABS, Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Has Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 80
  • Build Quality: 81.9
  • Productivity: 88.4
  • Customizability: 94.9
  • Portability: 55.7
Scores
  • Performance: 46.2
  • Build Quality: 41.8
  • Productivity: 50.5
  • Customizability: 50.1
  • Portability: 48.3
Name
Nuphy Air96 V2
Name
Double shell DS102i
Release year
2023
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Low-Profile Mechanical
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear
Profile
Low Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
96%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
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
-
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
Battery capacity
-
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
-
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, ABS, Plastic
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
14 x 373 x 133 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
1020g
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your priority should guide this choice. If you value the ability to change switches, deeply customize your keymap with open-source software, and want the lowest latency for gaming, the Nuphy Air96 V2 is worth the investment. If you need a numpad in the most compact possible footprint, prefer a simpler plug-and-play experience, and are budget-conscious, the Double Shell DS102i presents a unique layout alternative. Verify the DS102i's final dimensions to ensure it meets your space requirements.

Nuphy Air96 V2

  • +Hot-swappable PCB for easy switch replacement and experimentation.
  • +Full QMK and VIA firmware support for advanced key remapping and lighting control.
  • +High 1000Hz polling rate in both wired and 2.4GHz wireless modes.
  • +Includes sound-dampening foams (plate poron, PCB IXPE) and spacebar silicone for a tuned typing experience.
  • +Comes with extra keycaps and switches in the box.

  • Uses a combination of aluminum frame and ABS bottom case, not a full aluminum chassis.
  • The 96% layout may require adjustment for users who rely on dedicated navigation clusters.
  • At 663g, it is not the most portable low-profile option.

Double shell DS102i

  • +Innovative 102-key layout aims to provide full-sized functionality in a more compact form factor.
  • +Features a CNC-machined aluminum alloy top cover according to the vendor.
  • +Uses Gateron G Pro 2.0 low-profile switches.
  • +Offers tri-mode connectivity for multi-device use.

  • Lacks hot-swap capability, limiting switch customization.
  • No mention of advanced programmability software like QMK or VIA.
  • Polling rate is not specified, which may be a concern for performance-sensitive tasks.
  • No user reviews are available to corroborate the vendor's claims.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Nuphy Air96 V2 is the clear choice for gamers and tinkerers due to its high polling rate and extensive customization via hot-swap and QMK/VIA. Programmers will also favor its remappable 96% layout. The Double Shell DS102i wins for travel and content creation where its space-saving full layout and included numpad are primary assets. For general office use, both keyboards are equally capable with their shared wireless features and cross-platform compatibility.

GamingNuphy Air96 V2
  • The Air96 V2 specifies a 1000Hz polling rate in its 2.4GHz mode for lower latency.
  • Its vendor description highlights a 1000Hz chip for an elevated wireless gaming experience.
  • It includes linear switch options like Cowberry, which the manufacturer notes has a shortened pre-travel for rapid firing.
OfficeTie
  • Both keyboards offer tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired) for flexible device switching.
  • Both are listed as compatible with Windows and Mac systems.
  • Both use PBT keycaps, which are resistant to shine from frequent use.
ProgrammingNuphy Air96 V2
  • The Air96 V2 supports QMK and VIA firmware for unlimited key remapping and macro creation.
  • Its 96% layout includes a numpad while saving desk space compared to a full-sized board.
  • The vendor page states dedicated shortcuts for macOS functions like Spotlight and Dictation are implemented.
TravelDouble shell DS102i
  • The DS102i uses a 102-key layout that the vendor claims offers full-sized usability in dimensions similar to an 87-key keyboard, suggesting a more compact footprint than a standard 100% board.
  • Both are low-profile and wireless, but the DS102i's innovative layout may be more space-efficient for a travel bag.
ModdingNuphy Air96 V2
  • The Air96 V2 is explicitly hot-swappable, allowing easy switch changes without soldering.
  • It has full QMK/VIA support for deep firmware customization.
  • The vendor sells a wide array of separate low-profile keycap sets and switch packs for aftermarket upgrades.
Content CreationDouble shell DS102i
  • The DS102i's 102-key layout includes a full numpad, which is useful for data entry and shortcut macros in creative software.
  • Its vendor description emphasizes a silent and comfortable typing feedback, which can be beneficial during long editing sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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