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Compare Nuphy Air96 vs Double shell DS102i Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two similarly priced, low-profile wireless keyboards. The Nuphy Air96 offers a compact 96% layout with hot-swappable switches and a large battery, backed by extensive positive reviews. The Double Shell DS102i provides a unique 102-key layout that includes a numpad in a space-saving design. The decision hinges on prioritizing customization and switch experimentation versus needing a full numeric keypad without the full-sized footprint.

87
NuPhy Air96 - Lunar Gray
Double Shell DS102i Low Profile Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Released in 2022
  • Has Gateron Low-Profile 2.0 switch options
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Available in a 96% layout
  • Offers Low Profile ergonomics
  • 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 663 g
  • Sized at 13 x 373 x 133 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 80.9
  • Build Quality: 79.8
  • Productivity: 89.2
  • Customizability: 90.2
  • Portability: 57.3
Scores
  • Performance: 46.2
  • Build Quality: 41.8
  • Productivity: 50.6
  • Customizability: 50.1
  • Portability: 48.3
Name
Nuphy Air96
Name
Double shell DS102i
Release year
2022
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Gateron Low-Profile 2.0
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
Low Profile
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, Plastic
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
13 x 373 x 133 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
663g
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

For most users, the Nuphy Air96 is the stronger recommendation due to its hot-swappable design, extensive accessory ecosystem, and strong track record of user satisfaction. Its flexibility and larger battery make it a more future-proof choice. Only choose the Double Shell DS102i if your workflow absolutely depends on having a dedicated numpad and you are willing to forgo easy switch customization for that specific layout benefit.

Nuphy Air96

  • +Hot-swappable PCB allows for easy switch replacement and experimentation.
  • +Large 4000mAh battery capacity for extended wireless use.
  • +Includes a keycap/switch puller and extra switches/keycaps in the box.
  • +Offers a wide selection of low-profile switch types, including linear, tactile, and clicky.
  • +Features adjustable two-piece foot stand for three typing angles.
  • −96% layout lacks a dedicated numpad, which some users require.
  • −Case uses a combination of aluminum and ABS plastic for the bottom.
  • −No user reviews are available for direct comparison against the DS102i's community feedback.

Double shell DS102i

  • +Innovative 102-key layout includes a numpad in a compact form factor.
  • +CNC-machined aluminum alloy top cover for a premium feel.
  • +Vendor description mentions programmable multi-function hot-keys.
  • +Bluetooth 5.0 supports connection with up to five devices.
  • −Lacks hot-swappable switch support, limiting customization.
  • −No battery capacity, weight, or specific dimensions are provided in the available data.
  • −Switch options are limited to linear and tactile; no clicky switch is listed.
  • −No user reviews are available for direct community validation.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Nuphy Air96 is the more versatile choice for gamers, programmers, and modders due to its hot-swap capability and proven performance features. The Double Shell DS102i wins for office use where a numpad is non-negotiable but desk space is limited. For travel, the Air96's known battery capacity gives it an edge, while content creators might find useful features in either model.

GamingNuphy Air96
  • •The Air96 includes N-key rollover support, a feature not mentioned for the DS102i.
  • •Its vendor description highlights a 2.4 GHz low latency connection for gaming.
  • •The Air96 offers a wider variety of switch types, including clicky options for tactile feedback.
OfficeDouble shell DS102i
  • •The DS102i's 102-key layout includes a dedicated numpad, which is essential for data entry.
  • •Its vendor page describes silent and comfortable typing feedback, suitable for shared spaces.
  • •Both keyboards offer tri-mode connectivity for connecting to multiple office devices.
ProgrammingNuphy Air96
  • •The Air96's hot-swappable design allows programmers to customize switch feel for long typing sessions.
  • •It includes six extra switches and seven extra keycaps in the box for immediate customization.
  • •The compact 96% layout saves desk space while retaining arrow and navigation keys.
TravelNuphy Air96
  • •The Air96 has a specified 4000mAh battery for longer wireless use away from an outlet.
  • •Its 96% layout is more compact than the DS102i's 102-key design, potentially saving bag space.
  • •The Air96's weight of 663g is a known quantity, while the DS102i's weight is unspecified.
ModdingNuphy Air96
  • •The Air96 is explicitly hot-swappable, allowing for easy switch replacement without soldering.
  • •Nuphy sells a wide array of separate low-profile switches and themed PBT keycap sets.
  • •The vendor description mentions customizable RGB lighting effects via Windows software.
Content CreationTie
  • •Both keyboards feature RGB backlighting for working in low-light environments.
  • •Both support multi-device connectivity via Bluetooth, useful for switching between a computer and tablet.
  • •The Air96 offers dedicated Mac shortcut keys, while the DS102i's programmable hot-keys could be mapped to editing software.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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