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Compare Nuphy Gem80 vs Keychron Q11 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a highly customizable wireless TKL and a premium wired split keyboard. Both support QMK/VIA and offer hot-swappable switches, but their core designs cater to different priorities. The Gem80 focuses on wireless performance and a traditional form factor, while the Q11 prioritizes ergonomics with its split layout. The decision hinges on whether you value connectivity options or an adjustable typing posture more.

96
Nuphy GEM80 Barebones Keyboard Kit
-12% off
95
Keychron Q11 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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0.0 (0)
4.7 (26)
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Mechanical switch options
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO layout standard
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only connectivity
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1120 g
  • Sized at 37 x 358 x 141 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Polycarbonate case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a Other layout
  • Built with the ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, JIS, ANSI layout standard
  • Offers Split ergonomics
  • Comes with a knob
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Weighs about 1186 g
  • Sized at 10 x 134 x 345 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Features ABS, PBT keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 79.7
  • Build Quality: 86.6
  • Productivity: 93.4
  • Customizability: 96.8
  • Portability: 76
Scores
  • Performance: 68
  • Build Quality: 87.6
  • Productivity: 96.7
  • Customizability: 99.5
  • Portability: 72.8
Name
Nuphy Gem80
Name
Keychron Q11
Release year
2024
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Mechanical
Switch Options
Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
80%
Layout Size
Other
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO
Layout Standard
ISO, ISO-DE, ISO-Nordic, ISO-UK, JIS, ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Split
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, Wired only
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
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
Gasket 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, Polycarbonate
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Dimensions
37 x 358 x 141 mm
Dimensions
10 x 134 x 345 mm
Weight
1120g
Weight
1186g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require wireless connectivity for a clean desk or use across multiple devices, the Nuphy Gem80 is the clear option. If your priority is ergonomic comfort for long typing sessions and you don't mind a wired connection, the Keychron Q11's split design is the better investment. Both are excellent platforms for customization via QMK/VIA.

Nuphy Gem80

  • +Tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired) with a 1000Hz wireless polling rate.
  • +Omni-mount design allows switching between gasket, top, and bottom mount styles.
  • +Includes a 4000mAh battery for extended wireless use.
  • +Comes with multiple sound-dampening foams pre-installed for a refined acoustic profile.
  • +Offers optional plates in FR4, PC, POM, and Aluminum for customization.
  • −Only available in a standard TKL layout, lacking ergonomic options.
  • −Barebone kit does not include switches or keycaps by default.
  • −Relies on a polycarbonate bottom case, while the top is aluminum.

Keychron Q11

  • +Split layout design promotes ergonomic typing by allowing shoulder-width hand positioning.
  • +Built with a full aluminum case for a premium, durable feel.
  • +Includes a programmable aluminum knob for macros and media control.
  • +Offers extensive ISO layout support (UK, German, Nordic, etc.).
  • +Features screw-in PCB stabilizers for improved tuning and stability.
  • −Wired-only connectivity, lacking wireless options.
  • −Split design requires a bridge cable to connect the two halves, adding cable management.
  • −The manufacturer's listing indicates it is frequently out of stock.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Nuphy Gem80 wins for gaming and travel due to its high-performance wireless modes and battery. The Keychron Q11 is the choice for office work and content creation, leveraging its ergonomic split design and programmable knob. For programming, both are equally capable due to their extensive firmware support. Modders will find more hardware flexibility with the Gem80's interchangeable mounting system and optional plates.

GamingNuphy Gem80
  • •Offers tri-mode connectivity with a 1000Hz polling rate over 2.4GHz for wireless gaming.
  • •Includes a 4000mAh battery for extended wireless use.
  • •Standard TKL layout is widely compatible with gaming keycap sets and muscle memory.
OfficeKeychron Q11
  • •Split design allows for a more natural, ergonomic typing posture during long sessions.
  • •Includes a programmable knob for quick media or volume control.
  • •Offers extensive ISO layout support for international users.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both keyboards feature full QMK and VIA support for deep key remapping and macros.
  • •Both are hot-swappable, allowing switch customization for preferred typing feel.
  • •The Q11's split design may reduce strain, while the Gem80's wireless capability offers desk cleanliness.
TravelNuphy Gem80
  • •Provides Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless connectivity, eliminating the need for cables.
  • •Slightly lighter weight at 1120g compared to the Q11's 1186g.
  • •Standard 80% size is more compact than the Q11's split 'Other' layout when assembled.
ModdingNuphy Gem80
  • •Features an 'omni-mount' design allowing users to switch between gasket, top, and bottom mount styles.
  • •Vendor offers multiple optional plates (FR4, PC, POM, Aluminum) for sound customization.
  • •Includes multiple internal foam layers (poron sound absorbers, IXPE dampener, silicone sheet) for sound tuning.
Content CreationKeychron Q11
  • •Dedicated programmable knob can be mapped to timeline scrubbing, brush size, or zoom controls.
  • •Split layout can improve comfort during long editing sessions.
  • •Includes dedicated multi-media keys for playback control.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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