Not sure which keyboard to choose? Try the Keyboard Finder now!

Compare Nuphy Halo65 vs Halo65 V2 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between NuPhy's established Halo65 and its updated V2 iteration. Both are premium 65% wireless keyboards with aluminum frames, gasket mounts, and extensive sound dampening, making the choice difficult. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize open-source firmware support and a more advanced acoustic package, or prefer the original's accessory bundle and potentially lower cost.

92
NuPhy Halo65 - Matte Black
80
NuPhy Halo65 V2 - Ionic White

Select a keyboard to compare

4.7 (638)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2022
  • Has Mechanical, Linear switch options
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1000 g
  • Sized at 38 x 322 x 115 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic, ABS case
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Mechanical switch options
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic case
Scores
  • Performance: 77.4
  • Build Quality: 87
  • Productivity: 92
  • Customizability: 93.8
  • Portability: 89.7
Scores
  • Performance: 64.3
  • Build Quality: 79.6
  • Productivity: 73.2
  • Customizability: 87.2
  • Portability: 87.6
Name
Nuphy Halo65
Name
Nuphy Halo65 V2
Release year
2022
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Mechanical, Linear
Switch Options
Mechanical
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
65%
Layout Size
65%
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
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
Gasket 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, Plastic, ABS
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
38 x 322 x 115 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
1000g
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

The NuPhy Halo65 V2 is the definitive upgrade, offering significant improvements in firmware customizability, wireless performance, and acoustic tuning for a similar price. Choose the V2 if you value programming your own key mappings, demand the lowest wireless latency, or enjoy tinkering with sound profiles. The original Halo65 is a suitable choice if you find it at a meaningful discount, want clicky switch options, or prefer the heftier build and more generous accessory package.

Nuphy Halo65

  • +Includes 17 extra keycaps and 7 extra switches in the box for immediate customization.
  • +Offers a wide selection of switch types including clicky (G Pro Blue), which the V2 does not list.
  • +Features a GhostBar spacebar for hollow sound suppression.
  • +Proven design with a large number of positive user reviews.

  • Lacks QMK/VIA support for key remapping and macros, relying on proprietary software.
  • Does not have a specified polling rate in its provided technical specifications.
  • Heavier construction at 1000g.

Nuphy Halo65 V2

  • +Full QMK and VIA firmware support for extensive key remapping and layering.
  • +Specifies a 1000Hz polling rate for wired and 2.4GHz wireless modes.
  • +More comprehensive sound modding with plate foam, switch pad, sound damper, and PCB foam.
  • +Lighter weight (798g) and includes a USB-C to USB-C cable with an adapter.
  • +Features south-facing RGB LEDs and new mSA profile keycaps with illuminated homing bars.

  • Includes fewer extra accessories (6 keycaps, 3 switches) than the original.
  • Does not list a clicky switch option in its current switch lineup.
  • Newer model with fewer user reviews available.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Halo65 V2 wins in most specialized categories due to its firmware and performance upgrades. It is the clear choice for programmers, modders, and gamers seeking maximum customizability and responsiveness. The original Halo65 remains a competent all-rounder, especially for office use where its core features match the V2. For travel, the V2's lower weight gives it a slight edge, while content creators benefit from the V2's macro and lighting software support.

GamingNuphy Halo65 V2
  • The V2 specifies a 1000Hz polling rate for both wired and 2.4GHz modes, which the original's listing does not mention.
  • It includes a 'Raspberry' switch option listed as a 45gf early actuation linear switch designed for gamers.
OfficeTie
  • Both offer tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired) for multi-device use.
  • Both include silent switch options (V2 has Blush Max, original has listed silent types) and extensive sound dampening.
  • Both have dedicated Mac/Windows support with OS-specific function keys.
ProgrammingNuphy Halo65 V2
  • The V2 supports QMK and VIA firmware for limitless key remapping and macro creation, a feature absent in the original.
  • Its listing mentions compatibility with Linux, expanding OS support.
TravelNuphy Halo65 V2
  • The V2 is notably lighter at 798g compared to the original's 1000g.
  • Both have the same compact 65% footprint and 4000mAh battery.
ModdingNuphy Halo65 V2
  • QMK/VIA support on the V2 allows for deep firmware-level customization not available on the original.
  • The V2 features a more complex sound mod stack including plate foam, switch pad, sound damper, and PCB foam.
  • Both are hot-swappable with 5-pin support.
Content CreationNuphy Halo65 V2
  • QMK/VIA support enables complex macro programming for editing software.
  • SignalRGB compatibility is listed for the V2, allowing for synchronized lighting with other peripherals.
  • The refined sound profile from additional foam mods may be preferable for recording voiceovers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

100
$160
Keychron Q1 HE QMK Wireless Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q1 HE
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

99
$129
Keychron K2 HE Wireless Magnetic Switch Custom Keyboard
Keychron K2 HE
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

94
$129
WOBKEY Rainy 75 Pro Keyboard
WOBKEY Rainy75 Pro
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

96
$170
Nuphy GEM80 Barebones Keyboard Kit
Nuphy Gem80
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

93
$130
NuPhy Halo75 V2 - Ionic White
Nuphy Halo75 V2
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

98
$94
Keychron V1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V1 Max
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Gasket Mount

93
$119
Rainy 75 WOBKey Keyboard Kit
WOBKEY Rainy75
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

97
$44
Keychron V1 QMK Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron V1
75%,
Hotswap,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Tray Mount

93
$105
MonsGeek M1W Aluminum Wireless Gasket DIY Kit
Monsgeek M1W
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

97
$239
Keychron Q10 Max (Alice Layout) QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q10 Max
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount