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Compare Nuphy Halo96 V2 vs Halo IO Series Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two wireless keyboards from Nuphy's Halo series. The choice is difficult because both share a gasket mount design, hot-swappable switches, and a 4000mAh battery, but diverge significantly in firmware support, connectivity options, and overall feature set. Your decision hinges on how much you value open-source firmware and multiple connection methods versus a lower price point and a more streamlined offering.

89
NuPhy Halo96 V2
81
NuPhy Halo IO Series

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  • Released in 2023
  • Available in a 96% layout
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Weighs about 1150 g
  • Sized at 33 x 377 x 135 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, ABS case
  • Released in 2025
  • Available in a 65% layout
  • Comes with a knob
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Weighs about 1028 g
  • Sized at 20 x 320 x 135 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic case
Scores
  • Performance: 79.8
  • Build Quality: 81.1
  • Productivity: 88.1
  • Customizability: 89.7
  • Portability: 55.7
Scores
  • Performance: 78.3
  • Build Quality: 77.7
  • Productivity: 91.2
  • Customizability: 80
  • Portability: 98.3
Name
Nuphy Halo96 V2
Name
Nuphy Halo IO Series
Release year
2023
Release year
2025
Switch Options
Mechanical
Switch Options
Mechanical
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
96%
Layout Size
65%, 75%
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
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
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, ABS
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
33 x 377 x 135 mm
Dimensions
20 x 320 x 135 mm
Weight
1150g
Weight
1028g
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Pros and Trade-offs

The Nuphy Halo96 V2 is the recommended choice for enthusiasts and power users who require maximum customization through QMK/VIA, tri-mode device switching, and a meticulously tuned typing experience. Opt for the Nuphy Halo V2 IO if your primary need is a reliable, wireless mechanical keyboard at a more accessible price, and you are satisfied with the customization offered through its proprietary NuPhyIO software.

Nuphy Halo96 V2

  • +Open-source QMK and VIA firmware support for extensive key remapping and macros.
  • +Tri-mode connectivity with Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, and wired USB-C options.
  • +Comprehensive sound-dampening mods including plate foam, PCB foam, switch pad, and bottom silicone.
  • +Includes a variety of switch options from Nuphy's Herb series and Cherry Silent Red.
  • +South-facing RGB LEDs with shine-through keycap options and advanced Halolight 2.0 effects.
  • −Heavier weight (1150g) may reduce portability.
  • −Higher price point compared to the Halo V2 IO.
  • −The 96% layout is larger than a tenkeyless or compact board.

Nuphy Halo IO Series

  • +More affordable price point.
  • +Wireless 2.4GHz connectivity with a 1000Hz polling rate.
  • +Hot-swappable design for easy switch changes.
  • +Includes a two-stage foot stand for angle adjustment, according to its vendor description.
  • +Compatible with the NuPhyIO 2.0 web-based software for lighting and key customization.
  • −Lacks Bluetooth and QMK/VIA firmware support, limiting connectivity and customization.
  • −Vendor description does not detail specific sound-dampening materials like foam layers.
  • −Fewer confirmed switch options are listed compared to the Halo96 V2.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Halo96 V2 is the clear winner for users who need advanced customization, whether for gaming latency, programming keymaps, or content creation macros, thanks to its QMK/VIA support and tri-mode connectivity. It also holds a strong advantage for modders due to its detailed sound-dampening construction. The two keyboards tie for travel primarily on shared wireless and battery specs, though the Halo96 V2's confirmed heavier weight is a slight drawback. The Halo V2 IO's value proposition lies in its lower price for core wireless functionality.

GamingNuphy Halo96 V2
  • •The Halo96 V2 offers a 1000Hz polling rate in both wired and 2.4GHz modes, as stated in its tech specs.
  • •It supports N-key rollover, a feature confirmed in its metadata.
  • •Its vendor description highlights low-latency wireless performance for pro-gaming.
OfficeNuphy Halo96 V2
  • •The Halo96 V2 offers tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired), providing flexibility for pairing with multiple devices.
  • •It includes a dedicated OS switch for Mac/Windows compatibility, per its vendor page.
  • •Its 96% layout retains the numpad, which is useful for data entry tasks.
ProgrammingNuphy Halo96 V2
  • •The Halo96 V2 supports QMK and VIA firmware for deep, open-source key remapping and macro creation.
  • •Its hot-swappable PCB allows for easy switch experimentation to find the ideal typing feel.
  • •The vendor description states compatibility with macOS, Windows, and Linux.
TravelTie
  • •Both keyboards are wireless with a 4000mAh battery, though specific battery life comparisons are not provided for the Halo V2 IO.
  • •The Halo96 V2 is heavier at 1150g compared to the Halo V2 IO's 1000g.
  • •The Halo V2 IO's dimensions are listed generically, making a direct portability comparison difficult.
ModdingNuphy Halo96 V2
  • •The Halo96 V2's vendor description details a comprehensive sound stack including plate foam, a switch pad, sound damper, PCB foam, and bottom silicone.
  • •It uses a PCB gasket mount and a POM plate, as per its metadata.
  • •It supports 3-pin and 5-pin MX-style hot-swap sockets.
Content CreationNuphy Halo96 V2
  • •The Halo96 V2's QMK/VIA support allows for complex macro programming for editing software.
  • •Its tri-mode connectivity facilitates easy switching between a computer and a tablet.
  • •The vendor page mentions SignalRGB support for synchronizing lighting with other compatible hardware.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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