Keychron V2 vs Qwertykeys Neo60 Core65% vs 60% Layout Choice
Choose the Keychron V2 for a feature-rich, customizable 65% layout with a knob, or the Qwertykeys Neo60 Core for a premium wireless 60% build in an aluminum case.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Keychron V2
65%
- 65% layout retains arrow keys and some navigation keys for better utility.
- Includes a programmable aluminum knob for media and workflow control.
- South-facing RGB backlighting with double-shot PBT keycaps.
- Plastic (ABS) case construction, compared to the aluminum Neo60 Core.
- Wired-only connectivity, lacking wireless options.
- Lower front height and 4° typing angle may be less ergonomic for some.
Get the
Qwertykeys Neo60 Core
60% Layout Choice
- Unibody aluminum case construction for a premium feel.
- Offers tri-mode connectivity: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, and wired USB-C.
- More compact 60% layout for greater desk space savings.
- 60% layout lacks dedicated arrow keys, requiring a function layer.
- No per-key RGB lighting is available.
- Longer estimated production and ship time (12 weeks per the vendor).
Your primary need dictates the choice. If you want a ready-to-use, highly customizable keyboard with a practical layout and a knob for creative or productivity tasks, the wired Keychron V2 is the stronger value. Opt for the Qwertykeys Neo60 Core if you prioritize a premium aluminum build, wireless freedom, and the most compact 60% form factor, and are willing to wait for a made-to-order kit and adapt to a layer-based layout.
The differences that matter
Skip the 40-row spec sheet. These are the specs that change how each board feels, sounds, and fits your desk.
Keychron V2
Qwertykeys Neo60 Core
Layout size
65%
60%
Connection
Wired
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
Case material
ABS, Plastic
Aluminum
Mount style
Plate Mount, Tray Mount
PCB Mount
Knob
Yes
No
- Keychron V2
- Qwertykeys Neo60 Core
- Performance
- 6958
- Build quality
- 8780
- Productivity
- 9661
- Customizability
- 9973
- Portability
- 7687
- Hot-swappable
- VIA
What will you mostly use it for?
The Keychron V2 wins in most productivity-focused categories due to its more functional 65% layout, programmable knob, and extensive software support. It is the clear choice for programming, office work, and content creation. The Qwertykeys Neo60 Core takes the lead only for travel, thanks to its smaller 60% size, included carrying case, and wireless connectivity. For gaming and modding, the V2's higher polling rate and hot-swap design give it the edge.
Pick the Keychron V2
- The Keychron V2 has a specified 1000 Hz polling rate for lower latency.
- Its 65% layout retains dedicated arrow keys, which are useful in many games.
- South-facing RGB lighting is included, which the Neo60 Core lacks.
What owners say
Ratings and quotes collected from verified store reviews, including the critical ones.
Keychron V2
17 owner reviews
“Was looking for a good budget board to customize and this keyboard was great! Good price and high quality materials as well as fast shipping. Love it.”
Qwertykeys Neo60 Core
14 owner reviews
“Exceeded my expectations, iv been using my salvation that cost more than double and i feel its better and espcially the even sound throughout the keeb”
Keychron V2 vs Qwertykeys Neo60 Core specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
18 of 27 specs differ
Keychron V2
Qwertykeys Neo60 Core
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Screw-in stabilizers
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Knob
Display
Media keys
Connection
Max polling rate
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Typing angle
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
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Keychron V2 vs Qwertykeys Neo60 Core: your questions
The Keychron V2 is better for dedicated arrow key access. It uses a 65% layout which includes arrow keys and a few navigation keys. The Qwertykeys Neo60 Core is a 60% layout, so arrow keys are only accessible through a function layer combination.
No, the Qwertykeys Neo60 Core does not have per-key RGB lighting according to its specifications. The Keychron V2 features south-facing RGB LED backlighting.
No, the Keychron V2 is a wired-only keyboard. The Qwertykeys Neo60 Core offers wireless connectivity via Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz, in addition to a wired USB-C connection.
The Keychron V2 uses an ABS plastic case. The Qwertykeys Neo60 Core features a unibody aluminum case, which typically offers a more premium and heavier feel, as reflected in its 1.5kg weight.
The Keychron V2 is highly mod-friendly with hot-swap sockets for 3-pin and 5-pin switches, screw-in PCB stabilizers, and open-source QMK/VIA firmware. The Neo60 Core is also hot-swappable and offers multiple plate material choices, but its firmware support is listed as VIA compatible.
Yes, the vendor description for the Keychron V2 states its aluminum rotary encoder is programmable. You can customize it for commands like volume control, zoom, brightness, or macros through the Keychron Launcher web app.
According to the vendor, the Neo60 Core kit includes the aluminum case, weight, PCB, plate, foam kit, gaskets, stabilizers, a carrying case, a disassembly tool, a keycap puller, a screwdriver, and a USB-C cable.
The Keychron V2 specifies a 1000 Hz polling rate. The polling rate for the Qwertykeys Neo60 Core is not stated in the provided information.
The Keychron V2 explicitly includes Mac and Windows keycaps and has a system toggle, according to its product description. The Neo60 Core's compatibility with Mac-specific keycaps is not detailed, though it supports ANSI and ISO layouts.
The Qwertykeys Neo60 Core is more portable due to its smaller 60% size, wireless capabilities, and the inclusion of a carrying case. The Keychron V2 is larger, wired, and heavier at 855g, though still relatively compact.
The Keychron V2 uses a tray mount design. The Qwertykeys Neo60 Core uses a PCB gasket mount and also supports an O-ring mount, offering a potentially softer typing feel.
The Keychron V2 is available as a fully assembled keyboard or a barebones kit. The Qwertykeys Neo60 Core is sold as a DIY kit/barebones configuration that requires you to add your own switches and keycaps.
Not sold on either?
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