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Compare MIIIW Xiaomi Art Z980 vs Xiaomi BlackIO 83 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two wireless gasket-mount keyboards from the same brand. The choice hinges on whether you prioritize a compact, software-customizable layout or a larger board with a numpad and a distinct visual style. Both share core features like tri-mode connectivity, hot-swap sockets, and large batteries, making the layout and firmware support the key differentiators.

68
Xiaomi x MIIIW ART Series Z980 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
83
Xiaomi x MIIIW BlackIO 83 QMK VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Available in a 96% layout
  • Weighs about 930 g
  • Sized at 38 x 393 x 150 mm
  • Made with a ABS case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Weighs about 788 g
  • Sized at 38 x 159 x 336 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, ABS case
  • Features PC keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 76
  • Build Quality: 62
  • Productivity: 77.7
  • Customizability: 63.4
  • Portability: 57.5
Scores
  • Performance: 81.1
  • Build Quality: 76.1
  • Productivity: 89.4
  • Customizability: 87.8
  • Portability: 83.1
Name
MIIIW Xiaomi Art Z980
Name
MIIIW Xiaomi BlackIO 83
Release year
2023
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Linear
Switch Options
Linear
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
96%
Layout Size
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
-
Polling Rate
-
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, North-face
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS
Case Material
Plastic, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PC
Dimensions
38 x 393 x 150 mm
Dimensions
38 x 159 x 336 mm
Weight
930g
Weight
788g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require a numpad for work or prefer a larger board with a unique transparent look, the Art Z980 is the straightforward pick. For everyone else, especially those who value a compact desk, travel-friendly size, and the powerful customization of QMK/VIA, the BlackIO 83 offers significantly more flexibility and is the more versatile board.

MIIIW Xiaomi Art Z980

  • +98% layout includes a full numpad and arrow keys in a relatively compact form.
  • +Features a transparent ABS top cover for a distinctive aesthetic, according to the vendor.
  • +Includes north-facing RGB LEDs, which can affect keycap compatibility and lighting.
  • +Comes with Gateron G Pro Yellow linear switches pre-installed.
  • +Has a physical on/off switch to conserve battery.
  • −Larger and heavier (393mm, 930g) than the BlackIO 83, less portable.
  • −Lacks advanced firmware customization like QMK or VIA support.
  • −Uses dye-sublimated PBT keycaps, which may show less RGB shine-through than transparent caps.

MIIIW Xiaomi BlackIO 83

  • +Supports QMK and VIA for extensive key remapping and macro programming.
  • +More compact and lighter 75% layout (336mm, 788g).
  • +Vendor listing mentions finely-tuned stabilizers to reduce wobble and wire noise.
  • +Comes with self-lubricating Kailh Jellyfish linear switches.
  • +Uses transparent PC keycaps for more vibrant RGB effects.
  • −75% layout lacks a numpad and some navigation keys like Page Up/Down.
  • −Case material is listed as a mix of PC and ABS, not a transparent top cover.
  • −Only one color option (Black-Purple) is mentioned in the vendor description.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The BlackIO 83 wins in scenarios prioritizing portability, deep software customization, and a minimalist desk footprint, making it strong for travel, programming, and gaming. The Art Z980 is the clear choice for office and data-heavy work where a numpad is non-negotiable. For content creation, the decision splits between macro power and dedicated number input.

GamingMIIIW Xiaomi BlackIO 83
  • •The BlackIO 83's 75% layout provides more mousepad space for low-sensitivity gaming.
  • •Both feature N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
  • •The BlackIO 83's listing mentions finely-tuned stabilizers to reduce wobble on large keys.
OfficeMIIIW Xiaomi Art Z980
  • •The Art Z980's 98% layout includes a full numpad, essential for data entry.
  • •Its vendor description highlights it is ideal for office usage.
  • •Both have tri-mode connectivity for flexible desk setup.
ProgrammingMIIIW Xiaomi BlackIO 83
  • •QMK and VIA support on the BlackIO 83 allows for deep keymap and macro customization for coding workflows.
  • •The 75% layout is compact but retains arrow and navigation keys.
  • •The BlackIO 83's listing mentions support for connections with up to 5 Bluetooth devices for multi-machine setups.
TravelMIIIW Xiaomi BlackIO 83
  • •The BlackIO 83 is significantly smaller (336mm long) and lighter (788g) than the Art Z980 (393mm, 930g).
  • •Both have the same 4000mAh battery for long wireless use.
  • •The compact 75% layout is easier to fit in a bag.
ModdingMIIIW Xiaomi BlackIO 83
  • •The BlackIO 83 explicitly supports QMK and VIA open-source firmware for advanced customization.
  • •Both keyboards are hot-swappable for easy switch changes.
  • •The BlackIO 83's vendor page details its Kailh Jellyfish switches are self-lubricating, a modding consideration.
Content CreationTie
  • •The Art Z980's numpad is useful for timeline scrubbing and numerical shortcuts in video/photo software.
  • •The BlackIO 83's QMK/VIA support allows for creating complex macros for editing software.
  • •Both feature RGB backlighting for visual customization.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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