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Compare Monsgeek M1W vs Nuphy Halo IO Series Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a feature-rich, mod-friendly kit and a polished, design-focused prebuilt. Both are wireless, gasket-mounted keyboards, but they cater to different priorities. The Monsgeek M1W offers extensive modding potential and connectivity options, while the Nuphy Halo V2 IO emphasizes aesthetic design and a streamlined user experience. The decision hinges on whether you value tinkering and specs or prefer a cohesive, stylish product.

93
MonsGeek M1W Aluminum Wireless Gasket DIY Kit
82
NuPhy Halo IO Series

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  • Released in 2023
  • Has Clicky, Linear, Tactile switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO layout standard
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Equipped with a 6000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 2200 g
  • Sized at 33 x 146 x 333 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Released in 2025
  • Has Mechanical switch options
  • Available in a 65% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1028 g
  • Sized at 20 x 320 x 135 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic case
Scores
  • Performance: 70.3
  • Build Quality: 84.9
  • Productivity: 97
  • Customizability: 97.1
  • Portability: 91.6
Scores
  • Performance: 78.2
  • Build Quality: 77.9
  • Productivity: 91.3
  • Customizability: 80
  • Portability: 98.3
Name
Monsgeek M1W
Name
Nuphy Halo IO Series
Release year
2023
Release year
2025
Switch Options
Clicky, Linear, Tactile
Switch Options
Mechanical
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
65%, 75%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO
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
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
6000 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
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
33 x 146 x 333 mm
Dimensions
20 x 320 x 135 mm
Weight
2200g
Weight
1028g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your choice depends on your willingness to engage with the keyboard as a project. For enthusiasts who enjoy modding, value open-source firmware, and want maximum connectivity from an aluminum build, the Monsgeek M1W is the superior platform. If you prefer a lighter, stylish keyboard that works well immediately with polished software for lighting and macros, the Nuphy Halo V2 IO is the more convenient option.

Monsgeek M1W

  • +Full aluminum case construction for a premium, solid feel.
  • +Extensive modding kit includes extra foam, tape, and Teflon pads.
  • +Triple connectivity with Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless, and wired USB-C.
  • +Open-source QMK and VIA firmware support for deep customization.
  • +Large 6000mAh battery capacity for extended wireless use.

  • Heavier weight of 2200g reduces portability.
  • Larger dimensions may not suit all desk setups or travel bags.
  • Requires more user assembly and configuration compared to a polished prebuilt.

Nuphy Halo IO Series

  • +Lighter weight and more compact dimensions enhance portability.
  • +Includes design-focused accessories like a two-stage foot stand and a dust cover.
  • +NuPhyIO 2.0 software offers a user-friendly interface for macros and RGB customization.
  • +Features a dedicated RGB light band and status light bar for aesthetics.

  • Smaller 4000mAh battery compared to the M1W.
  • Lacks Bluetooth connectivity, offering only 2.4 GHz wireless and wired modes.
  • Vendor description does not mention open-source firmware support like QMK/VIA.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Monsgeek M1W is the clear choice for technical users focused on customization, programming, and gaming due to its open firmware and modding kit. The Nuphy Halo V2 IO wins for travel and content creation where visual design, lighter weight, and streamlined software are priorities. For general office use, both are competent, offering wireless operation and cross-platform compatibility.

GamingMonsgeek M1W
  • The M1W offers triple connectivity including a 2.4 GHz wireless mode for low latency.
  • It features N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
  • South-facing RGB LEDs prevent interference with Cherry-profile keycaps.
OfficeTie
  • Both keyboards offer wireless connectivity and Mac/Windows support.
  • The M1W has a larger 6000mAh battery for longer use between charges.
  • The Halo V2 IO includes a two-stage foot stand for ergonomic adjustment.
ProgrammingMonsgeek M1W
  • The M1W's 75% layout with 82 keys retains essential navigation keys in a compact form.
  • It supports QMK and VIA firmware for deep key remapping and macro programming.
  • Hot-swap sockets support both 3-pin and 5-pin switches for easy switch testing.
TravelNuphy Halo IO Series
  • The Halo V2 IO is significantly lighter at 1000g compared to the M1W's 2200g.
  • Its listed dimensions are more compact (100x100x100mm vs 333x146x33mm).
  • It includes a proprietary dust cover for protection during transport.
ModdingMonsgeek M1W
  • The M1W is sold as a DIY kit or prebuilt with extensive included modding materials like extra Poron foam and tape.
  • Its aluminum case uses a gasket mount design with Poron case foam, IXPE switch pad, and a VHB insulation layer.
  • Open-source QMK/VIA firmware support allows for unlimited software customization.
Content CreationNuphy Halo IO Series
  • The Halo V2 IO features a dedicated, customizable RGB light band and a flowing RGB light bar for visual flair.
  • Nuphy's software, NuPhyIO 2.0, offers extensive macro recording and lighting effect customization.
  • Its marketing emphasizes multi-device support for switching between machines during workflows.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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