Neo Ergo Alice vs Neo98Ergonomic Alice vs Full-Layout 98%
Choose the Neo Ergo Alice for ergonomic comfort and portability, or the Neo Neo98 for a full layout with a numpad in a compact form.
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Which one should you get?
Get the
Neo Ergo Alice
Ergonomic Alice
Build quality in the top 25% of 60% boards under $200.
- Ergonomic Alice layout with symmetrical alpha keys to minimize hand height difference.
- Includes RGB light strips in the spaces between keys for underglow effects.
- Magnetic ball-catch case design and improved gasket mount for stable typing.
- Compact layout only. No function row, dedicated arrow keys, or numpad.
Get the
Neo Neo98
Full-Layout 98%
Build quality in the top 25% of 98% boards under $150.
- 98% layout includes a full numpad and arrow keys while saving space versus a full-size.
- Offers three assembly options: poron gasket mount, silicone gasket mount, and top mount.
- Vendor listing confirms N-Key Rollover (NKRO) for reliable every-key registration.
- South-facing LEDs. Shine-through legends stay dark, and some sculpted keycaps can clip the LED.
- Compact full-size layout. The numpad is present, the gaps of a full-size board are not.
Your need for a numpad is the ultimate decider. If you work extensively with numbers or require maximum key accessibility without layers, the Neo Neo98 is the practical choice. If you prioritize ergonomic comfort, a smaller desk footprint, and lighting customization, the Neo Ergo Alice is the better investment. Both are capable, wireless aluminum kits, but they serve fundamentally different layout philosophies.
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.
Neo Ergo Alice
Neo Neo98
Layout size
60%
98%
Battery
2,200 mAh
8,000 mAh
A larger battery means fewer cables during the day
Mount style
Gasket Mount
Gasket Mount, Top Mount
VIA
Yes
No
GUI remapping without compiling firmware
Backlight
RGB
Yes, south-facing
RGB for looks and low light rather than speed
- Neo Ergo Alice
- Neo Neo98
- Performance
- 6168
- Build quality
- 7672
- Productivity
- 6376
- Customizability
- 7056
- Portability
- 8665
- Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Case material: Aluminum
- Sound dampening
What will you mostly use it for?
The Neo Neo98 is the clear choice for office work and content creation where a numpad and full navigation cluster are non-negotiable. The Neo Ergo Alice wins for travel and modding, thanks to its compact ergonomic form and included RGB. For gaming and programming, the decision is more nuanced, leaning towards the Alice for its confirmed polling rate and ergonomics, though programmers might value the Neo98's extra keys. This creates a clean split based on layout needs versus ergonomic and portable design.
Pick the Neo Ergo Alice
- The vendor page lists a 1000Hz polling rate for the Ergo Alice, which is not specified for the Neo98.
- The Ergo Alice's symmetrical alpha layout may offer more comfortable hand positioning during long sessions.
- Its compact 65% size frees up more desk space for mouse movement.
Neo Ergo Alice vs Neo98 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
9 of 20 specs differ
Neo Ergo Alice
Neo Neo98
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Connection
Max polling rate
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Typing angle
Backlight
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
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Neo Ergo Alice vs Neo98: your questions
The Neo Ergo Alice lists a 1000Hz polling rate, which is beneficial for gaming responsiveness. Its compact size frees up mouse space, and the ergonomic layout may reduce fatigue. However, the lack of dedicated arrow keys may require adaptation for some games.
Yes, the Neo Neo98 uses a 98% layout, which includes a full numpad. This makes it suitable for data entry, accounting, and any task where a numpad is frequently used, all in a form factor smaller than a traditional full-size keyboard.
Yes, both the Neo Ergo Alice and Neo Neo98 offer tri-mode connectivity. You can use them wired via USB-C, with a 2.4 GHz wireless dongle, or via Bluetooth. Both kits include two 2200mAh batteries.
No, both products are sold as barebones DIY kits. As stated in their vendor descriptions, they do not include switches, keycaps, or plates. You must purchase these components separately to complete the build.
The Neo Ergo Alice is significantly more portable. Its 65% Alice layout is much smaller and lighter than the 98% Neo98. The Ergo Alice kit also includes a carrying case, making it easier to transport.
Yes, both keyboards are programmable. The Neo Ergo Alice vendor page explicitly states it is programmable with VIA. The Neo Neo98 description also lists VIA compatibility, allowing for key remapping and macro creation on both.
Both feature anodized aluminum cases and gasket mount designs for a premium feel. The Ergo Alice has a magnetic ball-catch design, while the Neo98 includes a forcebreak layer and offers three mounting options, suggesting a focus on sound tuning.
For traditional typing, the Neo98's standard layout may feel familiar. For ergonomic comfort, the Ergo Alice's split design and symmetrical alpha keys are intended to promote a more natural hand position and minimize strain during long typing sessions.
Yes, both the Neo Ergo Alice and Neo Neo98 feature hot-swappable PCBs. This allows you to easily change switches without any soldering, making it simple to experiment with different typing feels.
The Ergo Alice includes a carrying case, pullers, NeoStabs, and foam sheets. The Neo98 includes a keyboard pouch, a screwdriver, pullers, NeoStabs, and multiple gasket types. Both include a USB-C cable and a 2.4GHz dongle.
Yes, the vendor description for the Neo Neo98 states it is 'Programmable with VIA.' This means you can use the VIA configurator to remap keys and create layers for the keyboard.
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