Qwertykeys Studio Neo65 Core Plus vs Neo80Compact 65% vs Full 80% Layout Choice
Choose the Neo65 for a portable, highly customizable kit, or the Neo80 for a heavier, full-layout TKL with premium metal bottom options.
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5.0 (16)5.0 · 16 reviews
from$175at MonacoKeys
90-day lowLowest price in 90 days
5.0 (12)5.0 · 12 reviews
from$199at Divinikey
Which one should you get?
Get the
Qwertykeys Studio Neo65 Core Plus
Compact 65%
Build quality in the top 15% of 65% boards under $200.
- Explicit support for QMK and VIA firmware for deep programmability.
- Dual-mount system (gasket and gummy O-ring) and plateless build option for customizable typing feel.
- Includes a carrying case and features a quick-disassembly Pogo-pin design.
- 65% layout. No function row and no numpad.
Get the
Qwertykeys Neo80
Full 80% Layout Choice
Build quality in the top 10% of 80% boards under $200.
- Substantial 80% TKL layout with function row and navigation keys.
- Choice of brass or copper bottom case, contributing to a hefty 4.5 kg assembled weight for stability.
- Larger 4400mAh battery capacity for longer wireless use.
- No ISO layout. ISO-DE, UK, and other ISO variants are not offered.
- No numpad.
Your primary need dictates the choice. If you value a portable, highly customizable keyboard that supports advanced firmware and a compact layout, the Neo65 Core Plus is the clear pick. If you require a full TKL layout, prefer a heavier, more stationary keyboard with premium metal construction, and do not need QMK/VIA, the Neo80 is the better tool. Consider how much you use function keys versus how much you value desk space and programmability.
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.
Qwertykeys Studio Neo65 Core Plus
Qwertykeys Neo80
Layout size
65%
80%
Battery
2,200 mAh
4,400 mAh
A larger battery means fewer cables during the day
Case material
Aluminum
Aluminum, Brass, Copper
QMK
Yes
No
The deep option when you want to remap every key
VIA
Yes
No
GUI remapping without compiling firmware
- Qwertykeys Studio Neo65 Core Plus
- Qwertykeys Neo80
- Performance
- 6161
- Build quality
- 8485
- Productivity
- 6962
- Customizability
- 8355
- Portability
- 8672
- Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Mount style: Gasket Mount
- Sound dampening
What will you mostly use it for?
The Neo65 Core Plus wins for travel and modding due to its portability and extensive firmware and mounting options. The Neo80 is the better choice for office work and content creation where its full TKL layout and heft are advantages. For gaming, the Neo65 has a slight edge with its confirmed high polling rate and space-saving design, while programming is a tie, dependent on a coder's preference for dedicated keys versus a more compact form factor.
Pick the Qwertykeys Studio Neo65 Core Plus
- The Neo65's 1000 Hz polling rate is explicitly listed for its wired PCB, a spec not confirmed for the Neo80.
- Its more compact 65% layout frees up more desk space for mouse movement.
- The lighter weight and smaller form factor may be easier to reposition during long sessions.
What owners say
Ratings and quotes collected from verified store reviews, including the critical ones.
Qwertykeys Studio Neo65 Core Plus
16 owner reviews
“High Quality Product. Fast delivery and one of the nicest customer services I experienced. If you have any questions jump on his discord and u will get any help u need!”
Qwertykeys Neo80
12 owner reviews
“Spectacular mechanical keyboard, the best I've had so far, thanks to QwertyKeys and Divinikey for making it possible to own it.”
Qwertykeys Studio Neo65 Core Plus vs Neo80 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
9 of 21 specs differ
Qwertykeys Studio Neo65 Core Plus
Qwertykeys Neo80
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Connection
Max polling rate
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Weight
Dimensions
Typing angle
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Released
ISO layouts by store
Which stores sell ISO-DE, UK, and the other regional layouts.
Qwertykeys Studio Neo65 Core Plus
Listed on the product, not split by store: ISO.
Qwertykeys Neo80
No ISO layout at the stores we track.
Compare prices
Live prices from the stores we track, cheapest in-stock offer first.
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Qwertykeys Studio Neo65 Core Plus vs Neo80: your questions
Both keyboards offer tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired). However, the Neo80 has a larger 4400mAh battery, which should provide longer usage between charges compared to the Neo65's 2200mAh battery. For extended cord-free sessions, the Neo80 has a battery capacity advantage.
The provided specifications for the Neo80 do not list QMK or VIA support. The Neo65 Core Plus explicitly includes both QMK and VIA support in its specs and vendor description. If advanced firmware customization is essential, the Neo65 is the confirmed choice.
According to vendor descriptions, both aim for a natural, foam-free sound. The Neo65 Core Plus uses a 3D copper weight and a tuned internal structure for a clearer, brighter acoustic profile. The Neo80, with its full brass or copper bottom and partitioned acoustic chamber, is described as delivering a deeper, clean typing sound.
Yes, but only on the Neo65 Core Plus. Its PCB is listed as compatible with both ANSI and ISO layouts. The Neo80 specifications only mention ANSI layout support, so ISO keycap sets may not fit correctly on the Neo80.
The Neo80 is significantly heavier. Its assembled weight is approximately 4.5 kg (4500g), due in part to its brass or copper bottom case. The Neo65's weight is not specified, but its smaller aluminum case and smaller copper weight suggest it is much lighter.
No. Both the Qwertykeys Neo65 Core Plus and Neo80 are sold as barebone DIY kits. This means they include the case, PCB, plate, and various accessories, but you must purchase mechanical switches and keycaps separately to complete the build.
The Neo65 Core Plus supports a dual-mount system: PCB gasket mount and gummy O-ring mount. The Neo80 offers three options: Poron gasket mount, silicone gasket mount, and top mount, giving you flexibility to change the typing feel.
A 1000 Hz polling rate is explicitly listed for the wired PCB option of the Neo65 Core Plus. The polling rate for the Neo80 is not stated in the provided specifications, so a direct comparison cannot be made.
The Neo65 Core Plus offers aluminum, POM, and plastic plates. The Neo80 provides a wider selection including aluminum, carbon fiber, plastic, PEI, and a special glossy-chamfered aluminum plate, offering more variety for sound and feel customization.
The Neo65 Core Plus is more portable. It has a smaller 65% form factor (313mm x 111mm), includes a keyboard carrying case in the box, and is undoubtedly lighter than the 4.5kg Neo80. Its compact size is easier to pack and transport.
No. Both the Qwertykeys Neo65 Core Plus and Neo80 are specified as having no per-key RGB lighting. They focus on materials, acoustics, and typing feel rather than customizable lighting effects.
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