Qwertykeys Studio Neo65 Core Plus vs Neo98Compact vs Full-Size Choice
Choose the Neo65 Core Plus for a portable, wireless-ready compact, or the Neo98 for a full-size layout with a larger battery and more mounting options.
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Which one should you get?
Get the
Qwertykeys Studio Neo65 Core Plus
Compact
Build quality in the top 15% of 65% boards under $300.
- Explicit QMK and VIA support for deep firmware customization.
- Dual-mount system (gasket and gummy O-ring) for typing feel customization.
- Includes a 2.4 GHz dongle and Bluetooth for tri-mode wireless connectivity.
- 65% layout. No function row and no numpad.
Get the
Qwertykeys Neo98
Full-Size Choice
Build quality in the top 5% of 98% boards under $100.
- 98% layout includes a numpad and arrow keys while saving some space over full-size.
- Larger 4400mAh battery capacity for extended wireless use.
- Offers multiple mounting styles: Poron gasket, silicone gasket, and top mount.
- Compact full-size layout. The numpad is present, the gaps of a full-size board are not.
Select the Qwertykeys Neo65 Core Plus if you prioritize a portable, wireless-capable keyboard with extensive programmability for gaming or travel. Opt for the Qwertykeys Neo98 if you need a full numpad for office or creative work and value a larger battery and acoustic tuning in a stationary setup. The core trade-off is between the Neo65's connectivity and custom software versus the Neo98's expansive layout and battery life.
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 Neo98
Layout size
65%
98%
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
2.4 GHz, Wired, Bluetooth
Wireless for several devices and wired for lower latency
Battery
2,200 mAh
8,000 mAh
A larger battery means fewer cables during the day
Case material
Aluminum
Aluminum, Brass, Copper, Steel
N-key rollover
Yes
No
- Qwertykeys Studio Neo65 Core Plus
- Qwertykeys Neo98
- Performance
- 6653
- Build quality
- 8194
- Productivity
- 7489
- Customizability
- 8286
- Portability
- 8762
- Hot-swappable
- Mount style: Gasket Mount
- QMK
- VIA
- Sound dampening
- Layout standard: ANSI, ISO
What will you mostly use it for?
The Neo65 Core Plus is the clear choice for travel and modding due to its portability and extensive firmware support. For office work and content creation that relies on a numpad, the Neo98 is superior. Gaming leans toward the Neo65 for its confirmed high polling rate, while programming is a tie based on layout preference. Your primary need for desk space and specific keys will dictate the winner.
Pick the Qwertykeys Studio Neo65 Core Plus
- The Neo65 Core Plus has a specified 1000 Hz polling rate for its wired PCB, which the Neo98's listing does not mention.
- Its smaller 65% footprint frees up more desk space for mouse movement.
- Tri-mode connectivity includes a 2.4 GHz dongle for a reliable wireless gaming option.
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 Neo98
6 owner reviews
“excellent board. build quality, sound, feel, options, aesthetics - I'm completely satisfied.”
Qwertykeys Studio Neo65 Core Plus vs Neo98 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
8 of 23 specs differ
Qwertykeys Studio Neo65 Core Plus
Qwertykeys 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
Weight
Dimensions
Typing angle
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
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 Neo98
MonacoKeys
ISO
In stockDoes not ship to you
Compare prices
Live prices from the stores we track, cheapest in-stock offer first.
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Lowest price across stores, Amazon excluded.
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Qwertykeys Studio Neo65 Core Plus vs Neo98: your questions
Both the Neo65 Core Plus and the Neo98 offer wireless options. The Neo65 Core Plus is available with a tri-mode PCB supporting Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz with a dongle, and wired USB-C. The Neo98 also offers a tri-mode hotswap PCB option with Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz connectivity.
The vendor description for the Neo98 does not mention QMK or VIA support. In contrast, the Neo65 Core Plus listing explicitly states compatibility with both QMK and VIA for key remapping and macro programming.
The Neo98 has a significantly larger battery at 4400mAh, while the Neo65 Core Plus uses a 2200mAh battery. This suggests the Neo98 will last longer on a single charge during wireless use, though actual runtime depends on usage patterns.
Yes, both are highly customizable. The Neo65 Core Plus uses a dual-mount system with gasket and gummy O-ring options. The Neo98 offers a choice between Poron gasket, silicone gasket, or top mount styles, allowing you to adjust the flex and sound profile.
The Neo65 Core Plus is better for small desks. Its 65% layout measures 313 x 111 mm, which is much more compact than the Neo98's 398 x 134 mm 98% layout. The smaller size frees up valuable space for your mouse and other accessories.
No, both the Qwertykeys Neo65 Core Plus and Neo98 are sold as barebone kits. This means the case, PCB, plate, and various foams and accessories are included, but you must purchase mechanical switches and keycaps separately.
Both keyboards feature aluminum top cases. The Neo65 Core Plus uses a unibody aluminum case with an integrated copper or brass weight. The Neo98's top case is anodized aluminum, with the bottom case available in anodized aluminum, brass, or copper options.
According to the manufacturer, the Neo65 Core Plus is designed for a foam-free, natural sound. It features a tuned internal structure, a 3D copper weight for vibration damping, and a dual-mount system aimed at producing a clear and bright acoustic profile.
The Qwertykeys Neo98 offers three mounting styles. You can build it using a Poron gasket mount, a silicone gasket mount, or a top mount. The kit includes the necessary gaskets and screws for all these configurations.
The Neo65 Core Plus bundle includes a keyboard carrying case, as listed in its vendor description. The included items for the Neo98 are listed as a 'Keyboard Case & Pouch,' which may serve a similar protective function.
Yes, both keyboards offer hot-swappable PCB options. The Neo65 Core Plus provides tri-mode hotswap and wired hotswap PCBs. The Neo98 offers tri-mode hotswap and wired hotswap PCB choices, allowing for easy switch installation without soldering.
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