KeebFinder
Not sure which keyboard to choose? Try the Keyboard Finder now!

Compare Qwertykeys Studio Neo65 Core Plus vs Neo80CU Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for keyboard enthusiasts deciding between Qwertykeys' compact and full-size premium offerings. The Neo65 Core Plus is a 65% kit focused on acoustic tuning and a dual-mount system at a more accessible price point. The Neo80CU is an 80% TKL that emphasizes material luxury with options for a copper or brass bottom case, resulting in a significantly heavier build. The decision hinges on layout preference, budget, and the desired balance between innovative features and material prestige.

79
Neo65 Core Plus - 65% ISO+ANSI Mechanical Aluminium Custom Keyboard Kit
79
Neo80CU - 80% TKL Aluminium Custom Mechanical Keyboard Kit

Select a keyboard to compare

5.0 (16)
5.0 (8)
  • Released in 2025
  • Available in a 65% layout
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Sized at 18 x 313 x 111 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Released in 2026
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Weighs about 4500 g
  • Sized at 18 x 356 x 134 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Copper, Brass case
Scores
  • Performance: 64.8
  • Build Quality: 80.8
  • Productivity: 74
  • Customizability: 81.3
  • Portability: 86.4
Scores
  • Performance: 66.9
  • Build Quality: 88.6
  • Productivity: 73.6
  • Customizability: 67.2
  • Portability: 75.4
Name
Qwertykeys Studio Neo65 Core Plus
Name
Qwertykeys Neo80CU
Release year
2025
Release year
2026
Switch Options
-
Switch Options
-
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
65%
Layout Size
80%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO
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
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
2200 mAh
Battery capacity
2200 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
 
Backlight
 
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum, Copper, Brass
Keycaps Material
-
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
18 x 313 x 111 mm
Dimensions
18 x 356 x 134 mm
Weight
-
Weight
4500g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you value a compact form factor, extensive firmware customization with QMK/VIA, and a more accessible price, the Neo65 Core Plus is the compelling option. If your priority is a premium TKL with luxurious materials like copper or brass, exceptional heft for stability, and a layout built for productivity, the Neo80CU justifies its higher cost. Consider how much you use dedicated arrow and function keys daily.

Qwertykeys Studio Neo65 Core Plus

  • +Offers a dual-mount system (Gasket and Gummy O-Ring) for customizable typing feel.
  • +Includes QMK and VIA firmware support for advanced programmability.
  • +Features a 3D copper weight integrated into a unibody aluminum case for vibration damping.
  • +Designed with a foam-free construction for a natural, clear acoustic profile.
  • +More compact 65% layout saves desk space.
  • −Lacks a dedicated function row and navigation cluster, requiring the use of layers.
  • −The vendor description does not mention advanced acoustic damping features like Forcebreak Pads.
  • −Smaller layout may not suit users who heavily rely on arrow keys or the navigation cluster.

Qwertykeys Neo80CU

  • +Built with premium material options including a copper or brass bottom case.
  • +Extremely heavy construction at 4.5 kg for superior desk stability.
  • +Features a partitioned Acoustic Chamber Design and integrated Forcebreak Pads to reduce hollow sounds.
  • +Offers three mounting methods: Poron Gasket, Silicone Gasket, and Top Mount.
  • +80% TKL layout retains the function row and navigation keys for productivity.
  • −Significantly larger and heavier, making it less portable.
  • −The vendor description does not list QMK or VIA firmware support.
  • −Higher price point compared to the Neo65 Core Plus.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Neo80CU is the clear choice for users who need a full TKL layout for office work, programming, or content creation, offering dedicated keys and a premium, stable build. The Neo65 Core Plus wins for travel due to its compact size and lighter weight, and for modding due to its dual-mount system and QMK/VIA support. For gaming, both are technically capable, leaving the choice to personal layout preference.

GamingTie
  • •Both offer a 1000 Hz polling rate for wired and 2.4 GHz connections.
  • •Both support N-Key Rollover (NKRO).
  • •The Neo65's smaller footprint frees up desk space for mouse movement.
  • •The Neo80CU's heavier 4.5 kg weight provides extreme stability during intense use.
OfficeQwertykeys Neo80CU
  • •The Neo80CU's 80% TKL layout retains the function row and navigation cluster, which are often used in office software.
  • •Both offer tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, wired) for flexible device switching.
  • •The Neo80CU's listed Forcebreak Pads are designed to minimize metallic vibrations, potentially reducing noise.
ProgrammingQwertykeys Neo80CU
  • •The Neo80CU's TKL layout provides dedicated arrow keys and a full navigation cluster, which many developers prefer.
  • •Both keyboards are listed as supporting ISO and ANSI layouts.
  • •The Neo65's 65% layout requires using layers for some navigation keys, which can be less efficient for some workflows.
TravelQwertykeys Studio Neo65 Core Plus
  • •The Neo65 Core Plus is significantly more compact (313 x 111 mm vs 356 x 134 mm).
  • •The Neo65 is much lighter, as the Neo80CU weighs 4.5 kg.
  • •Both include a carrying case, but the Neo65's smaller size is inherently more portable.
ModdingQwertykeys Studio Neo65 Core Plus
  • •The Neo65 Core Plus explicitly supports QMK and VIA firmware for extensive key remapping and macro programming.
  • •The Neo65 offers a dual-mount system (Gasket and Gummy O-Ring) and the option for a plateless build.
  • •Both are hot-swappable and come as DIY barebones kits with multiple plate material options (Aluminum, POM, Plastic for Neo65; Aluminum, Carbon Fiber, Plastic for Neo80CU).
Content CreationQwertykeys Neo80CU
  • •The Neo80CU's TKL layout offers immediate access to media shortcuts and function keys often used in editing software.
  • •Its substantial 4.5 kg weight prevents sliding during vigorous typing or shortcut use.
  • •The manufacturer describes its partitioned Acoustic Chamber Design and Forcebreak Pads for a refined, non-hollow sound profile.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

97
$239
Keychron Q10 Max (Alice Layout) QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q10 Max
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

96
$169
Lemokey P1 HE Wireless Magnetic Switch Custom Gaming Keyboard
Keychron LemoKey P1 HE
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Metal case,
Gasket Mount

76
$246
[In Stock] Geometry70 70% Mechanical Keyboard
Mek Studio Geometry70
70%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Top Mount

98
$186
Keychron Q1 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q1 Max
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

84
$259
Qwertykeys QK65 Mk3 CNC Aluminum Barebones DIY Keyboard Kit
Qwertykeys QK65 Mk3
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Screen,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

91
$200
Neo65 Cu Barebones Kit
Neo Neo65
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

84
$349
[In Stock] Virtual 87 80% Mechanical Barebone Keyboard Kit
Velocifire Virtual 87
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

94
$194
Lemokey L1 QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Gaming Keyboard
Keychron Lemokey L1
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

-10% off
80
$299$269
[GB-EXTRA IN STOCK] EPOMAKER GLOW75 DIY Kit
Epomaker GLOW75
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Screen,
RGB,
Knob,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

71
$169
[In Stock] KV1-65% Mechanical Keyboard Barebone Kit
GDK Lab KV1
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
VIA,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount