Qwertykeys Neo98 vs Neo60 CoreFull-Size vs Compact Build Kit
Choose the Neo98 for a full layout with premium materials, or the Neo60 Core for portability and easier firmware customization.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Qwertykeys Neo98
Full-Size
- 98% layout includes arrow keys, navigation cluster, and a full number pad.
- Offers a choice of premium bottom case materials like brass or copper.
- Features a tuned internal structure and integrated force-break layer for controlled acoustics.
- Very large and heavy (398 x 134 mm, 1798g), limiting portability.
- Lacks per-key RGB lighting.
- Does not mention VIA or QMK support in its listed features.
Get the
Qwertykeys Neo60 Core
Compact Build Kit
- Compact 60% form factor (293 x 109 mm) saves desk space and is highly portable.
- Officially supports VIA for easy key remapping and macro programming.
- Offers five different plate materials with described typing feel and sound profiles.
- 60% layout lacks dedicated arrow keys, function row, and number pad, requiring layers.
- Smaller 2200mAh battery compared to the Neo98's 4400mAh.
- Uses a PCB mount system, which may offer less flex than the Neo98's gasket mount options.
Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require a full number pad, arrow keys, and a heavy, acoustically refined board, the Qwertykeys Neo98 is the logical pick. If your priority is a compact, portable keyboard that is easy to reprogram on the fly with VIA, the Neo60 Core offers superior flexibility in a smaller package. Both are high-quality, customizable kits with long lead times.
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 Neo98
Qwertykeys Neo60 Core
Layout size
98%
60%
Connection
2.4 GHz, Wired, Bluetooth
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
Battery
8,000 mAh
2,200 mAh
Case material
Aluminum, Brass, Copper, Steel
Aluminum
Mount style
Gasket Mount
PCB Mount
- Qwertykeys Neo98
- Qwertykeys Neo60 Core
- Performance
- 5358
- Build quality
- 9480
- Productivity
- 8961
- Customizability
- 8673
- Portability
- 6287
- Hot-swappable
- VIA
- Layout standard: ANSI, ISO
What will you mostly use it for?
The Neo98 is the clear choice for office work and content creation where a number pad is non-negotiable, and it also suits gamers who prefer a substantial, stable board. The Neo60 Core wins for travel due to its smaller size and weight, and for modders due to its VIA support and detailed plate options. For programming, the choice is a toss-up between the Neo98's out-of-the-box key coverage and the Neo60 Core's programmable layers.
Pick the Qwertykeys Neo98
- The Neo98's 98% layout includes a full number pad for macros and data entry in certain games.
- Its heavier 1798g weight provides more stability on the desk.
- It offers multiple mounting styles (Poron gasket, silicone gasket, top mount) to fine-tune the typing feel.
What owners say
Ratings and quotes collected from verified store reviews, including the critical ones.
Qwertykeys Neo98
2 owner reviews
“I’m not the fastest typer, but appreciate the aesthetics, sounds, and feel that a mechanical keyboard can bring. The Neo98 checks all those boxes and adds to the senses and brings a whole experience with a premium feel. Not to mention the price and bargain…”
Qwertykeys Neo60 Core
14 owner reviews
“Exceeded my expectations, iv been using my salvation that cost more than double and i feel its better and espcially the even sound throughout the keeb”
Qwertykeys Neo98 vs Neo60 Core specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
14 of 22 specs differ
Qwertykeys Neo98
Qwertykeys Neo60 Core
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Connection
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Typing angle
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
Compare prices
Live prices from the stores we track, cheapest in-stock offer first.
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Qwertykeys Neo98 vs Neo60 Core: your questions
The Neo98 is a 98% layout keyboard measuring 398 x 134 mm, which includes a full number pad, arrow keys, and a navigation cluster. The Neo60 Core is a 60% layout measuring 293 x 109 mm, which omits the number pad, function row, and dedicated arrow keys, relying on function layers instead.
The Qwertykeys Neo60 Core explicitly lists VIA compatibility as a feature. The vendor description for the Neo98 does not mention VIA or QMK support.
Yes, both the Qwertykeys Neo98 and Neo60 Core are available with hot-swappable PCB options. This allows you to change mechanical switches without soldering.
According to the vendor, the Neo98 supports three mounting styles: a Poron gasket mount, a silicone gasket mount, and a top mount. This allows builders to choose between a softer, flexier typing feel or a more rigid one.
The Neo60 Core offers plates in five materials: Carbon Fiber, Aluminum, FR4, POM, and PP (Polypropylene). The vendor provides a guide ranking them from hardest to softest typing feel and from highest to deepest pitch sound profile.
No, both the Neo98 and Neo60 Core are sold as DIY kits or barebones kits. They include the case, PCB, plate, stabilizers, and various accessories, but you must supply your own mechanical switches and keycaps.
The Neo98's tri-mode kit includes a 4400mAh battery, while the Neo60 Core's tri-mode kit uses a 2200mAh battery. Based on capacity alone, the Neo98 has the potential for longer wireless usage between charges.
The vendor states the Neo98 has an integrated force-break layer at the contact points between the top and bottom case. This is designed to isolate metal surfaces to reduce case ping and produce a cleaner sound signature.
Both keyboards are made-to-order items. The vendor lists an estimated production and ship time of 12 weeks after ordering for both the Neo98 and the Neo60 Core.
Both keyboards offer tri-mode connectivity options, supporting wired USB-C, 2.4GHz wireless with a dongle, and Bluetooth. Wired-only PCB options are also available for both models.
Both kits are comprehensive. They include the case, PCB, plate, stabilizers (NeoStabs), a foam kit, gaskets, rubber feet, a USB-C cable, tools (screwdriver, puller), and a keyboard carrying case. The Neo60 Core also includes a specific disassembly tool.
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