Compare Qwertykeys Neo98 vs Neo65 Core Plus Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Qwertykeys' larger and smaller barebones kits. Both offer gasket mounting, aluminum cases, and tri-mode connectivity, making the choice difficult. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize a full layout with a numpad or a compact form factor that's easier to transport. Each board also has distinct construction and mounting options that appeal to different modding preferences.

Model
	89	77	Select a keyboard to compare
Rating	4.0 stars (2 reviews)	5.0 stars (6 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	Released in 2026 Available in a 98% layout Supports QMK firmware Supports VIA configuration Supports 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Bluetooth connectivity Equipped with a 8000 mAh battery Weighs about 1798 g Sized at 18 x 398 x 134 mm Made with a Aluminum, Brass, Copper, Steel case Features PBT, ABS keycaps	Released in 2025 Available in a 65% layout Features N-key rollover Includes screw-in stabilizers Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate Equipped with a 4400 mAh battery Weighs about 1340 g Sized at 18 x 313 x 111 mm Made with a Aluminum case
Score	Scores Performance: 53.2 Build Quality: 93.7 Productivity: 88.6 Customizability: 86.2 Portability: 62.5	Scores Performance: 53.6 Build Quality: 80.4 Productivity: 80.6 Customizability: 69.6 Portability: 89
Name	Name Qwertykeys Neo98	Name Qwertykeys Neo65 Core Plus
Release year	Release year 2026	Release year 2025
Switch Options	Switch Options -	Switch Options -
Profile	Profile Normal Profile	Profile Normal Profile
Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable
Layout Size	Layout Size 98%	Layout Size 65%
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ANSI, ISO	Layout Standard ANSI, ISO
Layout Ergonomics	Layout Ergonomics Normal	Layout Ergonomics Normal
Knob Support	Knob Support	Knob Support
Display Support	Display Support	Display Support
Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support
Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys
USB-C	USB-C	USB-C
USB passthrough	USB passthrough	USB passthrough
Connection	Connection 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Bluetooth	Connection Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate	Polling Rate -	Polling Rate 1000 Hz
Battery capacity	Battery capacity 8000 mAh	Battery capacity 4400 mAh
Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support
QMK Support	QMK Support	QMK Support
VIA Support	VIA Support	VIA Support
VIAL Support	VIAL Support	VIAL Support
N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover
Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger
Mount Style	Mount Style Gasket Mount	Mount Style Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers
Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening
Backlight	Backlight	Backlight
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material Aluminum, Brass, Copper, Steel	Case Material Aluminum
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material PBT, ABS	Keycaps Material -
Dimensions	Dimensions 18 x 398 x 134 mm	Dimensions 18 x 313 x 111 mm
Weight	Weight 1798g	Weight 1340g

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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require a number pad for work or prefer a heavier, more substantial keyboard, the Qwertykeys Neo98 is the logical pick. If portability, a specified high polling rate for gaming, or a more versatile mounting system for modding are higher priorities, the Qwertykeys Neo65 Core Plus is the better option. Both are made-to-order kits with similar lead times.

Qwertykeys Neo98

+Includes a full 98% layout with a number pad.
+Offers a choice of brass or copper for the bottom case material.
+Provides multiple mounting options: Poron gasket, silicone gasket, or top mount.
+Features a tuned internal structure and force-break layer for sound control.
+Comes with a comprehensive foam kit and multiple gasket types.

−Very large and heavy at 1798 grams, limiting portability.
−No specified polling rate is mentioned in its product details.
−The vendor lists a 12-week estimated ship time for made-to-order units.

Qwertykeys Neo65 Core Plus

+Compact and portable 65% form factor.
+Specifies a 1000 Hz polling rate and includes N-Key Rollover (NKRO).
+Offers a dual-mounting system (gummy O-ring or PCB gasket) and VIA compatibility.
+Includes screw-in stabilizers and a plate fork for easier building.
+Uses magnetic POGO pin connectors for easy PCB removal.

−Lacks a number pad and dedicated navigation cluster.
−Only available with an aluminum case, without the brass/copper case option of the Neo98.
−The vendor lists a 12-week estimated fulfillment time for made-to-order units.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Neo98 wins for office and content creation due to its integrated number pad. The Neo65 Core Plus is the clear choice for travel and has an edge for gaming and modding thanks to its specified polling rate and dual-mount system. For programming, the choice is a tie and comes down to a user's preference for key accessibility versus desk space.

GamingQwertykeys Neo65 Core Plus

•The Neo65 Core Plus has a specified 1000 Hz polling rate, which the Neo98's listing does not mention.
•Its smaller 65% footprint frees up more desk space for mouse movement.
•It includes N-Key Rollover (NKRO) for precise simultaneous key presses.

OfficeQwertykeys Neo98

•The Neo98's 98% layout includes a full number pad, which is essential for data entry.
•Its heavier 1798g weight provides more stability on a desk.
•The larger layout offers dedicated navigation keys without needing layers.

ProgrammingTie

•Both are hot-swappable and support ANSI/ISO layouts for keycap flexibility.
•Both lack RGB, reducing distractions.
•Choice depends on personal preference for a compact 65% layout with layers or a 98% layout with dedicated keys.

TravelQwertykeys Neo65 Core Plus

•The Neo65 Core Plus is significantly smaller (313 x 111 mm vs 398 x 134 mm).
•It is lighter (1340g vs 1798g) for easier transport.
•Its compact 65% size fits more easily into bags.

ModdingQwertykeys Neo65 Core Plus

•The Neo65 Core Plus offers a dual-mounting system (gummy O-ring or PCB gasket) and is compatible with plateless builds.
•Its listing mentions VIA compatibility for easy key remapping.
•It includes screw-in stabilizers and a plate fork for easier assembly.

Content CreationQwertykeys Neo98

•The Neo98's number pad is useful for timeline scrubbing and numerical shortcuts in editing software.
•The larger layout provides more immediate access to macro keys.
•Its heavier build is less likely to shift during vigorous typing sessions.