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

Compare Neo Neo98 vs 65 Sonic HE Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Neo's two distinct keyboard offerings. The Neo98 is a versatile, wireless DIY kit with a 98% layout, while the Neo65 Sonic HE is a pre-built, wired 65% board focused on gaming with Hall Effect technology. The choice is difficult because both feature aluminum cases and gasket mounts but cater to fundamentally different priorities: connectivity and size versus specialized gaming performance.

69
Neo98 Keyboard Kit - Image: 7
85
Neo65 Sonic HE+ Keyboard Kit - Image: 6

Select a keyboard to compare

0.0 (0)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2026
  • Available in a 98% layout
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 8000 mAh battery
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Features ABS, PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2025
  • Has Magnetic switch options
  • Available in a 65% layout
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Runs at a 8000 Hz polling rate
  • Weighs about 1500 g
  • Sized at 17 x 310 x 108 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Steel, Brass case
  • Offers No RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 68.6
  • Build Quality: 72.3
  • Productivity: 75.7
  • Customizability: 56.2
  • Portability: 65.5
Scores
  • Performance: 80.9
  • Build Quality: 91.4
  • Productivity: 66.2
  • Customizability: 84.5
  • Portability: 67
Name
Neo Neo98
Name
Neo 65 Sonic HE
Release year
2026
Release year
2025
Switch Options
-
Switch Options
Magnetic
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
98%
Layout Size
65%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
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
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
8000 Hz
Battery capacity
8000 mAh
Battery capacity
-
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
 
South-face
Backlight
 
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum, Steel, Brass
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
17 x 310 x 108 mm
Weight
-
Weight
1500g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. For a versatile, wireless workstation keyboard you can build to your exact taste, the Neo Neo98 is the superior option. If you are a gamer seeking the latest in magnetic switch technology with ultra-low latency and customizable actuation in a ready-to-use package, the Neo65 Sonic HE is the focused pick, provided you can wait for its release.

Neo Neo98

  • +Tri-mode connectivity with Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, and wired USB-C.
  • +98% layout includes numpad and navigation keys in a compact form.
  • +Highly customizable DIY kit with three mounting style options.
  • +Includes two 2200mAh batteries for wireless use.
  • +Comes with a carrying case, pouch, and various assembly tools.
  • −Requires assembly and purchase of separate switches, keycaps, and a plate.
  • −Lacks advanced gaming features like adjustable actuation or rapid trigger.
  • −No specified high polling rate for gaming latency.

Neo 65 Sonic HE

  • +Pre-built with Hall Effect switches offering adjustable actuation, rapid trigger, and dynamic keystroke.
  • +High 8000 Hz polling rate for responsive gaming.
  • +Carbon fiber plate and substantial 1500g weight for a solid feel.
  • +Includes a full set of Owlab Nova HE switches, keycaps, and a carrying case.
  • −Wired-only connectivity, with no wireless option.
  • −65% layout lacks dedicated function keys, arrows, and a numpad.
  • −Currently a pre-order item with a projected ship date many months out.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Neo98 is the clear choice for productivity-focused users, modders, and anyone needing wireless connectivity with a numpad. The Neo65 Sonic HE dominates for dedicated gaming and is better suited for travel due to its smaller, pre-built form. Programmers and content creators will likely prefer the Neo98's larger layout, while the Neo65's specialized features are a significant advantage for competitive gamers.

GamingNeo 65 Sonic HE
  • •The Neo65 Sonic HE has a specified 8000 Hz polling rate for lower latency.
  • •It features Hall Effect switches with adjustable actuation points, rapid trigger, and dynamic keystroke via its web configurator.
  • •Its heavier 1500g weight provides stability during intense use.
OfficeNeo Neo98
  • •The Neo98's 98% layout includes a numpad and navigation cluster for data entry.
  • •It offers tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, wired) for flexible device switching.
  • •The included carrying case and pouch aid in transport between workspaces.
ProgrammingNeo Neo98
  • •The 98% layout provides dedicated arrow keys and a full set of function keys without taking up as much space as a full-size board.
  • •It is programmable with VIA software for key remapping.
  • •Wireless connectivity reduces cable clutter on the desk.
TravelNeo 65 Sonic HE
  • •The Neo65 Sonic HE is a more compact 65% layout, saving bag space.
  • •It is a fully pre-built unit, requiring no assembly on the go.
  • •It also includes a keyboard carrying case for protection.
ModdingNeo Neo98
  • •The Neo98 is a barebones DIY kit designed for customization, lacking switches, keycaps, and a plate.
  • •It offers three assembly options: poron gasket mount, silicone gasket mount, and top mount.
  • •Poron gaskets are held with a grooved structure for easy replacement, and numerous spare parts are available separately.
Content CreationNeo Neo98
  • •The larger 98% layout is beneficial for shortcut-heavy workflows in video and photo editing software.
  • •Wireless operation allows for a cleaner filming setup.
  • •Programmability with VIA supports creating macros for repetitive tasks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

96
$106
Keychron K10 HE Wireless Magnetic Switch Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K10 HE
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

100
$160
Keychron Q1 HE QMK Wireless Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q1 HE
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

91
$118
Keychron K4 HE Wireless Magnetic Switch Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K4 HE
96%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Alu case,
Tray 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

87
$149
Minilo98 Pro - Image: 2
Varmilo Minilo98 Pro
98%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Metal case,
Gasket Mount

90
$199
Keychron Q16 HE 8K Magnetic Switch Keyboard
Keychron Q16 HE
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Metal case,
Gasket Mount

83
$119
Keychron V6 Ultra 8K Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron V6 Ultra
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
Metal case,
Gasket Mount

New
$149
Pixtendo x Keykobo Pixel67 Keyboard - Barebone
Keykobo Pixel67
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

82
$129
Vortex Multix 104 VIA Autumn Hotswap Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Vortex Multix 104 VIA
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
Backlight,
VIA,
QMK,
Plate Mount

91
$200
Neo65 Cu Barebones Kit - Image: 8
Neo Neo65
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount