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.

Model
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Rating	0.0 stars (0 reviews)	0.0 stars (0 reviews)
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Main differences	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
Score	Scores Performance: 68 Build Quality: 72.6 Productivity: 75.7 Customizability: 56 Portability: 65.9	Scores Performance: 80.4 Build Quality: 91.5 Productivity: 66.3 Customizability: 84.6 Portability: 67.4
Name	Name Neo Neo98	Name Neo 65 Sonic HE
Release year	Release year 2026	Release year 2025
Switch Options	Switch Options -	Switch Options Magnetic
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	Layout Standard ANSI
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 Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless	Connection Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate	Polling Rate -	Polling Rate 8000 Hz
Battery capacity	Battery capacity 8000 mAh	Battery capacity -
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 South-face	Backlight
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material Aluminum	Case Material Aluminum, Steel, Brass
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material ABS, PBT	Keycaps Material -
Dimensions	Dimensions -	Dimensions 17 x 310 x 108 mm
Weight	Weight -	Weight 1500g

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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.