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Compare Qwertykeys Neo65 Core Plus vs Neo80CU Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for keyboard enthusiasts deciding between Qwertykeys' accessible and portable 65% offering and their flagship, heavyweight TKL. The choice hinges on whether you prioritize a lower cost and smaller footprint or are willing to invest in a larger, acoustically-tuned board with more substantial materials. Both are gasket-mounted, tri-mode aluminum kits, making the layout, weight, price, and specific acoustic features the key differentiators.

77
Qwertykeys Neo65 Core Plus Keyboard
79
Neo80CU - 80% TKL Aluminium Custom Mechanical Keyboard Kit

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5.0 (6)
5.0 (8)
  • Released in 2025
  • Available in a 65% layout
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Equipped with a 4400 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1340 g
  • Sized at 18 x 313 x 111 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Released in 2026
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Equipped with a 2200 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 4500 g
  • Sized at 18 x 356 x 134 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Copper, Brass case
Scores
  • Performance: 53.6
  • Build Quality: 80.4
  • Productivity: 80.6
  • Customizability: 69.6
  • Portability: 89
Scores
  • Performance: 66.9
  • Build Quality: 88.6
  • Productivity: 73.6
  • Customizability: 67.2
  • Portability: 75.4
Name
Qwertykeys 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
4400 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
1340g
Weight
4500g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you want a cost-effective, portable entry into custom keyboards with great wireless battery life, the Neo65 Core Plus is the compelling option. If your budget allows and you desire a stationary, acoustically-optimized centerpiece with a full TKL layout and unparalleled heft, the Neo80CU is the premium investment. Consider current availability, as the Neo80CU was listed as sold out.

Qwertykeys Neo65 Core Plus

  • +More affordable price point for a full aluminum kit with premium features.
  • +Highly portable 65% size and significantly lighter weight at 1.34kg.
  • +Larger 4400mAh battery for extended wireless use.
  • +Includes a dual-mounting system (gummy O-ring or PCB gasket) and magnetic POGO pin connectors for easy assembly.
  • +Comes with a comprehensive foam kit (PE Sheet, PCB Foam, Poron Case Foam) and multiple accessory gifts.
  • −Lacks the dedicated function row and navigation cluster of a TKL layout.
  • −Sound tuning relies on a tuned internal structure and weight, but does not feature the partitioned acoustic chamber of the Neo80CU.
  • −Made-to-order with a long estimated fulfillment time of 12 weeks.

Qwertykeys Neo80CU

  • +Premium build with a case combining aluminum with a copper or brass bottom, resulting in a substantial 4.5kg weight.
  • +Sophisticated partitioned acoustic chamber design with integrated Forcebreak Pads to reduce hollow sounds and metallic vibrations.
  • +Offers three mounting methods: Poron Gasket, Silicone Gasket, and Top Mount for extensive typing feel customization.
  • +Features a distinctive "Star Ring Accent Light" on the front for visual flair.
  • +TKL layout provides the function row and navigation cluster in a relatively compact form.
  • −Significantly more expensive than the Neo65 Core Plus.
  • −Very heavy at 4.5kg, making it impractical to move frequently.
  • −Smaller 2200mAh battery capacity.
  • −Was listed as out of stock at the time of this comparison.

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, thanks to its dedicated keys and immense desk presence. The Neo65 Core Plus wins for portability and gaming where space is at a premium, and it holds a significant advantage for travel due to its smaller size and larger battery. For modding, both are highly capable, offering different but equally compelling paths for customization and sound tuning.

GamingQwertykeys Neo65 Core Plus
  • •The Neo65 Core Plus offers a more compact footprint, freeing up desk space for mouse movement.
  • •Both share a 1000 Hz polling rate for responsive wired and 2.4 GHz connections.
  • •The lighter weight (1.34kg) may be preferable for repositioning during long sessions.
OfficeQwertykeys Neo80CU
  • •The Neo80CU's 80% TKL layout retains the function row and navigation cluster, which are often used in office applications.
  • •Its substantial 4.5kg weight provides exceptional stability on a desk.
  • •Both offer tri-mode wireless connectivity for a clean desk setup.
ProgrammingQwertykeys Neo80CU
  • •The TKL layout on the Neo80CU provides dedicated arrow keys and a full navigation cluster, which many developers prefer.
  • •The heavy, stable build is suited for long typing sessions.
  • •Both keyboards are VIA compatible for key remapping, a useful feature for programmers.
TravelQwertykeys Neo65 Core Plus
  • •The Neo65 Core Plus is significantly smaller (313mm x 111mm vs 356mm x 134mm) and lighter (1.34kg vs 4.5kg).
  • •It has a larger 4400mAh battery capacity compared to the Neo80CU's 2200mAh, potentially offering longer wireless use.
  • •Its more compact form factor is easier to pack in a bag.
ModdingTie
  • •Both are hot-swappable DIY kits with multiple plate material options (Aluminum, Carbon Fiber, Plastic/PP).
  • •The Neo65 Core Plus includes a dual-mounting system (gummy O-ring or PCB gasket) and magnetic connectors for easy disassembly.
  • •The Neo80CU offers three mounting methods (Poron Gasket, Silicone Gasket, and Top Mount) and a partitioned acoustic chamber design for sound tuning.
Content CreationQwertykeys Neo80CU
  • •The Neo80CU's TKL layout provides immediate access to media keys via the function row, which is often mapped in editing software.
  • •The heavy, stable base is less likely to shift during vigorous typing or shortcut use.
  • •The vendor description highlights its suitability for professional or studio use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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