Nuphy Air96 V2 Keyboard with all parts
Low-profile keyboards offer sleek portability, but often compromise on features. Mechanical keyboards deliver customizability and comfort, but can be bulky. The Nuphy Air96 V2 aims to bridge this gap, offering high-end mechanical keyboard features in a compact, low-profile design. But does it succeed?
Design and Aesthetics
The Nuphy Air96 V2 immediately stands out with its stylish and colorful design, reminiscent of premium Apple and Logitech keyboards. The gray review unit featured vibrant yellow, salmon, and teal accents on the keycaps, providing a welcome pop of color. Nuphy also includes alternate keycaps for Windows and Mac layouts.
Nuphy Air96 V2 Keyboard color keycaps
The double-shot PBT keycaps are high-quality, with a pleasant grainy texture and legends that won’t wear off. The aluminum top edge adds a touch of elegance, while the translucent plastic bottom reduces weight and adds a unique visual element. Colored keyboard feet and connection toggles further enhance the overall aesthetic. Small RGB light strips on either side of the keyboard serve as status indicators and add an extra touch of flair.
Nuphy Air96 V2 Keyboard bottom
Custom Switches and Hot-Swap Sockets
The Air96 V2 boasts custom Gateron low-profile switches, available in several variations: Cowberry (linear), Moss (tactile), Daisy (linear), Wisteria (tactile), and Aloe (linear). These switches are factory-lubed and offer a surprisingly satisfying typing experience. The review unit’s Wisteria tactile switches felt excellent, providing a noticeable bump without being overly stiff.
Nuphy Air96 V2 Keyboard low-profile switches
A standout feature is the hot-swappable sockets, allowing users to easily swap switches without soldering. This is a rare and valuable feature in low-profile keyboards, offering unparalleled customization options. Nuphy’s decision to offer a variety of custom switches alongside hot-swap sockets is commendable.
Nuphy Air96 V2 Keyboard hot-swap sockets
Connectivity and Programming
The Air96 V2 offers versatile connectivity with triple-device Bluetooth and a 2.4GHz wireless dongle for low-latency gaming. The inclusion of a wired option further enhances its flexibility. Programming is handled via VIA and QMK, open-source standards that provide extensive customization options.
Nuphy Air V2 VIA keyboard programming
Typing and Gaming Performance
The Air96 V2 delivers a surprisingly satisfying typing experience, thanks to the high-quality switches and multiple layers of sound and vibration dampening. The stabilizers on longer keys also feel remarkably stable. While low-profile switches might not be ideal for all gamers, the Air96 V2’s wireless connectivity and linear switch options make it a viable choice.
Nuphy Air96 V2 Keyboard RGB LED
The only minor drawback is the cramped number pad layout on the full-sized version, which can lead to accidental keystrokes. Nuphy also offers the Air75 V2 and Air60 V2 in smaller form factors, addressing this issue.
Nuphy Air96 V2 Keyboard number pad
Conclusion
The Nuphy Air96 V2 sets a new standard for low-profile mechanical keyboards. It combines premium materials, customizable switches, versatile connectivity, and a stylish design into a compact and portable package. While the full-size layout might not suit everyone, the smaller Air75 V2 and Air60 V2 offer excellent alternatives. If you’re looking for a premium low-profile mechanical keyboard, the Nuphy Air V2 series is a compelling choice.
