NuPhy Air 96 v2 Low Profile Keyboard Review

Products Mentioned:

⌨️NuPhy Air 96 v2: https://amzn.to/3yJ5GJ9

⌨️Keychron K17 Pro Keyboard: https://amzn.to/3A5Ravh

⌨️Lofree Flow 100 Linear Keyboard: https://amzn.to/4djkrRx

⌨️Lofree Flow 100 Tactile Keyboard: https://amzn.to/3A9wXVj

The world of low-profile mechanical keyboards has seen significant innovations over the past few years, with several brands vying to deliver the perfect blend of design, functionality, and typing experience. The NuPhy Air 96 v2 enters this competitive arena, positioning itself as a versatile option that aims to please a broad audience. But does it succeed in standing out from the crowd? Let’s dive into the details.

Design and Build Quality

The NuPhy Air 96 v2 boasts a sleek and modern design that’s sure to catch the eye of anyone looking for a stylish keyboard. With its fun, vibrant color options and lightweight chassis, it’s clear that NuPhy has put considerable thought into making this keyboard aesthetically appealing. The keyboard’s design exudes a playful energy, with the yellow accents and the overall look contributing to its unique charm.

However, while the design is attractive, there are some concerns regarding the build quality. The keyboard, although solid, sometimes feels like a toy due to the hollow nature of its keycaps. This hollow sound and feel can detract from the overall typing experience, especially when compared to competitors like the Lofree Flow 100, which offers a more substantial, satisfying keystroke.

Typing Experience and Switch Options

The heart of any keyboard is its typing experience, and the NuPhy Air 96 v2 offers a mixed bag in this department. The keyboard supports a wide range of switches, including options like Aloe, Moss, and Wisteria. Each switch type offers a different tactile feel, catering to various typing preferences. The Aloe switches, for instance, are incredibly light and easy to press but may lead to lower typing accuracy due to their sensitivity. On the other hand, the Wisteria switches provide a balanced experience with a noticeable tactile bump, making them a favorite for those seeking a middle ground between speed and feedback.

Despite the variety of switches available, the typing experience on the NuPhy Air 96 v2 can be inconsistent. While it excels in offering customization, the keycaps’ hollow sound and less-than-premium feel might not satisfy users accustomed to higher-end mechanical keyboards. In comparison, keyboards like the Lofree Flow 100 provide a more solid and refined typing experience that many users might find more enjoyable.

Wireless Functionality and RGB Lighting

One of the key selling points of the NuPhy Air 96 v2 is its wireless functionality, but this feature comes with its own set of challenges. The keyboard includes a 2.4 GHz wireless dongle, which, in theory, should provide a seamless wireless experience. However, in practice, the connection can be unreliable, with frequent disconnections even when the dongle is placed close to the keyboard. This issue can be frustrating for users who prefer the convenience of a wireless setup, and it significantly detracts from the overall usability of the keyboard.

Additionally, the RGB lighting on the NuPhy Air 96 v2 is a mixed experience. While the lighting is vibrant and customizable, it varies depending on the switches installed. For instance, the RGB colors shift when using different switches like Wisteria and Aloe, which can be a bit disorienting if you’re expecting consistent lighting across the board. Furthermore, the keycaps tend to pick up oil from fingers, which diminishes the visual appeal of the RGB lighting over time.

Customer Support and Durability

Customer support is another area where the NuPhy Air 96 v2 has room for improvement. While NuPhy did replace a defective unit promptly, the process was more cumbersome than expected, particularly when compared to more established brands like Logitech. The replacement unit arrived keyless, requiring the user to rebuild the keyboard—a task that, while manageable, might be off-putting for some.

Durability is also a concern. The keyboard’s flip-out feet, which allow for angle adjustment, do not lock securely in the lower position, leading to potential issues during use. Additionally, the keycaps, especially the shine-through variants, tend to accumulate smudges and oil, which can detract from the keyboard’s long-term aesthetics and feel.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Sleek and Stylish Design: The NuPhy Air 96 v2 is visually appealing, with vibrant color options and a modern aesthetic.
Wide Range of Switch Options: Offers a variety of tactile and linear switches, allowing for a highly customizable typing experience.
Customizable RGB Lighting: Vibrant and customizable RGB lighting that adds a touch of personality to your setup.
Good Accessory Package: Comes with a comprehensive set of accessories, including a carrying case that doubles as a stand for your devices.

Cons:

Inconsistent Typing Experience: The keycaps’ hollow sound and feel may not satisfy users accustomed to more premium keyboards.
Unreliable Wireless Functionality: Frequent disconnections with the 2.4 GHz dongle make the wireless experience less than ideal.
Durability Concerns: Issues with the flip-out feet and keycaps that easily accumulate smudges and oil.
Cumbersome Customer Support: Replacement process is more involved compared to other brands, which may be frustrating for users.
High Price for What It Offers: Considering the build quality and experience, the keyboard feels expensive for what it delivers.

Final Thoughts

The NuPhy Air 96 v2 Low Profile Keyboard is a decent entry in the world of low-profile mechanical keyboards, offering plenty of customization options and a visually appealing design. However, it falls short in critical areas such as typing experience, wireless functionality, and overall build quality. For those who prioritize aesthetics and customization, this keyboard might be a good fit, but users seeking a more consistent and satisfying typing experience might want to explore other options like the Lofree Flow 100 or the Keychron series.

In summary, the NuPhy Air 96 v2 is a “Jack of all trades, master of none.” It does many things well but doesn’t excel in the areas that matter most to keyboard enthusiasts. If you’re looking for your first low-profile mechanical keyboard and the price and design appeal to you, it’s worth considering. However, if you’re after a keyboard that offers a more premium feel and reliable performance, you might want to look elsewhere.