Keychron Q1 Pro vs NuPhy Halo75 v2: Best Custom Mechanical Keyboard?
Keychron Q1 Pro vs NuPhy Halo75 v2 — two top 75% custom keyboards compared on build, typing feel, wireless, hot-swap, and value.
Spec Comparison
| Spec | Keychron Q1 Pro Keychron | NuPhy Halo75 v2 NuPhy |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 8.2 | 8.5 |
| Price | $199 | $180 |
| category | PC Components | PC Components |
| brand | Keychron | NuPhy |
| model | Q1 Pro | Halo75 v2 |
| price | $199 | $180 |
| verdict | WAIT | BUY |
| tested by | Alex Chen | Alex Chen |
The Big Question
The 75% layout has become the sweet spot for mechanical keyboard fans — compact enough to save desk space, with function keys and arrow keys intact. Two boards lead the premium 75% space: the Keychron Q1 Pro and the NuPhy Halo75 v2. Both are hot-swappable, wireless, and beautifully built, but they cater to slightly different tastes. Here’s how they compare.
Spec Comparison
| Spec | Keychron Q1 Pro | NuPhy Halo75 v2 |
|---|---|---|
| Layout | 75% | 75% |
| Build | Full CNC aluminum | Aluminum + gasket mount |
| Weight | Heavy, tank-like | Solid, slightly lighter |
| Wireless | Bluetooth + 2.4GHz | Bluetooth + 2.4GHz |
| Hot-swap | Yes | Yes |
| Firmware | QMK/VIA (open) | NuPhy software |
| Switch options | Multiple (Gateron, etc.) | Multiple (incl. low-profile) |
| RGB | South-facing per-key | Per-key, vivid |
| Price | $199 | $179.95 |
| GeekTechReview Rating | 8.2 | 8.5 |
Performance Comparison
Typing feel — the NuPhy Halo75 v2 has a notably refined gasket-mounted feel out of the box: plush, consistent, with great sound dampening. It’s one of the best-typing boards you can buy without modding. The Q1 Pro is also excellent but a touch stiffer in stock form; it shines once you start customizing, where its tweakability lets you dial in exactly the feel you want.
Firmware — the Q1 Pro’s QMK/VIA support is a serious advantage for enthusiasts. Full programmability, layers, macros, and an open ecosystem. NuPhy’s software is good but more locked-down; power users who want total control lean Keychron.
Build & Aesthetics
The Q1 Pro is a tank — heavy CNC aluminum that doesn’t budge on the desk, with an industrial feel. The Halo75 v2 is the more beautiful board: a stunning design with vivid RGB and a more refined, modern aesthetic. NuPhy wins on looks; Keychron wins on sheer build heft.
Wireless & Connectivity
Both offer tri-mode connectivity (wired, Bluetooth, 2.4GHz) and handle multi-device switching well. Performance is comparable; neither drops connections in normal use.
Value Comparison
The Halo75 v2 is slightly cheaper ($179.95 vs $199) and, given its out-of-box typing feel and aesthetics, arguably the better value for most buyers. The Q1 Pro’s premium is justified by QMK/VIA and build weight — worth it for enthusiasts who’ll mod and customize.
The Verdict
Winner: NuPhy Halo75 v2 — for most buyers, it’s the better 75% keyboard out of the box: gorgeous, great-typing, and slightly better value. Choose the Keychron Q1 Pro if you’re a serious enthusiast who wants QMK/VIA programmability, maximum build heft, and a platform to mod. We scored the NuPhy 8.5 and the Keychron 8.2 — close, but the Halo75 v2’s combination of feel, looks, and value gives it the edge for the typical buyer.