NuPhy Halo96v2 is now available

On April 23, 2024, NuPhy updated its official X to announce the Halo96v2, a 96% keyboard.

The price is $139.95 and only $149.95 if the Silent Red Switch is selected.

https://twitter.com/nuphystudio/status/1782711324293706232

Currently, the product is available for pre-order, with an application deadline of June 11, 2024, and shipping after June 11, 2024.

As an initial pre-order bonus, Canopus Shine-through Cherry Keycaps are available at a 50% discount of $12.00, and an exclusive desk mat is also available at a 50% discount of $12.00.

Also included are 8 free transparent keycaps and a 30% discount on the Twotone wrist rest.

Review Halo96v2 details

The Halo96v2 is a 96% layout mechanical keyboard with a numeric keypad.

This time it is “V2” and has evolved significantly from “V1”.

In terms of specifications and evolution, it is similar to the Halo75v2.

After all, the most important evolutionary point would be PCBs.

Keymap changes are now supported and can be easily made on-screen on a QMK/VIA basis.

The PCB gasket mount softens the feel of the keystroke and, combined with the sound-absorbing material installed, is expected to make the keystroke feel even more thocky.

Other evolutionary points are described below.

Lighting evolves

The reason for Halo is that there is a “band of light” around the perimeter.

This has been updated to 2.0 and now shines more beautifully.

Evolution of keystroke feel with gasket mount and sound-absorbing material

The evolution from top-mounted to PCB gasket-mounted has resulted in a “sinking” feel, which was well-received in the Gem80.

The gasket-mounted structure is expected to absorb the impact of typing, resulting in a softer key feel.

The multiple layers of sound-absorbing material are also expected to result in a thocky keystroke sound.

Adopted mSA keycap

For keycaps, the OEM profile has been changed to the mSA profile.

The “spherical design” with a depressed center section provides an attractive fingertip-attractive typing feel.

In addition, the indented portion of the homing key is designed to allow LEDs to penetrate through it.

Ultra-low latency connection at 1000Hz, ideal for gaming applications

As with Halo75v2, the polling rate has been improved to 1000 Hz for wired/2.4 GHz wireless connections.

This enables ultra-low latency connections, which can be used for gaming applications where a momentary delay can decide the winner.

Supports keymap changes

Starting with Halo 96v2, the long-awaited keymap change is now supported.

Using a web application called VIA, you can now set your favorite keys in your preferred locations, and you can also set macro keys.

Adoption of new keyswitch

Starting with this release, a new keyswitch co-developed with Gateron/Cherry has been adopted.

Its appearance is a look that NuPhy fans will love.

As for the silent red switches, they make little slurping sound when typing and will provide comfortable typing in the office without worrying about keystroke noise.