Mode Sonnet vs Qwertykeys Neo80
The Mode Sonnet and the Qwertykeys Neo80 are close alternatives. The main differences: the Qwertykeys Neo80 is the cheaper of the two at $173 versus $400; the Qwertykeys Neo80 runs wireless where the Mode Sonnet is wired-only; the Mode Sonnet is a 75% layout and the Qwertykeys Neo80 is a TKL.
- Lower priceQwertykeys Neo80$173 versus $400
- More ways to connectQwertykeys Neo803 connection modes versus 1
Choose the Mode Sonnet if
- its overall balance fits you: the mode sonnet is a premium gasket-mount 75% custom kit from mode designs, known for refined aluminum case options and an enthusiast-focused build experience.
Choose the Qwertykeys Neo80 if
- you want to spend less ($173).
- you need wireless.
Mode Sonnet vs Qwertykeys Neo80, spec by spec
| Mode Sonnet | Qwertykeys Neo80 | |
|---|---|---|
| Layout | 75% | TKL |
| Height | Standard | Standard |
| Connectivity | Wired | Wired, Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz (stronger spec) |
| Hot-swap | Yes | Yes |
| Keycaps | n/a | n/a |
| Case | aluminum | CNC aluminum |
| Mount | Gasket (plateless gasket options depending on config) | Gasket (also O-ring and sandwich options) |
| Backlight | White / none | White / none |
| QMK / VIA | Yes | Yes |
| Battery | n/a | n/a |
| Typical price | $400 | $173 (stronger spec) |
| Sound (stock) | refined gasket thock | depends on plate/mount choice |
| Released | 2022 | 2024 |
Highlighted rows are where the two differ; a check marks the objectively stronger spec (price, battery, modability). Feel and preference rows never get a check. Fields marked n/a are unpublished by the maker; we list only verifiable numbers.
Where they sit among all 509 boards we track
96% of the 509 boards tracked here cost less than the Mode Sonnet; 71% of the 509 boards tracked here cost less than the Qwertykeys Neo80.
Where to buy the Mode Sonnet
Where to buy the Qwertykeys Neo80
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