NuPhy Launches Halo V2 Keyboards with Major Battery Life Boost
NuPhy has unveiled its latest series of wireless mechanical keyboards, the Halo V2, promising significant improvements in battery life across three models: the compact Halo65 V2, the slightly larger Halo75 V2, and the Halo96 V2, which includes a numeric keypad. All models now utilize the new NuPhyIO firmware, which reportedly offers a remarkable increase in battery efficiency.
The Halo V2 series retains a battery capacity of 4,000 mAh, similar to its predecessors that used QMK and VIA firmware. However, the QMK firmware has been criticized for its inefficiency. The transition to the NuPhyIO version is said to simplify the printed circuit board (PCB), allowing for better integration and enhanced performance.
According to NuPhy, the Halo96 V2’s wireless battery life has dramatically improved from approximately 307 hours to an impressive 1,200 hours when no backlighting is active. This represents a nearly 300% increase in battery life, a significant advancement for users who prioritize longevity in their devices.
While the enhancements are substantial when backlighting is disabled, the situation changes with illumination activated. The updated firmware reportedly extends battery life by only around 10% with backlighting on. Similar trends have been observed in other wireless keyboards, suggesting a common challenge in managing power consumption when RGB lighting is employed.
Key Features and Customization Options
The choice between NuPhyIO and QMK/VIA firmware also brings variations in features and customizability. Both options provide a browser-based customization suite but differ in their capabilities. QMK is an open-source project, allowing users to customize their keyboards even if NuPhy were to cease operations. This is a crucial benefit for users who value control over their devices.
Documentation and community support for QMK are extensive, providing users with a wealth of resources to tailor their keyboards to specific needs. In contrast, NuPhyIO includes several convenient features, such as automatic firmware updates and preset key binds for certain creative applications. However, it lacks the open-source flexibility of QMK, which may deter some users.
Another concern for power users is the reported issue with NuPhyIO keyboards losing custom key binds and macros if the battery is disconnected or fully depleted. This particular vulnerability could be a deal-breaker for those who rely on their keyboards for complex tasks.
As the demand for efficient and customizable keyboards continues to grow, NuPhy’s latest release aims to satisfy both casual users and professionals seeking enhanced functionality. With the Halo V2 series, the company positions itself as a competitive player in the mechanical keyboard market, catering to a broad audience eager for improved performance and user experience.
