NuPhy AIR96 V2 Review | 64 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£120
  • Avg. price in US: ~$130
  • Layout size: 1800-compact
  • Connection type: USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth
  • Switch type: mechanical
  • Polling rate: 1000 Hz

NuPhy AIR96 V2 review. Compare 64 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among keyboards and if it is worth buying.

8.0

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the keyboard's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best keyboards on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

7.8

Technical Score

20.0%

8.8

User score

Excellent
7.8

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the keyboard's technical performance, covering key areas such as switch feel, typing and gaming performance, layout and features, connectivity, build quality, backlighting, software, and comfort.

When it matters: When you want to compare keyboards based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

34.0%

8.9

Connectivity & Power

28.0%

4.9

Switches

20.0%

10

Materials

12.0%

7.1

Features

6.0%

9.3

Design

Very good
8.8

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the keyboard.

When it matters: When you want to understand how a keyboard performs in daily use or gaming and how reliable it is in terms of typing feel, noise level, comfort, and long-term durability.

Score components:

70.0%

8.2

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.0
(84)
amazon
4.3
(58)
amazon
4.1
(49)
amazon
4.3
(36)
amazon
3.8
(17)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
(84)
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4.3
(58)
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4.1
(49)
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
(36)
Amazon_logo.png
3.8
(17)

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

Excellent
  • 3.5
    Gaming

    Score components:

    28.0%

    1.0

    Polling rate

    24.0%

    1.0

    Rapid trigger

    20.0%

    1.0

    Adjustable actuation

    16.0%

    10

    Hot-swappable switches

    12.0%

    10

    Onboard memory

  • 8.2
    Typing

    Score components:

    28.0%

    4.0

    Wrist rest included

    24.0%

    10

    Legend method

    20.0%

    10

    Adjustable feet

    15.0%

    8.9

    Typing angle

    13.0%

    10

    Pre-lubed stabilizers

  • 10
    Programming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    10

    QMK support

    26.0%

    10

    VIA support

    18.0%

    10

    Mac compatibility

    14.0%

    10

    Multi-device pairing

    12.0%

    10

    Connection type

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Best prices in UK

Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The NuPhy Air96 V2 is a slim, low-profile 96% layout (100-key) mechanical keyboard featuring a 1000Hz polling rate and full QMK/VIA compatibility for advanced remapping. It boasts a premium build with an anodized aluminum top frame, double-shot PBT keycaps in an NSA profile, and a 4,000mAh battery that supports tri-mode connectivity (2.4GHz, Bluetooth 5.1, and USB-C). Main pros include its hot-swappable PCB, pre-lubed Gateron/NuPhy switches, and enhanced multi-layer sound dampening for a 'thocky' typing feel. However, users may find the condensed layout takes time to adjust to, and some report that the stock keycaps lack shine-through legends, which can limit visibility in low-light settings despite the per-key RGB lighting.

Technical Specifications of NuPhy AIR96 V2

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the keyboard's technical performance, covering key areas such as switch feel, typing and gaming performance, layout and features, connectivity, build quality, backlighting, software, and comfort.

When it matters: When you want to compare keyboards based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

34.0%

8.9

Connectivity & Power

28.0%

4.9

Switches

20.0%

10

Materials

12.0%

7.1

Features

6.0%

9.3

Design

7.8
NuPhy AIR96 V2 has a technical score of 7.8 points, which is higher than that of 94.1% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the keyboard.

When it matters: When you want to understand how a keyboard performs in daily use or gaming and how reliable it is in terms of typing feel, noise level, comfort, and long-term durability.

Score components:

70.0%

8.2

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.0
(84)
amazon
4.3
(58)
amazon
4.1
(49)
amazon
4.3
(36)
amazon
3.8
(17)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
(84)
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
(58)
Amazon_logo.png
4.1
(49)
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
(36)
Amazon_logo.png
3.8
(17)

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

8.8
NuPhy AIR96 V2 has a user score of 8.77 points, which is higher than that of 66.4% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the keyboard.
When it matters: When you prefer a keyboard that has already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.
10
NuPhy AIR96 V2 has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 68.6% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the keyboard's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a keyboard that offers a strong balance of performance, features, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

8.0

Overall score

40.0%

9.9

Price

8.6
NuPhy AIR96 V2 has a quality-to-price ratio of 8.6 points, which is higher than 96.6% of products in this category.
Switch type
What it is: Identifies the switch technology used by the keyboard, such as mechanical, optical, or Hall effect.
When it matters: When you are choosing between different response technologies and their long-term behavior.

Importance: HIGH

mechanical
Switch feel
What it is: Describes the keypress character, such as linear, tactile, or clicky.
When it matters: When the sensation of each keypress changes comfort, control, and noise level for your use.

Importance: HIGH

linear / tactile / clicky
Switch name
What it is: States the specific switch model used by the keyboard.
When it matters: When the exact switch model matters because small tuning differences affect your preference.

Importance: MEDIUM

Gateron Low Profile Mechanical
Actuation force
What it is: Measures how much force is needed to actuate a key.
When it matters: When finger fatigue, accidental presses, or key resistance matters to your typing style.

Importance: HIGH

37 g
Min actuation distance
What it is: Measures the shortest key travel needed to register an input.
When it matters: When faster key response matters and you want the shortest possible trigger point under your fingers.

Importance: MEDIUM

1.2 mm
NuPhy AIR96 V2 has a minimum actuation distance of 1.2 mm, which is shorter than 59.9% of keyboards and equal to 15.6% of keyboards.
Show more
Keyboard type
What it is: Identifies the keyboard technology, such as mechanical, membrane, optical, or Hall effect.
When it matters: When you need a keyboard built around a specific switch technology or feel profile.

Importance: HIGH

mechanical
Layout size
What it is: States the keyboard form factor and how much of the standard keyset it includes.
When it matters: When desk space, portability, or access to a full key set affects how you work or play.

Importance: HIGH

1800-compact
Layout standard
What it is: Specifies the regional layout standard, such as ANSI, ISO, or JIS.
When it matters: When you need a regional key layout that matches your language habits or keycap set.

Importance: MEDIUM

ANSI
N. of keys
What it is: States how many keys are present on the keyboard.
When it matters: When you need a certain number of keys for shortcuts, navigation, or a numpad.

Importance: MEDIUM

100
NuPhy AIR96 V2 has 100 keys, which is more than 70.5% of keyboards and equal to 2% of keyboards.
Profile
What it is: Describes whether the keyboard uses a low-profile or standard-height design.
When it matters: When key height changes your typing comfort, travel distance, or the overall desk setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

low-profile
Show more
Connection type
What it is: Specifies how the keyboard connects, such as USB, 2.4 GHz wireless, or Bluetooth.
When it matters: When latency, cable management, or wireless flexibility is part of your buying decision.

Importance: HIGH

USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth
NuPhy AIR96 V2 offers USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth connectivity, which is more versatile than 57.9% of keyboards and equal to 42.1% of keyboards.
Multi-device pairing
What it is: Shows whether the keyboard can stay paired with multiple devices for quicker switching.
When it matters: When you switch regularly between a laptop, tablet, and other devices on one desk.

Importance: HIGH

yes
NuPhy AIR96 V2 supports multi-device pairing. 4.5% of keyboards support multi-device pairing.
up to 4 devices.
Bluetooth version
What it is: States the Bluetooth generation supported for wireless pairing.
When it matters: When wireless stability, compatibility, and energy efficiency are part of what you compare.

Importance: MEDIUM

5.1
NuPhy AIR96 V2 uses Bluetooth 5.1, which is newer than 64.7% of keyboards and equal to 24.1% of keyboards.
Mac compatibility
What it is: Shows whether the keyboard is intended to work properly with macOS layouts, shortcuts, or legends.
When it matters: When you need the keyboard to work properly with macOS shortcuts and key mapping.

Importance: HIGH

yes
NuPhy AIR96 V2 is Mac compatible. 44.4% of keyboards are Mac compatible.
Battery life
What it is: Estimates how long the keyboard can run on a full charge.
When it matters: When the keyboard needs to last through workweeks, travel, or long gaming stretches without constant charging.

Importance: HIGH

220 h
NuPhy AIR96 V2 lasts 220 h on a charge, which is longer than 62.6% of keyboards and equal to 1.2% of keyboards.
backlight off.
Show more
RGB lighting
What it is: Shows whether the keyboard includes customizable RGB lighting effects.
When it matters: When visual customization and desk aesthetics matter to your setup.

Importance: HIGH

yes
NuPhy AIR96 V2 has RGB lighting. 12.3% of keyboards have RGB lighting.
Per-key RGB
What it is: Shows whether each key can be lit and controlled independently instead of sharing one uniform lighting zone.
When it matters: When customizing each key individually matters for visuals, games, or shortcut visibility.

Importance: HIGH

no
NuPhy AIR96 V2 does not have per-key RGB. 77.3% of keyboards offer per-key RGB.
RGB zones
What it is: States how many RGB lighting zones can be controlled separately.
When it matters: When you want more lighting control than a simple all-at-once backlight can provide.

Importance: LOW

100
NuPhy AIR96 V2 has 100 RGB zones, which is more than 77.3% of keyboards and equal to 2.3% of keyboards.
Underglow / side lighting
What it is: Shows whether the case includes lighting around the underside or outer edges in addition to the keys themselves.
When it matters: When edge lighting is part of the visual style you want from the keyboard.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
NuPhy AIR96 V2 includes underglow lighting. 68.6% of keyboards include underglow lighting.
Side lighting present.
Backlight direction
What it is: Specifies whether the switches use north-facing or south-facing backlighting.
When it matters: When you care about switch compatibility, keycap interference, or lighting placement.

Importance: LOW

south-facing
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Case material
What it is: Describes the main material used for the keyboard case.
When it matters: When build feel, rigidity, and overall finish influence your sense of quality.

Importance: HIGH

aluminum/plastic
Plate material
What it is: Describes the material used for the mounting plate beneath the switches.
When it matters: When keyboard stiffness, sound profile, and bottom-out feel matter more than the switch spec sheet alone.

Importance: HIGH

?
Keycap material
What it is: Describes the material used to make the keycaps.
When it matters: When surface texture, wear resistance, and sound of the keycaps affect your choice.

Importance: HIGH

PBT
Keycap profile
What it is: Describes the shape and height profile of the keycaps.
When it matters: When key shape and sculpting affect comfort, wrist angle, and the sound of each press.

Importance: MEDIUM

nSA
Legend method
What it is: Describes how the legends are applied to the keycaps, which affects durability and visibility.
When it matters: When you care about how long key legends stay readable after heavy use.

Importance: MEDIUM

double-shot
NuPhy AIR96 V2 uses double-shot legends, which are more durable than 25.8% of keyboards and equal to 74.2% of keyboards.
Show more

NuPhy AIR96 V2 vs the average keyboard

  • 0.8 mm shorter key travel
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 has 3.2 mm of total travel, while the average keyboard has 4 mm.
    What it is: Measures the full distance a key can move from top to bottom.
    When it matters: When full key movement changes comfort, speed, or the way the keyboard feels under your fingers.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    NuPhy AIR96 V2 has 3.2 mm of total travel, while the average keyboard has 4 mm.3.2 mm vs 4 mm
  • Underglow lighting
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 includes underglow lighting, the average keyboard does not. 31.6% of keyboards include underglow lighting.
    Side lighting present.
    What it is: Shows whether the case includes lighting around the underside or outer edges in addition to the keys themselves.
    When it matters: When edge lighting is part of the visual style you want from the keyboard.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    NuPhy AIR96 V2 includes underglow lighting, the average keyboard does not. 31.6% of keyboards include underglow lighting.
  • Supports QMK
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 supports QMK, the average keyboard does not. 28.8% of keyboards support QMK.
    What it is: Shows whether the keyboard supports QMK firmware for deeper remapping and behavior customization.
    When it matters: When deep remapping, macros, and firmware-level customization matter to your workflow.

    Importance: HIGH

    NuPhy AIR96 V2 supports QMK, the average keyboard does not. 28.8% of keyboards support QMK.
  • 0.5 mm shorter actuation distance
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 has a shorter minimum actuation distance than the average keyboard (1.2 mm vs 1.7 mm). The average keyboard has a minimum actuation distance of 1.7 mm.
    What it is: Measures the shortest key travel needed to register an input.
    When it matters: When faster key response matters and you want the shortest possible trigger point under your fingers.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    NuPhy AIR96 V2 has a shorter minimum actuation distance than the average keyboard (1.2 mm vs 1.7 mm). The average keyboard has a minimum actuation distance of 1.7 mm.1.2 mm vs 1.7 mm
  • 13 more keys
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 has more keys than the average keyboard (100 vs 87). The average keyboard has 87 keys.
    What it is: States how many keys are present on the keyboard.
    When it matters: When you need a certain number of keys for shortcuts, navigation, or a numpad.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    NuPhy AIR96 V2 has more keys than the average keyboard (100 vs 87). The average keyboard has 87 keys.100 vs 87
  • Supports VIA
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 supports VIA, the average keyboard does not. 27.1% of keyboards support VIA.
    VIA setup may require manual JSON import.
    What it is: Shows whether the keyboard supports VIA for live remapping and configuration without rebuilding firmware manually.
    When it matters: When quick live remapping without rebuilding firmware is important to you.

    Importance: HIGH

    NuPhy AIR96 V2 supports VIA, the average keyboard does not. 27.1% of keyboards support VIA.
  • 32.1% lower weight
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 weighs less than the average keyboard (663 g vs 976 g). The average keyboard weighs 976 g.
    What it is: Measures the total mass of the keyboard.
    When it matters: When you care whether the keyboard feels easy to carry or heavy enough to stay planted on the desk.

    Importance: HIGH

    NuPhy AIR96 V2 weighs less than the average keyboard (663 g vs 976 g). The average keyboard weighs 976 g.663 g vs 976 g
  • 54 h longer battery life
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 lasts longer on a charge than the average keyboard (220 h vs 166 h). The average keyboard lasts 166 h on a charge.
    backlight off.
    What it is: Estimates how long the keyboard can run on a full charge.
    When it matters: When the keyboard needs to last through workweeks, travel, or long gaming stretches without constant charging.

    Importance: HIGH

    NuPhy AIR96 V2 lasts longer on a charge than the average keyboard (220 h vs 166 h). The average keyboard lasts 166 h on a charge.220 h vs 166 h
  • 13 more keys
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 has more keys than the average keyboard (100 vs 87). The average keyboard has 87 keys.
  • 32.1% lower weight
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 weighs less than the average keyboard (663 g vs 976 g). The average keyboard weighs 976 g.
  • 16.1 mm lower keyboard height
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 is lower than the average keyboard (22.4 mm vs 38.5 mm). The average keyboard height is 38.5 mm.
  • 1.5 ° lower typing angle
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 has a lower typing angle than the average keyboard (3.5 ° vs 5 °). The average keyboard has a typing angle of 5 °.
  • 24.5 mm thinner design
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 is thinner than the average keyboard (13.5 mm vs 38 mm). The average keyboard thickness is 38 mm.
  • 54 h longer battery life
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 lasts longer on a charge than the average keyboard (220 h vs 166 h). The average keyboard lasts 166 h on a charge.
  • 0.8 mm shorter key travel
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 has 3.2 mm of total travel, while the average keyboard has 4 mm.
  • 0.5 mm shorter actuation distance
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 has a shorter minimum actuation distance than the average keyboard (1.2 mm vs 1.7 mm). The average keyboard has a minimum actuation distance of 1.7 mm.
  • Underglow lighting
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 includes underglow lighting, the average keyboard does not. 31.6% of keyboards include underglow lighting.
  • Supports QMK
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 supports QMK, the average keyboard does not. 28.8% of keyboards support QMK.
  • Supports VIA
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 supports VIA, the average keyboard does not. 27.1% of keyboards support VIA.
  • 17 more RGB zones
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 has more RGB zones than the average keyboard (100 vs 83). The average keyboard has 83 RGB zones.
  • Older Bluetooth version
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 uses an older Bluetooth version than the average keyboard (5.1 vs 5.2). The average keyboard uses Bluetooth 5.2.
  • 0.1 mm longer actuation distance
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 has a shorter maximum actuation distance than the average keyboard (2.1 mm vs 2 mm). The average keyboard has a maximum actuation distance of 2 mm.
  • No per-key RGB lighting
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 does not have per-key RGB, the average keyboard does. 77% of keyboards offer per-key RGB.
  • No per-key RGB lighting
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 does not have per-key RGB, the average keyboard does. 77% of keyboards offer per-key RGB.
    What it is: Shows whether each key can be lit and controlled independently instead of sharing one uniform lighting zone.
    When it matters: When customizing each key individually matters for visuals, games, or shortcut visibility.

    Importance: HIGH

    NuPhy AIR96 V2 does not have per-key RGB, the average keyboard does. 77% of keyboards offer per-key RGB.
  • 0.1 mm longer actuation distance
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 has a shorter maximum actuation distance than the average keyboard (2.1 mm vs 2 mm). The average keyboard has a maximum actuation distance of 2 mm.
    What it is: Measures the highest configurable actuation point or trigger position.
    When it matters: When you want precise control over how deep a key can be set to trigger for different games or typing styles.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    NuPhy AIR96 V2 has a shorter maximum actuation distance than the average keyboard (2.1 mm vs 2 mm). The average keyboard has a maximum actuation distance of 2 mm.2.1 mm vs 2 mm
  • Older Bluetooth version
    NuPhy AIR96 V2 uses an older Bluetooth version than the average keyboard (5.1 vs 5.2). The average keyboard uses Bluetooth 5.2.
    What it is: States the Bluetooth generation supported for wireless pairing.
    When it matters: When wireless stability, compatibility, and energy efficiency are part of what you compare.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    NuPhy AIR96 V2 uses an older Bluetooth version than the average keyboard (5.1 vs 5.2). The average keyboard uses Bluetooth 5.2.5.1 vs 5.2

Graphic comparison of NuPhy AIR96 V2 and

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about NuPhy AIR96 V2?

  • Sleek and stylish low-profile design with vibrant color options
  • Extensive variety of high-quality linear and tactile switch options
  • Excellent build quality featuring an aluminum top frame
  • Full QMK/VIA support for deep key mapping and macro customization
  • Versatile connectivity supporting 2.4GHz, Bluetooth 5.1, and wired modes
  • Improved 1000Hz polling rate in wireless mode for gaming
  • Effective internal sound-dampening layers for a 'thocky' typing experience
  • Great value compared to other high-end full-sized mechanical keyboards

What customers dislike about NuPhy AIR96 V2?

  • Stock PBT keycaps are not shine-through, making legends hard to read in the dark
  • Reported reliability issues with 2.4GHz wireless connectivity and wake-up lag
  • Compact 96% layout is 'squished' and takes time for some users to adapt
  • Battery life diminishes significantly when RGB lighting is at full brightness
  • Inconsistent typing feel due to some users finding the keycaps 'hollow' sounding
  • QMK/VIA customization can be complex for beginners to set up
  • Customer support and replacement processes can be cumbersome
  • Firmware stability issues, including occasional double-key presses or missed keys

Expert reviews

P
pcworld.com
10/05/2024

The NuPhy Air V2 is a capable low-profile wireless mechanical keyboard that balances portability with high performance, highlighted by versatile tri-mode connectivity, including a 2.4GHz dongle with a 1,000Hz polling rate. The review praises the premium, opaque double-shot PBT keycaps that, while providing a high-quality feel, also serve as a limitation. A notable disadvantage is...Read more

C
craftingworlds.com
15/08/2024

The NuPhy Air 96 v2 is a sleek, low-profile mechanical keyboard praised for its modern aesthetic, vibrant colour options, and extensive customisation. It offers a wide variety of switch types, such as the lightweight Aloe, tactile Wisteria, and Moss switches, allowing users to tailor their typing feedback. The package includes a comprehensive set of accessories, including a carrying...Read more

T
tweaktown.com
15/04/2024

The NuPhy Air96 V2 is an excellent, versatile 96% ANSI layout low-profile wireless mechanical keyboard that bridges the gap between productivity and gaming. Featuring an eye-catching, colorful physical design with multiple layers of sound-dampening and a sturdy aluminum frame, it offers long-travel custom switches—like the tactile Wisteria option—that deliver a typing experience...Read more

T
techpowerup.com
29/05/2024

The TechPowerUp review highlights the NuPhy Air96 V2 as a feature-packed 96% low-profile wireless mechanical keyboard boasting excellent 2.4 GHz performance, QMK/VIA support, and a high-quality build. Key pros include hot-swappable switches, a clean aesthetic, and a 4000 mAh battery offering up to 220 hours of life with lighting disabled. Conversely, the review notes cons such as...Read more

R
rtings.com
16/11/2023

The NuPhy Air V2 series (60%, 75%, 96%) receives high marks from RTINGS for its excellent build quality, portability, and versatile performance in gaming, programming, and office environments. Notable pros include a comfortable, low-profile design that often requires no wrist rest, a hot-swappable PCB, and a fast 1000Hz polling rate via 2.4GHz wireless. However, the review...Read more

M
mmorpg.com
21/12/2023

The NuPhy Air96 V2 is an ultra-slim 96% mechanical keyboard that combines a compact design with a full number pad, featuring upgraded doubleshot PBT keycaps and improved multi-layered sound dampening for a superior typing feel. The review highlights its enhanced acoustics—using PORON, IXPE, and PET foam layers—which eliminate the hollow sound of earlier models to create a crisp,...Read more

S
smartworld.it
04/08/2025

The provided review outlines the key factors for choosing a mechanical keyboard in 2026, such as switch types (linear, tactile, clicky), layouts ranging from 100% full-size to 60% ultra-compact, and connectivity options like low-latency wireless or stable wired connections. For gaming, standout models like the Logitech G515 Lightspeed TKL and ASUS ROG Azoth offer rapid actuation and...Read more

Video reviews

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