Predator Helios Neo 16 (PHN16-72) Keyboard Inconsistency - Is This Normal?

Hello everyone,

I have had the laptop Predator Helios Neo 16 (model number PHN16-72), for almost one year, and I've noticed something a bit odd with the keyboard. It seems like some keys have a different feel when pressed compared to others. Specifically, some keys feel softer to actuate, while others are noticeably firmer.

I'm curious if anyone else with this model has experienced something similar? Is this a known characteristic or a normal variation for the Predator Helios Neo 16's keyboard, or could it indicate a potential issue with my specific unit?

Also, if it turns out there's something wrong, is the keyboard on this model replaceable? I'd appreciate any insights or advice you might have.

Thanks in advance!

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Puraw

Hey @pirayaz — thanks for raising this! You’re not alone in noticing that uneven key feel on the PHN16-72; a few other users have reported similar inconsistencies. While Acer might consider it within normal variation for membrane-style keyboards, especially due to dome alignment, it’s absolutely valid to expect a consistent tactile experience.

If it’s under warranty, you could try a service claim and reference similar cases (like the one from AgeraRsRTX500 where keys degraded early). That could support your request by showing a trend. If they deem it “within spec,” aftermarket replacements are available for around $30–40 USD, though installation costs might push that toward $100 depending on where it’s done.

Also, the keyboard on this model is replaceable if you're comfortable opening up the chassis—just be mindful of the ribbon cable and backlight connector compatibility.

Hope that helps clarify things! Let us know how Acer responds if you go that route.

StevenGen

https://community.acer.com/en/discussion/727528/predator-helios-neo-16-phn16-72-keyboard-inconsistency-is-this-normal

I'm using the previous Neo model PHN16-71 and my laptop is about 8 months old and I use this everyday, and the same is happening with my keyboard, some keys don't register like Shift key and Space bar, which are the main culprits, but other keys also are less sensitive than others and typing quickly creates a mess of having to come back and correcting these discrepancies.

Unfortunately, these PHN16-7x RGB keyboards are one unit that are rivetted together to the upper case, you can buy just the keyboard on eBay but I suggest that you don't, as taking the rivets out and replacing them is a big job if you can get the same rivets? Good luck and hope this helps you out.

Below is a caption of the PHN16-72 RGB keyboard available on eBay and as I've outlined with red arrows, those holes are for the rivets that need to be unriveted and then riveted back. so that the keyboard can be attached to the upper case. This is a big job and you could damage the upper case as allot of tech have done and attempted to do this replacement to other laptops. I suggest that its allot easier and better to replace the whole uppser case and keyboard as a combination than just replacing the keyboard.

Below is an original Acer oem Upper Case/Keyboard US International language Acer part #: 6B.QNNN2.001 that is for sale on eBay for USD $318.98 which aint cheap, as I can't find any other places that sell these parts, not even the specialist Acer parts retailers like ZANDPARTS.

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MoisesDallaCosta

https://community.acer.com/en/discussion/727528/predator-helios-neo-16-phn16-72-keyboard-inconsistency-is-this-normal

I'm experiencing the same problem with my PHN-1672. In my case, the numeric keypad keys that simply don't work or work extremely slowly are 2, 5, 6, ., and the Enter key. I'm quite dissatisfied because I'm from Brazil and I bought this laptop when I traveled to Las Vegas this past February. I'm not even covered by the warranty, as it's not valid here in Brazil. I work with architectural and structural projects, so I use the numeric keypad extensively. This key delay causes significant delays and errors in my work.

Axxo

The Acer Predator Helios Neo 16 (PHN16-72) keyboard may exhibit inconsistencies in key feel and responsiveness, with some users reporting a slightly raised Spacebar row and uneven key actuation. These inconsistencies might manifest as some keys feeling softer or firmer than others, or as a slight flexing of the bottom row keys. While these issues may not affect functionality, they can be distracting during use.

Possible Causes and Solutions:
Manufacturing Tolerance:
Slight variations in key feel can be within normal manufacturing tolerances.
Keyboard Design:
The keyboard's layout and keycap design could contribute to the perceived unevenness.
Individual Key Issues:
A few keys might have a slightly different actuation force or travel distance due to manufacturing variations or component inconsistencies.
Software/Driver Issues:
In some cases, software conflicts or outdated drivers can affect keyboard behavior.
Hardware Problems:
While less likely, a hardware issue with the keyboard's mechanism could also be a factor.

Troubleshooting Steps:
1. Check for Software Conflicts:
Ensure that the Predator Sense software or any other relevant Acer utilities are up to date.
2. Reinstall Drivers:
Try uninstalling and reinstalling the keyboard and touchpad drivers.
3. Test with Different Profiles:
If the keyboard has customizable RGB lighting, experiment with different profiles or lighting settings.
4. Inspect for Debris:
Check for any debris or obstructions under the keys that might affect their movement.
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