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Compare Ajazz AK820 Pro vs Varmilo Minilo98 Pro Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a value-focused compact keyboard and a premium full-size alternative. The Ajazz AK820 Pro offers a compelling package with a unique TFT screen at a lower price, while the Varmilo Minilo98 Pro commands a higher cost for its extensive layout, superior firmware support, and build materials. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize space-saving features and a screen or need a dedicated numpad and advanced programmability.

76
Ajazz AK820 Pro
87
Minilo98 Pro

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4.6 (737)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Includes a Yes, TFT display
  • Weighs about 810 g
  • Sized at 40 x 327 x 136 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Aluminum case
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Silent switch options
  • Available in a 98% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO-BEL, ISO-CH, ISO-DE, ISO-DK, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-HU, ISO-IT, ISO-Nordic, ISO-PT, ISO-UK, ISO layout standard
  • Includes a No display
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Weighs about 1000 g
  • Sized at 37 x 388 x 140 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, Copper, Metal case
Scores
  • Performance: 60.5
  • Build Quality: 66.2
  • Productivity: 82.3
  • Customizability: 72.6
  • Portability: 79.3
Scores
  • Performance: 75
  • Build Quality: 73.7
  • Productivity: 88.2
  • Customizability: 89.5
  • Portability: 55.7
Name
Ajazz AK820 Pro
Name
Varmilo Minilo98 Pro
Release year
2023
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Linear
Switch Options
Silent
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
98%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO-BEL, ISO-CH, ISO-DE, ISO-DK, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-HU, ISO-IT, ISO-Nordic, ISO-PT, ISO-UK, ISO
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
TFT
Display Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
Hall Effect Support
 
Hall Effect Support
 
QMK Support
 
QMK Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIAL Support
 
VIAL Support
 
N-Key Rollover
 
N-Key Rollover
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum
Case Material
Plastic, Copper, Metal
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
40 x 327 x 136 mm
Dimensions
37 x 388 x 140 mm
Weight
810g
Weight
1000g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your budget and need for a numpad are the primary deciding factors. The Ajazz AK820 Pro delivers exceptional value, packing a gasket mount, triple-mode connectivity, and a unique TFT screen into a portable 75% form. If you can work without a numpad and want to save money, it's a compelling choice. The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro justifies its higher price with a premium 98% layout, unparalleled QMK/VIA programmability, detailed sound-dampening construction, and low-latency performance, making it ideal for power users and professionals.

Ajazz AK820 Pro

  • +Includes a customizable 0.85-inch TFT screen for system info and visuals.
  • +More affordable price point for a feature-rich, gasket-mounted keyboard.
  • +Lighter weight (810g) and more compact 75% layout for portability.
  • +Vendor page confirms a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired and 2.4GHz modes.
  • +Comes with a metal knob and three extra keycaps in the box.

  • Lacks a dedicated numpad and function row due to its 75% layout.
  • No mention of advanced firmware support like QMK or VIA.
  • Case material is listed as ABS plastic, which may feel less premium than metal options.

Varmilo Minilo98 Pro

  • +98% layout includes a full numpad while maintaining a relatively compact form factor.
  • +Supports QMK and VIA for extensive key remapping and macro programming.
  • +Vendor-listed construction includes multiple foam layers (Poron, IXPE) and silicone for sound dampening.
  • +Offers extensive ISO layout support for over a dozen European languages.
  • +Specifies a 1ms ultra-low latency and 1000 Hz polling rate for responsive performance.

  • Significantly more expensive than the Ajazz AK820 Pro.
  • Heavier at 1000g and wider, making it less portable.
  • No built-in screen for at-a-glance information or customization.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro is the stronger choice for productivity-focused tasks like office work and programming, thanks to its numpad, extensive language support, and advanced QMK/VIA firmware. It also holds an edge for gaming due to its specified low-latency performance. The Ajazz AK820 Pro wins for travel due to its lighter weight and more compact 75% form factor. For modding, the Varmilo's detailed sound-dampening construction and open firmware give it the advantage, while content creation is a tie between the Ajazz's visual screen and the Varmilo's macro capabilities.

GamingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro lists a 1000 Hz polling rate and 1ms latency for competitive play.
  • Its listed Hall Effect switch compatibility can offer advanced features for gaming.
  • The Ajazz AK820 Pro's vendor page confirms a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired/2.4G modes, but does not specify a latency figure.
OfficeVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro's 98% layout includes a full numpad, which is essential for data entry.
  • It offers extensive ISO layout support for over a dozen European languages.
  • It includes dedicated Mac OS keycaps and a physical mode switch for easy connectivity changes.
ProgrammingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro supports QMK and VIA for deep, open-source key remapping and macro creation.
  • Its 98% layout provides arrow keys and a nav cluster while saving space compared to a full-size board.
  • The Ajazz AK820 Pro's 75% layout lacks dedicated function row keys, which some programmers prefer.
TravelAjazz AK820 Pro
  • The Ajazz AK820 Pro is significantly lighter at 810g compared to the Varmilo's 1000g.
  • Its 75% layout and smaller dimensions (327mm vs 388mm wide) make it more portable.
  • Both have a 4000mAh battery and triple-mode wireless connectivity.
ModdingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro supports QMK/VIA firmware, allowing for extensive software customization.
  • Its vendor description details a layered sound dampening setup including plate Poron foam, IXPE switch pad, PCB Poron foam, and bottom silicone.
  • Both keyboards are hot-swappable for 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
Content CreationTie
  • The Ajazz AK820 Pro includes a customizable 0.85-inch TFT screen for displaying media controls or system stats.
  • The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro offers multimedia keys and superior firmware for creating complex macros for editing software.
  • Both feature south-facing RGB lighting and PBT keycaps.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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