BASIC BK98 vs Varmilo VA104CWireless Hot-Swap vs Wired Full-Size
Choose the BASIC BK98 for wireless flexibility and easy switch swapping, or the Varmilo VA104C for a traditional, full-size layout with a wider selection of premium Cherry MX switches.
Which one should you get?
Get the
BASIC BK98
Wireless Hot-Swap
- Versatile three-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired USB-C).
- Full-key hot-swappable sockets for easy switch customization.
- Includes a customizable interactive smart color display screen.
- Uses a proprietary Stellar switch system, limiting immediate third-party switch options.
- The themed design may not appeal to users preferring a minimalist aesthetic.
- Heavier weight (1083g) may reduce portability despite its wireless features.
Get the
Varmilo VA104C
Wired Full-Size
- Traditional full-size layout with a dedicated numpad.
- Available with a wide selection of Cherry MX and Varmilo EC switch types.
- Built with dye-sublimated PBT keycaps for durability.
- Wired-only connectivity with a USB-Mini connector, a less common standard.
- Not hot-swappable, requiring soldering to change switches.
- Larger full-size footprint consumes more desk space.
Your primary need dictates the choice. If wireless operation, future switch customization, and a space-saving form factor are critical, the BASIC BK98 is the more flexible and modern option. If your workflow is anchored to a desk, requires a full numpad, and you prefer the proven feel of Cherry MX switches from the outset, the Varmilo VA104C is the reliable, traditional pick. Consider the BK98 for a dynamic setup and the VA104C for a stationary, specialized workstation.
The differences that matter
Skip the 40-row spec sheet. These are the specs that change how each board feels, sounds, and fits your desk.
BASIC BK98
Varmilo VA104C
Layout size
98%
100%
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
Wired
Hot-swappable
Yes
No
Sound dampening
Yes
No
Screw-in stabilizers
Yes
No
- BASIC BK98
- Varmilo VA104C
- Performance
- 4965
- Build quality
- 5352
- Productivity
- 7451
- Customizability
- 6958
- Portability
- 4942
- Display: Yes
What will you mostly use it for?
The BASIC BK98 is the clear choice for users who value portability, wireless freedom, and the ability to easily modify their keyboard's switches and sound profile. The Varmilo VA104C wins for traditional office and data-entry tasks where a full numpad and dedicated media keys are non-negotiable. For programming and general multi-device use, the BK98's compact layout and connectivity options give it an edge, while content creators will find pros in both the BK98's aesthetics and the VA104C's expansive layout.
Pick the BASIC BK98
- Offers versatile wireless connectivity via 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth, reducing cable clutter.
- Features full-key hot-swappable sockets, allowing for easy switch changes to gaming-focused options.
- Includes a sound-dampening structure to reduce sharp resonance during keystrokes.
BASIC BK98 vs Varmilo VA104C specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
11 of 20 specs differ
BASIC BK98
Varmilo VA104C
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Screw-in stabilizers
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Media keys
Connection
USB-C
Case material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Backlight
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
Compare prices
Live prices from the stores we track, cheapest in-stock offer first.
Lowest price across stores, Amazon excluded.
Prices in USD are converted to your currency and can change at any time. KeebFinder may earn a commission when you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you.
BASIC BK98 vs Varmilo VA104C: your questions
Only the BASIC BK98 offers wireless connectivity. According to its product listing, it supports three-mode connectivity including Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless, and wired USB-C. The Varmilo VA104C is a wired-only keyboard.
No, the Varmilo VA104C is not hot-swappable. Its vendor description lists hotswap as 'No' and the switch mount type as plate mount, indicating switches are soldered to the PCB. Changing them would require desoldering and soldering new switches.
The Varmilo VA104C listing shows availability for multiple Cherry MX switches including Blue, Brown, Red, Black, Silver, Clear, Silent Red, and Silent Black, as well as Varmilo's own EC Rose V2 switch. This provides a wide range of tactile, linear, clicky, and silent options.
Yes, but in a compact form. The BASIC BK98 uses a 98% layout, which integrates a numpad into a condensed layout by removing some of the spacing found on a full-size board. It has 96 keys, retaining the numeric keypad functions.
The BASIC BK98 has an interactive smart color display that can show power, date, time, keyboard status, and customizable GIF screensavers. The Varmilo VA104C features a blue LED calculator screen, as noted in its vendor description, which typically functions as a basic numpad indicator and calculator.
The Varmilo VA104C may be better suited if you select a silent switch variant like Cherry MX Silent Red or Silent Black. The BASIC BK98 has a sound-dampening design, but its proprietary Stellar switches' acoustic profile is not detailed, and it lacks confirmed silent switch options from the provided information.
The Varmilo VA104C uses dye-sublimated PBT keycaps, which are known for durability and resistance to shine. The vendor description for the BASIC BK98 does not specify its keycap material, only describing them as part of a space-theme design.
The Varmilo VA104C explicitly lists Mac compatibility in its specifications. The BASIC BK98's vendor description states it 'supports dual system boot,' which suggests macOS compatibility, though it is not as explicitly detailed as the Varmilo.
The BASIC BK98 is more portable due to its smaller 98% layout and wireless capabilities, allowing use without a cable. However, at 1083 grams, it is a substantial weight to carry. The Varmilo VA104C is larger, wired, and likely heavier, making it less convenient for travel.
The BASIC BK98 features full-color RGB backlighting with multiple lighting effects. The Varmilo VA104C has white LED backlighting only, as specified in its characteristics list.
According to its vendor description, the BASIC BK98 uses dual-tone injection-molded satellite stabilisers, which are screw-in stabilizers. This type is generally preferred by keyboard enthusiasts for a more stable and rattle-free typing experience.
Not sold on either?
Still torn?
Answer a few quick questions and the keyboard finder ranks 2,000+ boards by how you will actually use yours.