Varmilo Beijing Opera vs Beijing Opera V2Wireless Tri-Mode vs Wired
Choose the original Beijing Opera for its wireless flexibility and hot-swap capability, or the V2 if you only need a simpler, wired board.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Varmilo Beijing Opera
Wireless Tri-Mode
- Tri-mode connectivity with Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz, and wired USB-C.
- Hot-swappable PCB for easy switch customization.
- Includes high-purity, 1.3mm thick V-Silk PBT keycaps.
- Higher price point compared to the wired V2 model.
- The vendor page notes that EC V3 switch variants are not hot-swappable, which could be confusing.
- Potential complexity for users who prefer a simple plug-and-play wired experience.
Get the
Varmilo Beijing Opera V2
Wired
- Typically available at a lower cost than the tri-mode model.
- Simpler wired-only operation with no need to manage batteries or wireless connections.
- Retains the distinctive Beijing Opera themed design and PBT keycaps.
- Lacks wireless connectivity options (Bluetooth and 2.4GHz).
- Not listed as hot-swappable, limiting switch customization.
- Fewer included accessories are mentioned in its vendor description.
Your choice comes down to connectivity and customization. The original Varmilo Beijing Opera is the comprehensive option, justifying its higher cost with wireless freedom, a hot-swap PCB, and a full accessory kit. Opt for the Beijing Opera V2 only if your budget is tighter, your desk setup is permanently wired, and you have no plans to change switches. For most users, the original model's flexibility offers better long-term value.
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.
Varmilo Beijing Opera
Varmilo Beijing Opera V2
Layout size
100%
80%
Switch options
Silent
Linear
Backlight
RGB
White
USB-C
No
Yes
- Varmilo Beijing Opera
- Varmilo Beijing Opera V2
- Performance
- 4642
- Build quality
- 3838
- Productivity
- 4549
- Customizability
- 4643
- Portability
- 4053
- Connection: Wired
- Keycaps: PBT
What will you mostly use it for?
The original Beijing Opera is the more versatile choice across all defined use cases. Its wireless capabilities, hot-swap socket, and availability in both full-size and TKL layouts give it a functional advantage for mobile professionals, gamers, and tinkerers. The V2 model, being a wired-only board, is suited for a stationary, single-device setup where its simpler operation is sufficient. For any scenario requiring cable-free use, multi-device pairing, or future switch changes, the original model is the clear pick.
Pick the Varmilo Beijing Opera
- Offers 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity for a low-latency cable-free experience.
- Includes N-key rollover support for simultaneous key presses.
- South-facing RGB backlit design is listed as a feature.
Varmilo Beijing Opera vs Beijing Opera V2 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
4 of 10 specs differ
Varmilo Beijing Opera
Varmilo Beijing Opera V2
Switch options
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Connection
USB-C
Keycaps
Backlight
Released
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Varmilo Beijing Opera vs Beijing Opera V2: your questions
The primary difference is connectivity. The original Beijing Opera offers tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz, and wired) and has a hot-swappable PCB. The V2 model is a wired-only keyboard and is not advertised with hot-swap capability.
Yes, according to Varmilo's product description, the mechanical switch (APT) version of the Beijing Opera is hot-swappable and supports 3-pin and 5-pin switches. The vendor does note that boards with EC V3 switches are not hot-swappable.
The product metadata for the V2 lists 'RGB: Yes;White', indicating it has RGB backlighting capable of producing white light, among other colors. The specific lighting features or effects are not detailed in the provided information.
Varmilo's page lists several switch options including Kailh Prestige Silent, EC V3 Sakura, EC V3 Jasmine, and EC V3 Rose. The Kailh Prestige Silent is described as a linear, silent switch, while the EC V3 variants are also linear with different actuation forces.
The original Beijing Opera's specification lists compatible systems as macOS, Windows, Android, and iOS. Its Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity should allow pairing with Mac computers and iPhones.
The original Beijing Opera is available in both 100% (full-size) and 80% (Tenkeyless) layouts. The Beijing Opera V2 is listed specifically as an 80% layout keyboard.
Varmilo states the box includes the keyboard, a dust cover, a key/switch puller, a 2.4G adapter, a USB-C cable, a switches keychain, and a warranty card.
According to the manufacturer's specifications, the keyboard has a 2500mAh battery with a working time of up to 100 hours with all lights turned off.
The original Beijing Opera is compatible with the Varmilo Web Driver for theme customization and key remapping. The vendor description for the V2 does not mention software support.
Both keyboards use PBT keycaps. The original Beijing Opera specifically uses 'V-Silk PBT' keycaps with a 1.3mm thickened design and classical bronze character legends. The V2's keycap material is listed as PBT, but further details on its profile or texture are not provided.
The original Beijing Opera is better suited for quiet offices because it offers a Kailh Prestige Silent switch option, which Varmilo describes as 'the quietest switch'. Its wireless capabilities also reduce cable clutter.
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