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Compare Cidoo ABM098 vs Varmilo Minilo98 Pro Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two feature-rich, 98% layout wireless mechanical keyboards. Both offer gasket mounts, hot-swap PCBs, and multi-connectivity, making the choice difficult. The Cidoo ABM098 presents a more affordable 1800-compact layout with a dedicated media knob. The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro commands a higher price for extensive ISO layout options, a lighter build, and Hall Effect technology. Your decision hinges on budget, regional layout needs, and preference for specific premium features.

73
CIDOO ABM098 Gasket Mechanical Keyboard
87
Minilo98 Pro

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  • Released in 2023
  • Has Clicky, Linear switch options
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Equipped with a 3000 mAh battery
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Silent switch options
  • 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
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1000 g
  • Sized at 37 x 388 x 140 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, Copper, Metal case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 54.4
  • Build Quality: 61.2
  • Productivity: 75.2
  • Customizability: 78.8
  • Portability: 51.9
Scores
  • Performance: 75
  • Build Quality: 73.7
  • Productivity: 88.2
  • Customizability: 89.5
  • Portability: 55.7
Name
Cidoo ABM098
Name
Varmilo Minilo98 Pro
Release year
2023
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Clicky, Linear
Switch Options
Silent
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
98%
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
 
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
3000 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
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
-
Case Material
Plastic, Copper, Metal
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
37 x 388 x 140 mm
Weight
-
Weight
1000g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Select the Cidoo ABM098 if your priority is value, you want a media knob, and you use a standard ANSI layout. Opt for the Varmilo Minilo98 Pro if you need specific ISO keycaps, value the confirmed low latency and Hall Effect switches for gaming, or prefer a significantly lighter keyboard. Both are competent wireless boards, but they target different segments of the 98% market.

Cidoo ABM098

  • +Includes a dedicated rotary knob for media control.
  • +Uses a steel plate, which may provide a firmer typing feel.
  • +Offers a lower price point for a fully-featured 98% keyboard.
  • +Comes with Poron PCB foam, IXPE switch sheet, and silicone bottom foam for sound dampening.
  • +Vendor description confirms Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity.
  • −Heavier at 2000g, which reduces portability.
  • −Case material is listed as ABS plastic.
  • −Lacks the explicit low-latency claims and Hall Effect switches of the Varmilo.
  • −Does not offer the wide range of ISO layout options.

Varmilo Minilo98 Pro

  • +Explicitly lists a 1000 Hz polling rate and 1ms ultra-low latency for gaming.
  • +Offers extensive ISO layout support for numerous European languages.
  • +Features Hall Effect switches and a polycarbonate plate.
  • +Lighter weight (1000g) and includes two-stage kickstands for ergonomics.
  • +Supports both QMK and VIA firmware for customization.
  • −Commands a higher price than the Cidoo ABM098.
  • −Case is listed as plastic, though it features a metal inlay frame.
  • −No dedicated media knob is mentioned in the provided specifications.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro holds advantages for gaming, programming, travel, and modding due to its specified low latency, firmware support, lighter build, and detailed construction. The Cidoo ABM098 is the pick for content creation thanks to its integrated media knob and is a strong value contender for office use. For general productivity, both keyboards are closely matched, making the choice more about specific layout or budget preferences.

GamingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro lists a 1000 Hz polling rate and 1ms latency for its 2.4GHz and wired modes.
  • •It includes Hall Effect switches, which are noted for their consistency and durability.
  • •Its lighter weight (1000g) may allow for easier repositioning during gameplay.
OfficeTie
  • •Both have 98% layouts with numpads for data entry.
  • •Both offer silent switch options and sound-dampening foams for a quieter environment.
  • •Both support multi-device Bluetooth and include Mac/Win support.
ProgrammingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro supports both QMK and VIA for deep key remapping and macro creation.
  • •It offers a wide array of ISO layouts, beneficial for programmers using non-ANSI key placements.
  • •It includes two-stage kickstands for ergonomic angle adjustment.
TravelVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Varmilo is significantly lighter at 1000g compared to the Cidoo's 2000g.
  • •Its slimmer profile (37mm height vs 41mm) may fit more easily in a bag.
  • •Both have the same 4000mAh battery capacity for wireless use.
ModdingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro lists a polycarbonate plate and a detailed gasket structure with plate and PCB Poron foam.
  • •It supports QMK firmware in addition to VIA, offering more customization avenues.
  • •Both are hot-swappable and support 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
Content CreationCidoo ABM098
  • •The Cidoo ABM098 includes a dedicated rotary knob for media control like volume adjustment.
  • •Its 1800-compact layout provides a numpad without the full width, saving desk space for graphics tablets.
  • •It is available at a lower price point, freeing budget for other peripherals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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