Cidoo V87 vs V98TKL vs 98% Layout Wireless Keyboard Comparison
Choose the V87 for a compact, RGB-equipped TKL, or the V98 for a larger layout with QMK firmware support.
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Which one should you get?
Get the
Cidoo V87
TKL
Build quality in the top 30% of 80% boards under $150.
- Compact 80% TKL layout saves desk space.
- Includes south-facing RGB backlighting.
- Comes pre-built with VIA software for easy customization.
- South-facing LEDs. Shine-through legends stay dark, and some sculpted keycaps can clip the LED.
- No numpad.
Get the
Cidoo V98
98% Layout Wireless Keyboard Comparison
Build quality in the top 25% of 98% boards under $150.
- 98% layout includes a numpad while remaining relatively compact.
- Fully compatible with QMK firmware for advanced programming.
- Larger 4000mAh battery capacity.
- Compact full-size layout. The numpad is present, the gaps of a full-size board are not.
Your primary need dictates the choice. If you want a smaller keyboard with vibrant lighting and straightforward VIA software, the Cidoo V87 is the clear pick. If you need a numpad, prioritize advanced QMK customization, or want a larger battery, the Cidoo V98 is the better tool, albeit without backlighting. Consider your daily tasks and workspace size to make the final call.
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.
Cidoo V87
Cidoo V98
Layout size
80%
98%
Switch options
Linear
Clicky, Linear
QMK
No
Yes
The deep option when you want to remap every key
VIA
Yes
No
GUI remapping without compiling firmware
Backlight
RGB, south-facing
None
RGB for looks and low light rather than speed
- Cidoo V87
- Cidoo V98
- Performance
- 5443
- Build quality
- 6872
- Productivity
- 7577
- Customizability
- 7476
- Portability
- 7052
- Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Case material: Aluminum
- Mount style: Gasket Mount
- Knob
- Sound dampening
What will you mostly use it for?
The V98 wins for office use and content creation due to its numpad and QMK-powered macros. The V87 is better for gaming and travel, thanks to its TKL size and RGB lighting. For programming and modding, both are strong contenders, with the choice boiling down to preferred layout and firmware (VIA vs. QMK).
Pick the Cidoo V87
- The V87's TKL layout provides more mouse space, a common preference for gamers.
- South-facing RGB lighting is present on the V87, which the V98 lacks entirely.
- The V87 is listed as a pre-built option, offering immediate plug-and-play use.
Cidoo V87 vs V98 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
6 of 18 specs differ
Cidoo V87
Cidoo V98
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Knob
Display
Connection
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Keycaps
Backlight
QMK
VIA
Released
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Cidoo V87 vs V98: your questions
The core difference is the layout. The V87 is an 80% TKL keyboard, while the V98 is a 98% layout that includes a numpad and navigation cluster in a compact form. The V87 has RGB lighting, and the V98 supports QMK firmware.
No. According to the product specifications, the Cidoo V98 has no RGB lighting. The Cidoo V87, in contrast, features south-facing RGB LEDs.
The Cidoo V98 has a larger 4000mAh battery. The Cidoo V87 is equipped with a 3000mAh battery.
Yes. Both keyboards are listed with hot-swappable PCBs, allowing you to change mechanical switches without soldering.
Yes, but they use different software. The V87 supports VIA for key remapping and macro creation. The V98 is fully compatible with QMK firmware, which offers even more advanced customization options.
The Cidoo V87 is better for small desks due to its 80% TKL layout, which omits the numpad to save significant horizontal space compared to the 98% V98.
The V87 is listed as a pre-built keyboard, meaning it comes assembled with switches and keycaps. The V98 is listed as being available in a DIY kit/barebones configuration, which typically does not include switches and keycaps, though pre-built options may exist.
Both the Cidoo V87 and V98 use a gasket mount design. This mounting style aims to provide a softer, more cushioned typing feel by isolating the plate from the case with gaskets.
Both keyboards feature aluminum cases. The V87 vendor description specifies a powder-coating CNC aluminum case, while the V98 mentions a 6063 aluminum case.
The Cidoo V98 is more suitable for heavy data entry due to its 98% layout, which includes a dedicated numpad. The V87's TKL layout lacks a numpad, making number input less efficient.
Both keyboards list knob support in their extra features. The V87 vendor description specifically mentions a metal rotary knob with RGB light for volume and brightness control.
Both the Cidoo V87 and V98 offer tri-mode connectivity. This includes Bluetooth, a 2.4 GHz wireless dongle, and a wired USB-C connection.
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