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Compare Dareu A98 Master vs Varmilo Minilo98 Pro Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two feature-rich 98% wireless mechanical keyboards. The decision is difficult because both offer gasket mounts, PBT keycaps, and triple-mode connectivity. The Dareu A98 Master focuses on a novel adjustable gasket system for personalized typing feel, while the Varmilo Minilo98 Pro emphasizes high-performance firmware, low latency, and broad international layout support.

62
DAREU A98 Master Mechanical Keyboard
87
Minilo98 Pro

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  • Released in 2023
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Weighs about 980 g
  • Sized at 31 x 151 x 393 mm
  • Made with a PBT case
  • 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
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • 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: 50.1
  • Build Quality: 59.7
  • Productivity: 69.3
  • Customizability: 61.9
  • Portability: 49.2
Scores
  • Performance: 74.8
  • Build Quality: 73.7
  • Productivity: 88.2
  • Customizability: 89.5
  • Portability: 55.6
Name
Dareu A98 Master
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
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
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
PBT
Case Material
Plastic, Copper, Metal
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
31 x 151 x 393 mm
Dimensions
37 x 388 x 140 mm
Weight
980g
Weight
1000g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

For most users, the Varmilo Minilo98 Pro is the more versatile choice due to its proven low-latency performance, deep software customization, and excellent layout support. Consider the Dareu A98 Master primarily if you value the novel, hardware-based adjustable gasket system above firmware features and competitive gaming specs. Your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize customizable typing feel (Dareu) or customizable software and performance (Varmilo).

Dareu A98 Master

  • +Features a unique Gasket Adjustable System (GAS) to customize typing softness.
  • +Uses a six-layered sound and shock-absorbing internal structure per the vendor description.
  • +Includes a single-key slotted PCB design intended to improve keystroke elasticity.
  • +Comes with PBT OEM height keycaps and third-generation satellite stabilizers.
  • −Lacks specified polling rate or latency figures for performance evaluation.
  • −No mention of advanced firmware support like QMK or VIA.
  • −Only supports ANSI layout, with no ISO or international keycap options listed.

Varmilo Minilo98 Pro

  • +Officially supports QMK and VIA for extensive key remapping and macro programming.
  • +Manufacturer specifies a 1ms ultra-low latency and 1000 Hz polling rate.
  • +Offers extensive ISO layout support for over a dozen European languages.
  • +Includes a detailed sound dampening package with poron foams and silicone.
  • −The case is primarily plastic, though it features a metal inlay frame for aesthetics.
  • −At 1000g, it is slightly heavier than the Dareu model.
  • −The vendor page indicates it can be subject to higher shipping costs and potential import taxes.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro wins most categories due to its verified low-latency performance, extensive software customization via QMK/VIA, and superior international layout support, making it a strong all-rounder. The Dareu A98 Master's unique selling point is its adjustable gasket system, which is a specific hardware feature for tuning typing feel. For travel, the keyboards are evenly matched on core wireless specs. Modders and programmers will find the Varmilo's firmware ecosystem significantly more capable.

GamingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro's manufacturer specifies a 1ms ultra-low latency and 1000 Hz polling rate.
  • •It includes N-key rollover support for accurate simultaneous key presses.
  • •The Dareu A98 Master's listing does not specify a polling rate or latency figure.
OfficeVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro offers extensive ISO layout support for over a dozen European languages.
  • •It includes dedicated Mac OS keycaps and a system toggle, according to its product page.
  • •Its silent switch type is better suited for shared workspaces.
ProgrammingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro supports QMK and VIA for deep key remapping and macro creation.
  • •Its 98% layout retains the numpad for data entry without sacrificing excessive desk space.
  • •The manufacturer states it has multi-media keys for workflow shortcuts.
TravelTie
  • •Both keyboards have identical 4000mAh batteries for long wireless use.
  • •Both support Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity.
  • •Their weights are nearly identical at 980g and 1000g, and both lack a carrying case.
ModdingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro supports QMK/VIA for firmware customization.
  • •Its product description details a multi-layer sound dampening design with plate poron foam, IXPE switch pad, PCB poron foam, and bottom silicone.
  • •While both are hot-swappable, the Varmilo's firmware support offers deeper customization.
Content CreationVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •QMK/VIA support on the Varmilo allows for complex macros for editing software.
  • •The inclusion of multi-media keys provides quick access to playback controls.
  • •The silent switch type prevents microphone pick-up of keystrokes during recording.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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