Epomaker TH40 vs Varmilo Minilo98 ProCompact vs Full Layout

The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro is far better for numerical entry. It includes a dedicated number pad as part of its 98% layout, while the Epomaker TH40 requires you to use a function layer to access numbers, which is much slower for data-heavy work.

Yes, both keyboards list Mac support. The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro specifically mentions including extra Mac OS keycaps and using a key combination (Fn+Tab) to switch between Windows and Mac modes. The Epomaker TH40 also lists Mac/Win compatibility.

Both offer tri-mode connectivity: wired USB-C, 2.4GHz wireless with a dongle, and Bluetooth. This allows you to pair them with multiple devices, like a desktop and a laptop, and switch between them. The Varmilo listing specifies Bluetooth 5.0.

Yes. Both keyboards use Cherry profile PBT keycaps, which are standard and can be replaced with aftermarket sets. The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro is hot-swappable and includes a keycap and switch puller in the box for this purpose.

The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro is likely quieter. It is listed with a silent switch type and includes specific sound dampening features like a pet sound dampener, Poron foams, and silicone. The Epomaker TH40 uses linear switches and foam but is not specifically marketed as silent.

Yes, both feature hot-swappable sockets that support 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches. This means you can easily pop out the stock switches and install new ones without soldering.

Both keyboards support QMK and VIA software. This allows for deep customization, including remapping every key, creating macros, and setting up multiple layers. You need to load the correct JSON configuration file for your specific model into the VIA app.

The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro has a larger 4000mAh battery, with the manufacturer claiming over 20 days of use with lights off. The Epomaker TH40 has a 3000mAh battery. Actual life will vary greatly with usage, backlight brightness, and connection mode.

Yes, it has extensive ISO layout support. The default is Swedish, but it comes with additional keycap sets allowing you to configure it for languages including German, French, Spanish, UK English, Italian, Portuguese, and several others.

A gasket mount is a design where the plate holding the switches is suspended on soft gaskets, which can reduce typing noise and provide a softer, more consistent feel. Both the Epomaker TH40 and Varmilo Minilo98 Pro use a gasket mount design.

For latency, they are equivalent in wired and 2.4GHz modes, both offering a 1000Hz polling rate. The choice comes down to layout preference. Some gamers prefer the compact TH40 for more mouse space, while others prefer the dedicated keys of the Minilo98 Pro.

According to the vendor page, the Minilo98 Pro comes with the keyboard, a manual, a USB-C cable, a key puller/switch puller, a 2.4GHz dongle, extra keycaps (for Mac and ISO layouts), and a dust cover.