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Compare Nuphy Gem80 vs Varmilo VPM87 Moonlight EC Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a modern, feature-rich custom keyboard and a traditional, no-fuss prebuilt. The Nuphy Gem80 offers extensive modding potential and wireless connectivity, while the Varmilo VPM87 provides a simple, plug-and-play solution. The decision hinges on whether you value future-proof customization or immediate, reliable functionality.

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Nuphy GEM80 Barebones Keyboard Kit - Image: 3
Varmilo VPM87 Moonlight TKL White LED EC Keyboard

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  • Has Mechanical switch options
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO layout standard
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1120 g
  • Sized at 37 x 358 x 141 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Polycarbonate case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Has Clicky switch options
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Uses a Plate Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Made with a Plastic case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, White, South-face, White South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 79.8
  • Build Quality: 87.1
  • Productivity: 93.8
  • Customizability: 97.2
  • Portability: 75.9
Scores
  • Performance: 67
  • Build Quality: 50.1
  • Productivity: 57.5
  • Customizability: 48.2
  • Portability: 54.8
Name
Nuphy Gem80
Name
Varmilo VPM87 Moonlight EC
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Mechanical
Switch Options
Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
80%
Layout Size
80%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO
Layout Standard
ANSI
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, Wired only
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
Battery capacity
-
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
Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Backlight
 
White, South-face, White South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, Polycarbonate
Case Material
Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
37 x 358 x 141 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
1120g
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your choice fundamentally depends on your involvement level. The Nuphy Gem80 is a project and a platform, rewarding users who want to tailor every aspect of sound, feel, and function, and who need wireless versatility. The Varmilo VPM87 Moonlight EC is an appliance, offering a solid, quiet, and straightforward typing experience with no setup required. Invest in the Gem80 for a long-term custom tool, or choose the Varmilo for a reliable, immediate-use keyboard.

Nuphy Gem80

  • +Extensive customization with hot-swap PCB, omni-mount design, and multiple included sound mods.
  • +High-performance wireless with 1000Hz polling rate on 2.4GHz and a 4000mAh battery.
  • +Premium build featuring a CNC aluminum top case and polycarbonate bottom case.
  • +Open-source QMK and VIA firmware support for limitless key remapping.
  • +Includes a comprehensive kit with tools, extra gaskets, and stabilizers.
  • −Sold as a barebones kit, requiring separate purchase of switches and keycaps.
  • −Heavy at 1120 grams, reducing portability.
  • −The assembly process can be complex for beginners, as noted in some user reviews.

Varmilo VPM87 Moonlight EC

  • +Fully prebuilt and ready to use out of the box.
  • +Features double silicone sound dampening pads for a quieter typing experience.
  • +Includes practical design elements like a 2-step kickstand and a 3-way cord channel.
  • +Uses thick, dye-sublimated PBT keycaps for durability.
  • −Wired-only connectivity with no wireless option.
  • −Not hot-swappable, limiting switch customization.
  • −Lacks programmability features like QMK or VIA support.
  • −Only available with clicky switch type, which may not suit all environments.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Nuphy Gem80 is the clear choice for users who prioritize customization, wireless performance, and programmability across gaming, office, programming, and content creation. Its advantages stem from its hot-swappable design, tri-mode connectivity, and open-source firmware. The Varmilo VPM87 wins for travel primarily due to its simpler, wired-only nature, which eliminates battery concerns. For modding, the Gem80 is in a different league as a dedicated barebones kit.

GamingNuphy Gem80
  • •The Gem80 offers a 1000Hz polling rate for both wired and 2.4GHz wireless connections.
  • •Its hot-swappable PCB allows for installing preferred gaming switches.
  • •The listing mentions a Nordic wireless chip and STM32 MCU for optimized latency.
OfficeNuphy Gem80
  • •Tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired) offers flexibility for multiple devices.
  • •A 4000mAh battery provides extended wireless use.
  • •The vendor description highlights Mac/Win/Linux support and a silent switch option.
ProgrammingNuphy Gem80
  • •QMK/VIA firmware support enables deep key remapping and layer creation.
  • •Hot-swappable design allows tailoring switch feel for long typing sessions.
  • •The TKL layout saves desk space while retaining essential navigation keys.
TravelVarmilo VPM87 Moonlight EC
  • •The Varmilo VPM87 is a simpler, prebuilt unit with no battery to manage.
  • •Its all-plastic case is likely lighter than the Gem80's aluminum chassis.
  • •The 3-way cord channel offers basic cable routing for a cleaner portable setup.
ModdingNuphy Gem80
  • •The Gem80 is a hot-swappable barebones kit designed for customization.
  • •It features an omni-mount design (gasket, top, bottom) and includes multiple sound-dampening foams.
  • •The vendor sells optional plates (PC, POM, Aluminum) and a wide array of switches and keycaps.
Content CreationNuphy Gem80
  • •South-facing RGB lighting is compatible with more keycap profiles.
  • •Programmable layers via QMK/VIA can streamline shortcuts for editing software.
  • •Wireless connectivity reduces cable clutter on a production desk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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