Velocifire Virtual 87 vs Manta80% vs 40% Layout Comparison

The core difference is layout size. The Virtual 87 is an 80% (TKL) keyboard, missing only the numpad. The Manta is a 40% keyboard, which lacks dedicated number rows, function keys, and many punctuation keys, requiring heavy use of keyboard layers.

The Virtual 87 has a significantly larger 5000mAh battery. The Manta has a much smaller 280mAh battery. For long wireless usage sessions, the Virtual 87 is the clear winner.

Yes. Both the Virtual 87 and the Manta are listed as supporting QMK and VIA. This means you can fully reprogram the keys and layers using these popular, open-source tools.

Yes, both kits feature hot-swappable PCBs, allowing you to change switches without soldering. The Manta's description specifies it supports Gateron cross-axis low-profile switches.

The Virtual 87 has a 6-degree typing angle and includes foam for sound dampening, which may improve acoustics. The Manta has a 5-degree angle and uses a sandwich mount with sound dampening. Comfort is subjective, but the Virtual 87's standard layout may be easier for most typists.

Yes, according to the vendor description, the Manta includes a '4-way programmable joystick' that also supports a press function, effectively giving you five customizable inputs.

The Virtual 87 is listed at 1700g (1.7kg), which is quite heavy. The Manta's weight is not specified in the provided data, but its description emphasizes it is 'lightweight' and 'ultra-thin,' suggesting it is significantly lighter.

The Virtual 87 kit includes the case, PCB, plate, a foam bag, and a keyboard bag. The Manta kit includes the aluminum shell, FR4 plate, hot-swap PCB, finished rocker (joystick), and a 280mAh battery.

Yes. Both the Virtual 87 and the Manta use aluminum for their cases. The Virtual 87 description specifies 6063 aluminum, and the Manta is described as having a 'full CNC anodized aluminum housing.'

The Virtual 87 is more beginner-friendly due to its standard 80% layout, which requires less adaptation. The Manta's 40% layout has a steep learning curve, as you must memorize layers for basic functions like typing numbers.

The Manta's vendor description includes a warning that XDA height keycaps may touch the positioning plate due to their lower bottom. This suggests compatibility with low-profile keycaps may be limited or require careful selection.

Both keyboards list Bluetooth as a connectivity option. The Virtual 87 vendor description specifies a 124 Hz polling rate for its Bluetooth mode.