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Compare Velocifire Virtual 87 vs Manta Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two very different Velocifire barebone kits. The Virtual 87 is an 80% (TKL) board, while the Manta is a 40% ultra-compact. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize a familiar layout with a large battery and RGB, or maximum portability with a programmable joystick. Both offer high customizability with hot-swap PCBs and QMK/VIA support, making the core trade-off about physical size and daily usability.

84
[In Stock] Virtual 87 80% Mechanical Barebone Keyboard Kit
76
[In Stock] Sirius Manta Low switch 40% Bluetooth Dual Mode Mechanical Keyboard Kit

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  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO layout standard
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 5000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1700 g
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Has Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 40% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a Sandwich Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 280 mAh battery
  • Offers No RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 72.9
  • Build Quality: 82
  • Productivity: 77.7
  • Customizability: 92.7
  • Portability: 70.8
Scores
  • Performance: 54.2
  • Build Quality: 77.9
  • Productivity: 71.4
  • Customizability: 82.1
  • Portability: 81.4
Name
Velocifire Virtual 87
Name
Velocifire Manta
Release year
2025
Release year
2025
Switch Options
-
Switch Options
Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
80%
Layout Size
40%
Layout Standard
ANSI, 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, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
5000 mAh
Battery capacity
280 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
Sandwich Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Backlight
 
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
-
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
1700g
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary layout need dictates the choice. If you want a keyboard for general-purpose computing with a familiar layout, strong wireless battery life, and gaming features, the Velocifire Virtual 87 is the better investment. Opt for the Velocifire Manta only if you are specifically seeking the challenge and space-saving benefits of a 40% keyboard and value its programmable joystick over all else.

Velocifire Virtual 87

  • +Offers multiple mounting styles (gasket, top, spring) for customizing typing feel.
  • +Large 5000mAh battery for extended wireless use.
  • +Includes practical accessories like a foam bag and a keyboard bag.
  • +South-facing RGB backlighting with full layout support.
  • +PCB supports both ANSI and ISO layouts for broader keycap compatibility.
  • −Heavy 1700g weight reduces portability.
  • −Higher price point compared to the Manta.
  • −The 80% layout requires more desk space than a 40% board.

Velocifire Manta

  • +Extremely compact 40% layout for maximum portability and minimal desk footprint.
  • +Includes a unique 4-way programmable joystick for customizable input.
  • +Described as ultra-thin and lightweight in the vendor description.
  • +Features a sound dampening design as part of its sandwich mount structure.
  • −Very small 280mAh battery limits wireless usage time.
  • −40% layout requires heavy use of layers for numbers, symbols, and functions.
  • −Lacks any RGB lighting.
  • −The vendor notes that XDA height keycaps may touch the positioning plate.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Virtual 87 wins in most traditional computing scenarios like gaming, office work, and programming due to its standard TKL layout, high polling rate, and large battery. The Manta is the clear choice for travel and situations where desk space is at an absolute premium, leveraging its unique 40% form factor and joystick. For modding and content creation, the Virtual 87's flexible mounting and RGB lighting give it the edge.

GamingVelocifire Virtual 87
  • •The Virtual 87 has a confirmed 1000 Hz wired polling rate for lower latency.
  • •Its 80% layout retains dedicated arrow and function keys important for many games.
  • •The gasket mount and included foam bag may offer a more consistent typing feel during long sessions.
OfficeVelocifire Virtual 87
  • •The 80% layout provides a full set of arrow and navigation keys without a separate numpad.
  • •Its large 5000mAh battery promises longer wireless usage between charges.
  • •The inclusion of a keyboard bag, as noted in the kit contents, aids in transport between workspaces.
ProgrammingVelocifire Virtual 87
  • •The Virtual 87 supports both ANSI and ISO layouts, including a stepped Caps Lock key.
  • •It has dedicated punctuation and bracket keys readily available.
  • •The PCB supports plate-mounted stabilizers for a more stable typing experience on larger keys.
TravelVelocifire Manta
  • •The Manta's 40% layout is significantly more compact and portable.
  • •Its listing describes it as 'extremely thin, lightweight, and compact'.
  • •It features a 4-way programmable joystick that can be mapped for navigation, saving desk space.
ModdingVelocifire Virtual 87
  • •The Virtual 87 offers three mounting styles: gasket, top, and spring mount for experimenting with feel.
  • •It includes a foam bag for sound dampening right out of the box.
  • •It has screw-in stabilizers, which are generally preferred for modding over plate-mounted ones.
Content CreationVelocifire Virtual 87
  • •South-facing RGB backlighting is better for shine-through keycaps and reduces interference with some switch types.
  • •The standard TKL layout provides quick access to media shortcuts and function keys.
  • •The heavier 1700g weight provides more stability on the desk during dynamic work.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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