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Compare Keychron K2 HE vs Varmilo APT87 Yakumo Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a feature-rich magnetic switch keyboard and a conventional wireless mechanical board. The Keychron K2 HE offers advanced magnetic technology and extensive modding support, while the Varmilo APT87 Yakumo provides a familiar TKL layout with standard Cherry MX switches. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize cutting-edge adjustability or a straightforward, reliable typing tool.

99
Keychron K2 HE Wireless Magnetic Switch Custom Keyboard
68
Varmilo APT87 Yakumo TKL Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard

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4.6 (69)
0.0 (0)
  • Has Linear, Magnetic switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-CH, ISO-Nordic, JIS layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Enables rapid trigger functionality
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1743 g
  • Sized at 30 x 127 x 41 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Wood, ABS, Resin case
  • Features PBT, ABS, PC keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face, White, White North-face RGB lighting
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Uses a Plate Mount mounting style
  • Made with a ABS case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 93.3
  • Build Quality: 90.8
  • Productivity: 96.9
  • Customizability: 99.6
  • Portability: 81.3
Scores
  • Performance: 83.3
  • Build Quality: 55.1
  • Productivity: 78.7
  • Customizability: 71.9
  • Portability: 74.5
Name
Keychron K2 HE
Name
Varmilo APT87 Yakumo
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Linear, Magnetic
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
80%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-CH, ISO-Nordic, JIS
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
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
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
Tray Mount
Mount Style
Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, North-face, White
Backlight
 
Rgb, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, Wood, ABS, Resin
Case Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS, PC
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
30 x 127 x 41 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
1743g
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

The Keychron K2 HE is for enthusiasts and gamers who want maximum control, customization, and cutting-edge magnetic switch technology. The Varmilo APT87 Yakumo suits users who prefer a familiar, straightforward TKL mechanical keyboard with reliable wireless connectivity and practical design touches. Your budget and desire to tinker will be the final deciding factors.

Keychron K2 HE

  • +Advanced magnetic switches with adjustable actuation points (0.2-3.8mm) and features like Rapid Trigger and Analog Mode.
  • +Extensive customization via QMK and VIA open-source firmware support.
  • +Premium build with aluminum plate, choice of aluminum or wood case, and multiple sound-dampening foams.
  • +Wide layout compatibility including ANSI and multiple ISO regional layouts.
  • +High 1000 Hz polling rate in both wired and 2.4 GHz wireless modes.
  • −Heavier weight (1743g) may reduce portability.
  • −Magnetic hot-swap is limited to compatible Gateron double-rail magnetic switches only.
  • −Some user reviews mention key chatter issues developing over time and a short included cable.

Varmilo APT87 Yakumo

  • +Traditional TKL layout with dedicated navigation and function keys.
  • +Includes practical features like a 3-way cord channel and a 2-step kickstand.
  • +Hot-swappable for standard Cherry MX-style mechanical switches.
  • +Wireless connectivity with Bluetooth 5.1 and 2.4 GHz options.
  • −Lower 250 Hz polling rate in 2.4 GHz wireless mode compared to the K2 HE.
  • −Limited to ANSI layout and lacks QMK or VIA firmware support.
  • −Construction uses ABS case and plastic plate, which may feel less premium.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron K2 HE is the clear choice for gaming, programming, and modding due to its magnetic switch features, software support, and compact yet functional layout. It also holds an edge for office use with its multi-OS and regional layout support. The Varmilo APT87 Yakumo is better suited for travel thanks to its likely lower weight and simpler profile. For content creation, both offer useful features, making it a tie based on preference for layout versus programmability.

GamingKeychron K2 HE
  • •The K2 HE's magnetic switches support advanced features like Rapid Trigger and adjustable actuation points from 0.2 to 3.8 mm.
  • •It offers a 1000 Hz polling rate in both wired and 2.4 GHz modes, while the APT87's 2.4 GHz mode is listed at 250 Hz.
  • •Features like Last Key Priority (LKP) and Analog Mode are specifically highlighted for gaming performance.
OfficeKeychron K2 HE
  • •The K2 HE supports multiple ISO layouts (UK, DE, Nordic, etc.), offering better regional keycap compatibility.
  • •It includes Mac and Windows keycaps and a system toggle, catering to multi-OS environments.
  • •A 4000mAh battery is specified, which may offer longer wireless working time.
ProgrammingKeychron K2 HE
  • •The 75% layout retains arrow keys and function row in a more compact form than the APT87's TKL layout.
  • •Full QMK and VIA support allows for deep key remapping and macro programming.
  • •The vendor description mentions the ability to save two different layouts for different systems.
TravelVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •The Varmilo APT87 is a TKL (80%) layout, which is slightly larger than the K2 HE's 75% form factor.
  • •The K2 HE's listed weight of 1743g is significantly heavier, likely making the APT87 more portable.
  • •The APT87 features a 3-way cord channel for cable management, a practical travel detail.
ModdingKeychron K2 HE
  • •The K2 HE is hot-swappable for magnetic switches and has QMK/VIA firmware support for extensive software customization.
  • •Its construction includes multiple foam layers (EVA, EPDM, silicone pad) and screw-in stabilizers for acoustic tuning.
  • •It offers a choice of aluminum or aluminum with wood case materials and multiple plate options.
Content CreationTie
  • •Both keyboards offer multimedia keys and north-facing RGB backlighting.
  • •The K2 HE's programmable layers via QMK could be useful for macro shortcuts.
  • •The APT87's dedicated TKL layout provides immediate access to F-keys without layers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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