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Compare Keychron V1 Max vs Varmilo Minilo98 Pro Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a compact, mod-focused keyboard and a larger, more complete layout. The Keychron V1 Max offers a 75% form factor with extensive customization via QMK/VIA and a lower price point. The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro provides a 98% layout with a dedicated numpad, a unique metal-inlay frame, and a focus on silent typing. The choice hinges on whether you prioritize desk space and tinkering or a full-size layout and out-of-the-box refinement.

98
Keychron V1 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
87
Minilo98 Pro

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4.3 (32)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-PT, ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Weighs about 770 g
  • Sized at 22 x 149 x 329 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Plastic case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Silent switch options
  • Available in a 98% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO-BEL, ISO-CH, ISO-DE, ISO-DK, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-HU, ISO-IT, ISO-Nordic, ISO-PT, ISO-UK, ISO layout standard
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Weighs about 1000 g
  • Sized at 37 x 388 x 140 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, Copper, Metal case
  • Features PBT keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 83.1
  • Build Quality: 86.3
  • Productivity: 97.3
  • Customizability: 99.4
  • Portability: 79.2
Scores
  • Performance: 75
  • Build Quality: 73.7
  • Productivity: 88.2
  • Customizability: 89.5
  • Portability: 55.7
Name
Keychron V1 Max
Name
Varmilo Minilo98 Pro
Release year
2023
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Switch Options
Silent
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
98%
Layout Standard
ISO-DE, ISO-UK, ISO-Nordic, ISO-SW, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-IT, ISO-PT, ISO, ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO-BEL, ISO-CH, ISO-DE, ISO-DK, ISO-ES, ISO-FR, ISO-HU, ISO-IT, ISO-Nordic, ISO-PT, ISO-UK, ISO
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
4000 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
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Plastic
Case Material
Plastic, Copper, Metal
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
22 x 149 x 329 mm
Dimensions
37 x 388 x 140 mm
Weight
770g
Weight
1000g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you want a compact, highly customizable keyboard that's easy to modify and travel with, the Keychron V1 Max is the clear pick. If you require a numpad, prefer a silent typing experience straight out of the box, and value a keyboard with a distinctive metal-accented design, the Varmilo Minilo98 Pro is worth the extra investment.

Keychron V1 Max

  • +More compact and portable 75% layout.
  • +Available as a barebones kit for custom builds.
  • +Extensive layout support including multiple ISO variants.
  • +Includes a system toggle and extra keycaps for macOS/Windows switching.
  • +Lower starting price point based on listed vendor prices.
  • −Lacks a dedicated numpad or function row.
  • −Case material is listed as ABS plastic, which may feel less premium than metal accents.
  • −Some user reviews mention key chatter issues developing over time.

Varmilo Minilo98 Pro

  • +98% layout includes a numpad while saving space compared to full-size.
  • +Features a CNC metal inlay frame for a premium aesthetic.
  • +Vendor description highlights multiple sound-dampening layers like plate Poron foam and bottom silicone.
  • +Comes with extensive ISO language keycap sets for European layouts.
  • +Includes a dust cover in the box.
  • −Larger, heavier, and less portable than the 75% alternative.
  • −Switch options appear focused on silent and linear types (Kailh Prestige Silent/Voice).
  • −Higher price range based on listed vendor prices.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro wins for office use and content creation due to its numpad and silent switch options. The Keychron V1 Max is the better choice for travel and modding thanks to its smaller size, lighter weight, and barebones availability. For gaming and programming, the decision is closer, leaning towards the V1 Max for space-saving or the Minilo98 Pro for its fuller layout, respectively.

GamingKeychron V1 Max
  • •The 75% layout frees up more desk space for mouse movement.
  • •Both offer a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired and 2.4 GHz modes for low latency.
  • •The Keychron V1 Max is lighter at 770g, making it slightly easier to reposition.
OfficeVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The 98% layout includes a full numpad, essential for data entry.
  • •Varmilo's listing highlights silent switch options like the Kailh Prestige Silent, better for shared spaces.
  • •It includes a dust cover, as noted in the 'In the Box' section.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both support QMK and VIA for extensive key remapping and macros.
  • •The V1 Max's 75% layout is compact, while the Minilo98 Pro's 98% layout retains arrow and nav clusters.
  • •Both are hot-swappable and compatible with macOS and Windows.
TravelKeychron V1 Max
  • •The Keychron V1 Max is significantly smaller (329mm long vs 388mm) and lighter (770g vs 1000g).
  • •Both have a 4000mAh battery and multi-device Bluetooth connectivity.
  • •The more compact 75% form factor is easier to pack.
ModdingKeychron V1 Max
  • •The Keychron V1 Max is available as a barebones kit, according to its vendor page.
  • •Its vendor description details specific components like the PC plate and screw-in stabilizers for modders.
  • •It supports a wider variety of switch types (tactile, linear, clicky) out of the box compared to the Varmilo's silent focus.
Content CreationVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The dedicated numpad on the 98% layout is useful for timeline scrubbing and numerical shortcuts.
  • •Varmilo's vendor page mentions a 'CNC Metal Inlay Frame' and layered color design for a premium, visually appealing setup.
  • •Includes multimedia keys, as listed in the extra features.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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