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Compare Varmilo Minilo98 Pro vs Royal Kludge RK84 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a feature-rich, premium 98% keyboard and a more affordable, compact 75% option. The decision is difficult because both offer hot-swappable switches and triple-mode wireless connectivity, but they target different budgets and use cases. The Varmilo provides advanced customization and a full numpad, while the RK84 focuses on core functionality in a smaller, more portable form factor.

87
Minilo98 Pro
63
RK84 75% Wired Mechanical Keyboard

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  • 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
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1000 g
  • Sized at 37 x 388 x 140 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, Copper, Metal case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2021
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Offers a USB passthrough port
  • Equipped with a 3750 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 803.5 g
  • Sized at 41 x 125 x 315 mm
  • Made with a Plastic case
  • Features ABS, PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 75
  • Build Quality: 73.7
  • Productivity: 88.2
  • Customizability: 89.5
  • Portability: 55.7
Scores
  • Performance: 62.7
  • Build Quality: 50.5
  • Productivity: 77.9
  • Customizability: 69.7
  • Portability: 81.6
Name
Varmilo Minilo98 Pro
Name
Royal Kludge RK84
Release year
2024
Release year
2021
Switch Options
Silent
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
98%
Layout Size
75%
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 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
3750 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
-
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic, Copper, Metal
Case Material
Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
ABS, PBT
Dimensions
37 x 388 x 140 mm
Dimensions
41 x 125 x 315 mm
Weight
1000g
Weight
803.5g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your budget and need for a numpad are the primary deciding factors. Invest in the Varmilo Minilo98 Pro if you want a premium, full-featured keyboard with top-tier customization, a numpad, and are willing to pay more for it. Choose the Royal Kludge RK84 if you prioritize a compact, affordable wireless keyboard for general use and value portability over advanced features.

Varmilo Minilo98 Pro

  • +Advanced gasket mount structure with multiple foam layers for sound and feel.
  • +Full QMK and VIA firmware support for unlimited key remapping.
  • +High-quality PBT Cherry profile keycaps and a CNC metal inlay frame.
  • +Extensive ISO layout support with included keycap sets for European languages.
  • +1ms latency and 1000 Hz polling rate specified for competitive use.
  • −Larger and heavier 98% form factor is less portable.
  • −Higher price point compared to the RK84.
  • −Switch options in the provided listing may be limited to silent or specific Kailh types.

Royal Kludge RK84

  • +More affordable price point.
  • +Compact 75% layout saves significant desk space.
  • +Includes two USB 2.0 pass-through ports for peripheral connectivity.
  • +Comes with screw-in stabilizers, which are often more stable than plate-mount.
  • +Lighter weight and smaller dimensions enhance portability.
  • −Uses ABS keycaps, which are more prone to shine over time compared to PBT.
  • −Lacks detailed specifications for latency, polling rate, and firmware support like QMK/VIA.
  • −The vendor description mentions software can be janky, based on a customer review.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro is the stronger choice for stationary, productivity-focused tasks like office work, programming, and gaming due to its premium features, numpad, and superior customization. The Royal Kludge RK84 wins for travel and general portable use thanks to its smaller 75% size and lower weight. For content creation, the choice depends on whether you prioritize deep macro programming or the convenience of onboard USB ports.

GamingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro has a specified 1ms ultra-low latency and 1000 Hz polling rate in its 2.4 GHz and wired modes, according to the manufacturer.
  • •Its south-facing RGB lighting is compatible with Cherry profile keycaps, a detail often preferred by gamers for custom sets.
  • •The gasket mount structure with foam layers may provide a more consistent typing feel during extended sessions.
OfficeVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The 98% layout includes a dedicated number pad, which is essential for data entry and accounting work.
  • •It includes Mac OS keycaps and a system toggle, offering better out-of-the-box compatibility for multi-OS environments.
  • •The silent switch option and included sound dampening foams make it more suitable for shared workspaces.
ProgrammingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •Full QMK and VIA firmware support allows for deep key remapping and macro creation, which is valuable for coding shortcuts.
  • •The 98% layout provides arrow keys and a numpad while saving some desk space compared to a full-size board.
  • •PBT keycaps are more durable and resistant to shine over long-term use.
TravelRoyal Kludge RK84
  • •The RK84 has a significantly smaller 75% form factor (315 x 125 x 41 mm vs 388 x 140 x 37 mm), making it easier to pack.
  • •It is lighter at 803.5 grams compared to the Varmilo's 1000 grams.
  • •The vendor description mentions a removable frame, which could simplify cleaning during travel.
ModdingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Varmilo features a gasket mount design with a PC plate, plate Poron foam, IXPE switch pad, PCB Poron foam, and bottom silicone, offering a more complex and tunable acoustic profile.
  • •It supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switches for greater switch compatibility.
  • •South-facing RGB and QMK/VIA support provide extensive lighting and firmware customization options.
Content CreationTie
  • •The Varmilo's programmable layers and macros via QMK/VIA are advantageous for editing software shortcuts.
  • •The RK84 includes two USB 2.0 pass-through ports, which can be convenient for connecting peripherals like a mouse or drawing tablet dongle.
  • •Both keyboards offer multimedia keys for controlling media playback.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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