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Compare Varmilo Minilo98 Pro vs VA104C Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Varmilo's modern compact layout and its traditional full-size offering. The choice is difficult because both share the Varmilo brand's build quality and PBT keycaps but target fundamentally different workflows. The Minilo98 Pro is a feature-rich, wireless 98% keyboard, while the VA104C is a wired, full-size board with a dedicated calculator screen. Your decision hinges on prioritizing wireless connectivity and customizability versus a stationary, complete layout with a niche productivity tool.

87
Minilo98 Pro
Varmilo VA104C Calculator White LED Dye Sub PBT Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Has Silent switch options
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • 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
  • Includes a No display
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • 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
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Includes a Yes display
  • Uses a Plate Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Made with a ABS, Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, White RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 74.8
  • Build Quality: 73.7
  • Productivity: 88.2
  • Customizability: 89.5
  • Portability: 55.6
Scores
  • Performance: 67
  • Build Quality: 52.3
  • Productivity: 52.2
  • Customizability: 58.7
  • Portability: 42.5
Name
Varmilo Minilo98 Pro
Name
Varmilo VA104C
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Silent
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
98%
Layout Size
100%
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
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
-
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
Gasket Mount
Mount Style
Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Backlight
 
White
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic, Copper, Metal
Case Material
ABS, Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
37 x 388 x 140 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
1000g
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

For most users, the Varmilo Minilo98 Pro is the recommended choice. It delivers modern conveniences like wireless connectivity, extensive customization via hot-swap and QMK/VIA, and a space-efficient layout. Only choose the VA104C if your work is strictly desk-bound, heavily reliant on a full numpad and the integrated calculator screen, and you have no need for wireless operation or future modifications.

Varmilo Minilo98 Pro

  • +Triple-mode connectivity with wired, 2.4 GHz wireless, and Bluetooth 5.0.
  • +Hot-swappable PCB supports 3-pin and 5-pin switches for easy customization.
  • +Gasket mount construction with multiple foam layers for a tuned typing feel.
  • +Full QMK and VIA support for key remapping and macro programming.
  • +Includes a two-stage kickstand for adjustable typing angles.
  • −Relatively heavy at 1 kg, reducing portability despite wireless features.
  • −Uses a USB-C to USB-Mini connector, which is less common than USB-C to USB-A.
  • −The vendor page indicates potential import taxes for international orders.

Varmilo VA104C

  • +Full-size 100% layout with a dedicated numpad and calculator screen.
  • +Available with a wide variety of Cherry MX and Varmilo EC switch types.
  • +Features a wood-grained ABS frame for a distinct aesthetic.
  • +Includes a long 60-inch detachable cable.
  • −Wired-only connectivity limits placement options.
  • −Not hot-swappable, requiring soldering to change switches.
  • −Uses an older USB-Mini connector for its detachable cable.
  • −Plate mount design offers less potential for sound customization than gasket mount.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro wins in most categories due to its modern wireless features, high customizability, and compact-yet-complete layout. It is the clear choice for gaming, programming, travel, modding, and content creation. The VA104C ties only for office use where its full-size layout with integrated calculator screen provides a specific advantage for intensive number crunching in a stationary, wired setup.

GamingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro offers a 1000 Hz polling rate for lower latency.
  • •Its 2.4 GHz wireless and Bluetooth modes provide cable-free flexibility.
  • •South-facing RGB lighting is compatible with more keycap profiles.
OfficeTie
  • •The VA104C's full-size layout includes a dedicated numpad and calculator screen for data entry.
  • •The Minilo98 Pro's 98% layout saves desk space while retaining a numpad.
  • •Both keyboards offer multimedia keys and Mac/Windows compatibility.
ProgrammingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro supports QMK/VIA for deep key remapping and macro creation.
  • •Its hot-swappable PCB allows easy switch changes for preferred typing feel.
  • •The compact 98% layout frees up desk space for mouse movement.
TravelVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro is wireless with Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz connectivity.
  • •Its 98% layout is more compact than a full-size keyboard.
  • •It includes a 4000mAh battery for cordless use.
ModdingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro features a hot-swappable PCB for easy switch changes.
  • •It uses a gasket mount design with PC plate, plate Poron foam, IXPE switch pad, and PCB foam for sound customization.
  • •Full QMK and VIA firmware support allows for extensive software customization.
Content CreationVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •Programmable layers and macros via QMK/VIA can streamline editing shortcuts.
  • •South-facing RGB backlighting offers aesthetic customization.
  • •Wireless connectivity reduces cable clutter on a production desk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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