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Compare Varmilo Minilo98 Pro vs APT108 R2 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Varmilo's compact 98% layout and a traditional full-size keyboard. The Minilo98 Pro offers a space-saving design with high-end modding potential, while the APT108 R2 provides a complete 108-key layout with a more straightforward feature set. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize desk space and customization or need a full numpad for data entry. Both are wireless, hot-swappable keyboards from the same brand, making the choice about specific use cases rather than overall quality.

87
Minilo98 Pro
68
Varmilo APT108 Panda R2 Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard

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  • 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
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • 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
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Has Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Uses a Plate Mount mounting style
  • Made with a ABS case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 74.8
  • Build Quality: 73.7
  • Productivity: 88.2
  • Customizability: 89.5
  • Portability: 55.6
Scores
  • Performance: 83.5
  • Build Quality: 55.8
  • Productivity: 79.4
  • Customizability: 72.4
  • Portability: 54.7
Name
Varmilo Minilo98 Pro
Name
Varmilo APT108 R2
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Silent
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear
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
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
Gasket Mount
Mount Style
Plate Mount
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
ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
37 x 388 x 140 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
1000g
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro is the more future-proof and enthusiast-oriented choice, especially for users who value firmware customization, a compact layout, and a gasket-mounted typing feel. The APT108 R2 serves a specific need for a full-size, hot-swappable wireless keyboard with a simpler programming interface. Prioritize the Minilo98 Pro for modding and a space-efficient setup, and choose the APT108 R2 if your workflow is impossible without a full numpad.

Varmilo Minilo98 Pro

  • +Gasket mount construction with PC plate and multiple foam layers for sound dampening.
  • +Full QMK and VIA firmware support for advanced key remapping and macros.
  • +Extensive ISO layout support with extra keycap sets for 12 European languages.
  • +South-facing RGB LEDs compatible with Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • +Includes accessories like a dust cover, switch puller, and extra Mac OS keycaps.
  • −Heavier at 1000g, which may reduce portability despite its compact size.
  • −Case is primarily plastic, though it includes a CNC metal inlay frame.
  • −Limited to silent switch options in the provided vendor descriptions.

Varmilo APT108 R2

  • +Full 108-key layout with a dedicated numpad for data-heavy work.
  • +Programmable via a Varmilo web application for simpler key remapping.
  • +Features a three-way cord channel for flexible wired cable routing.
  • +Includes double-layer silicone sound absorption according to the vendor.
  • +Available with a wider variety of switch types including linear and tactile options.
  • −Plate mount design is typically less flexible for sound and feel than gasket mount.
  • −Lacks QMK and VIA support, relying on proprietary software.
  • −Uses north-facing RGB LEDs, which can cause interference with some keycap profiles.
  • −Constructed with an ABS case, which may feel less premium than other materials.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Minilo98 Pro wins for gaming, programming, travel, and modding due to its low-latency claim, QMK/VIA support, compact size, and gasket-mounted construction. The APT108 R2 is the better office keyboard because of its full-size layout with a numpad. For content creation, both are equally capable with their multimedia keys and hot-swap functionality. Your primary task will dictate the winner.

GamingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro's vendor page claims 1ms ultra-low latency on 2.4 GHz and wired modes.
  • •Its south-facing RGB LEDs are less likely to interfere with Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • •The compact 98% layout saves desk space for larger mouse movements.
OfficeVarmilo APT108 R2
  • •The APT108 R2's full 108-key layout includes a dedicated numpad for data entry.
  • •It includes preset multimedia keypress combinations for quick controls.
  • •Its three-way cord channel offers flexible cable management on a desk.
ProgrammingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro supports QMK and VIA for deep, open-source key remapping and macro creation.
  • •It offers extensive ISO layout support for multiple European languages.
  • •The compact layout retains the numpad while saving space.
TravelVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro is a 98% layout, which is more compact than a full-size keyboard.
  • •It includes a dust cover in the box for protection during transport.
  • •Both have similar wireless connectivity, but the smaller footprint is easier to pack.
ModdingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro features a gasket mount with a PC plate, plate Poron foam, IXPE switch pad, and PCB foam for sound tuning.
  • •It has south-facing RGB and supports QMK/VIA firmware for extensive customization.
  • •Its hot-swap PCB supports 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
Content CreationTie
  • •Both keyboards offer multimedia keys for playback and volume control.
  • •Both are hot-swappable, allowing for switch choices tailored to typing or gaming.
  • •Both support wireless connectivity for a clean desk setup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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