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Compare Varmilo Minilo98 Pro vs APT108 Yakumo Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Varmilo's compact 98% layout and a traditional full-size keyboard. Both offer triple-mode wireless, hot-swap, and PBT keycaps, making the choice hinge on layout preference and build philosophy. The Minilo98 Pro emphasizes a modern, customizable typing experience, while the APT108 Yakumo provides a straightforward, spacious layout.

87
Minilo98 Pro
68
Varmilo APT108 Yakumo 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 Clicky, 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, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 74.8
  • Build Quality: 73.7
  • Productivity: 88.2
  • Customizability: 89.5
  • Portability: 55.6
Scores
  • Performance: 83.4
  • Build Quality: 55.2
  • Productivity: 78.7
  • Customizability: 72
  • Portability: 54.4
Name
Varmilo Minilo98 Pro
Name
Varmilo APT108 Yakumo
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Silent
Switch Options
Clicky, 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, North-face
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
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro is the clear option for enthusiasts seeking a modern, compact layout with superior customization via QMK/VIA and a premium gasket-mount typing feel. Opt for the Varmilo APT108 Yakumo if you require a traditional full-size keyboard with all dedicated keys and prefer a simpler, proven plate-mount construction.

Varmilo Minilo98 Pro

  • +Advanced gasket mount construction with polycarbonate plate and multiple foam layers (plate Poron, IXPE, PCB Poron, silicone).
  • +Full QMK and VIA support for open-source key remapping and macros.
  • +Compact 98% layout saves 20% space while keeping the numpad, per the manufacturer.
  • +South-facing RGB LEDs prevent interference with Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • +Includes extensive ISO layout support with optional keycap sets for European languages.
  • −Heavier at 1000g, though this is partly due to its metal inlay and construction.
  • −More complex construction may be intimidating for first-time modders.
  • −Layout may require adjustment for users accustomed to full-size spacing.

Varmilo APT108 Yakumo

  • +Traditional full-size 108-key layout with dedicated numpad and four extra macro/media keys.
  • +Features a three-way cord channel for left, right, or center cable exit.
  • +Reported to have a flex cut PCB, which can offer some typing flex.
  • +Available with a wider initial selection of switch types including Cherry MX, Kailh, and Gateron.
  • −Plate mount construction is simpler and typically offers less typing flex than gasket mount.
  • −North-facing RGB LEDs can cause interference with some Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • −Programmable only via a proprietary web application, lacking QMK/VIA support.
  • −Case is constructed from ABS plastic, compared to the Minilo's plastic with metal inlay.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Minilo98 Pro wins for gaming, programming, travel, and modding due to its advanced gasket-mount construction, software support, and space-saving design. The APT108 Yakumo is the pick for content creation where its full-size layout and extra keys are advantageous. For general office use, both are capable, trading desk space for a dedicated numpad.

GamingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro's gasket mount with plate Poron foam and PCB foam may offer a more consistent typing feel.
  • •Its south-facing RGB LEDs avoid interference with Cherry-profile keycaps, a benefit for aftermarket sets.
  • •The manufacturer claims 1ms ultra-low latency in its 2.4 GHz and wired modes.
OfficeTie
  • •Both keyboards offer silent switch options, Bluetooth connectivity, and Mac/Windows support.
  • •The Minilo98 Pro saves desk space and includes extra Mac OS keycaps.
  • •The APT108 Yakumo's full-size layout includes a dedicated numpad and four additional macro/media keys.
ProgrammingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro supports QMK and VIA for deep, open-source key remapping and macro programming.
  • •Its compact 98% layout retains the numpad while saving space.
  • •The gasket mount and sound-dampening foams (plate Poron, IXPE switch pad, PCB Poron, bottom silicone) can provide a more comfortable long-term typing experience.
TravelVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro has a smaller footprint (388mm wide) compared to a standard full-size board.
  • •It includes a dust cover in the box for protection.
  • •Both are similarly heavy, but the Minilo98 Pro's compact form is easier to pack.
ModdingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro features a gasket mount design with a polycarbonate plate and multiple foam layers for sound customization.
  • •It has south-facing RGB LEDs, compatible with a wider range of aftermarket keycap profiles.
  • •Full QMK/VIA support allows for extensive firmware-level customization beyond the APT108's web application.
Content CreationVarmilo APT108 Yakumo
  • •The APT108 Yakumo's full 108-key layout provides dedicated media keys and extra macro keys for shortcuts.
  • •Its three-way cord channel offers flexible cable routing for a clean desk setup.
  • •The plate mount construction and double-layer silicone sound absorption provide a straightforward, consistent build.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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