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Compare Varmilo Minilo98 Pro vs Aurora Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Varmilo's modern, compact keyboard and their design-focused, full-size model. The choice is difficult because the Minilo98 Pro offers extensive connectivity and modding features, while the Aurora provides a distinct visual theme. Your decision hinges on whether you prioritize wireless versatility and customization or a specific, stationary aesthetic with a traditional layout.

87
Minilo98 Pro
Varmilo Aurora Wired Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Released in 2024
  • 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
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • 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
  • Released in 2022
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Offers Yes, White RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 74.8
  • Build Quality: 73.7
  • Productivity: 88.2
  • Customizability: 89.5
  • Portability: 55.6
Scores
  • Performance: 43.7
  • Build Quality: 37.7
  • Productivity: 51.7
  • Customizability: 43.7
  • Portability: 42.6
Name
Varmilo Minilo98 Pro
Name
Varmilo Aurora
Release year
2024
Release year
2022
Switch Options
Silent
Switch Options
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
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
-
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
-
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 nearly all users seeking a modern, versatile mechanical keyboard, the Varmilo Minilo98 Pro is the recommended choice. Its wireless capabilities, extensive customization through hot-swap and QMK/VIA, and compact yet functional layout make it vastly more adaptable. Only consider the Varmilo Aurora if your primary requirement is a stationary, wired keyboard with its specific, ornate aesthetic and you have no need for programmability or wireless use.

Varmilo Minilo98 Pro

  • +Triple-mode connectivity with Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4 GHz, and wired USB-C.
  • +Highly customizable with hot-swap sockets, QMK/VIA firmware, and a gasket mount structure.
  • +Includes extensive sound dampening with plate Poron foam, PCB Poron foam, and a bottom silicone layer.
  • +Offers broad layout compatibility with ANSI and multiple ISO language keycap sets.
  • +Features a 1000 Hz polling rate and 1ms latency for responsive gaming.
  • −Relatively heavy at 1 kg, which reduces portability despite its compact size.
  • −The plastic case, despite its metal inlay frame, may not feel as premium as full metal constructions.
  • −Complex feature set and software may have a steeper learning curve for beginners.

Varmilo Aurora

  • +Unique Aurora-themed design with dye-sublimated PBT keycaps featuring star maps and wavy patterns.
  • +Full-size 108-key layout provides all dedicated keys without using function layers.
  • +Uses Varmilo's custom EC V2 mechanical switches.
  • −Wired-only connectivity lacks wireless options for cable-free setups.
  • −No hot-swap capability limits switch customization without soldering.
  • −Lacks modern features like programmable firmware, advanced mounting, or sound dampening mentioned in the listing.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro is the clear choice for most dynamic use cases, winning in gaming, office, programming, travel, and modding due to its wireless versatility, compact layout, and extensive customization features. It ties with the Aurora only for content creation, where the Aurora's full-size layout is a benefit. The Aurora's strengths are primarily its unique aesthetic design and traditional full-size form factor for stationary, wired use.

GamingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro offers a 1000 Hz polling rate and 1ms latency on its 2.4 GHz and wired modes.
  • •It features N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
  • •Its 98% layout saves desk space for mouse movement compared to a full-size board.
OfficeVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •It supports multi-device connectivity via Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4 GHz, and wired USB-C.
  • •Includes dedicated Mac OS keycaps and a system toggle for Mac/Windows compatibility.
  • •The silent switch option and sound-dampening foams make it suitable for shared spaces.
ProgrammingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •Full QMK and VIA support allows for deep key remapping and macro programming.
  • •The 98% layout retains the numpad while being more compact than a full-size board.
  • •Hot-swappable PCB enables easy switch experimentation for preferred typing feel.
TravelVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •It is wireless with a 4000mAh battery, supporting Bluetooth for use with laptops or tablets.
  • •The 98% layout is more compact than the Aurora's full-size form factor.
  • •It includes a dust cover for protection during transport.
ModdingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •Fully hot-swappable PCB supports 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
  • •Gasket mount structure with PC plate, Poron foams, and IXPE switch pad for sound tuning.
  • •QMK/VIA firmware allows for extensive software customization.
Content CreationTie
  • •The Minilo98 Pro offers multimedia keys and programmable macros via QMK/VIA.
  • •The Aurora's full-size layout provides dedicated navigation keys without layers.
  • •Both keyboards feature PBT keycaps for durability during long typing sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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