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Compare Varmilo Minilo98 Pro vs Chang'e Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Varmilo's modern, performance-oriented keyboard and their visually distinct, themed offering. The Minilo98 Pro offers a compact layout with advanced features like gasket mounting and QMK/VIA support, while the Chang'e provides a full-size layout with a unique artistic design. The decision hinges on prioritizing technical capability and a space-saving form factor versus a specific aesthetic theme and a traditional layout.

87
Minilo98 Pro
Chang'e

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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
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • 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
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Linear, Silent, Clicky, Tactile switch options
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, connectivity
  • Equipped with a 2500 mAh battery
  • Made with a Plastic case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 74.8
  • Build Quality: 73.7
  • Productivity: 88.2
  • Customizability: 89.5
  • Portability: 55.6
Scores
  • Performance: 61.9
  • Build Quality: 40
  • Productivity: 65.8
  • Customizability: 62.1
  • Portability: 57
Name
Varmilo Minilo98 Pro
Name
Varmilo Chang'e
Release year
2024
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Silent
Switch Options
Linear, Silent, Clicky, Tactile
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
-
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
Battery capacity
2500 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, White
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic, Copper, Metal
Case Material
Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Dimensions
37 x 388 x 140 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
1000g
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro is the clear choice for users who value modern keyboard features, extensive customization, and a compact, efficient layout. Opt for the Varmilo Chang'e if your priority is a specific, artistic aesthetic with a full-size layout and you are less concerned with advanced technical specifications like gasket mounting or open-source firmware.

Varmilo Minilo98 Pro

  • +Gasket mount structure with PC plate and multiple foam layers for sound and feel.
  • +Full programmability via QMK and VIA open-source firmware.
  • +Extensive ISO layout support with included PBT keycap sets for 12 European languages.
  • +High 1000 Hz polling rate and 1ms latency in wireless/wired modes.
  • +Includes Mac OS keycaps and a two-stage kickstand for angle adjustment.
  • −Heavier weight at 1 kg, which may affect portability.
  • −The vendor description lists only linear switch options (Kailh Prestige Silent/Voice).
  • −The case incorporates multiple materials (plastic, copper, metal), which may not appeal to those seeking a uniform aesthetic.

Varmilo Chang'e

  • +Unique themed design based on Chinese mythology with lunar phase keycaps.
  • +Available in both 87-key and 108-key (100%) size options.
  • +Offers a broader initial selection of switch types including tactile (Cherry Brown) and linear variants.
  • +Includes a UV-printed bottom case with artwork and a dedicated web driver for customization.
  • +Tri-mode connectivity and hot-swappable switch support on the APT model.
  • −Limited to ANSI layout only, with no ISO support mentioned.
  • −Smaller 2500mAh battery compared to the Minilo98 Pro.
  • −The F-row keycaps are made of ABS, while the rest are PBT, leading to potential wear inconsistency.
  • −No mention of advanced mounting styles like gasket mount or specific sound-dampening foams.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Minilo98 Pro is the more versatile choice for technical users, winning in gaming, office, programming, and modding due to its performance specs, layout options, and custom firmware. The Chang'e takes the lead only for content creation where its full-size layout and unique theme are primary assets. For travel, both offer similar wireless flexibility, making the choice more about size preference.

GamingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro has a specified 1000 Hz polling rate and 1ms latency in its 2.4 GHz and wired modes.
  • •Its south-facing RGB lighting is compatible with Cherry profile keycaps, a common preference.
  • •The gasket mount structure with foam layers may provide a more consistent typing feel.
OfficeVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro supports a wide range of ISO layouts with included keycap sets for European languages.
  • •It includes dedicated Mac OS keycaps and system switching functionality.
  • •A larger 4000mAh battery promises longer wireless operation.
ProgrammingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •Full programmability via QMK and VIA firmware allows for deep key remapping and macros.
  • •The 98% layout retains the numpad while saving desk space.
  • •PBT keycaps with a Cherry profile offer durability and a familiar typing angle.
TravelTie
  • •Both keyboards offer tri-mode connectivity (wired, Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz).
  • •The Minilo98 Pro is more compact, but the Chang'e listing does not provide its exact dimensions for a full comparison.
  • •Both include a dust cover in the box.
ModdingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro features a gasket mount design with a PC plate, plate foam, IXPE switch pad, and bottom silicone.
  • •It supports both 3-pin and 5-pin hot-swappable switches.
  • •South-facing RGB LEDs allow for compatibility with more aftermarket keycap sets.
Content CreationVarmilo Chang'e
  • •The Chang'e's 100% layout includes a full numpad, which is useful for data entry and shortcuts.
  • •Its unique lunar phase design on the function keys and UV-printed bottom case offer a distinctive visual for streaming setups.
  • •It offers a wider initial selection of switch types, including tactile and clicky options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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