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Compare Varmilo Minilo98 Pro vs MA108M Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Varmilo's modern, feature-rich compact and a traditional, no-frills full-size model. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize wireless connectivity, customizability, and a space-saving layout, or a standard 100% size with a simpler, wired setup. Both share the Varmilo brand and PBT keycaps, but diverge significantly in core functionality and user experience.

87
Minilo98 Pro
Varmilo MA108M Sakura White LED EC 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
  • 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 switch options
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Uses a Plate Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Made with a Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, White RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 74.9
  • Build Quality: 73.7
  • Productivity: 88.3
  • Customizability: 89.7
  • Portability: 55.6
Scores
  • Performance: 66.8
  • Build Quality: 46.4
  • Productivity: 52.1
  • Customizability: 52.9
  • Portability: 42.4
Name
Varmilo Minilo98 Pro
Name
Varmilo MA108M
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Silent
Switch Options
Clicky
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
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 due to its superior flexibility, modern features, and higher customizability. Its wireless options, hot-swap capability, and programmable firmware offer significant long-term value. Only consider the MA108M if you are certain you need a strictly wired, full-size keyboard and have no plans to modify switches or use advanced software features.

Varmilo Minilo98 Pro

  • +Triple-mode wireless connectivity with Bluetooth 5.0 and 2.4GHz.
  • +Fully hot-swappable PCB supporting 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
  • +Advanced gasket mount construction with PC plate, plate poron foam, and IXPE switch pad.
  • +Full QMK and VIA support for key remapping and macros.
  • +Includes extra keycaps for Mac and multiple ISO language layouts.
  • −Heavier at 1000g, reducing portability despite wireless features.
  • −Complex gasket mount structure may be intimidating for absolute beginners.
  • −Higher price point compared to the more basic MA108M.

Varmilo MA108M

  • +Standard 100% layout with a dedicated numpad and navigation cluster.
  • +Uses double-shot PBT keycaps for durability.
  • +Includes a 60-inch USB cable.
  • −Wired-only connectivity limits placement options.
  • −Switches are soldered (not hot-swappable), preventing easy changes.
  • −Basic plate mount construction lacks the sound-dampening foams of the Minilo98 Pro.
  • −Only offers white LED backlighting, not RGB.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro is the decisive winner across all defined use cases. Its advantages in connectivity, customizability, and modern features like hot-swap and programmability make it the more versatile and future-proof choice. The MA108M's primary appeal is its traditional, full-size layout for users who require a dedicated numpad and function row and have no need for wireless operation or aftermarket modifications.

GamingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro offers a 1000 Hz polling rate for potentially lower latency.
  • •Its gasket mount with plate poron foam and IXPE switch pad may provide a more consistent typing feel.
  • •South-facing RGB lighting is compatible with more keycap profiles.
OfficeVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •Triple-mode connectivity (Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz, wired) offers flexibility.
  • •Silent switch option (Kailh Prestige Silent) is better for shared spaces.
  • •Includes Mac OS keycaps and system switching for multi-platform use.
ProgrammingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •98% layout retains the numpad while saving desk space.
  • •Full QMK/VIA support allows for deep key remapping and macro creation.
  • •Hot-swappable PCB enables easy switch experimentation for optimal feel.
TravelVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •Wireless operation removes cable dependency.
  • •The 98% layout is more compact than a full-size board.
  • •Built-in 4000mAh battery supports extended cordless use.
ModdingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •Hot-swappable PCB supports 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
  • •Gasket mount structure with PC plate and multiple foam layers is mod-friendly.
  • •QMK/VIA firmware is fully open for customization.
Content CreationVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •Programmable macros via QMK/VIA can streamline editing workflows.
  • •Dual-system support with dedicated Mac keys is useful for cross-platform creators.
  • •South-facing RGB offers customizable lighting for streaming setups.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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