KeebFinder
Not sure which keyboard to choose? Try the Keyboard Finder now!

Compare Varmilo Minilo98 Pro vs Minilo Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Varmilo's two popular wireless keyboards. The choice is difficult because both share a gasket mount design, hot-swap sockets, and multi-mode connectivity. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize the space-saving 98% layout with a number pad or the ultra-compact 75% form factor, alongside differences in keycap material and firmware support.

87
Minilo98 Pro
73
Minilo

Select a keyboard to compare

0.0 (0)
0.0 (0)
  • 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
  • Includes a No display
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • 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 2022
  • Has Silent, Clicky, Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Includes a Yes display
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, connectivity
  • Equipped with a 3400 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1510 g
  • Sized at 37 x 326 x 144 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, ABS case
  • Features ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 74.8
  • Build Quality: 73.7
  • Productivity: 88.2
  • Customizability: 89.5
  • Portability: 55.6
Scores
  • Performance: 63.7
  • Build Quality: 57.4
  • Productivity: 83.3
  • Customizability: 74.4
  • Portability: 81.3
Name
Varmilo Minilo98 Pro
Name
Varmilo Minilo
Release year
2024
Release year
2022
Switch Options
Silent
Switch Options
Silent, Clicky, Tactile, Linear
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
98%
Layout Size
75%
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, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO
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
3400 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
Gasket 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
Plastic, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
ABS
Dimensions
37 x 388 x 140 mm
Dimensions
37 x 326 x 144 mm
Weight
1000g
Weight
1510g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require a number pad for work, want the deepest level of software customization with QMK/VIA, or prefer PBT keycaps, the Minilo98 Pro is the better investment. If your priority is a smaller, more portable keyboard for a minimalist desk setup or frequent travel, the standard Minilo 75% is the suitable option, accepting its trade-offs in keycap material and firmware features.

Varmilo Minilo98 Pro

  • +Includes a full number pad in a compact 98% layout.
  • +Offers full QMK and VIA firmware support for key remapping.
  • +Uses PBT keycaps for better long-term durability.
  • +Specifies a 1000 Hz polling rate and 1ms latency for responsive gaming.
  • +Comes with extensive ISO layout keycap sets for European languages.
  • −Larger 98% footprint is less portable than a 75% board.
  • −The vendor description lists a plastic case, though it mentions a CNC metal inlay frame.
  • −Heavier than the Minilo, though the weight difference is not extreme.

Varmilo Minilo

  • +More compact 75% layout saves significant desk space.
  • +Lighter weight makes it easier to transport.
  • +Includes a physical mode switch for quickly changing connectivity.
  • +Comes with a cue card for referencing function layer commands.
  • −Uses ABS keycaps, which may develop shine over time.
  • −Lacks QMK/VIA support, limiting firmware-based customization.
  • −Vendor specs list compatibility with Windows and Android, with no mention of Mac/iOS support in the provided description.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Minilo98 Pro is the clear choice for productivity-focused tasks like office work and programming, thanks to its number pad and superior customization software. It also holds an edge for gaming due to its specified low-latency performance. The standard Minilo wins for travel and portability with its smaller 75% form factor. For modding, the Pro model's QMK/VIA support and detailed internal foams make it more versatile.

GamingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro has a specified 1000 Hz polling rate and 1ms latency in its 2.4GHz and wired modes, according to the vendor page.
  • •Its south-facing RGB lighting is compatible with Cherry profile keycaps without interference.
  • •The 98% layout retains dedicated arrow and navigation keys without layers.
OfficeVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The 98% layout includes a full number pad, which is essential for data entry and accounting.
  • •It offers extensive ISO layout support with included keycap sets for over a dozen European languages.
  • •Includes Mac OS keycaps and a system toggle, providing better cross-platform support out of the box.
ProgrammingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •Full QMK and VIA firmware support allows for deep key remapping and macro programming.
  • •The 98% layout provides dedicated keys for brackets, symbols, and a number pad for numerical input.
  • •PBT keycaps are more resistant to shine from long-term use compared to ABS.
TravelVarmilo Minilo
  • •The Minilo is a 75% keyboard, making it significantly more compact (326mm wide vs 388mm).
  • •It is lighter, weighing 1510g compared to the Minilo98 Pro's 1000g.
  • •Its smaller footprint is easier to fit in a bag or on a cramped desk.
ModdingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •Supports QMK and VIA for extensive firmware customization.
  • •Features a detailed gasket mount structure with a PC plate, plate Poron foam, IXPE switch pad, and PCB foam.
  • •Comes with PBT keycaps, which are generally preferred by enthusiasts over the Minilo's ABS keycaps.
Content CreationTie
  • •The Minilo98 Pro's number pad is useful for timeline scrubbing and numerical shortcuts in editing software.
  • •Both keyboards are hot-swappable, allowing for switch changes to suit typing feel.
  • •Both feature multi-media keys via function layers for play/pause and volume control.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

83
$145
Minilo75 Pro
Varmilo Minilo75 Pro
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
Gasket Mount

99
$129
Keychron K2 HE Wireless Magnetic Switch Custom Keyboard
Keychron K2 HE
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

100
$104
Lemokey P1 QMK/VIA Custom Gaming Keyboard
Keychron Lemokey P1
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

100
$160
Keychron Q1 HE QMK Wireless Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q1 HE
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

96
$149
Keychron Q3 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q3 Pro
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

77
$139
VA80 Hygge
Varmilo VA80 Hygge
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case

62
$108
Minilo - off
Varmilo Minilo 65%
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB/ White LEDs,
Gasket Mount

-28% off
94
$221$159
Keychron Q6 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q6 Pro
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

93
$149
Keychron Q2 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard (US Layout)
Keychron Q2 Pro
65%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

95
$149
Keychron Q1 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q1 Pro
75%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount