Varmilo Minilo98 Pro vs Minilo98% vs 75% Layout Showdown
Choose the Minilo98 Pro for a full number pad and deep software customization, or the Minilo for a more compact and portable layout.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Varmilo Minilo98 Pro
98%
- 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.
- 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.
Get the
Varmilo Minilo
75% Layout Showdown
- More compact 75% layout saves significant desk space.
- Lighter weight makes it easier to transport.
- Includes a physical mode switch for quickly changing connectivity.
- 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.
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.
The differences that matter
Skip the 40-row spec sheet. These are the specs that change how each board feels, sounds, and fits your desk.
Varmilo Minilo98 Pro
Varmilo Minilo
Layout size
98%
75%
Hall effect (magnetic)
Yes
No
Battery
4,000 mAh
3,400 mAh
Case material
Copper, Metal, Plastic
ABS, Plastic
Switch options
Silent
Clicky, Linear, Silent, Tactile
- Varmilo Minilo98 Pro
- Varmilo Minilo
- Performance
- 7463
- Build quality
- 7457
- Productivity
- 8883
- Customizability
- 8974
- Portability
- 5681
- Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Mount style: Gasket Mount
- Sound dampening
What will you mostly use it for?
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.
Pick the Varmilo 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.
Varmilo Minilo98 Pro vs Minilo specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
16 of 26 specs differ
Varmilo Minilo98 Pro
Varmilo Minilo
Switch options
Hall effect (magnetic)
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Knob
Display
Media keys
Connection
Max polling rate
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
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Varmilo Minilo98 Pro vs Minilo: your questions
The Minilo98 Pro is a 98% layout keyboard measuring 388mm in width, which includes a number pad. The standard Minilo is a 75% layout measuring 326mm wide, omitting the number pad and function row for a more compact footprint.
Yes, both the Minilo98 Pro and the Minilo are listed as hot-swappable. This means you can replace the mechanical switches without soldering, using the included switch puller.
The Minilo98 Pro supports QMK and VIA, which are powerful, open-source tools for remapping every key and creating macros. The vendor description for the standard Minilo does not mention QMK or VIA support.
Yes. The Minilo98 Pro uses PBT keycaps, while the standard Minilo uses double-shot ABS keycaps. PBT plastic is generally more resistant to wear and shine over time compared to ABS.
The Minilo98 Pro is advertised with a 1000 Hz polling rate and 1ms ultra-low latency in its 2.4GHz and wired modes. The vendor description for the standard Minilo does not specify a polling rate or latency figure.
Yes. The Minilo98 Pro's specifications list Mac/Win support, and its vendor description confirms it includes Mac OS keycaps and a function key combination to switch between Windows and Mac layouts.
The Minilo98 Pro has a 4000mAh battery, and the Minilo has a 3400mAh battery. The vendor for the Minilo98 Pro states a working time of over 20 days with all lights off, suggesting both should have strong battery life.
According to vendor pages, both include a keyboard, USB cable, key/switch puller, dust cover, and a 2.4GHz dongle. The Minilo98 Pro also includes extra keycaps for Mac and ISO layouts, while the Minilo includes a cue card for function layers.
Yes, both the Minilo98 Pro and the Minilo are listed as using a gasket mount design. The Minilo98 Pro's description details its construction with a PC plate and multiple foam layers.
The standard Minilo is more portable. It is a 75% layout, making it shorter, and it is also lighter at 1510g compared to the Minilo98 Pro's 1000g weight and larger 98% form factor.
The metadata lists the Minilo98 Pro with a Silent switch type, while the Minilo offers Silent, Clicky, Tactile, and Linear. Vendor pages show both can be configured with Kailh Prestige Silent switches, among others.
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