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Compare Varmilo Minilo98 Pro vs VA108M Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Varmilo's modern compact layout and its classic full-size offering. The choice hinges on whether you prioritize wireless connectivity, a smaller footprint, and deep customization, or if you require a dedicated numpad and prefer a simpler, wired setup. Both share Varmilo's reputation for PBT keycaps, but their core designs cater to different user priorities.

88
Minilo98 Pro
Varmilo VA108M Football / Soccer Brazil Dye Sub PBT 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
  • 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
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Silent, 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: 74
  • Productivity: 88.5
  • Customizability: 90
  • Portability: 55.5
Scores
  • Performance: 66.4
  • Build Quality: 46.2
  • Productivity: 52
  • Customizability: 52.7
  • Portability: 42.3
Name
Varmilo Minilo98 Pro
Name
Varmilo VA108M
Release year
2024
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Silent
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Silent, 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

The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro is the definitive recommendation for users seeking a future-proof, versatile keyboard. Its wireless freedom, extensive customizability via hot-swap and QMK/VIA, and space-efficient 98% layout make it superior for most tasks. Only consider the VA108M if your workflow absolutely requires a full-size layout and you have no need for wireless connectivity or any after-purchase modifications.

Varmilo Minilo98 Pro

  • +Triple-mode connectivity (wired, Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4 GHz) with a 4000mAh battery.
  • +Hot-swappable PCB supporting 3-pin and 5-pin switches for easy customization.
  • +Gasket mount design with PC plate, Poron foams, and silicone dampening for a tuned typing experience.
  • +Full QMK and VIA firmware support for key remapping and macros.
  • +Available in a wide range of ISO layouts with included keycap sets for European languages.
  • −Relatively heavy at 1000g, which reduces portability despite its wireless nature.
  • −The vendor description notes high shipping costs to some regions, like Europe.
  • −Limited to silent switch options in the provided vendor listing (Kailh Prestige Silent or Voice).

Varmilo VA108M

  • +Traditional full-size 104-key layout with a dedicated numpad and navigation cluster.
  • +Uses genuine Cherry MX switches, offering a choice of tactile, linear, silent, or clicky variants.
  • +Built with dye-sublimated PBT keycaps for durable legends.
  • +Includes a long 48-inch USB cable.
  • −Wired-only connectivity, with no wireless or Bluetooth option.
  • −Not hot-swappable; switches are soldered to a plate-mounted PCB.
  • −Lacks modern features like programmable firmware (QMK/VIA) and a gasket mount structure.
  • −Currently listed as out of stock or for pre-order at the time of writing.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro is the clear choice for most modern, feature-focused use cases. It wins for gaming, office work, programming, travel, and modding due to its wireless options, compact but complete layout, and extensive customization through hot-swap and firmware. The VA108M's primary advantage is its traditional full-size layout with dedicated keys, but it lacks the connectivity and modern features of the Minilo98 Pro. For content creation, the choice depends on whether programmable layers or a dedicated media cluster is more valuable.

GamingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro offers a 1000 Hz polling rate and 1ms latency in its 2.4 GHz and wired modes, as stated by the manufacturer.
  • •Its gasket mount structure with plate and PCB foam may provide a more consistent typing feel during rapid key presses.
  • •The 98% layout saves desk space for larger mouse movements while retaining the numpad.
OfficeVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •It supports multi-device connectivity via Bluetooth 5.0 and 2.4 GHz wireless, easing switching between computers.
  • •Includes Mac OS keycaps and a system toggle (Fn+Tab), offering better cross-platform support out of the box.
  • •The compact 98% layout saves space without sacrificing the numpad, useful for data entry.
ProgrammingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •Full QMK and VIA support allows for extensive key remapping and macro creation for coding shortcuts.
  • •Hot-swappable PCB supports 3-pin and 5-pin switches, enabling easy switch experimentation for preferred tactile feedback.
  • •The layout is available in numerous ISO standards, catering to international programmers.
TravelVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •It is wireless with a 4000mAh battery, eliminating the need for a constant cable connection.
  • •The 98% layout is more compact than a full-size board, taking up less bag space.
  • •It includes a dust cover for protection during transport.
ModdingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •Features a hot-swappable PCB, allowing switch changes without soldering.
  • •Uses a gasket mount with a PC plate, plate Poron foam, IXPE switch pad, and PCB foam, offering a moddable sound and feel foundation.
  • •South-facing RGB LEDs and QMK/VIA firmware support deep hardware and software customization.
Content CreationTie
  • •The Minilo98 Pro's programmable keys via QMK/VIA can be mapped to editing software shortcuts.
  • •The VA108M's full 104-key layout provides dedicated media keys, which can be convenient for playback control.
  • •Both keyboards use PBT keycaps for durability during long typing sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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