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Compare Varmilo Minilo98 Pro vs VBM108 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Varmilo's modern, feature-packed compact layout and their more traditional, specialized full-size offering. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize a space-saving, highly customizable design with extensive software support, or require a dedicated numpad with a distinct, non-standard switch technology. Both are pre-built keyboards from the same brand but target fundamentally different user needs.

87
Minilo98 Pro
-26% off
Varmilo Lure Series Crane White LED EC Mechanical 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
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • 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
  • Made with a Plastic case
  • Offers No RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 74.8
  • Build Quality: 73.7
  • Productivity: 88.2
  • Customizability: 89.5
  • Portability: 55.6
Scores
  • Performance: 57.6
  • Build Quality: 43.9
  • Productivity: 58.8
  • Customizability: 45.3
  • Portability: 49.9
Name
Varmilo Minilo98 Pro
Name
Varmilo VBM108
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
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
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
 
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. It delivers significantly more value through its modern features like hot-swap, gasket mounting, advanced software support, and versatile connectivity. Only choose the VBM108 if you specifically require a full-size layout with a numpad and are intrigued by the experience of electrocapacitive switches, and are willing to forgo customization and premium acoustic features.

Varmilo Minilo98 Pro

  • +Extensive customization via hot-swappable PCB and QMK/VIA firmware support.
  • +Superior wireless performance with 1ms latency on 2.4GHz and a 4000mAh battery.
  • +Premium typing feel from a gasket mount with multiple foam layers (plate Poron, IXPE, PCB Poron, silicone).
  • +Wide layout compatibility, supporting ANSI and numerous ISO language variants.
  • +Includes south-facing RGB backlighting and a two-stage kickstand for ergonomics.
  • −Relatively heavy at 1kg, which reduces portability despite its compact size.
  • −The plastic case with metal inlay may not feel as premium as a full metal construction to some.
  • −Higher price point compared to many basic pre-built keyboards.

Varmilo VBM108

  • +Features unique Varmilo electrocapacitive switches, offering a distinct typing feel.
  • +Full-size 100% layout includes a dedicated numpad.
  • +Includes detailed artwork on the keycaps and case for a themed aesthetic.
  • +Offers a 3-way cord channel for cable management.
  • −Lacks hot-swap capability, limiting switch customization.
  • −No RGB lighting, featuring only white LED backlighting.
  • −Plate mount design and lack of listed sound-dampening materials may result in a harsher sound profile.
  • −Limited to ANSI layout and lacks the extensive language support of the Minilo98 Pro.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro is the more versatile choice, winning in most categories due to its modern feature set. It excels for gaming, office use, programming, travel, and modding thanks to its low-latency wireless, silent switch options, extensive software support, compact form factor, and hot-swappable design. The VBM108's primary advantage is its full-size layout for those who need a dedicated numpad, and its unique electrocapacitive switches offer a distinct typing experience. For content creation, the choice depends on whether you value RGB lighting or the VBM108's specific artistic keycap design.

GamingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro offers a 1000 Hz polling rate with 1ms latency in 2.4 GHz and wired modes, as stated by the manufacturer.
  • •Its south-facing RGB and hot-swappable design allow for switch customization to personal preference.
  • •The gasket mount structure with foam layers may provide a more consistent typing feel during long sessions.
OfficeVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro includes silent switch options, which are better for shared workspaces.
  • •It offers multi-device connectivity with Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, and wired modes for flexibility.
  • •The compact 98% layout saves desk space while retaining a numpad for data entry.
ProgrammingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •Full QMK and VIA support on the Minilo98 Pro allows for deep key remapping and macro creation.
  • •The hot-swappable PCB supports experimenting with different switch types for optimal feel.
  • •Its compact layout frees up desk space for mouse movement without sacrificing essential keys.
TravelVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro is a more compact 98% layout compared to the full-size VBM108.
  • •It features a built-in 4000mAh battery for wireless use.
  • •Its triple connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4G, wired) offers more options on the go.
ModdingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro is hot-swappable, supporting 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
  • •It features a gasket mount design with a PC plate, plate foam, IXPE switch pad, and PCB foam for sound tuning.
  • •It has full QMK/VIA firmware support for software customization.
Content CreationTie
  • •The Minilo98 Pro offers RGB backlighting for aesthetic setups and multimedia keys.
  • •The VBM108 features detailed artwork on its keycaps and case for a unique visual theme.
  • •Both include multimedia key functions, though the VBM108's are preset combinations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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