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Compare Varmilo Minilo98 Pro vs EC Lie Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Varmilo's modern, compact offering and its more traditional, full-size model. The Minilo98 Pro is a feature-packed 98% keyboard with wireless connectivity and extensive modding support, while the EC Lie is a straightforward 100% layout with a simpler build. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize cutting-edge features and flexibility or a classic, no-frills typing experience.

87
Minilo98 Pro
Varmilo Lure Series Lie White LED EC 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
  • Features N-key rollover
  • 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 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 Yes, White RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 75
  • Build Quality: 73.7
  • Productivity: 88.2
  • Customizability: 89.5
  • Portability: 55.7
Scores
  • Performance: 47.1
  • Build Quality: 45.2
  • Productivity: 45.9
  • Customizability: 51.6
  • Portability: 42.1
Name
Varmilo Minilo98 Pro
Name
Varmilo EC Lie
Release year
2024
Release year
2023
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
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 buyers, the Varmilo Minilo98 Pro is the recommended choice due to its extensive modern features, wireless flexibility, and high degree of customizability. It justifies its higher cost for users who value future-proofing, multi-device use, or a premium typing experience. Only consider the Varmilo EC Lie if your budget is strict, you exclusively need a wired full-size keyboard, and you have no plans to modify it.

Varmilo Minilo98 Pro

  • +Tri-mode wireless connectivity (Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4 GHz, wired) with a 4000mAh battery.
  • +Fully hot-swappable PCB with support for 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
  • +Advanced gasket mount structure with PC plate, Poron foam, and silicone dampening.
  • +Full QMK and VIA support for key remapping and macros.
  • +Wide ISO layout compatibility with included keycap sets for European languages.
  • −At 1 kg, it is a relatively heavy keyboard.
  • −The vendor description notes high shipping costs to some regions like Europe.
  • −Complexity of features may be overkill for users wanting a simple plug-and-play experience.

Varmilo EC Lie

  • +Typically available at a lower price point than the Minilo98 Pro.
  • +Simple, familiar full-size (100%) layout with a dedicated numpad.
  • +Features thick PBT dye-sublimated keycaps according to the vendor listing.
  • +Includes 3-stage adjustable flip-out feet for ergonomic adjustment.
  • −Lacks wireless connectivity, operating only in wired mode.
  • −Switches are not hot-swappable, limiting future customization.
  • −Uses a simpler plate mount construction instead of a gasket mount.
  • −Only offers white LED backlighting, not full RGB.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro is the clear choice across all defined use cases due to its superior connectivity, customizability, and modern feature set. It excels in environments that demand flexibility, quiet operation, or programmable keys. The EC Lie's primary advantage is its lower cost and familiar full-size layout for users who need a dedicated numpad and have no need for wireless connectivity or modding potential.

GamingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •The Minilo98 Pro has a confirmed 1000 Hz polling rate and 1ms latency in its 2.4 GHz and wired modes.
  • •It features N-key rollover for reliable multi-key presses.
  • •Its gasket mount structure with foam layers may offer a more consistent typing feel.
OfficeVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •It offers tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, wired) for easy switching between devices.
  • •It includes multi-media keys and dedicated Mac OS keycaps for cross-platform productivity.
  • •The silent switch option, like the Kailh Prestige Silent, is better suited for shared workspaces.
ProgrammingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •Full QMK and VIA support allows for deep key remapping and macro creation.
  • •The 98% layout retains the numpad while saving desk space.
  • •Hot-swappable PCB makes it easy to experiment with different switch types for optimal feel.
TravelVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •Its 98% layout is more compact than a full-size keyboard.
  • •Wireless operation with a 4000mAh battery eliminates the need for a constant cable connection.
  • •It includes a dust cover for protection during transport.
ModdingVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •Fully hot-swappable PCB supports 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
  • •Gasket mount design with a PC plate, plate foam, IXPE switch pad, and PCB foam is built for customization.
  • •QMK/VIA firmware allows for extensive software-level modifications.
Content CreationVarmilo Minilo98 Pro
  • •Programmable layers and macros via QMK/VIA can streamline editing workflows.
  • •South-facing RGB lighting is compatible with more keycap profiles.
  • •The inclusion of a numpad is useful for data entry and shortcut inputs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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