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Compare Monsgeek M2 vs Varmilo APT108 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a high-value custom keyboard project and a feature-rich pre-built. The Monsgeek M2 is a wired, gasket-mount DIY kit with an aluminum case, while the Varmilo APT108 is a pre-built wireless keyboard with a full-size layout. The choice hinges on your willingness to assemble components versus needing immediate wireless functionality and dedicated media keys.

92
MonsGeek M2 Wired Gasket DIY Kit
73
Varmilo APT108 CMYK Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard

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  • Released in 2023
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Available in a 96% layout
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Weighs about 1960 g
  • Sized at 33 x 147 x 380 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Silent, Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Uses a Plate Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Made with a ABS case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 81
  • Build Quality: 87.4
  • Productivity: 94.7
  • Customizability: 95.3
  • Portability: 46
Scores
  • Performance: 83.3
  • Build Quality: 60.5
  • Productivity: 78.2
  • Customizability: 80.6
  • Portability: 54.1
Name
Monsgeek M2
Name
Varmilo APT108
Release year
2023
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Linear
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Silent, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
96%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Standard
ANSI
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
Wired, Wired only
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
-
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
 
Rgb, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
-
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
33 x 147 x 380 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
1960g
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your priority should dictate the choice. If you want a project and value acoustic tuning with premium materials, the Monsgeek M2 is a compelling, feature-rich kit. If you need a keyboard that works immediately with wireless freedom and a full layout, the Varmilo APT108 is the practical option. Consider your willingness to assemble components versus your need for connectivity and dedicated keys.

Monsgeek M2

  • +CNC aluminum case construction for a premium, solid feel.
  • +Gasket mount design with silicone gaskets and multiple foam layers (Poron, IXPE) for a soft, tuned typing experience.
  • +South-facing RGB LEDs prevent interference with Cherry profile keycaps.
  • +Comes as a comprehensive DIY kit with screw-in stabilizers, a coiled cable, and modding accessories.
  • +96% layout provides a numpad in a more compact footprint than a full-size board.
  • −Wired-only connectivity limits placement options.
  • −Requires purchasing and installing your own switches and keycaps.
  • −Heavy aluminum case and lack of wireless make it less portable.
  • −The vendor description explicitly states this version does not support QMK/VIA firmware.

Varmilo APT108

  • +Tri-mode connectivity with wired USB-C, Bluetooth 5.1, and 2.4 GHz wireless.
  • +Pre-built with high-quality, thick dye-sublimated PBT keycaps included.
  • +Features a full-size 108-key layout with dedicated multimedia controls.
  • +Includes practical design features like a 3-way cord channel and a 2-step kickstand.
  • +Hot-swappable PCB allows for switch changes without soldering.
  • −ABS plastic case lacks the premium feel and acoustics of aluminum.
  • −North-facing RGB LEDs can cause interference with some Cherry profile keycaps.
  • −Plate mount design typically offers less typing flex than a gasket mount.
  • −Larger full-size footprint consumes more desk space.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Varmilo APT108 is the clear choice for office work, travel, and content creation due to its wireless features, full layout, and pre-built convenience. The Monsgeek M2 excels for programming and modding, offering a compact layout with a numpad and deep customization potential. For gaming, the decision is less clear and may come down to a preference for the M2's custom acoustic profile versus the APT108's confirmed high polling rate in wired mode.

GamingTie
  • •Both support N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
  • •The Varmilo APT108 lists a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode, while the M2's rate is not specified.
  • •The M2's gasket mount and included foam may offer a more dampened, consistent typing feel.
OfficeVarmilo APT108
  • •The Varmilo APT108 offers Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity for a cleaner desk.
  • •It includes preset multimedia keypress combinations for quick controls.
  • •Its pre-built nature means it's ready to use out of the box with included PBT keycaps.
ProgrammingMonsgeek M2
  • •The Monsgeek M2's 96% layout saves desk space while retaining a numpad.
  • •Its south-facing PCB avoids interference with Cherry profile keycaps, offering wider keycap compatibility.
  • •The kit format allows programmers to choose their preferred switches and keycaps from the start.
TravelVarmilo APT108
  • •The Varmilo APT108's wireless connectivity eliminates the need for a cable on the go.
  • •It has a lighter ABS case construction compared to the M2's heavy aluminum case.
  • •Its pre-built design requires no assembly at a new location.
ModdingMonsgeek M2
  • •The Monsgeek M2 is sold as a DIY kit, designed for customization from the ground up.
  • •It features a gasket mount, screw-in stabilizers, and includes multiple foam layers (Poron, IXPE) for sound tuning.
  • •The vendor description notes it includes extra Teflon pads and tape for force break and tape mods.
Content CreationVarmilo APT108
  • •The Varmilo APT108's full-size layout includes a dedicated numpad for numerical entry.
  • •Preset multimedia keys provide quick access to playback and volume controls.
  • •Wireless connectivity allows for flexible placement during filming or streaming setups.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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