Compare Realforce R3 vs Varmilo Sword 2 87 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two premium tenkeyless keyboards with distinct philosophies. The Realforce R3 prioritizes connectivity and a unique typing experience with its wireless capabilities and adjustable Topre switches. The Varmilo Sword 287 focuses on material quality with its CNC aluminum case and customizable magnetic top. The decision is difficult because both are pre-built, high-end TKLs with PBT keycaps, forcing a choice between core functionality and construction.

Model
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Rating	0.0 stars (0 reviews)	0.0 stars (0 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	Released in 2024 Has Clicky, Silent switch options Provides dedicated media keys Connects via USB-C Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity Made with a Plastic case Offers No RGB lighting	Released in 2023 Has Clicky switch options Made with a Aluminum case Offers Yes, White RGB lighting
Score	Scores Performance: 62.4 Build Quality: 45.3 Productivity: 64.1 Customizability: 48.6 Portability: 72.8	Scores Performance: 62.9 Build Quality: 52.5 Productivity: 48.7 Customizability: 49.2 Portability: 53.7
Name	Name Realforce R3	Name Varmilo Sword 2 87
Release year	Release year 2024	Release year 2023
Switch Options	Switch Options Clicky, Silent	Switch Options Clicky
Profile	Profile Normal Profile	Profile Normal Profile
Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable
Layout Size	Layout Size 80%	Layout Size 80%
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ANSI	Layout Standard ANSI
Layout Ergonomics	Layout Ergonomics Normal	Layout Ergonomics Normal
Knob Support	Knob Support	Knob Support
Display Support	Display Support	Display Support
Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support
Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys
USB-C	USB-C	USB-C
USB passthrough	USB passthrough	USB passthrough
Connection	Connection Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless	Connection
Polling Rate	Polling Rate -	Polling Rate -
Battery capacity	Battery capacity -	Battery capacity -
Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support
QMK Support	QMK Support	QMK Support
VIA Support	VIA Support	VIA Support
VIAL Support	VIAL Support	VIAL Support
N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover
Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger
Mount Style	Mount Style Plate Mount	Mount Style Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers
Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening
Backlight	Backlight	Backlight White
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material Plastic	Case Material Aluminum
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material PBT	Keycaps Material PBT
Dimensions	Dimensions -	Dimensions -
Weight	Weight -	Weight -

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Pros and Trade-offs

Your priority should guide this choice. If you need wireless flexibility for a clean desk or multi-device use, and value the unique, tunable feel of Topre switches, the Realforce R3 is the clear pick. If you prefer a keyboard that feels like a solid, premium object, offers a unique aesthetic with its magnetic top, and you don't mind being tethered by a cable, the Varmilo Sword 287's aluminum build is compelling. Both are investments in high-quality typing experiences, just from different angles.

Realforce R3

+Bluetooth 5.0 wireless connectivity for up to four devices.
+Adjustable switch actuation point across four levels (0.8mm to 3.0mm).
+Onboard memory to save settings directly on the keyboard.
+Includes silent Topre capacitive switch options.
+Comes with a detachable 70-inch USB-C cable and uses standard AA batteries.

−Plastic case and plate construction, which some users may find less premium.
−No backlighting of any kind, according to the product listing.
−User reviews note the 30g switch variant can feel too light, leading to accidental presses.

Varmilo Sword 2 87

+CNC all-aluminum case and plate for a solid, premium feel.
+Detachable magnetic top case allows for easy color customization.
+Features a white LED backlight for visibility in low light.
+Exclusive Varmilo EC switches in a metal case, according to the manufacturer.

−Wired-only connectivity, with no wireless option mentioned.
−No hot-swap capability for switches, as confirmed by the listing.
−Lacks dedicated multimedia keys for quick media control.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Realforce R3 is the more versatile choice for mobile and multi-device users, winning in Office, Programming, and Travel due to its wireless features and adjustable switches. The Varmilo Sword 287 appeals to users who value material quality and aesthetic customization, taking the Modding category. For Gaming and Content Creation, the keyboards are evenly matched on their core shared specs, leaving the decision to secondary preferences like switch feel or visual design.

GamingTie

•Both offer full N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
•Both are tenkeyless layouts, conserving desk space for mouse movement.
•Neither product listing specifies a high polling rate for competitive gaming.

OfficeRealforce R3

•The Realforce R3 offers silent Topre switch options, which are quieter.
•It has Bluetooth 5.0 wireless connectivity for up to 4 devices, aiding multi-device workflows.
•It includes dedicated multimedia keys for quick media control.
•The wireless operation uses standard AA batteries, which are easy to replace.

ProgrammingRealforce R3

•The Realforce R3's adjustable actuation point (0.8mm to 3.0mm) can be tuned for typing speed or error reduction.
•Its onboard memory saves settings directly to the keyboard, useful across different machines.
•It offers silent switch variants, which may be preferable in shared workspaces.

TravelRealforce R3

•The Realforce R3 has wireless Bluetooth functionality, eliminating the need for a cable on the go.
•It uses replaceable AA batteries, so you don't need to find an outlet to recharge an internal battery.
•Its plastic case is likely lighter than the Varmilo's aluminum construction.

ModdingVarmilo Sword 2 87

•The Varmilo Sword 287 features a detachable magnetic top case that can be exchanged for other colors sold separately.
•It has a CNC aluminum case and plate, offering a more premium starting material.
•The product listing mentions additional colorful tops will be added in the future.

Content CreationTie

•Both keyboards use dye-sublimated PBT keycaps for durable legends.
•Both have a standard TKL layout that works well with most creative software shortcuts.
•Neither offers extensive macro programming features according to the provided listings.