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Compare Varmilo VA104C vs MA Series V2 R1 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Varmilo's full-size and tenkeyless offerings. The VA104C is a 100% layout board with a unique calculator screen, while the MA V2 R1 is an 80% TKL focused on a quieter typing experience. The decision hinges on whether you need a numpad and screen or prefer a space-saving, dampened design. Both share Varmilo's signature dye-sub PBT keycaps and are pre-built, wired boards.

Varmilo VA104C Calculator White LED Dye Sub PBT Mechanical Keyboard
Varmilo MA Series V2 Sakura R1 White LED TKL EC Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Released in 2024
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Includes a Yes display
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Made with a ABS, Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, White RGB lighting
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Clicky switch options
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Includes a No display
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Made with a Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, White, North-face, White North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 67
  • Build Quality: 52.3
  • Productivity: 52.2
  • Customizability: 58.7
  • Portability: 42.5
Scores
  • Performance: 53.6
  • Build Quality: 50.7
  • Productivity: 71.7
  • Customizability: 53.9
  • Portability: 59.4
Name
Varmilo VA104C
Name
Varmilo MA Series V2 R1
Release year
2024
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Switch Options
Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
100%
Layout Size
80%
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
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
-
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
Plate Mount
Mount Style
Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
White
Backlight
 
White, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Plastic
Case Material
Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
-
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require a numpad, multimedia keys, and a calculator screen for data-heavy work, the Varmilo VA104C is the clear option. If you value a cleaner, quieter, and more space-efficient setup, the Varmilo MA Series V2 R1 with its sound-dampening and modern USB-C is the better pick. Consider your desk space and typical tasks before deciding.

Varmilo VA104C

  • +Includes a unique blue LED calculator screen.
  • +Offers a wide selection of Cherry MX switch types including linear, tactile, clicky, and silent.
  • +Features a full-size layout with a numpad and dedicated multimedia keys.
  • +Uses dye-sublimated PBT keycaps for durability.
  • +Has a wood-grained ABS frame aesthetic according to the vendor.
  • −Uses an older USB-Mini connector instead of USB-C.
  • −Large 100% size consumes significant desk space.
  • −Lacks the sound-dampening features present in the MA V2 R1.

Varmilo MA Series V2 R1

  • +Compact TKL (80%) form factor saves desk space.
  • +Includes sound-proof silicone pads between the PCB and plate for quieter typing.
  • +Features modern USB-C connectivity and cable routing grooves on the case.
  • +Has north-facing white LEDs, which the vendor notes as an upgrade.
  • +Comes with a double-section kickstand for more typing angle options.
  • −Switch options are limited to Varmilo's electrocapacitive clicky switches.
  • −Lacks dedicated multimedia keys.
  • −Does not include a numpad or any integrated screen.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The VA104C wins for gaming and content creation due to its full feature set and switch variety, while the MA V2 R1 is better for programming and travel with its compact, quiet design. For office use, it's a tie between the VA104C's utility and the MA V2 R1's consideration for shared spaces. Modding potential is limited on both, with a slight edge to the VA104C for its initial switch options.

GamingVarmilo VA104C
  • •The VA104C offers a wider selection of switch types including linear and silent options preferred by many gamers.
  • •It features full N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
  • •The product listing includes dedicated multimedia keys for quick audio control.
OfficeTie
  • •The VA104C has a calculator screen and numpad useful for data entry.
  • •The MA V2 R1 includes sound-dampening silicone pads for a quieter environment.
  • •Both keyboards are listed as compatible with Windows and Mac systems.
ProgrammingVarmilo MA Series V2 R1
  • •The MA V2 R1's TKL layout saves desk space for a mouse or notebook.
  • •Its sound-dampening pads can reduce typing noise during long sessions.
  • •The vendor description mentions a USB-C connection and cable routing grooves for a cleaner setup.
TravelVarmilo MA Series V2 R1
  • •The MA V2 R1 has a significantly smaller 80% TKL form factor.
  • •Its USB-C connectivity is a more modern and common cable standard.
  • •The smaller size generally makes it easier to transport than a full-size board.
ModdingVarmilo VA104C
  • •The VA104C offers a broader initial choice of Cherry MX switch types, including silent variants.
  • •Its vendor description lists more specific switch model numbers, indicating a wider factory selection.
  • •Both keyboards are plate-mount and not hot-swappable, limiting aftermarket mods equally.
Content CreationVarmilo VA104C
  • •The VA104C's full-size layout includes a numpad for efficient numerical input in editing software.
  • •It features dedicated multimedia keys for controlling playback and volume.
  • •The integrated calculator screen can be useful for quick calculations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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