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Compare Varmilo VA104C vs Vortex Multix 104 VIA Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two feature-rich, full-size mechanical keyboards at a similar price point. The choice is difficult because the Varmilo offers a unique built-in calculator screen, while the Vortex provides extensive wireless connectivity and modding support. Your decision hinges on whether you prioritize a specialized productivity tool or future-proof customization and cable-free use.

Varmilo VA104C Calculator White LED Dye Sub PBT Mechanical Keyboard
82
Vortex Multix 104 VIA Autumn Hotswap Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Includes a Yes display
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Made with a ABS, Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, White RGB lighting
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO layout standard
  • Offers Split Backspace ergonomics
  • Includes a No display
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Made with a ABS case
  • Offers Yes, North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 67
  • Build Quality: 52.3
  • Productivity: 52.2
  • Customizability: 58.7
  • Portability: 42.5
Scores
  • Performance: 72.7
  • Build Quality: 69.6
  • Productivity: 88.4
  • Customizability: 84.1
  • Portability: 52.6
Name
Varmilo VA104C
Name
Vortex Multix 104 VIA
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
100%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Split Backspace
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
-
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
 
North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS, Plastic
Case Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
-
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

For most users, the Vortex Multix 104 VIA is the stronger recommendation. Its wireless freedom, hot-swap capability, and powerful VIA/QMK software offer significant long-term value and flexibility. Only choose the Varmilo VA104C if its specific calculator screen and white backlight are indispensable for your daily workflow, and you are certain you will never want to change switches or go wireless.

Varmilo VA104C

  • +Features a unique blue LED calculator screen for quick calculations.
  • +Includes dedicated multimedia keys for media control.
  • +Uses dye-sublimated PBT keycaps for durable legends.
  • +Offers white LED backlighting for visibility in low light.
  • +Has a long 60-inch USB cable.
  • −Wired-only with an older USB-Mini connector, not USB-C.
  • −Lacks hot-swappable switches, requiring soldering to change them.
  • −No support for advanced firmware like QMK or VIA for remapping.
  • −The woodgrained ABS frame may not appeal to all aesthetics.

Vortex Multix 104 VIA

  • +Triple connectivity with USB-C wired, Bluetooth 5.0, and 2.4 GHz wireless.
  • +Hot-swappable sockets support both 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
  • +Fully programmable with QMK and VIA firmware support.
  • +Includes extensive sound dampening with latex foam, IXPE pads, PET, and silicone.
  • +Supports multiple layouts like ISO, split Backspace, and Tsangan.
  • −Has no backlighting of any kind, which may hinder use in dark environments.
  • −Relies on 2x AA batteries for wireless mode instead of a rechargeable battery.
  • −One user review mentioned a switch coming out with a keycap during removal, raising a potential build quality concern.
  • −North-facing RGB LEDs are present but not utilized as the keyboard has no backlighting.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Vortex Multix 104 VIA is the more versatile choice, winning in Gaming, Programming, Travel, and Modding due to its wireless options, firmware support, and hot-swap design. The Varmilo VA104C takes a narrow lead for Content Creation thanks to its utility screen and backlighting. For general Office use, both are competent, making it a tie that depends on your preference for wireless versus a dedicated calculator.

GamingVortex Multix 104 VIA
  • •The Vortex Multix offers 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity for reduced cable clutter.
  • •It features N-key rollover for reliable multi-key presses.
  • •The listing mentions a 1.6mm non flex-cut PCB, which may contribute to a consistent feel.
OfficeTie
  • •Both keyboards are full-size with a numpad and offer Mac/Windows/Linux support.
  • •The Varmilo has dedicated multimedia keys and a built-in calculator screen for number-heavy tasks.
  • •The Vortex offers wireless connectivity via Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz for a cleaner desk setup.
ProgrammingVortex Multix 104 VIA
  • •The Vortex supports QMK and VIA firmware for deep, on-the-fly key remapping.
  • •It offers layout support for split Backspace and split right Shift, providing ergonomic options.
  • •Hot-swappable sockets allow easy switch changes for different typing feels.
TravelVortex Multix 104 VIA
  • •The Vortex Multix is wireless, powered by 2x AA batteries, eliminating the need for a power cable.
  • •Its triple connectivity (USB-C, Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz) offers more setup flexibility on the go.
  • •The Varmilo is wired-only with a fixed USB-Mini cable.
ModdingVortex Multix 104 VIA
  • •The Vortex has 5-pin hot-swappable sockets, allowing switch changes without soldering.
  • •It includes multiple acoustic foams (latex plate foam, IXPE switch pads, PET pad, silicone pad).
  • •It supports multiple physical layouts including ISO and Tsangan.
  • •The Varmilo is not hot-swappable, limiting switch upgrades.
Content CreationVarmilo VA104C
  • •The Varmilo's built-in calculator screen and multimedia keys provide quick access to utilities.
  • •Its white LED backlighting can aid visibility in low-light editing environments.
  • •The Vortex Multix lacks any backlighting, which may be a drawback for dimly lit studios.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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