Varmilo VA104C vs Vortex Multix 104 VIAWired Screen vs Wireless Modding
Choose the Vortex Multix for wireless flexibility and easy customization, or the Varmilo VA104C if you need a built-in calculator and prefer a simpler, wired setup.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Varmilo VA104C
Wired Screen
- 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.
- 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.
Get the
Vortex Multix 104 VIA
Wireless Modding
- 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.
- 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.
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.
The differences that matter
Skip the 40-row spec sheet. These are the specs that change how each board feels, sounds, and fits your desk.
Varmilo VA104C
Vortex Multix 104 VIA
Connection
Wired
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
Hot-swappable
No
Yes
Ergonomics
Standard
Split Backspace
Case material
ABS, Plastic
ABS
Display
Yes
None
- Varmilo VA104C
- Vortex Multix 104 VIA
- Performance
- 6573
- Build quality
- 5271
- Productivity
- 5189
- Customizability
- 5884
- Portability
- 4253
- Layout size: 100%
- Switch options: Clicky, Linear, Silent, Tactile
- Mount style: Plate Mount
- Keycaps: PBT
What will you mostly use it for?
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.
Pick the Vortex 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.
Varmilo VA104C vs Vortex Multix 104 VIA specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
12 of 20 specs differ
Varmilo VA104C
Vortex Multix 104 VIA
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Media keys
Connection
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
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Varmilo VA104C vs Vortex Multix 104 VIA: your questions
Only the Vortex Multix 104 VIA is wireless. It connects via Bluetooth 5.0 and 2.4 GHz radio, and it is powered by 2x AA batteries. The Varmilo VA104C is a wired-only keyboard.
No, the Varmilo VA104C is not hot-swappable. According to the vendor listing, its hotswap field is marked 'No'. Changing switches would require desoldering the existing ones and soldering in new ones.
The Vortex Multix has north-facing RGB LEDs on its PCB, but the vendor description states the backlighting is 'Blank / None LED'. This means the included keycaps are not shine-through, and there is no functional backlighting for typing.
The Vortex Multix is better suited for programming. It supports the QMK and VIA firmware, allowing you to remap any key and create macros directly. It also supports ergonomic layouts like split Backspace.
The Varmilo VA104C features a blue LED calculator screen integrated into the keyboard. The manufacturer describes it as a key feature, providing a dedicated tool for calculations without needing a separate device or software.
Yes. The Varmilo uses dye-sublimated PBT keycaps. The Vortex uses double-shot PBT keycaps in a Cherry profile, which includes additional keycaps for its supported alternate layouts.
The Vortex Multix includes more accessories. The listing notes it comes with a USB-C cable, a keycap puller, a switch puller, and additional keycaps. The Varmilo's listed accessories are not specified beyond its user manual.
Yes, according to the vendor characteristics, the Vortex Multix 104 VIA is listed as compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems.
The Varmilo VA104C uses a USB-Mini connector on the keyboard side. The Vortex Multix 104 VIA uses a modern USB-C connector for its wired connection.
The Vortex Multix includes multiple layers of sound dampening material. The vendor description lists latex plate foam, IXPE switch pads, a PET pad, and a silicone absorbing pad, all aimed at enhancing the keyboard's acoustics.
This is not specified in the provided information. The Vortex Multix uses 2x AA batteries for wireless mode and has a USB-C port for wired connection, but the listing does not state if it can operate in wired mode while batteries are installed or if the USB port charges batteries.
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