Varmilo APT108 Sakura R2 vs VPT108VIA Support vs Hall Effect Switches
Choose the APT108 for deep software customization with VIA, or the VPT108 for future-proof Hall effect switch compatibility.
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Which one should you get?
Get the
Varmilo APT108 Sakura R2
VIA Support
Build quality in the top 30% of 100% boards under $200.
- VIA software support for extensive key remapping and macros.
- Hot-swap PCB compatible with both 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches.
- Includes a flex cut PCB, which can alter the typing feel.
- South-facing LEDs. Shine-through legends stay dark, and some sculpted keycaps can clip the LED.
Get the
Varmilo VPT108
Hall Effect Switches
Build quality in the bottom 50% of 100% boards under $200.
- Features Hall effect switches, enabling adjustable actuation points.
- South-facing RGB LEDs prevent interference with Cherry-profile keycaps.
- Built with an aluminum plate for a more solid and consistent typing feel.
- Magnetic switches only. Standard MX switches will not fit.
- North-facing LEDs. Cherry-profile keycaps can hit the switch housing.
- South-facing LEDs. Shine-through legends stay dark, and some sculpted keycaps can clip the LED.
For users who value deep, easy software customization and plan to experiment with standard mechanical switches, the Varmilo APT108 Sakura R2 is the stronger choice. If your priority is exploring the unique capabilities of Hall effect switches, like adjustable actuation, and you prefer a metal plate with south-facing RGB, the Varmilo VPT108 is the relevant option. Both are capable, full-size wireless boards, so let your preferred axis of customization guide you.
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 APT108 Sakura R2
Varmilo VPT108
Hall effect (magnetic)
No
Yes
Adjustable actuation helps in games and not in normal typing
Switch options
Linear, Silent, Tactile
Clicky, Linear, Silent, Tactile
VIA
Yes
No
GUI remapping without compiling firmware
Plate material
Plastic
Aluminum
Released
2025
2024
- Varmilo APT108 Sakura R2
- Varmilo VPT108
- Performance
- 7982
- Build quality
- 6453
- Productivity
- 8677
- Customizability
- 8070
- Portability
- 5453
- Layout size: 100%
- Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Max polling rate: 1,000 Hz
- Case material: ABS
- Mount style: Plate Mount
What will you mostly use it for?
The APT108 takes clear leads in Programming and Modding due to its VIA software support. The VPT108 has a potential edge for Gaming with its Hall effect technology. For Office use, Travel, and Content Creation, the keyboards are closely matched, sharing core features like silent switches, sound dampening, and wireless connectivity. The choice often comes down to valuing software flexibility versus a novel switch type.
Pick the Varmilo VPT108
- The VPT108's Hall effect feature enables adjustable actuation points, a potential advantage for competitive gaming.
- Both offer a 1000 Hz wired polling rate and N-key rollover for reliable performance.
- South-facing RGB on the VPT108 avoids interference with Cherry-profile keycaps.
Varmilo APT108 Sakura R2 vs VPT108 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
5 of 21 specs differ
Varmilo APT108 Sakura R2
Varmilo VPT108
Switch options
Hall effect (magnetic)
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Media keys
Connection
Max polling rate
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Backlight
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
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Varmilo APT108 Sakura R2 vs VPT108: your questions
The Varmilo APT108 Sakura R2 supports VIA software for key remapping and macro programming. The VPT108's vendor description does not list VIA or QMK compatibility.
Yes, the Varmilo VPT108 is listed with Hall Effect as a feature. This technology uses magnetic sensors instead of physical contacts, allowing for features like adjustable actuation points.
Yes, both the APT108 and VPT108 feature hot-swap PCBs. The APT108's vendor page specifically notes it supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
The APT108 has north-facing RGB LEDs, which can cause interference with the legends on certain Cherry-profile keycaps. The VPT108 has south-facing RGB, which avoids this issue and is generally preferred for compatibility with a wider range of keycap sets.
The Varmilo VPT108 uses an aluminum plate. The APT108 uses a plastic plate, according to the provided metadata.
Yes, both keyboards offer triple-mode connectivity: wired via USB-C, 2.4 GHz wireless, and Bluetooth. The APT108 uses Bluetooth 5.0, while the VPT108 uses Bluetooth 5.1.
Both keyboards include double-layer silicone sound absorption pads to dampen noise. They also both offer silent mechanical switch options from brands like Cherry and Kailh.
Both have adjustable 2-step kickstands and PBT keycaps. The VPT108's aluminum plate may provide a firmer feel, while the APT108's flex cut PCB might offer a slightly more flexible typing experience. Preference is subjective.
Yes, since both keyboards are hot-swappable, their keycaps are designed to be removed for switch changes. Both use dye-sublimated PBT keycaps, which are durable and resistant to shine.
The VPT108 vendor listing shows options including Cherry MX Blue (clicky), Brown (tactile), Red and Silent Red (linear), as well as Gateron G Pro and Kailh Prestige switches. The APT108 listing does not show a clicky switch option.
Yes. The APT108 is programmable via the Varmilo web application and supports VIA. The vendor description for the VPT108 does not mention any software programmability, focusing instead on preset multimedia key combinations.
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