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Compare Varmilo APT108 Sea Melody vs VPM108 Chang'e Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two full-size Varmilo keyboards at a similar price point. The choice is difficult because one model prioritizes modern functionality like wireless connectivity and hotswap sockets, while the other is a dedicated collector's piece with intricate, non-customizable theming. Both share Varmilo's build quality and PBT keycaps, making the core decision one of utility versus static artistry.

75
Varmilo APT108 Sea Melody Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard
Varmilo VPM108 Chang'e Full Size White LED Dye Sub PBT EC Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Released in 2024
  • Has Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Made with a ABS case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Clicky switch options
  • Made with a Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, White RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 84.5
  • Build Quality: 63.6
  • Productivity: 84.6
  • Customizability: 79.9
  • Portability: 53
Scores
  • Performance: 48.1
  • Build Quality: 50.3
  • Productivity: 54.7
  • Customizability: 53.6
  • Portability: 42.5
Name
Varmilo APT108 Sea Melody
Name
Varmilo VPM108 Chang'e
Release year
2024
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear
Switch Options
Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
100%
Layout Size
100%
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
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
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
 
Rgb, North-face
Backlight
 
White
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS
Case Material
Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
-
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

The Varmilo APT108 Sea Melody is the recommended choice for most users seeking a modern, functional full-size keyboard. Its wireless versatility, hotswap capability, and software support provide long-term value and customization. Only choose the Varmilo VPM108 Chang'e if its specific artistic theme is your primary purchase driver and you are willing to forgo modern connectivity and customization features.

Varmilo APT108 Sea Melody

  • +Triple connectivity with wired USB-C, Bluetooth 5.1, and 2.4 GHz wireless.
  • +Hotswap PCB compatible with VIA/QMK for easy switch changes and remapping.
  • +Includes dedicated multimedia keys and N-key rollover (NKRO).
  • +Features a flex cut PCB and double-layer silicone sound absorption.
  • +Offers a choice of linear or tactile switch types from the factory.

  • Large full-size form factor limits portability.
  • North-facing RGB LEDs may cause interference with certain Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • ABS case material, while the VPM108's case material is simply listed as plastic.

Varmilo VPM108 Chang'e

  • +Unique, intricate artistic theme with dye-sub PBT keycaps featuring lunar phases and cultural motifs.
  • +Includes a silicone sound dampening pad for a quieter typing experience.
  • +Shares practical design elements like a 2-step kickstand and 3-way cord channel.

  • Wired-only connectivity with no wireless option.
  • Not hotswap, limiting future switch changes.
  • Lacks dedicated multimedia keys and confirmed programmability support like VIA.
  • Only available with clicky switch type, which may not suit all environments.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The APT108 Sea Melody is the clear winner for practical, performance-oriented use cases like gaming, office work, programming, and modding due to its wireless options, hotswap PCB, and programmability. Its advantages in travel are slight, given both keyboards' large size. The VPM108 Chang'e's primary appeal is for content creators or collectors who prioritize its fixed, artistic design over technical features, resulting in a tie for that specific use case.

GamingVarmilo APT108 Sea Melody
  • The APT108 offers a 1000 Hz wired polling rate for lower latency, which the VPM108's specifications do not mention.
  • It provides N-key rollover (NKRO) for simultaneous key presses, a feature not listed for the VPM108.
  • The availability of linear switch options may be preferred for gaming over the VPM108's clicky-only switch type.
OfficeVarmilo APT108 Sea Melody
  • The APT108 has dedicated multimedia keys, while the VPM108's listing states it does not.
  • Its triple connectivity (wired, Bluetooth 5.1, 2.4 GHz) offers flexibility for multi-device setups.
  • A silicone sound dampening pad is present in both, but the APT108's quieter linear/tactile switch options may be more office-appropriate than clicky switches.
ProgrammingVarmilo APT108 Sea Melody
  • The APT108 supports VIA/QMK for key remapping and macros, offering superior programmability.
  • Its hotswap PCB allows programmers to tailor switch feel and acoustics to their preference.
  • The full layout on both is suitable, but the APT108's feature set provides more tools for workflow customization.
TravelVarmilo APT108 Sea Melody
  • The APT108's wireless capabilities remove the need for a cable when moving between desks or devices.
  • Both are large full-size keyboards, making neither ideal for travel, but wireless adds a marginal convenience.
ModdingVarmilo APT108 Sea Melody
  • The APT108 has a confirmed hotswap PCB, allowing easy switch changes without soldering.
  • It features a flex cut PCB, which can affect typing feel, and is VIA compatible for firmware customization.
  • The VPM108 is listed as not hotswap and lacks mentioned programmability support, severely limiting modding potential.
Content CreationTie
  • For visual creators, the VPM108 Chang'e offers a unique, intricate aesthetic with its themed keycaps and case art.
  • For creators needing macros and shortcuts, the APT108's VIA support and multimedia keys are more functional.
  • Both have a full layout necessary for shortcut-heavy work.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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