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Compare Varmilo APT87 Beijing Opera vs VPH87 Chang'e Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers drawn to Varmilo's quality and themed designs but split between modern connectivity and pure aesthetics. Both are 87-key TKL keyboards with hotswap PCBs, PBT keycaps, and sound dampening, making the choice difficult. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize triple-mode wireless with RGB lighting or a stunning, intricate wired design with a white backlight.

66
Varmilo APT87 Beijing Opera TKL Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard
Varmilo VPH87 Chang'e White LED TKL Dye Sub PBT Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Released in 2024
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky, Silent switch options
  • Offers Yes, White RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 82.7
  • Build Quality: 53.5
  • Productivity: 76.5
  • Customizability: 70
  • Portability: 73.4
Scores
  • Performance: 50.7
  • Build Quality: 56.7
  • Productivity: 61.1
  • Customizability: 66.2
  • Portability: 59.3
Name
Varmilo APT87 Beijing Opera
Name
Varmilo VPH87 Chang'e
Release year
2024
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Silent
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky, Silent
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
80%
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
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
ABS
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. For a versatile daily driver that can move between devices wirelessly and perform well in games, the Varmilo APT87 Beijing Opera is the logical pick. If you work at a single desk and value a keyboard as a centerpiece art object with meticulous thematic details, the wired Varmilo VPH87 Chang'e is the more compelling option. Both deliver Varmilo's signature build quality and typing experience.

Varmilo APT87 Beijing Opera

  • +Triple-mode connectivity with wired USB-C, Bluetooth 5.1, and 2.4 GHz wireless.
  • +Programmable via Varmilo web application according to the vendor.
  • +Includes north-facing RGB lighting with multiple polling rates (1000 Hz wired, 250 Hz 2.4G).
  • +Features a flex cut PCB and double-layer silicone sound absorption.
  • +Comes with a 2-step kickstand and 3-way cord channel for ergonomics and cable management.
  • −Uses a proprietary web app for programming, not QMK or VIA compatible.
  • −ABS case construction, which may feel less premium than other materials.
  • −North-facing RGB LEDs can cause interference with some Cherry-profile keycaps.

Varmilo VPH87 Chang'e

  • +Unique and intricate Chang'e theme with UV-printed artwork on the frame.
  • +Special keycaps including 5-sided dye-sub PBT modifiers and IMD-printed ABS lunar phase caps.
  • +Includes fine-tuned stabilizers and double silicone sound dampening pads.
  • +Offers a clicky switch option in its metadata, which the APT87 does not.
  • +Features a white LED backlight designed to highlight hidden F-row designs.
  • −Wired-only connectivity, lacking wireless options.
  • −White-only backlighting, not full RGB.
  • −Uses a mix of PBT and ABS for keycaps, which may wear differently over time.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The APT87 is the clear choice for wireless use, gaming, and office environments due to its multiple connectivity options and higher polling rate. The VPH87 wins for content creation where its artistic design is a primary feature. For stationary tasks like programming and modding, both keyboards are equally capable, sharing core features like hotswap PCBs and sound-dampened TKL layouts.

GamingVarmilo APT87 Beijing Opera
  • •The APT87 offers a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode for lower latency.
  • •It includes N-Key Rollover, which is listed in its metadata.
  • •Its 2.4 GHz wireless mode provides a 250 Hz polling rate for cable-free gaming.
OfficeVarmilo APT87 Beijing Opera
  • •Triple-mode connectivity (wired, Bluetooth 5.1, 2.4 GHz) allows easy switching between devices.
  • •Includes silent linear switch options like Cherry MX Silent Red.
  • •Double-layer silicone sound absorption helps reduce typing noise.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both share the same TKL layout and hotswap PCB for switch customization.
  • •Both feature PBT keycaps for durability and a standard ANSI layout.
  • •Both include multimedia keys and a 3-way cord channel for cable management.
TravelVarmilo APT87 Beijing Opera
  • •Wireless connectivity via Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz removes the need for a cable on the go.
  • •The vendor description confirms it can connect three ways, enhancing portability.
  • •Its TKL form factor is space-saving for transport.
ModdingTie
  • •Both keyboards feature a hotswap PCB for easy switch changes.
  • •Both have plate-mount construction and double silicone sound dampening pads.
  • •Both use standard MX stems, compatible with a wide range of aftermarket switches.
Content CreationVarmilo VPH87 Chang'e
  • •The VPH87's unique Chang'e colorway and UV-printed artwork offer a distinctive visual for streaming or video backgrounds.
  • •Its white LED backlighting showcases hidden lunar phase designs in the F-row.
  • •The keyboard includes special 5-sided dye-sub and IMD-printed ABS keycaps for detailed aesthetics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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