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Compare Varmilo APT87 Dreams On Board vs VPH87 Dreams on Board Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two similar Varmilo TKL keyboards. The choice hinges on connectivity and lighting. The APT87 offers triple-mode wireless with RGB, while the VPH87 is a wired-only model with white backlighting. Both share a hotswap design, sound dampening, and PBT keycaps, making the decision about core feature trade-offs.

68
Varmilo APT87 Dreams On Board TKL Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard
64
Varmilo VPH87 Dreams on Board White LED Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Has Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • 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
  • Has Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Made with a Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, White, North-face, White North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 83.6
  • Build Quality: 55.7
  • Productivity: 79.2
  • Customizability: 72.1
  • Portability: 75
Scores
  • Performance: 55.9
  • Build Quality: 55.8
  • Productivity: 79.3
  • Customizability: 65.3
  • Portability: 61.2
Name
Varmilo APT87 Dreams On Board
Name
Varmilo VPH87 Dreams on Board
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Silent
Switch Options
Linear, Clicky
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
Wired, Wired only
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, North-face
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 APT87 is the clear choice for users who value wireless freedom, RGB lighting, and extra features like programmability. If your setup is stationary and you prefer a simpler, potentially more affordable wired keyboard with solid core specs, the VPH87 is a valid option. Your budget and need for wireless connectivity should guide the final decision.

Varmilo APT87 Dreams On Board

  • +Triple-mode connectivity: wired USB-C, Bluetooth 5.1, and 2.4 GHz wireless.
  • +Full RGB backlighting with north-facing LEDs.
  • +Programmable via Varmilo's web application.
  • +Includes preset multimedia key combinations.
  • +Features a flex cut PCB and double-layer silicone sound absorption.
  • −Wireless polling rates (133 Hz Bluetooth, 250 Hz 2.4GHz) are lower than wired mode.
  • −Uses an ABS case, which may feel less premium than other materials.
  • −Not compatible with QMK or VIA firmware.

Varmilo VPH87 Dreams on Board

  • +Simple, reliable wired-only USB-C connection.
  • +Includes double silicone sound dampening pads.
  • +Hotswap PCB allows for easy switch replacement.
  • +Dye-sub PBT keycaps for long-lasting legends.
  • −Wired-only, lacking wireless options.
  • −White LED backlighting only, no RGB.
  • −The product listing states it has no multimedia keys.
  • −Case and plate are listed as plastic.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Varmilo APT87 is the more versatile choice, winning in scenarios that benefit from wireless connectivity, such as office work, travel, and content creation. It also holds an edge for gaming due to its high polling rate options. For programming and basic modding, both keyboards are closely matched, sharing core features like hotswap sockets and PBT keycaps. The VPH87 serves as a competent, simpler alternative if wired-only use is acceptable.

GamingVarmilo APT87 Dreams On Board
  • •The APT87 offers a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode for lower latency.
  • •Its 2.4 GHz wireless mode provides a 250 Hz polling rate for cable-free gaming.
  • •It features N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
OfficeVarmilo APT87 Dreams On Board
  • •Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity allows easy switching between multiple devices.
  • •Preset multimedia key combinations are listed for the APT87.
  • •The wireless design reduces cable clutter on a desk.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both use the same 87-key TKL layout.
  • •Both have hotswap PCBs for easy switch changes.
  • •Both feature dye-sublimated PBT keycaps for durability.
TravelVarmilo APT87 Dreams On Board
  • •The APT87's wireless functionality eliminates the need to carry a cable.
  • •Bluetooth connectivity is useful for pairing with laptops or tablets on the go.
ModdingVarmilo APT87 Dreams On Board
  • •The APT87 is listed as programmable via a Varmilo web application.
  • •Both have hotswap PCBs and double-layer silicone sound absorption.
  • •The APT87's listing mentions a flex cut PCB.
Content CreationVarmilo APT87 Dreams On Board
  • •RGB backlighting on the APT87 offers more customization for streaming setups.
  • •Multimedia keys on the APT87 can streamline audio/video controls.
  • •Wireless connectivity provides a cleaner desk aesthetic for video.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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