Varmilo APT87 vs APT87 Yakumo
Choose based on your preferred color scheme, as the core specifications and features are identical.
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Which one should you get?
Get the
Varmilo APT87
Build quality in the bottom 45% of 80% boards under $150.
- Triple connectivity with wired USB-C, 2.4 GHz, and Bluetooth 5.1.
- Hot-swappable PCB supports easy switch changes.
- Includes double-layer silicone sound absorption foam.
- Magnetic switches only. Standard MX switches will not fit.
- North-facing LEDs. Cherry-profile keycaps can hit the switch housing.
Get the
Varmilo APT87 Yakumo
Build quality in the bottom 45% of 80% boards under $150.
- Triple connectivity with wired USB-C, 2.4 GHz, and Bluetooth 5.1.
- Hot-swappable PCB supports easy switch changes.
- Vendor description notes a 'Flex Cut PCB' design.
- Magnetic switches only. Standard MX switches will not fit.
- North-facing LEDs. Cherry-profile keycaps can hit the switch housing.
Select the Varmilo APT87 if you prefer its blue and grey color scheme. Choose the APT87 Yakumo for its black, white, and grey aesthetic and its listed Flex Cut PCB. Since all other specifications are identical, your preference for look and feel is the deciding factor.
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 APT87
- Varmilo APT87 Yakumo
- Performance
- 8383
- Build quality
- 5555
- Productivity
- 7979
- Customizability
- 7272
- Portability
- 7575
- Layout size: 80%
- Hall effect (magnetic)
- Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Max polling rate: 1,000 Hz
- Case material: ABS
What will you mostly use it for?
The Varmilo APT87 and APT87 Yakumo are functionally tied across nearly all use cases. They share identical performance specs, connectivity, programmability, and modding foundations like hot-swap sockets. The only technical distinction is the Yakumo's listed 'Flex Cut PCB', which may offer a slight advantage for modders seeking a specific typing feel. For all other users, the decision is purely visual.
It's a tie
- Both offer a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode for low latency.
- Both feature N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
- Both have the same 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth wireless connectivity options with identical stated polling rates.
Varmilo APT87 vs APT87 Yakumo specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
0 of 20 specs differ
Varmilo APT87
Varmilo APT87 Yakumo
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
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
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Varmilo APT87 vs APT87 Yakumo: your questions
The core difference is the color scheme. The APT87 is listed with a blue and grey colorway, while the Yakumo variant is black, white, and grey. The Yakumo's vendor page also specifically mentions a 'Flex Cut PCB', a detail not stated for the standard APT87.
Yes. Both the Varmilo APT87 and APT87 Yakumo feature a hot-swappable PCB. This allows you to change the Cherry MX style switches without soldering.
Both models offer 2.4 GHz wireless via a dongle and Bluetooth 5.1. The manufacturer states polling rates of 250 Hz for 2.4 GHz and 133 Hz for Bluetooth, with a 1000 Hz rate when used in wired USB-C mode.
Yes, both are listed as programmable using the Varmilo web application. They are not natively compatible with the popular open-source QMK or VIA firmware.
Both come with thick, dye-sublimated PBT keycaps. The legends are not shine-through, which means the north-facing RGB backlighting will not illuminate the characters on the keycaps.
A Flex Cut PCB has cuts in the circuit board designed to allow more flex or bounce when typing. The Varmilo APT87 Yakumo listing mentions this feature, which may offer a slightly softer typing feel compared to a standard rigid PCB.
Both keyboards use an ABS plastic case and a plastic plate for mounting the switches. This is a common construction at this price point but may not feel as premium as an aluminum case.
Yes. According to the vendor descriptions, both models include double-layer silicone sound absorption inside the case to reduce hollow noises and ping.
Both are available pre-built with Cherry MX Blue (clicky), Brown (tactile), Red (linear), or Silent Red (linear silent) switches. The hot-swap PCB allows you to install other MX-compatible switches later.
Yes. The product listings confirm compatibility with Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems for both the APT87 and APT87 Yakumo.
For the lowest latency, use the wired USB-C connection, which offers a 1000 Hz polling rate. The wireless 2.4 GHz mode runs at 250 Hz, and Bluetooth operates at 133 Hz, as stated by the manufacturer.
Yes. Both keyboards feature a 2-step kickstand on the underside, allowing you to choose between two typing angles for comfort.
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