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Compare Varmilo APT87 Panda R2 vs APT87 Yakumo Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two nearly identical Varmilo APT87 TKL wireless keyboards. The decision is difficult because both share core features like triple-mode connectivity, hotswap PCBs, and a sound-dampened design. The choice ultimately hinges on subtle differences in the pre-installed switch options and a single functional feature, making it a matter of personal preference for specific switch feel and key layout.

68
Varmilo APT87 Panda R2 TKL Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard
68
Varmilo APT87 Yakumo TKL Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard

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  • Has Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
Scores
  • Performance: 83.6
  • Build Quality: 55.8
  • Productivity: 79.4
  • Customizability: 72.3
  • Portability: 75.1
Scores
  • Performance: 83.5
  • Build Quality: 55.1
  • Productivity: 78.6
  • Customizability: 71.9
  • Portability: 74.6
Name
Varmilo APT87 Panda R2
Name
Varmilo APT87 Yakumo
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Silent
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, 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
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
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
 
Rgb, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS
Case Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
-
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

The Varmilo APT87 Panda R2 and Yakumo are fundamentally the same keyboard with minor variations. Select the Yakumo if dedicated multimedia keys are a priority and you want the option for clicky Cherry MX Blue switches. Choose the Panda R2 if you prefer its specific switch selection and the absence of multimedia keys is not a concern. Since both are equally capable for core tasks, availability and price may be the final deciding factors.

Varmilo APT87 Panda R2

  • +Offers Cherry MX Brown, Red, and Silent Red switch options for tactile, linear, or silent preferences.
  • +Features double-layer silicone sound absorption for a dampened typing experience.
  • +Provides triple-mode connectivity: wired USB-C, Bluetooth 5.1, and 2.4 GHz wireless.
  • +Includes a hotswap PCB with a flex cut design for easier modding.
  • +Uses thick, dye-sublimated PBT keycaps for durability.
  • −According to the vendor page, it lacks dedicated multimedia keys.
  • −Limited to Varmilo's web app for programming, not compatible with QMK or VIA.
  • −Uses an ABS plastic case and plate, which may feel less premium than metal alternatives.

Varmilo APT87 Yakumo

  • +Lists dedicated multimedia keys for convenient media playback control.
  • +Offers a wider range of Cherry MX switches, including Blue, Brown, Red, and Silent Red.
  • +Features double-layer silicone sound absorption for a dampened typing experience.
  • +Provides triple-mode connectivity: wired USB-C, Bluetooth 5.1, and 2.4 GHz wireless.
  • +Uses thick, dye-sublimated PBT keycaps for durability.
  • −Limited to Varmilo's web app for programming, not compatible with QMK or VIA.
  • −Uses an ABS plastic case and plate, which may feel less premium than metal alternatives.
  • −The inclusion of Cherry MX Blue switches may be too loud for shared office spaces.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Varmilo APT87 Yakumo holds a slight edge for office and content creation due to its listed multimedia keys. For all other use cases, including gaming, programming, travel, and modding, the two keyboards are functionally tied, sharing an identical core feature set. The final decision will come down to which model offers your preferred Cherry MX switch type at the time of purchase.

GamingTie
  • •Both offer a 1000 Hz wired polling rate for low latency.
  • •Both feature N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
  • •Both have hotswap PCBs, allowing for switch customization to personal preference.
OfficeVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •The Yakumo lists dedicated multimedia keys, which the Panda R2's vendor page states it does not have.
  • •Both offer silent Cherry MX switch options (Silent Red) for quieter typing.
  • •Both support wireless connectivity via Bluetooth 5.1 and 2.4 GHz for a clean desk setup.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both use the standard TKL (87-key) ANSI layout familiar to most developers.
  • •Both are programmable via the Varmilo web application.
  • •Both feature thick PBT keycaps for long-lasting legends.
TravelTie
  • •Both have identical TKL form factors for portability.
  • •Both offer wireless operation with Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz dongle options.
  • •Both include a 3-way cord channel for flexible cable routing.
ModdingTie
  • •Both keyboards feature a hotswap PCB for easy switch changes.
  • •Both have a plate-mount design and a flex cut PCB.
  • •Both use north-facing RGB LEDs and standard MX stems for broad keycap compatibility.
Content CreationVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •The Yakumo's listed multimedia keys provide quick access to media controls.
  • •Both support the Varmilo web app for key remapping to streamline workflows.
  • •Both offer a 2-step kickstand for adjustable typing angles during long sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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