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Compare Varmilo APT87 Yakumo vs VA87M Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Varmilo's modern and classic TKL offerings. Both share Varmilo's PBT keycaps and Cherry MX switch options, making the choice difficult. The decision hinges on whether you value the APT87's wireless connectivity and hotswap capability enough to justify its higher price over the simpler, wired VA87M.

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Varmilo APT87 Yakumo TKL Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard
Varmilo VA87M Chicken Dinner TKL Dye Sub PBT Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • 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
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Made with a ABS, Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, White RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 83.5
  • Build Quality: 55.1
  • Productivity: 78.6
  • Customizability: 71.9
  • Portability: 74.6
Scores
  • Performance: 62.4
  • Build Quality: 44.6
  • Productivity: 51.6
  • Customizability: 49.4
  • Portability: 52.2
Name
Varmilo APT87 Yakumo
Name
Varmilo VA87M
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Clicky, 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
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
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS
Case Material
ABS, Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
-
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

The Varmilo APT87 Yakumo is the recommended choice for most users willing to pay more for modern conveniences. Its wireless flexibility, hotswap capability, and added features like sound dampening provide significant long-term value. Only choose the VA87M if you strictly require a wired keyboard and prioritize initial cost savings over future upgradeability.

Varmilo APT87 Yakumo

  • +Triple connectivity with Bluetooth 5.1, 2.4 GHz wireless, and USB-C wired.
  • +Hotswap PCB allows for tool-free switch replacement.
  • +Includes double-layer silicone sound absorption for a dampened typing sound.
  • +Programmable via Varmilo's web application.
  • +Features a 2-step kickstand and 3-way cord channel for ergonomics.
  • −Uses a dated Mini USB connection instead of modern USB-C.
  • −Lacks support for popular open-source firmware like QMK or VIA.
  • −North-facing RGB LEDs may cause interference with certain Cherry-profile keycaps.

Varmilo VA87M

  • +Typically available at a lower price point than the APT87.
  • +Features distinctive themed dye-sub PBT keycaps and a wood-grained ABS case.
  • +Includes a long 60-inch detachable cable.
  • −Wired-only connectivity with no wireless options.
  • −Soldered PCB is not hotswap, requiring soldering to change switches.
  • −Uses a dated Mini USB connection instead of modern USB-C.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Varmilo APT87 Yakumo is the clear choice across all defined use cases due to its modern feature set. Its wireless versatility, hotswap capability, and programmability provide tangible benefits for gaming, office work, and customization. The VA87M serves primarily as a more affordable, wired-only alternative for users who do not need these advanced features.

GamingVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •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 reliable multi-key presses.
OfficeVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •Triple connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, wired) allows easy switching between devices.
  • •Double-layer silicone sound absorption can reduce typing noise.
  • •Preset multimedia keys and a 2-step kickstand improve ergonomics.
ProgrammingVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •Hotswap PCB allows easy switch replacement for personalized typing feel.
  • •Programmable via Varmilo's web application for custom key mappings.
  • •TKL layout saves desk space while retaining essential navigation keys.
TravelVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •Bluetooth 5.1 and 2.4 GHz wireless modes eliminate the need for a cable.
  • •The 3-way cord channel offers flexible cable routing when used wired.
  • •Its TKL form factor is more portable than a full-size board.
ModdingVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •Hotswap PCB supports easy switch changes without soldering.
  • •North-facing RGB LEDs and a flex cut PCB are noted in its design.
  • •Double-layer silicone sound absorption pad is included from the factory.
Content CreationVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •Per-key RGB backlighting offers visual customization for streaming setups.
  • •Wireless connectivity reduces cable clutter on camera.
  • •Programmable keys can be mapped to software shortcuts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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