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Compare Varmilo APT87 Yakumo vs MA Series V2 Beijing Opera Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers choosing between two Varmilo TKL keyboards with distinct philosophies. The APT87 Yakumo is a modern, feature-rich board with triple connectivity and hot-swap capability. The MA V2 Beijing Opera offers a specific, high-quality typing feel with proprietary electrocapacitive switches in a wired-only design. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize wireless versatility and future modding or prefer a unique, pre-configured switch type.

68
Varmilo APT87 Yakumo TKL Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard
Varmilo MA Series V2 Beijing Opera White LED TKL EC Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Released in 2024
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • 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
  • Released in 2023
  • Has 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: 83.5
  • Build Quality: 55.1
  • Productivity: 78.6
  • Customizability: 71.9
  • Portability: 74.6
Scores
  • Performance: 66.5
  • Build Quality: 49.6
  • Productivity: 70.8
  • Customizability: 52.7
  • Portability: 59.1
Name
Varmilo APT87 Yakumo
Name
Varmilo MA Series V2 Beijing Opera
Release year
2024
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Switch Options
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 Yakumo is the recommended choice for most users due to its wireless freedom, hot-swap customizability, and broader switch selection. Opt for the MA Series V2 Beijing Opera if you specifically want to experience Varmilo's proprietary electrocapacitive switches and prioritize a pre-built, wired typing experience over flexibility.

Varmilo APT87 Yakumo

  • +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 pads.
  • +Programmable via Varmilo web application.
  • +RGB backlighting with north-facing LEDs.
  • −Not compatible with QMK or VIA firmware.
  • −Wireless polling rates (133 Hz Bluetooth, 250 Hz 2.4 GHz) are lower than wired.
  • −ABS case material may feel less premium than metal alternatives.

Varmilo MA Series V2 Beijing Opera

  • +Features unique Varmilo electrocapacitive switches for a distinct typing feel.
  • +Includes sound-proof silicone pads between PCB and plate for quiet operation.
  • +White LED backlighting with north-facing LEDs.
  • +Upgraded V2 design with double-section kickstand and cable routing grooves.
  • −Wired-only connectivity with no wireless option.
  • −Not hot-swappable; switches are soldered.
  • −Only offers clicky electrocapacitive switch variants.
  • −Plastic case construction.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Varmilo APT87 Yakumo is the more versatile choice, winning in Gaming, Office, Travel, Modding, and Content Creation due to its wireless options, hot-swap PCB, and RGB lighting. The MA V2 Beijing Opera's unique electrocapacitive switches provide a specific feel but limit flexibility. For Programming, both keyboards offer a capable TKL layout with quality PBT keycaps, making it a tie.

GamingVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •The APT87 Yakumo offers a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode for lower latency.
  • •Its wireless 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth options provide cable-free flexibility.
  • •It supports linear and silent switch options, which are often preferred for gaming.
OfficeVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •Triple connectivity (wired, 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth 5.1) allows easy switching between devices.
  • •Includes double-layer silicone sound absorption for quieter typing.
  • •Offers silent switch options to reduce noise in shared spaces.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both are TKL (87-key) layouts, saving desk space while retaining arrow and navigation keys.
  • •Both feature thick dye-sub PBT keycaps for durability.
  • •Both have multimedia keys and NKRO for productivity.
TravelVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •Wireless connectivity eliminates the need to carry or connect a cable.
  • •A 2-step kickstand and 3-way cord channel offer flexible setup options.
  • •The ABS case material may be lighter than the MA V2's plastic construction.
ModdingVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •The APT87 Yakumo has a hot-swappable PCB for easy switch changes.
  • •It features a flex cut PCB, which can affect typing feel.
  • •It is programmable via Varmilo's web application.
Content CreationVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •RGB backlighting offers more customization for aesthetic setups.
  • •Wireless connectivity reduces cable clutter on camera.
  • •Programmability via web app allows for macro creation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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