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Compare Varmilo APT87 Yakumo vs MA Series V2 Dreams on Board Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two Varmilo TKL keyboards at a similar price point. The choice is difficult because both offer Varmilo's signature build quality and PBT keycaps but diverge completely in core technology. The APT87 is a modern, feature-rich board with wireless connectivity and hotswap sockets, while the MA V2 focuses on a specific, non-standard typing experience with its proprietary electrocapacitive switches and a simpler, wired-only design.

68
Varmilo APT87 Yakumo TKL Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard
Varmilo MA Series V2 Dreams on Board White LED TKL EC Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Released in 2024
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Connects via USB-C
  • 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
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Clicky switch options
  • 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: 48.2
  • Build Quality: 50.8
  • Productivity: 55
  • Customizability: 53.9
  • Portability: 55.1
Name
Varmilo APT87 Yakumo
Name
Varmilo MA Series V2 Dreams on Board
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
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 clear choice for users who value connectivity, future customization, and modern features like hotswap and RGB. Its higher price is justified by these capabilities. Only choose the MA Series V2 Dreams on Board if you are specifically seeking the experience of Varmilo's proprietary electrocapacitive switches and do not need wireless connectivity or the ability to change switches.

Varmilo APT87 Yakumo

  • +Triple-mode connectivity with wired USB-C, Bluetooth 5.1, and 2.4 GHz wireless.
  • +Hotswap PCB allows for easy switch replacement without soldering.
  • +Programmable via Varmilo's web application and includes multimedia keys.
  • +Features double-layer silicone sound absorption and a flex cut PCB.
  • +Full RGB backlighting with north-facing LEDs.
  • −Uses a plastic plate and ABS case, which may feel less premium than metal constructions.
  • −Not compatible with QMK or VIA firmware for advanced programming.
  • −Wireless polling rates (133 Hz Bluetooth, 250 Hz 2.4GHz) are lower than the wired mode.

Varmilo MA Series V2 Dreams on Board

  • +Features unique Varmilo electrocapacitive switches for a distinct typing feel.
  • +Includes sound-proof silicone pads between the PCB and plate for a quiet experience.
  • +White LED north-facing backlighting and a dedicated aesthetic colorway.
  • +Upgraded V2 design with a double-section kickstand and cable routing grooves.
  • −Wired-only connectivity with no wireless option.
  • −Switches are not hot-swappable, limiting customization.
  • −Lacks multimedia keys and any noted programmability features.
  • −Uses a plastic case and plate.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Varmilo APT87 Yakumo is the more versatile choice, winning in scenarios that benefit from wireless connectivity, customization, or programmability, such as gaming, travel, and modding. The MA V2 Dreams on Board offers a distinct, quiet typing experience with its electrocapacitive switches, making it a tied contender for general office use where its unique feel is the primary draw. For programming and content creation, the APT87's extra features provide a functional advantage.

GamingVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •The APT87 offers a 1000 Hz wired polling rate for lower latency.
  • •Its N-key rollover ensures all keypresses are registered.
  • •The availability of linear and silent switch options can be preferable for gaming.
OfficeTie
  • •Both have a space-saving TKL form factor and PBT keycaps.
  • •Both are listed with Mac and Windows support.
  • •The MA V2's sound-proof silicone pads and the APT87's double-layer silicone absorption offer quiet typing.
ProgrammingVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •The APT87 is programmable via Varmilo's web application.
  • •It includes multimedia keys for workflow shortcuts.
  • •The hotswap PCB allows for easy switch changes to tailor the typing feel.
TravelVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •The APT87 has Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity for cable-free use.
  • •Its triple-mode connectivity offers flexibility in different environments.
  • •The vendor description mentions a 2-step kickstand for adjustable angles on the go.
ModdingVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •The APT87 has a hotswap PCB for easy switch replacement.
  • •It features a flex cut PCB, which can affect typing feel.
  • •Its north-facing RGB LEDs allow for shine-through keycap compatibility.
Content CreationVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •The APT87's programmable keys can be mapped to software shortcuts.
  • •Full RGB backlighting offers per-key customization for visual setups.
  • •Preset multimedia keypress combinations provide quick media control.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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