Varmilo APT87 Yakumo vs VPE87RGB vs White LED TKL Keyboard Comparison
Choose the APT87 for its higher wired polling rate and programmable RGB, or the VPE87 for a simpler, potentially more affordable white-backlit option.
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Which one should you get?
Get the
Varmilo APT87 Yakumo
RGB
Build quality in the bottom 45% of 80% boards under $150.
- Confirmed 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode for responsive input.
- Programmable via Varmilo web application according to the vendor.
- Includes preset multimedia keypress combinations.
- Magnetic switches only. Standard MX switches will not fit.
- North-facing LEDs. Cherry-profile keycaps can hit the switch housing.
Get the
Varmilo VPE87
White LED TKL Keyboard Comparison
Build quality in the bottom 45% of 80% boards under $150.
- Simpler white LED backlighting may appeal to users who prefer a cleaner look.
- The vendor page shows positive user reviews praising its feel and Bluetooth functionality.
- Shares core features like hot-swap, triple-mode, and sound dampening.
- North-facing LEDs. Cherry-profile keycaps can hit the switch housing.
For most users seeking a feature-rich TKL, the Varmilo APT87 Yakumo is the more compelling choice due to its programmable RGB lighting, multimedia keys, and confirmed high-performance wired mode. Opt for the Varmilo VPE87 if you specifically prefer white backlighting and can find it in stock, as it forgoes some productivity features for a potentially lower cost.
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 Yakumo
Varmilo VPE87
Hall effect (magnetic)
Yes
No
Adjustable actuation helps in games and not in normal typing
Case material
ABS
Plastic
Backlight
RGB, north-facing
White, north-facing
RGB for looks and low light rather than speed
- Varmilo APT87 Yakumo
- Varmilo VPE87
- Performance
- 8369
- Build quality
- 5555
- Productivity
- 7979
- Customizability
- 7264
- Portability
- 7575
- Layout size: 80%
- Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Switch options: Clicky, Linear, Silent, Tactile
- Mount style: Plate Mount
- Sound dampening
What will you mostly use it for?
The Varmilo APT87 Yakumo wins in more specific scenarios, particularly for gaming, office work, programming, and content creation, due to its confirmed high polling rate, multimedia keys, and programmable software. The keyboards tie for travel and modding, as they share core portability features and a similar hot-swappable, foam-filled construction. The VPE87's advantages are not explicitly detailed in the provided specifications for these categories.
Pick the Varmilo APT87 Yakumo
- The APT87 lists a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode, which the VPE87's description does not specify.
- Both offer N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
- The APT87's vendor page mentions programmable features via a web application.
Varmilo APT87 Yakumo vs VPE87 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
3 of 20 specs differ
Varmilo APT87 Yakumo
Varmilo VPE87
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 Yakumo vs VPE87: your questions
The Varmilo APT87 Yakumo features full RGB backlighting with north-facing LEDs. The VPE87 has white LED backlighting, according to its vendor description.
Yes, the APT87 includes preset multimedia keypress combinations. The VPE87's characteristics list explicitly states it has no multimedia keys.
Yes, both the APT87 Yakumo and the VPE87 feature hot-swappable PCBs. This allows you to change the mechanical switches without soldering.
According to the vendor page, the APT87 has a polling rate of 1000 Hz in wired mode, 250 Hz in 2.4GHz wireless mode, and 133 Hz in Bluetooth mode.
The polling rate for the VPE87 is not specified in the provided vendor description or metadata. This information is only confirmed for the APT87 model.
The APT87 is described as an upgraded version programmable with the Varmilo web application. The VPE87 description does not mention programmability, and neither keyboard is listed as QMK or VIA compatible.
Yes, both models include double-layer silicone sound absorption, according to their respective vendor descriptions.
The APT87 uses an ABS case material for both the top and bottom, as listed in its characteristics. The VPE87 is listed with a plastic case material.
Both offer triple-mode connectivity with wired USB-C, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz wireless. The APT87 specifies Bluetooth 5.1, while the VPE87's Bluetooth version is not stated. Their wireless performance may be similar.
Both the Varmilo APT87 and VPE87 come with dye-sublimated PBT keycaps. The APT87's description specifically mentions they are thick dye-sub PBT keycaps.
Yes, both models feature a 2-step kickstand for adjustable typing angles, as confirmed in their vendor descriptions.
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