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Compare Varmilo APT87 Yakumo vs VPM87 Sakura R2 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two Varmilo TKL keyboards at a similar price point. The choice hinges on whether you prioritize modern features like wireless connectivity and hot-swap sockets, or prefer a traditional wired design with a specific aesthetic. Both share a Tenkeyless layout, PBT keycaps, and sound dampening, making the decision about core functionality rather than quality.

68
Varmilo APT87 Yakumo TKL Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard
Varmilo VPM87 Sakura R2 TKL White LED EC Keyboard

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  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
  • Has Clicky switch options
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Offers Yes, White RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 83.5
  • Build Quality: 55.1
  • Productivity: 78.6
  • Customizability: 71.9
  • Portability: 74.6
Scores
  • Performance: 66.9
  • Build Quality: 49.9
  • Productivity: 57.5
  • Customizability: 48.1
  • Portability: 54.8
Name
Varmilo APT87 Yakumo
Name
Varmilo VPM87 Sakura R2
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
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
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

For most users, the Varmilo APT87 Yakumo is the recommended choice. Its wireless flexibility, hot-swap capability, and programmability offer significantly more value and future-proofing at a similar price. Only choose the Varmilo VPM87 Sakura R2 if you are certain you will never need wireless connectivity, you prefer its specific Sakura color theme, and you value the feel of an aluminum plate over switch customization.

Varmilo APT87 Yakumo

  • +Triple connectivity with wired USB-C, Bluetooth 5.1, and 2.4 GHz wireless.
  • +Hot-swappable PCB for easy switch replacement without soldering.
  • +Programmable keys via Varmilo's web application.
  • +RGB backlighting with north-facing LEDs.
  • +Includes double-layer silicone sound absorption pads.
  • −Uses a plastic plate, which may feel less rigid than metal.
  • −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 1000 Hz mode.

Varmilo VPM87 Sakura R2

  • +Features an aluminum plate, which can provide a more solid typing feel.
  • +Distinctive pink and white Sakura aesthetic with dye-sub PBT keycaps.
  • +Includes double silicone sound dampening pads.
  • +Simple plug-and-play wired operation with USB-C.
  • −Wired-only connectivity with no wireless option.
  • −Switches are soldered, preventing easy customization.
  • −Only offers white LED backlighting, not RGB.
  • −Switch options appear limited to Varmilo EC switches based on the vendor listing.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Varmilo APT87 Yakumo is the more versatile choice, winning in most categories due to its wireless connectivity and hot-swap capability. It is better suited for gaming, office multitasking, programming, travel, and modding. The Varmilo VPM87 Sakura R2, being wired-only and lacking hot-swap, is a more niche option for users who specifically want its aesthetic and aluminum plate in a simple, plug-and-play package. For content creation, the choice depends on whether you value RGB lighting or a specific color theme.

GamingVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •The APT87 offers a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode for lower latency.
  • •It provides a 2.4 GHz wireless connection with a 250 Hz polling rate for a cable-free experience.
  • •Its hot-swappable PCB allows for installing gaming-focused linear switches.
OfficeVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •Triple connectivity (wired, Bluetooth 5.1, 2.4 GHz) allows easy switching between devices.
  • •Bluetooth mode is ideal for pairing with laptops and tablets in shared spaces.
  • •The vendor listing confirms compatibility with Windows, Mac, and Linux.
ProgrammingVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •Programmable via the Varmilo web application for key remapping.
  • •Hot-swap capability lets you tailor switch feel for long typing sessions.
  • •The TKL layout saves desk space while retaining essential navigation keys.
TravelVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •Wireless operation via Bluetooth or 2.4 GHz removes the need for a cable on the go.
  • •The 3-way cord channel offers flexible cable routing when used wired.
  • •Similar TKL form factor to the VPM87, but with the added benefit of no cable.
ModdingVarmilo APT87 Yakumo
  • •Hot-swappable PCB is the primary advantage, enabling easy switch changes.
  • •North-facing RGB LEDs and a flex-cut PCB are noted in the vendor description.
  • •Double-layer silicone sound absorption pads are pre-installed for a modded sound profile.
Content CreationTie
  • •Both keyboards feature preset multimedia keypress combinations for media control.
  • •Both have a TKL form factor that saves desk space for graphics tablets or other peripherals.
  • •The APT87's RGB lighting may aid key visibility in dim environments, while the VPM87 offers a specific pink-and-white aesthetic.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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