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Compare Varmilo Minilo vs VA Series V2 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Varmilo's modern compact offering and their classic full-size design. The choice hinges on whether you prioritize a space-saving, mod-friendly layout or a traditional keyboard with a dedicated number pad. Both offer wireless connectivity and Varmilo's build quality, making the decision a matter of form factor and future-proofing.

73
Minilo
Varmilo VA Series V2 CMYK White LED TKL Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Released in 2022
  • Has Silent, Clicky, Tactile, Linear switch options
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO layout standard
  • Comes with a knob
  • Includes a Yes display
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, connectivity
  • Equipped with a 3400 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1510 g
  • Sized at 37 x 326 x 144 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, ABS case
  • Features ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Released in 2023
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Includes a No display
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Uses a Plate Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless, , Wired only connectivity
  • Made with a Plastic, Wood case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, North-face, White, White North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 63.7
  • Build Quality: 57.4
  • Productivity: 83.3
  • Customizability: 74.4
  • Portability: 81.3
Scores
  • Performance: 65
  • Build Quality: 58.2
  • Productivity: 69.9
  • Customizability: 51.5
  • Portability: 50.6
Name
Varmilo Minilo
Name
Varmilo VA Series V2
Release year
2022
Release year
2023
Switch Options
Silent, Clicky, Tactile, Linear
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO-UK, ISO-DE, ISO-FR, ISO-Nordic, ISO
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
Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless, , Wired only
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
3400 mAh
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
Gasket Mount
Mount Style
Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
North-face, White
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic, ABS
Case Material
Plastic, Wood
Keycaps Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
37 x 326 x 144 mm
Dimensions
-
Weight
1510g
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you want a modern, portable keyboard you can easily modify later, the Varmilo Minilo is the clear pick. If you require a full-sized layout with a number pad for work and prefer durable PBT keycaps out of the box, the VA Series V2 is the better tool. Consider the Minilo's superior wireless options and the VA Series V2's traditional utility.

Varmilo Minilo

  • +Hot-swappable PCB for easy switch changes.
  • +Compact 75% layout saves desk space while keeping arrow keys.
  • +Includes both Bluetooth 5.0 and a 2.4 GHz wireless dongle for connectivity.
  • +Gasket mount design for a softer typing feel.
  • +Comes with a 3400mAh battery for extended wireless use.
  • −Uses ABS double-shot keycaps, which may develop shine over time.
  • −Function keys are not printed on keycaps, requiring use of an included cue card.
  • −Only compatible with Windows and Android according to the vendor specs.

Varmilo VA Series V2

  • +Full 100% layout includes a dedicated number pad.
  • +Features dye-sublimated PBT keycaps for better long-term durability.
  • +Includes dedicated multimedia keys for convenience.
  • +North-facing RGB LEDs offer better compatibility with Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • +Sound-dampening silicone pads are installed between the PCB and plate.
  • −Not hot-swappable, requiring soldering to change switches.
  • −Uses a plate mount style, which is typically less flexible for modding than gasket mount.
  • −No built-in battery is mentioned, limiting wireless functionality to Bluetooth-only with external power.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Minilo wins for travel and modding due to its portability and hot-swap sockets. The VA Series V2 is the better office and content creation tool because of its number pad and media keys. For gaming, the Minilo's wireless dongle and space-saving design give it an edge, while programming is a tie dependent on layout preference.

GamingVarmilo Minilo
  • •The Minilo's gasket mount can provide a softer, more cushioned typing feel according to its product page.
  • •It includes a 2.4 GHz wireless dongle for a potentially more stable low-latency connection, a feature not mentioned for the VA Series V2.
  • •Its compact 75% size frees up more desk space for mouse movement.
OfficeVarmilo VA Series V2
  • •The VA Series V2's 100% layout includes a dedicated number pad, which is essential for data entry.
  • •It features dedicated multimedia keys for quick audio and playback control.
  • •Its dye-sublimated PBT keycaps are more resistant to shine and wear over time compared to ABS.
ProgrammingTie
  • •The Minilo's 75% layout retains arrow and navigation keys while saving space.
  • •The VA Series V2's full layout provides dedicated keys for functions and a number pad, which some developers prefer.
  • •Both keyboards offer N-key rollover and support for Windows and Mac systems.
TravelVarmilo Minilo
  • •The Minilo is significantly more compact (326mm wide) than the full-sized VA Series V2.
  • •It has a built-in 3400mAh battery for cordless use, while the VA Series V2 listing does not mention a battery.
  • •It includes a dust cover in the box for protection during transport.
ModdingVarmilo Minilo
  • •The Minilo is hot-swappable, allowing for easy switch replacement without soldering.
  • •It uses a gasket mount system, which is typically more mod-friendly for altering sound and feel.
  • •The product page mentions it comes with a switch puller and key puller for modifications.
Content CreationVarmilo VA Series V2
  • •The full layout with number pad is useful for timeline scrubbing and numerical shortcuts in editing software.
  • •Dedicated multimedia keys provide quick access to playback controls.
  • •North-facing RGB LEDs on the VA Series V2 are compatible with a wider range of aftermarket keycaps for customization.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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