Varmilo Minilo vs VA Series V2Compact Hot-Swap vs Full Layout
Choose the Minilo for a compact, customizable wireless board, or the VA Series V2 for a full-sized layout with dedicated media keys.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Varmilo Minilo
Compact Hot-Swap
- 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.
- 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.
Get the
Varmilo VA Series V2
Full Layout
- Full 100% layout includes a dedicated number pad.
- Features dye-sublimated PBT keycaps for better long-term durability.
- Includes dedicated multimedia keys for convenience.
- 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.
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.
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 Minilo
Varmilo VA Series V2
Layout size
75%
100%
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
Bluetooth, Wired
Hot-swappable
Yes
No
Case material
ABS, Plastic
Plastic, Wood
Mount style
Gasket Mount
Plate Mount
- Varmilo Minilo
- Varmilo VA Series V2
- Performance
- 6365
- Build quality
- 5756
- Productivity
- 8372
- Customizability
- 7450
- Portability
- 8150
- Switch options: Clicky, Linear, Silent, Tactile
- Sound dampening
What will you mostly use it for?
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.
Pick the Varmilo 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.
Varmilo Minilo vs VA Series V2 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
12 of 22 specs differ
Varmilo Minilo
Varmilo VA Series V2
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Knob
Display
Media keys
Connection
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Backlight
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
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Varmilo Minilo vs VA Series V2: your questions
The Varmilo Minilo is hot-swappable, allowing you to change switches without soldering. The VA Series V2 is not hot-swappable and has a soldered PCB.
The product listing for the VA Series V2 does not mention an internal battery. Its wireless functionality appears to be Bluetooth-only, potentially requiring a constant USB connection for power during use.
The Minilo uses a gasket mount, where the plate is suspended by rubber gaskets for a softer, more cushioned typing feel. The VA Series V2 uses a plate mount, where the plate is fixed directly to the case for a firmer, more direct feedback.
The VA Series V2 uses dye-sublimated PBT keycaps, which are generally more resistant to wear and shine. The Minilo uses double-shot ABS keycaps, which can develop a shiny surface with prolonged use but offer vibrant backlighting.
The technical specifications from Varmilo's page list the Minilo as compatible with Windows and Android systems. Mac compatibility is not explicitly stated in the provided specs for the Minilo.
The connectivity listed for the VA Series V2 is Bluetooth and wired. There is no mention of a 2.4 GHz wireless dongle, which the Minilo includes.
According to its product page, the Minilo comes with a keyboard, USB cable, key puller, switch puller, warranty card, dust cover, additional keycaps, a cue card, and a 2.4G adapter.
The Varmilo Minilo is far more portable. It is a 75% keyboard measuring 326mm wide and includes a battery and dust cover. The VA Series V2 is a full-sized keyboard and is larger with no mentioned battery for cordless use.
Yes, both keyboards feature RGB backlighting. The VA Series V2 specifically uses north-facing RGB LEDs, while the Minilo's LED orientation is not specified.
Both have sound-dampening features. The Minilo is marketed as a quiet keyboard and offers silent switch options. The VA Series V2 has sound-proof silicone pads between the PCB and plate to reduce noise.
The vendor description for the VA Series V2 states it can connect to up to 3 devices wirelessly via Bluetooth.
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