Varmilo Sword 2 68 R2 vs Sword 2 68Detachable Top vs Multimedia Keys
Choose the original Sword 268 for dedicated multimedia controls, or the R2 for its customizable magnetic top case.
Which one should you get?
Get the
Varmilo Sword 2 68 R2
Detachable Top
- Features a detachable magnetic top case for potential future customization with different colors.
- CNC all-aluminum case with a four-stage color separation design.
- Uses exclusive Varmilo EC switches in a metal case, according to the manufacturer.
- Vendor description states it lacks dedicated multimedia keys.
- Keycaps are a mix of ABS and PBT, which may not feel as uniform as full PBT.
- Not hot-swappable, limiting easy switch changes.
Get the
Varmilo Sword 2 68
Multimedia Keys
- Includes dedicated multimedia keys for convenient media playback control.
- Specifications list full N-key rollover for reliable simultaneous key presses.
- Uses dye-sublimated PBT keycaps for consistent texture and durable legends.
- Lacks the detachable magnetic top case found on the R2 model.
- Not hot-swappable, limiting easy switch changes.
- Case design is fixed without the swappable top customization option.
Your priority should dictate the choice. If you want built-in controls for media and productivity, the original Varmilo Sword 268 is the better option. If you prefer the ability to physically change your keyboard's look with different top plates, the Sword 268 R2 is the only model that offers this feature. Core typing feel and build quality are otherwise matched.
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 Sword 2 68 R2
Varmilo Sword 2 68
Keycaps
ABS, PBT
PBT
N-key rollover
No
Yes
- Varmilo Sword 2 68 R2
- Varmilo Sword 2 68
- Performance
- 4556
- Build quality
- 5252
- Productivity
- 4343
- Customizability
- 5453
- Portability
- 6867
- Layout size: 65%
- Case material: Aluminum
- Switch options: Clicky
- Mount style: Plate Mount
- Plate material: Aluminum
What will you mostly use it for?
The original Varmilo Sword 268 holds slight advantages for gaming, office, and content creation due to its confirmed N-key rollover and multimedia keys. The Sword 268 R2 is the clear choice for modders interested in its unique, swappable magnetic top case. For programming and travel, the keyboards are functionally equivalent, sharing the same core layout, switches, and construction.
Pick the Varmilo Sword 2 68
- The original Sword 268 lists N-key rollover in its specifications, which is beneficial for complex key presses.
- Both share the same clicky Varmilo EC switches and aluminum construction for a consistent feel.
Varmilo Sword 2 68 R2 vs Sword 2 68 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
2 of 14 specs differ
Varmilo Sword 2 68 R2
Varmilo Sword 2 68
Switch options
Mount style
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Media keys
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Backlight
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
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Varmilo Sword 2 68 R2 vs Sword 2 68: your questions
The primary difference is the top case. The R2 model features a detachable magnetic top case for customization, while the original Sword 268 includes dedicated multimedia keys, which the R2 lacks according to its vendor listing.
No. The vendor descriptions for both the Sword 268 and Sword 268 R2 explicitly state that hotswap is not a feature. Switches are plate-mounted and soldered.
Both keyboards use Varmilo's exclusive EC switches. The provided specifications list them as clicky switch types. The manufacturer states these are the only keyboards with a metal case that feature these switches.
No. Both the Varmilo Sword 268 and Sword 268 R2 are specified with white LED backlighting only, not full RGB lighting.
The Sword 268 R2 uses keycaps made from both ABS and PBT materials, as listed in its specifications. The original Sword 268 uses PBT keycaps exclusively.
The original Sword 268 may have a slight edge. Its specifications include N-key rollover, which ensures all pressed keys are registered correctly. Both share the same aluminum case and responsive clicky switches.
Yes, but only the top section. The vendor description for the R2 confirms it has a detachable magnetic top case, and mentions that additional colorful tops will be added in the future for swapping.
Yes. Both the Varmilo Sword 268 and Sword 268 R2 are listed as compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux operating systems in their respective vendor descriptions.
Both feature high-end construction with a CNC all-aluminum case and plate. The manufacturer describes a four-stage color separation design in the aluminum for a distinctive visual effect.
They are equally portable. Both are 65% compact keyboards with identical dimensions and a full aluminum case, meaning they will have very similar size and weight for travel.
The provided vendor descriptions do not mention any companion software for macro programming or lighting control for either the Sword 268 or the R2 model.
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