KeebFinder
Not sure which keyboard to choose? Try the Keyboard Finder now!

Compare Varmilo VA104S Loong II vs Vortex Multix 104 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two full-size mechanical keyboards with different philosophies. The Varmilo VA104S Loong II is a classic, wired board with a limited-edition aesthetic and white backlighting. The Vortex Multix 104 is a feature-packed, tri-mode wireless board focused on acoustic tuning and programmability. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize wireless connectivity and modding potential or a specific visual design with simpler lighting.

Varmilo VA104S Loong II White LED Dye Sub PBT Mechanical Keyboard
83
Vortex Multix 104 VIA Summer Hotswap Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

Select a keyboard to compare

0.0 (0)
0.0 (0)
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Made with a Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, White RGB lighting
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO layout standard
  • Offers Split Backspace ergonomics
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Made with a ABS case
  • Offers Yes, North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 59.8
  • Build Quality: 46.5
  • Productivity: 46.4
  • Customizability: 53.2
  • Portability: 42.5
Scores
  • Performance: 73.5
  • Build Quality: 70.4
  • Productivity: 89.1
  • Customizability: 87.4
  • Portability: 53.6
Name
Varmilo VA104S Loong II
Name
Vortex Multix 104
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
100%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Split Backspace
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
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
-
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
 
White
Backlight
 
North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic
Case Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
-
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
let me know
!

Pros and Trade-offs

For most buyers, the Vortex Multix 104 is the recommended choice. It delivers significantly more value through its wireless options, hot-swap capability, and professional-grade programmability, often at a lower price point. Only choose the Varmilo VA104S Loong II if you are specifically drawn to its unique aesthetic and require white backlighting, and are willing to forgo wireless and customization features.

Varmilo VA104S Loong II

  • +Features a limited-edition 'Loong II' colorway with dye-sublimated PBT keycaps.
  • +Includes white LED backlighting for visibility in low light.
  • +Has dedicated multimedia keys for media playback control.
  • +Offers a choice of Cherry MX clicky, tactile, linear, and silent switches pre-installed.
  • −Wired-only connectivity with no wireless option.
  • −Lacks hot-swap sockets, requiring soldering to change switches.
  • −Does not support advanced programmability via QMK or VIA.
  • −Case and plate are both plastic, which may feel less premium.

Vortex Multix 104

  • +Offers tri-mode connectivity: wired USB-C, 2.4 GHz wireless, and Bluetooth.
  • +Hot-swappable PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switches for easy customization.
  • +Fully programmable with QMK and VIA firmware for key remapping and layers.
  • +Includes extensive sound dampening with latex plate foam, IXPE switch pads, a PET pad, and a silicone absorbing pad.
  • +Supports multiple layouts including ANSI, ISO, and split Backspace.
  • −Lacks any form of backlighting or RGB lighting.
  • −Does not include dedicated multimedia keys.
  • −Wireless mode relies on user-supplied AA batteries rather than a rechargeable internal battery.
  • −The ABS case material may not feel as premium as other materials to some users.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Vortex Multix 104 is the more versatile choice, winning in most categories due to its wireless connectivity, hot-swap sockets, and extensive programmability. It is particularly strong for programming, office use, and modding. The Varmilo VA104S Loong II serves users who prefer a specific aesthetic with white backlighting and a straightforward, wired experience, tying only in content creation where its multimedia keys are a benefit.

GamingVortex Multix 104
  • •The Vortex Multix 104 offers tri-mode connectivity (wired, 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth), providing flexibility for different setups.
  • •Its listing includes N-Key Rollover for full anti-ghosting.
  • •The Varmilo is a wired-only board, limiting placement options.
OfficeVortex Multix 104
  • •The Vortex Multix 104's wireless modes and sound dampening with latex foam, IXPE pads, and silicone can reduce cable clutter and typing noise.
  • •It supports multiple layout standards like ANSI and ISO, accommodating different user preferences.
  • •The Varmilo has multimedia keys, which the Vortex lacks, but its wired-only nature is less flexible for clean desks.
ProgrammingVortex Multix 104
  • •The Vortex Multix 104 has full QMK and VIA support for deep key remapping and macro programming.
  • •It supports a split Backspace layout and other alternative layouts for ergonomic customization.
  • •The Varmilo offers standard ANSI layout without the same level of firmware-based programmability.
TravelVortex Multix 104
  • •The Vortex Multix 104 is wireless, powered by common AA batteries, eliminating the need for a power cable on the go.
  • •Both are full-size boards, which are large for travel, but wireless capability is a clear advantage for portability.
ModdingVortex Multix 104
  • •The Vortex Multix 104 is hot-swappable, supporting both 3-pin and 5-pin switches for easy switch changes.
  • •It features multiple acoustic foams (latex, IXPE, PET, silicone) and an FR4 plate for tuning sound and feel.
  • •The Varmilo is not hot-swappable, requiring soldering to change switches.
Content CreationTie
  • •The Varmilo VA104S has dedicated multimedia keys for quick media control.
  • •The Vortex Multix 104's VIA software allows for creating custom macros and key layers to streamline workflows.
  • •Both offer full N-Key Rollover for complex key combinations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Discover similar products

You might also like similar products in that price range:

87
$149
Minilo98 Pro
Varmilo Minilo98 Pro
98%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Metal case,
Gasket Mount

98
$167
Keychron Q14 Pro (Alice Layout) QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
Keychron Q14 Pro
96%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

82
$129
Vortex Multix 104 VIA Autumn Hotswap Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Vortex Multix 104 VIA
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
Backlight,
VIA,
QMK,
Plate Mount

76
$139
Nuphy Air100 (ISO-DE) White
Nuphy Air100 V3
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

71
$115
Vortex Multix TKL VIA Summer Hotswap Wireless Keyboard
Vortex Multix
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
Backlight,
VIA,
Plate Mount

75
$165
Varmilo APT108 Sea Melody Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard
Varmilo APT108 Sea Melody
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
HE,
Plate Mount

96
$149
Keychron Q3 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron Q3 Pro
80%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
Knob,
VIA,
QMK,
Alu case,
Gasket Mount

96
$106
Keychron K10 HE Wireless Magnetic Switch Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K10 HE
100%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Alu case,
Tray Mount

91
$118
Keychron K4 HE Wireless Magnetic Switch Custom Keyboard ISO Layout Collection
Keychron K4 HE
96%,
Hotswap,
Wireless,
Wired,
RGB,
VIA,
QMK,
HE,
Rapid trigger,
Alu case,
Tray Mount