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Compare Varmilo VA108M Chicken Dinner vs Vortex Multix 104 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a traditional, aesthetically-focused prebuilt and a modern, feature-rich customizable board. Both are full-size keyboards with PBT keycaps, but their core philosophies differ significantly. The Varmilo offers a specific themed design with Cherry MX switches, while the Vortex prioritizes flexibility with tri-mode wireless, hotswap sockets, and advanced programmability. The decision hinges on whether you value unique visuals or future-proof functionality.

Varmilo VA108M Chicken Dinner Dye Sub PBT Mechanical Keyboard
83
Vortex Multix 104 VIA Summer Hotswap Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Made with a Plastic case
  • Offers No RGB lighting
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO layout standard
  • Offers Split Backspace ergonomics
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • 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: 60
  • Build Quality: 46.6
  • Productivity: 46.5
  • Customizability: 43.5
  • Portability: 40.6
Scores
  • Performance: 73.5
  • Build Quality: 70.4
  • Productivity: 89.1
  • Customizability: 87.4
  • Portability: 53.6
Name
Varmilo VA108M Chicken Dinner
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
Wired, Wired only
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
 
Backlight
 
North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic
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 Vortex Multix 104 is the more forward-thinking and versatile choice. Its combination of wireless freedom, hotswap capability, and deep programmability offers long-term value and customization. Only choose the Varmilo VA108M Chicken Dinner if its specific themed aesthetic is a primary deciding factor and you are committed to its pre-soldered Cherry MX switches and wired-only operation.

Varmilo VA108M Chicken Dinner

  • +Features distinctive themed dye-sublimated PBT keycaps with a multi-colored design.
  • +Includes dedicated multimedia keys for quick media control.
  • +Uses a Mini USB interface with a long 60-inch cable.
  • +Offers a selection of genuine Cherry MX switches (Blue, Brown, Silent Red, Silver).
  • −Wired-only connectivity with a legacy Mini USB port.
  • −Not hot-swappable, requiring soldering to change switches.
  • −Lacks programmability software like QMK or VIA support.

Vortex Multix 104

  • +Tri-mode connectivity with Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4 GHz wireless, and USB-C wired.
  • +Hot-swappable sockets compatible with 3-pin and 5-pin MX-style switches.
  • +Fully programmable with QMK and VIA firmware support.
  • +Extensive sound dampening with latex foam, IXPE switch pads, a PET pad, and silicone.
  • −Wireless mode requires 2 AA batteries instead of a built-in rechargeable cell.
  • −Lacks dedicated multimedia keys according to the product listing.
  • −North-facing RGB LEDs may cause interference with certain Cherry-profile keycaps.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Vortex Multix 104 is the dominant choice for most technical and flexible use cases, winning in Gaming, Office, Programming, Travel, and Modding due to its wireless options, programmability, and hotswap design. Its explicit multi-OS support and sound-dampening features make it a strong office contender. The Varmilo VA108M's primary advantage is its distinctive themed aesthetic and included multimedia keys, leading to a tie only in Content Creation where those specific keys might be valued over the Vortex's customization potential.

GamingVortex Multix 104
  • •The Vortex Multix 104 offers wireless connectivity via 2.4 GHz for reduced cable clutter.
  • •It features N-key rollover for reliable simultaneous key presses.
  • •The listing mentions a 1.6mm non flex-cut PCB which may contribute to a consistent feel.
OfficeVortex Multix 104
  • •Tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired) allows easy switching between devices.
  • •Explicit Mac, Windows, and Linux compatibility is listed.
  • •Sound dampening with latex foam, IXPE pads, and silicone is included for a quieter typing experience.
ProgrammingVortex Multix 104
  • •Full programmability via QMK and VIA support for custom key layers and macros.
  • •Supports multiple physical layouts including ISO, split Backspace, and split right Shift.
  • •Cherry profile double-shot PBT keycaps offer durable legends.
TravelVortex Multix 104
  • •Wireless operation removes the need for a constant cable connection.
  • •It is powered by 2 AA batteries in wireless mode, which are easy to replace.
  • •The USB-C wired connection is a modern standard.
ModdingVortex Multix 104
  • •Hot-swappable sockets support both 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
  • •The board includes multiple foam layers (latex, IXPE, PET, silicone) for acoustic tuning.
  • •A stack-mounted structure and FR4 plate are noted for a specific typing feel.
Content CreationTie
  • •Both are full-size layouts with a number pad.
  • •The Varmilo has dedicated multimedia keys, which the Vortex listing states it does not have.
  • •The Vortex's programmability via VIA allows for creating custom shortcuts for editing software.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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