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Compare Varmilo VA108M R2 vs Vortex Multix 104 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two full-size mechanical keyboards at a similar price. The choice is difficult because the Vortex Multix 104 offers a vastly superior feature set, including wireless operation and deep customization, while the Varmilo VA108M R2 is a more basic, traditional offering. Your decision hinges on whether you value modern connectivity and programmability or prefer a straightforward, no-frills keyboard.

Varmilo VA108M Panda R2 Dye Sub PBT Mechanical Keyboard
83
Vortex Multix 104 VIA Summer Hotswap Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Released in 2023
  • Has Tactile switch options
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Offers No RGB lighting
  • Released in 2024
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • 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
  • Features N-key rollover
  • 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: 43.7
  • Build Quality: 46.3
  • Productivity: 46.2
  • Customizability: 47.9
  • Portability: 42.4
Scores
  • Performance: 73.5
  • Build Quality: 70.4
  • Productivity: 89.1
  • Customizability: 87.4
  • Portability: 53.6
Name
Varmilo VA108M R2
Name
Vortex Multix 104
Release year
2023
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Tactile
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
 
Backlight
 
North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
-
Case Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
-
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

For most buyers, the Vortex Multix 104 is the recommended choice. It delivers significantly more value with wireless connectivity, hot-swap sockets, and advanced programmability at a similar or lower price point. Only consider the Varmilo VA108M R2 if you specifically want a basic, wired-only keyboard and have no interest in the modern features offered by the Multix.

Varmilo VA108M R2

  • +Features thick dye-sublimated PBT keycaps for durability.
  • +Offers a classic, full-size 104-key layout with a dedicated number pad.
  • +Uses a pre-built assembly for out-of-the-box usability.
  • −Lacks wireless connectivity, operating only in wired mode.
  • −Not hot-swappable, limiting switch customization without soldering.
  • −Offers no programmability support like QMK or VIA.
  • −Only available with tactile switches, providing less choice.

Vortex Multix 104

  • +Provides triple connectivity: wired USB-C, Bluetooth 5.0, and 2.4 GHz wireless.
  • +Features a hot-swappable PCB compatible with 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
  • +Fully programmable with support for both QMK and VIA firmware.
  • +Includes extensive sound dampening with latex foam, IXPE pads, a PET pad, and silicone.
  • +Supports multiple layouts including ANSI, ISO, and split backspace.
  • −Wireless mode relies on user-supplied AA batteries instead of a rechargeable internal cell.
  • −The ABS case material may feel less premium than aluminum or other materials.
  • −Its full-size form factor is not as portable as smaller layouts.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Vortex Multix 104 is the clear choice across nearly all use cases due to its comprehensive feature set. It wins for gaming, office, programming, and content creation because of its wireless options, programmability, and switch variety. It is also superior for travel and modding, thanks to its battery-powered wireless and hot-swappable design. The Varmilo VA108M R2's simpler, wired-only approach does not offer a decisive advantage in any specific category against the Multix's versatility.

GamingVortex Multix 104
  • •The Vortex Multix 104 offers N-key rollover for reliable multi-key presses.
  • •It provides a choice of linear, tactile, and silent switch types to suit different gaming preferences.
  • •Its wireless 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity offer cable-free flexibility.
OfficeVortex Multix 104
  • •The Vortex Multix 104's silent switch options and built-in sound dampening (latex foam, IXPE pads, PET pad, silicone) help reduce noise.
  • •Its triple connectivity (wired, Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz) allows easy switching between multiple devices.
  • •The split backspace and other layout options can improve ergonomics for long typing sessions.
ProgrammingVortex Multix 104
  • •The Vortex Multix 104 supports QMK and VIA for deep, easy key remapping and macro programming.
  • •It offers multiple layout supports including ISO, split right Shift, and Tsangan for personalized setups.
  • •The Cherry profile double-shot PBT keycaps provide durable legends for frequent use.
TravelVortex Multix 104
  • •The Vortex Multix 104's wireless operation removes the need for a cable on the go.
  • •It uses standard AA batteries, which are easy to replace without charging.
  • •Its ABS case and FR4 plate construction is described as a stack-mounted structure, which may contribute to a lighter build compared to some alternatives.
ModdingVortex Multix 104
  • •The Vortex Multix 104 has a hot-swappable PCB supporting 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
  • •It includes multiple foam layers (latex plate foam, IXPE switch pads, PET pad, silicone) for acoustic tuning.
  • •The 1.6mm non flex-cut PCB and FR4 plate offer a stable base for modifications.
Content CreationVortex Multix 104
  • •The Vortex Multix 104's programmability via VIA allows for creating complex macros for editing software.
  • •Its north-facing RGB lighting, though not highlighted in the vendor description's backlighting field, is listed in the metadata, offering aesthetic customization.
  • •The three typing angles (6°, 7°, 11°) provide ergonomic adjustment for long work periods.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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