Varmilo VA108M R2 vs Vortex Multix 104
Choose the Vortex Multix 104 for its extensive connectivity, customization, and layout options, or the Varmilo VA108M R2 for a simpler, wired-only full-size board.
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Which one should you get?
Get the
Varmilo VA108M R2
Build quality in the bottom 30% of 100% boards under $150.
- 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.
- Switches are soldered. Swapping them means soldering.
- No ISO layout. ISO-DE, UK, and other ISO variants are not offered.
Get the
Vortex Multix 104
Hot-swappable
Build quality in the top 20% of 100% boards under $150.
- 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.
- North-facing LEDs. Cherry-profile keycaps can hit the switch housing.
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.
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 VA108M R2
Vortex Multix 104
Hot-swappable
No
Yes
Switch changes without soldering
Ergonomics
Standard
Split Backspace
Switch options
Tactile
Clicky, Linear, Silent, Tactile
QMK
No
Yes
The deep option when you want to remap every key
VIA
No
Yes
GUI remapping without compiling firmware
- Varmilo VA108M R2
- Vortex Multix 104
- Performance
- 4373
- Build quality
- 4671
- Productivity
- 4789
- Customizability
- 4886
- Portability
- 4253
- Layout size: 100%
- Mount style: Plate Mount
- Keycaps: PBT
What will you mostly use it for?
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.
Pick the Vortex 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.
Varmilo VA108M R2 vs Vortex Multix 104 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
12 of 20 specs differ
Varmilo VA108M R2
Vortex Multix 104
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Display
Media keys
Connection
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
ISO layouts by store
Which stores sell ISO-DE, UK, and the other regional layouts.
Varmilo VA108M R2
No ISO layout at the stores we track.
Vortex Multix 104
Listed on the product, not split by store: ISO.
Compare prices
Live prices from the stores we track, cheapest in-stock offer first.
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Lowest price across stores, Amazon excluded.
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Varmilo VA108M R2 vs Vortex Multix 104: your questions
Only the Vortex Multix 104 offers wireless connectivity. It supports both Bluetooth 5.0 and a 2.4 GHz wireless dongle, in addition to a wired USB-C connection. The Varmilo VA108M R2 is a wired-only keyboard.
Yes, but only on the Vortex Multix 104. It features a hot-swappable PCB that supports both 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches. The Varmilo VA108M R2 does not have hot-swap sockets, so changing its switches would require soldering.
The Vortex Multix 104 is far superior for programming. It is fully programmable using the open-source QMK and VIA software, allowing for deep customization of layers, macros, and key functions. The Varmilo does not offer any software programmability.
The Vortex Multix 104 has north-facing RGB lighting, as listed in its specifications. The Varmilo VA108M R2 does not have RGB lighting, according to its product metadata.
Both keyboards use PBT keycaps for durability and resistance to shine. The Varmilo uses thick dye-sublimated PBT keycaps. The Vortex uses Cherry profile, double-shot PBT keycaps in a multi-color scheme.
Yes. According to the product listings, both the Vortex Multix 104 and the Varmilo VA108M R2 are compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems.
The Vortex Multix 104 includes multiple layers of sound-absorbing material. The manufacturer lists latex plate foam, IXPE switch pads, a PET pad, and a silicone absorbing pad, all designed to enhance acoustics and reduce typing noise.
The Vortex Multix 104 is available with a wide variety of switch types. Options include Gateron G Pro 3.0 (Brown, Yellow, Silver, White) and numerous Cherry MX switches (Black, Brown, Red, Blue, Clear, White, Speed Silver, and Silent Red).
No. The Vortex Multix 104's wireless mode is powered by two standard AA batteries, which are not included. It does not have a built-in rechargeable lithium battery.
The Vortex Multix 104 supports multiple physical layouts. These include ANSI, ISO, split Backspace, split right Shift, a 7u spacebar, stepped Caps Lock, and the Tsangan bottom row, offering significant flexibility.
Neither keyboard is particularly portable due to their full-size 104-key form factors. However, the Vortex Multix 104 has a slight edge for travel because its wireless functionality eliminates the need to carry or manage a cable.
The Vortex Multix 104 offers three adjustable typing angles using its two-stage feet. According to the manufacturer, these angles are 6 degrees, 7 degrees, and 11 degrees.
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