Compare Varmilo Lure Awake vs Vortex Multix 104 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two full-size wireless mechanical keyboards at a similar price point. The choice is difficult because both offer triple-mode connectivity and PBT keycaps, but they diverge completely in their core philosophy. The Varmilo provides a unique, pre-built experience with proprietary electrocapacitive switches, while the Vortex is built for tinkerers with hot-swap sockets, extensive layout support, and advanced programmability.

Model
		83	Select a keyboard to compare
Rating	0.0 stars (0 reviews)	0.0 stars (0 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	Released in 2023 Built with the ANSI layout standard Offers Normal ergonomics Made with a Plastic case Offers No RGB lighting	Released in 2024 Supports hot-swappable switches Built with the ANSI, ISO layout standard Offers Split Backspace ergonomics Compatible with both Mac and Windows Supports QMK firmware Supports VIA configuration Features N-key rollover Has built-in sound dampening Made with a ABS case Offers Yes, North-face RGB lighting
Score	Scores Performance: 47.2 Build Quality: 45.3 Productivity: 49 Customizability: 42.8 Portability: 48.6	Scores Performance: 73.5 Build Quality: 70.4 Productivity: 89.1 Customizability: 87.4 Portability: 53.6
Name	Name Varmilo Lure Awake	Name Vortex Multix 104
Release year	Release year 2023	Release year 2024
Switch Options	Switch Options Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent	Switch Options Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Profile	Profile Normal Profile	Profile Normal Profile
Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable
Layout Size	Layout Size 100%	Layout Size 100%
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ANSI	Layout Standard ANSI, ISO
Layout Ergonomics	Layout Ergonomics Normal	Layout Ergonomics Split Backspace
Knob Support	Knob Support	Knob Support
Display Support	Display Support	Display Support
Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support
Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys
USB-C	USB-C	USB-C
USB passthrough	USB passthrough	USB passthrough
Connection	Connection Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless	Connection Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate	Polling Rate -	Polling Rate -
Battery capacity	Battery capacity -	Battery capacity -
Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support
QMK Support	QMK Support	QMK Support
VIA Support	VIA Support	VIA Support
VIAL Support	VIAL Support	VIAL Support
N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover
Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger
Mount Style	Mount Style Plate Mount	Mount Style Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers
Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening
Backlight	Backlight	Backlight North-face
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material Plastic	Case Material ABS
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material PBT	Keycaps Material PBT
Dimensions	Dimensions -	Dimensions -
Weight	Weight -	Weight -

*Something incorrect or missing? Please

let me know

!

Pros and Trade-offs

For most users, the Vortex Multix 104 is the clear recommendation due to its superior flexibility, programmability, and modding potential. Only choose the Varmilo Lure Awake if you are specifically seeking the experience of its proprietary electrocapacitive switches and do not plan on modifying your keyboard. Be aware of the Vortex's current availability challenges.

Varmilo Lure Awake

+Features unique Varmilo electrocapacitive switches, offering a distinct typing experience.
+Includes thick PBT dye-sublimated keycaps for durability.
+Offers a simple white LED backlight for low-light visibility.
+Has a new case design with three-stage adjustable flip-out feet.

−Not hot-swappable, locking you into the installed electrocapacitive switches.
−Lacks advanced programmability like QMK or VIA support.
−The vendor listing states it is not compatible with Linux.
−Uses a plastic case and plate, which may feel less premium.

Vortex Multix 104

+Hot-swappable sockets support both 3-pin and 5-pin switches for easy customization.
+Fully programmable with both QMK and VIA firmware support.
+Includes extensive sound dampening with latex foam, IXPE pads, a PET pad, and silicone.
+Supports multiple layouts including ANSI, ISO, split Backspace, and split right Shift.

−Currently out of stock at the listed vendor, making it harder to purchase.
−Wireless mode relies on user-replaceable AA batteries instead of a built-in rechargeable cell.
−The ABS case material may be less preferred by some compared to other plastics.
−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 more versatile choice, winning in most categories due to its customizability and programmability. It is particularly strong for programming, modding, and office use where layout flexibility and software support matter. The Varmilo Lure Awake's appeal is more niche, centered on its specific electrocapacitive switch technology. For travel, both are equally cumbersome due to their full-size form factor.

GamingVortex Multix 104

•The Vortex Multix 104 features N-key rollover for reliable simultaneous key presses.
•Its hot-swap capability allows for installing faster, gaming-oriented switches.
•The listing mentions it is used for gaming according to a customer review.

OfficeVortex Multix 104

•The Vortex supports multiple layouts including ISO and split Backspace for ergonomic preferences.
•It has explicit Linux compatibility, which the Varmilo lacks.
•Customer reviews note it works well for office and bookkeeping tasks.

ProgrammingVortex Multix 104

•Full programmability via QMK and VIA allows for custom layers and macros.
•Support for multiple physical layouts, including split right Shift and Tsangan.
•Linux compatibility is confirmed for the Vortex.

TravelTie

•Both are full-size 100% keyboards, which are large and not inherently portable.
•Both offer wireless connectivity via Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz.
•The Vortex uses standard AA batteries, which may be easier to replace on the go.

ModdingVortex Multix 104

•The Vortex Multix 104 has 5-pin hot-swap sockets for easy switch changes.
•It includes multiple sound-dampening materials like latex plate foam and IXPE switch pads.
•The FR4 plate and stack-mounted structure are noted as mod-friendly features.

Content CreationVortex Multix 104

•Programmable keys via QMK/VIA can be mapped to software shortcuts.
•The hot-swap feature allows tailoring switch feel for long typing or editing sessions.
•The Vortex offers three adjustable typing angles for ergonomic comfort.