Varmilo EC Lie vs Vortex Multix 104Wired vs Wireless Full-Size
Choose the Vortex Multix 104 for modern features and flexibility, or the Varmilo EC Lie for a specific, non-standard switch experience.
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Which one should you get?
Get the
Varmilo EC Lie
Wired
Build quality in the bottom 15% of 100% boards under $150.
- Features unique Varmilo electrocapacitive switches for a distinct typing feel.
- Uses thick PBT dye-sublimated keycaps for durability and texture.
- Includes white LED backlighting for key visibility.
- 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
Wireless Full-Size
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 hotswap PCB that supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
- Fully programmable with VIA and QMK firmware support.
- North-facing LEDs. Cherry-profile keycaps can hit the switch housing.
For most users, the Vortex Multix 104 is the recommended choice due to its comprehensive feature set, including wireless connectivity, hotswap sockets, and advanced programmability. Only consider the Varmilo EC Lie if you are specifically seeking the experience of its proprietary electrocapacitive switches and do not need the flexibility to change switches or connect wirelessly.
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 EC Lie
Vortex Multix 104
Hot-swappable
No
Yes
Switch changes without soldering
Ergonomics
Standard
Split Backspace
Case material
Plastic
ABS
Switch options
Clicky
Clicky, Linear, Silent, Tactile
QMK
No
Yes
The deep option when you want to remap every key
- Varmilo EC Lie
- Vortex Multix 104
- Performance
- 4673
- Build quality
- 4471
- Productivity
- 4589
- Customizability
- 5086
- Portability
- 4253
- Layout size: 100%
- Mount style: Plate Mount
- Keycaps: PBT
What will you mostly use it for?
The Vortex Multix 104 is the more versatile choice, winning in five out of six categories. Its advantages in connectivity, programmability, and customizability make it stronger for gaming, office work, programming, travel, and modding. The Varmilo EC Lie's primary appeal is its unique electrocapacitive switch technology, which may suit users seeking that specific feel, but it lacks the modern features of its competitor. For content creation, both offer a full layout, making the decision more about switch preference versus programmable features.
Pick the Vortex Multix 104
- The Vortex Multix 104 offers N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
- It provides a choice of linear, tactile, or silent switches for gaming preference.
- Its wireless 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity reduce cable clutter.
Varmilo EC Lie 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 EC Lie
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 EC Lie
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.
Prices in USD are converted to your currency and can change at any time. KeebFinder may earn a commission when you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Lowest price across stores, Amazon excluded.
Varmilo EC Lie vs Vortex Multix 104: your questions
The Varmilo EC Lie uses proprietary Varmilo electrocapacitive switches. According to the vendor, these are genuine Varmilo EC switches, which offer a distinct feel different from standard mechanical MX-style switches. The listed switch type is clicky.
Yes, the Vortex Multix 104 is hotswappable. Its product description specifies it has hotswap sockets that support both 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches. This allows you to change switches without soldering.
Yes, the Vortex Multix 104 is fully programmable. The manufacturer states it is programmable with VIA and also has QMK support. This allows for extensive key remapping and macro creation directly through graphical software or code.
No, the Varmilo EC Lie does not have wireless connectivity. It is a wired-only keyboard. The Vortex Multix 104, in contrast, offers Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4 GHz wireless, and wired USB-C connectivity.
Both keyboards use PBT keycaps for durability and resistance to shine. The Varmilo uses thick PBT dye-sublimated keycaps, while the Vortex uses Cherry profile double-shot PBT keycaps in a pink, green, and white color scheme.
The Vortex Multix 104 includes multiple sound-dampening layers according to its product listing. These are latex plate foam, IXPE switch pads, a PET pad, and a silicone absorbing pad, all designed to enhance the keyboard's acoustics.
The Vortex Multix 104 supports multiple physical layouts. The manufacturer lists support for ANSI, ISO, split Backspace, split right Shift, a 7u spacebar, stepped Capslock, and Tsangan bottom row layouts.
Yes, the Varmilo EC Lie has white LED backlighting. However, a user review on the vendor page notes that the backlight can make the dark legends difficult to read and is primarily useful for seeing the outline of keys in low light.
In wireless mode, the Vortex Multix 104 is powered by two AA batteries. The product description specifies it does not have a built-in lithium battery, relying on these standard, user-replaceable batteries instead.
The Vortex Multix 104 is better suited for a quiet office. It offers silent switch options like the Cherry MX2A Silent Red, and its extensive internal foam dampening helps reduce typing noise. The Varmilo EC Lie is only available with clicky switches, which are louder.
Yes, the Vortex Multix 104 is listed as compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. Its programmability via VIA and QMK also allows for deep customization on any supported platform.
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