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Compare Varmilo VA Series V2 vs VA Series V2 R2 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two iterations of Varmilo's VA Series. The choice is difficult because both keyboards share core features like Cherry MX switches, thick PBT keycaps, and dual wired/wireless connectivity. The primary differentiators lie in their default layout size, potential case material options, and subtle generational improvements that may affect wireless usability and productivity.

Varmilo VA Series V2 CMYK White LED TKL Mechanical Keyboard
Varmilo VA Series V2 Sakura Round 2 TKL Bluetooth Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless, , Wired only connectivity
  • Made with a Plastic, Wood case
  • Offers Yes, North-face, White, White North-face RGB lighting
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Made with a Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 65
  • Build Quality: 58.2
  • Productivity: 69.9
  • Customizability: 51.5
  • Portability: 50.6
Scores
  • Performance: 72
  • Build Quality: 50.6
  • Productivity: 80.2
  • Customizability: 53.8
  • Portability: 71.4
Name
Varmilo VA Series V2
Name
Varmilo VA Series V2 R2
Release year
2023
Release year
2023
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
80%, 100%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
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
Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless, , Wired only
Connection
Bluetooth, 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
 
North-face, White
Backlight
 
North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic, Wood
Case Material
Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
-
Weight
-
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your need for a number pad is the deciding factor. Opt for the Varmilo VA Series V2 if you require a full-size keyboard for data-heavy tasks and value the potential for a wood case aesthetic. Choose the VA Series V2 R2 if you prefer a space-saving TKL layout for a cleaner desk setup, value side-printed media keys, and are seeking a slightly more affordable option within the series.

Varmilo VA Series V2

  • +Available in a full-size 100% layout with number pad.
  • +Case material options include plastic and wood according to the metadata.
  • +Includes sound-dampening silicone pads between the PCB and plate.
  • +Features a double-section kickstand for adjustable typing angles.
  • +Cable routing grooves allow the cable to exit from the left, right, or center.

  • Lacks the side-printed media key legends found on the V2 R2.
  • May be less portable due to the full-size layout.
  • The vendor description lists a specific model as having no lithium battery, which may imply wired-only use for that variant.

Varmilo VA Series V2 R2

  • +Offers a more compact TKL (87-key) form factor.
  • +Includes side-printed legends for media keys for a cleaner top look.
  • +Shares the same upgraded V2 features like north-facing LEDs and sound dampening.
  • +Generally listed at a lower price point than the VA V2.

  • No number pad, which can be a drawback for data entry.
  • Case material is listed as plastic only, with no wood option mentioned.
  • The vendor page indicates the product is currently out of stock.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The V2 R2 takes the lead for gaming and travel due to its TKL form factor. The original VA V2 is better suited for office and content creation work where a full-size layout with a number pad is valuable. For programming and modding, the keyboards are closely matched, with the decision boiling down to layout preference and the fact that neither supports hot-swap modifications.

GamingVarmilo VA Series V2 R2
  • The V2 R2 is listed with a TKL form factor, freeing up more desk space for mouse movement.
  • Both offer N-key rollover in wired mode for simultaneous key presses.
  • North-facing RGB LEDs on both ensure compatibility with Cherry profile keycaps.
OfficeVarmilo VA Series V2
  • The VA V2 offers a 100% layout, which includes a dedicated number pad for data entry.
  • Both have multimedia keys and support for Windows and Mac.
  • Sound-dampening silicone pads are present in both for a quieter typing experience.
ProgrammingTie
  • Both use thick dye-sub PBT keycaps for long-lasting legends.
  • Both offer a standard ANSI layout.
  • The choice depends on personal preference for a full-size (V2) or TKL (V2 R2) layout.
TravelVarmilo VA Series V2 R2
  • The V2 R2 is explicitly a TKL (87-key) keyboard, making it more compact.
  • Both feature Bluetooth connectivity for use with mobile devices.
  • Both have a USB-C port for wired use and charging.
ModdingTie
  • Neither keyboard is hot-swappable, requiring soldering to change switches.
  • Both are plate-mounted with a plastic plate and case.
  • Both feature north-facing RGB LEDs and sound-dampening foam.
Content CreationVarmilo VA Series V2
  • The full-size layout of the VA V2 includes a number pad for quick numeric input.
  • Multimedia keys are available on both for controlling media playback.
  • The vendor description for the V2 lists specific Cherry MX switch options including Silent Red for quieter operation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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