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Head to head · Prices checked Oct 21, 2026

Varmilo VA Series V2 vs VA Series V2 R2

Choose the VA V2 for a full-size layout and potential wood case option, or the V2 R2 for a more portable TKL form factor and potentially better wireless performance.

Quick verdict

Which one should you get?

Get the

Varmilo VA Series V2

If you want

  • 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.

And can live with

  • 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.

Get the

Varmilo VA Series V2 R2

If you want

  • 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.

And can live with

  • 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.

Bottom line

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.

What actually differs

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 VA Series V2

Varmilo VA Series V2 R2

  • Layout size

    100%

    80%

  • Case material

    Plastic, Wood

    Plastic

  • Backlight

    White, north-facing

    Yes, north-facing

KeebFinder scores

How we score
  • Varmilo VA Series V2
  • Varmilo VA Series V2 R2
Performance
65
72
Build quality
56
51
Productivity
72
80
Customizability
50
54
Portability
50
72

What they share

  • Connection: Bluetooth, Wired
  • Switch options: Clicky, Linear, Silent, Tactile
  • Mount style: Plate Mount
  • Sound dampening
  • Plate material: Plastic
  • Keycaps: PBT
See every spec side by side

Best for

What will you mostly use it for?

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.

For gaming

Pick the Varmilo 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.

Full specs

Varmilo VA Series V2 vs VA Series V2 R2 specs

Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.

3 of 17 specs differ

Varmilo VA Series V2

Varmilo VA Series V2 R2

Typing & switches

Switch options

Clicky, Linear, Silent, Tactile
Clicky, Linear, Silent, Tactile

Mount style

Plate Mount
Plate Mount

Sound dampening

Yes
Yes

Layout

Layout size

100%
80%

Layout standard

ANSI
ANSI

Ergonomics

Standard
Standard

Display

None
None

Media keys

Yes
Yes

Connectivity & battery

Connection

Bluetooth, Wired
Bluetooth, Wired

USB-C

Yes
Yes

Build & materials

Case material

Plastic, Wood
Plastic

Plate material

Plastic
Plastic

Keycaps

PBT
PBT

Backlight

White, north-facing
Yes, north-facing

Firmware & software

N-key rollover

Yes
Yes

Mac & Windows

Yes
Yes

Extras

Released

2023
2023

Where to buy

Compare prices

Live prices from the stores we track, cheapest in-stock offer first.

Lowest price across stores, Amazon excluded.

  • AmazonGlobal

    Check price
    Visit
  • MKUS

    Out of stock
    $94Visit
  • AmazonGlobal

    Check price
    ~$139Visit
  • MKUS

    Out of stock
    $139Visit

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FAQ

Varmilo VA Series V2 vs VA Series V2 R2: your questions

The primary difference is the default layout size. The VA V2 is listed as a 100% full-size keyboard, while the V2 R2 is an 80% TKL (tenkeyless) form factor. The V2 R2 also adds side-printed media key legends, which the standard V2 description does not mention.

Yes, both the VA Series V2 and V2 R2 offer Bluetooth connectivity. The manufacturer states they can connect to up to three devices wirelessly and also include a USB-C cable for a wired connection.

Yes, both keyboards use a standard ANSI layout with Cherry MX switches, meaning most aftermarket keycap sets will be compatible. The included keycaps are thick PBT with dye-sublimated legends for durability.

No, neither the V2 nor the V2 R2 are hot-swappable according to the vendor specifications. Changing the pre-soldered Cherry MX switches would require desoldering and soldering new ones in place.

Both are designed for quieter typing. They include sound-proof silicone pads between the PCB and plate to dampen noise. For the quietest option, you can select Cherry MX Silent Red switches, which are listed as an available option for both models.

The product metadata for the VA V2 lists 'Plastic;Wood' as case material options, suggesting some variants or colorways may feature a wood case. The vendor description for the specific model shown, however, details a plastic top and bottom case.

Both keyboards feature north-facing RGB LEDs. North-facing LEDs are compatible with a wider range of keycap profiles, including Cherry profile, without the keycaps interfering with the light emission.

Yes, both the Varmilo VA V2 and V2 R2 list Mac support as a feature. The vendor descriptions confirm compatibility with macOS, Windows, and Linux operating systems.

The V2 R2 is the more portable option. Its TKL (87-key) form factor is significantly smaller and lighter than a full-size keyboard, making it easier to pack and use in confined spaces like coffee shops or on the go.

The vendor description for the specific VA V2 model shown states 'Lithium Battery: No,' which suggests that particular variant may be wired-only or use a different power source for Bluetooth. The product metadata for both lists wireless connectivity, so it's crucial to check the specifications of the exact model you are purchasing.

Based on the vendor description, each keyboard comes pre-built with keycaps and switches installed. They include a standard USB-C to USB-A cable for wired connectivity and charging. The manufacturer also mentions a double-section kickstand is included for adjustable typing angles.

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