Compare Varmilo VA Series V2 vs MA Series V2 R1 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two premium Varmilo TKL keyboards with distinct core technologies. The choice hinges on whether you value wireless connectivity and traditional Cherry MX switches, or prefer the specific feel of Varmilo's proprietary electrocapacitive switches in a wired-only design. Both share high-quality PBT keycaps and a refined V2 design, making the decision about connectivity and switch type.

Model
			Select a keyboard to compare
Rating	0.0 stars (0 reviews)	0.0 stars (0 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options Available in a 100% layout Features N-key rollover Supports Bluetooth, Wired, Wireless, , Wired only connectivity Made with a Plastic, Wood case Offers Yes, North-face, White, White North-face RGB lighting	Has Clicky switch options Available in a 80% layout Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity Made with a Plastic case Offers Yes, White, North-face, White North-face RGB lighting
Score	Scores Performance: 64.5 Build Quality: 55.8 Productivity: 72.3 Customizability: 50.7 Portability: 49.8	Scores Performance: 53.3 Build Quality: 51.1 Productivity: 71.6 Customizability: 54 Portability: 59.8
Name	Name Varmilo VA Series V2	Name Varmilo MA Series V2 R1
Release year	Release year 2023	Release year 2023
Switch Options	Switch Options Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent	Switch Options Clicky
Profile	Profile Normal Profile	Profile Normal Profile
Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable
Layout Size	Layout Size 100%	Layout Size 80%
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ANSI	Layout Standard ANSI
Layout Ergonomics	Layout Ergonomics Normal	Layout Ergonomics Normal
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, Wired, Wireless, , Wired only	Connection Wired, Wired only
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 North-face, White	Backlight White, North-face
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material Plastic, Wood	Case Material Plastic
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

Your decision should be driven by your need for wireless connectivity and switch preference. The VA Series V2 is the more versatile daily driver with its Bluetooth capability and broader switch selection. Opt for the MA Series V2 R1 if you specifically want to try Varmilo's electrocapacitive switches and prioritize a lower cost for a wired-only board.

Varmilo VA Series V2

+Dual connectivity with wired USB-C and Bluetooth for up to three devices.
+Choice of Cherry MX switches including clicky, tactile, linear, and silent variants.
+Includes dedicated multimedia keys for convenience.
+Features sound-dampening silicone pads and north-facing RGB LEDs.
+Offers N-key rollover in wired mode for full anti-ghosting.

−Generally more expensive than the MA V2 R1.
−Not hot-swappable, limiting easy switch changes.
−Vendor descriptions list it as a TKL, conflicting with the 100% layout metadata.

Varmilo MA Series V2 R1

+Typically available at a lower price point than the VA V2.
+Features unique Varmilo electrocapacitive switches for a distinct typing feel.
+Shares the V2 series upgrades like the double-section kickstand and cable routing grooves.
+Uses thick dye-sub PBT keycaps for longevity.

−Wired-only connectivity with no wireless option.
−Only available with clicky electrocapacitive switches, offering no choice of silent or linear types.
−Lacks dedicated multimedia keys.
−Listed as out of stock at the provided vendor.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The VA Series V2 wins in scenarios requiring wireless flexibility, multi-device use, or specific Cherry MX switch types, making it stronger for office, travel, and gaming. The MA Series V2's primary appeal is its unique electrocapacitive switch experience. For programming and modding, the keyboards are closely matched, sharing key features like PBT keycaps and a quiet typing design.

GamingVarmilo VA Series V2

•Offers N-key rollover in wired mode for simultaneous key presses.
•Includes Bluetooth connectivity for flexibility.
•Available with linear Cherry MX Red switches preferred by some gamers.

OfficeVarmilo VA Series V2

•Bluetooth connectivity allows pairing with up to three devices.
•Offers silent Cherry MX switch options.
•Includes dedicated multimedia keys for quick controls.

ProgrammingTie

•Both use thick dye-sub PBT keycaps for durability.
•Both have a TKL form factor that saves desk space.
•Both feature sound-dampening silicone pads for a quieter typing experience.

TravelVarmilo VA Series V2

•Bluetooth operation removes the need for a cable on the go.
•Cable routing grooves allow for neat storage of the USB-C cable.
•Similar TKL form factor to the MA V2, but with wireless capability.

ModdingTie

•Neither keyboard is hot-swappable, requiring soldering to change switches.
•Both are pre-built with plate-mounted switches.
•Both have north-facing RGB LEDs, which can interfere with some aftermarket keycap profiles.

Content CreationVarmilo VA Series V2

•Multimedia keys provide quick access to playback and volume controls.
•Wireless connectivity can reduce cable clutter on a production desk.
•Offers a wider variety of switch types to match typing preference for long sessions.