Varmilo VA Series V2 Panda R2 vs VPT87

The Varmilo VPT87 is hot-swappable. Its product listing explicitly states it has a hotswap PCB, allowing you to change switches without soldering. The VA Series V2 Panda R2 is not hot-swappable, as confirmed by its vendor description.

Yes, the Varmilo VPT87 supports 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity in addition to Bluetooth 5.1 and wired USB-C. The manufacturer lists specific polling rates for each mode: 1000 Hz for wired, 250 Hz for 2.4 GHz, and 133 Hz for Bluetooth.

The VA V2 Panda has north-facing LEDs, while the VPT87 has south-facing RGB LEDs. South-facing LEDs avoid interference with the legends on Cherry-profile keycaps, which is a common issue with north-facing designs. This makes the VPT87 more compatible with a wider range of aftermarket keycap sets.

Both keyboards are designed for quiet typing. The VA V2 Panda uses sound-proof silicone pads between the PCB and plate. The VPT87 uses a double-layer silicone sound absorption method. Both should be effective, so the choice may come down to your preferred switch type, such as silent linear or tactile options available for both.

Yes, both the Varmilo VA V2 Panda and the VPT87 are listed as compatible with macOS, Windows, and Linux. The VPT87 product description specifically highlights MacOS compatibility.

Both keyboards come with thick, dye-sublimated PBT keycaps. PBT plastic is known for its durability and resistance to shine over time compared to ABS. The keycap profiles are specific to Varmilo for the VPT87, while the VA V2 uses a standard profile.

The vendor description for the VA Series V2 Panda R2 does not specify a polling rate. The Varmilo VPT87, however, has its polling rates explicitly listed: 1000 Hz wired, 250 Hz for 2.4 GHz wireless, and 133 Hz for Bluetooth.

Yes, both the Varmilo VA V2 Panda and the VPT87 include multimedia keys. The VPT87 listing mentions preset multimedia keypress combinations for controlling media playback and system volume.

The Varmilo VPT87 features an aluminum plate, which is listed in its specifications. The VA Series V2 Panda R2 uses a plastic plate. An aluminum plate typically provides a stiffer and more consistent typing feel.

The product descriptions do not mention factory pre-lubrication for the switches on either the VA V2 Panda or the VPT87. Both come with genuine Cherry MX switches or Varmilo's own switch options as pre-built units.

According to its vendor characteristics list, the Varmilo VPT87 is not QMK or VIA compatible. This suggests key reprogramming may be limited to any onboard functions or proprietary software, which is not detailed in the provided information.

The main advantage of the VA Series V2 Panda R2 is its specific Panda colorway design for users seeking that aesthetic. It also offers a potentially lower price point for a solid pre-built TKL with white backlighting, sound dampening, and Bluetooth, if you do not need hotswap or 2.4 GHz wireless.