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Compare Varmilo VPE87 vs VPE87 Summit R1 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two very similar Varmilo TKL keyboards: the standard VPE87 and the Summit R1. The decision is difficult because they share the same TKL layout, triple wireless connectivity, hotswap sockets, plastic build, and white LED backlighting. The key differentiator is switch selection, where the standard VPE87 adds silent switch variants, though both models offer a similar core experience. Both keyboards are priced closely, making the choice hinge on specific typing preference and colorway availability.

65
Varmilo VPE87 CMYK TKL Hotswap Triple Mode White LED Mechanical Keyboard
63
Varmilo VPE87 Summit R1 TKL Hotswap Triple Mode White LED Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky, Silent switch options
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
Scores
  • Performance: 69.9
  • Build Quality: 56.3
  • Productivity: 79.7
  • Customizability: 65.9
  • Portability: 75.4
Scores
  • Performance: 55.6
  • Build Quality: 55.2
  • Productivity: 78.8
  • Customizability: 64.8
  • Portability: 74.6
Name
Varmilo VPE87
Name
Varmilo VPE87 Summit R1
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky, Silent
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
80%
Layout Size
80%
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, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, 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
 
White, North-face
Backlight
 
White, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic
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

For most buyers, the standard Varmilo VPE87 is the better choice because it provides the option of silent switches, making it more versatile for quiet environments. The Summit R1 is essentially the same keyboard with a different colorway and a more limited switch selection, so only choose it if you prefer its blue and white keycaps and do not need silent switches. Both keyboards share the same plastic build, wireless flexibility, and sound dampening, so your final decision should come down to switch preference and aesthetics.

Varmilo VPE87

  • +Offers silent switch options (e.g. Cherry MX Silent Red) for quieter typing.
  • +Triple mode connectivity with Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, and wired USB-C.
  • +Hotswap sockets with flex cut PCB for easy switch changes.
  • +Double-layer silicone sound absorption for reduced noise.
  • +Includes a 2-step kickstand and 3-way cord channel for desk customization.
  • −Does not support QMK or VIA firmware for custom keymaps.
  • −White LED backlighting only, no RGB per-key lighting.

Varmilo VPE87 Summit R1

  • +Triple mode connectivity with Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, and wired USB-C.
  • +Hotswap sockets with flex cut PCB for easy switch changes.
  • +Double-layer silicone sound absorption for reduced noise.
  • +Includes a 2-step kickstand and 3-way cord channel.
  • −Does not offer silent switch options as per the vendor listing.
  • −Does not support QMK or VIA firmware for custom keymaps.
  • −White LED backlighting only, no RGB per-key lighting.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

In most use cases, the standard Varmilo VPE87 and the Summit R1 tie due to their identical TKL layout, wireless connectivity, and hotswap capabilities. The standard VPE87 pulls ahead in the Office and Modding categories because it offers silent switch variants, which the Summit R1 does not list. For programming and gaming, the two keyboards offer essentially the same feature set, making switch choice and price the deciding factors.

GamingTie
  • •Both offer triple mode connectivity for low-latency 2.4 GHz wireless or wired USB-C play.
  • •Both have N-Key Rollover over USB and white LED backlighting for low-light gaming.
  • •Both use a standard TKL layout which saves desk space for mouse movement.
OfficeVarmilo VPE87
  • •The standard VPE87 offers silent switch variants (e.g. Cherry MX Silent Red), which are beneficial in shared office environments.
  • •Both keyboards include a 2-step kickstand and double-layer silicone sound absorption for a quieter, more adjustable typing experience.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both feature a TKL layout with dedicated function row and arrow keys, ideal for code navigation.
  • •Both come pre-built with PBT keycaps and hotswap sockets, allowing programmers to swap switches easily.
  • •Neither supports QMK or VIA firmware, limiting custom keymap adjustments.
TravelTie
  • •Both are 80% TKL plastic keyboards, offering a balance of portability and full function row access.
  • •Both support Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless, making them easy to use on the go without a cable.
ModdingVarmilo VPE87
  • •The standard VPE87 supports silent switches, which are a popular modding option that the Summit R1 does not list.
  • •Both feature hotswap sockets, flex cut PCBs, and double-layer silicone sound absorption for easy switch and sound modding.
Content CreationTie
  • •Both have white LED backlighting for visibility in dim studios.
  • •Both include Mac/Win support and a 3-way cord channel for tidy cable management.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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