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Compare Varmilo VPM108 Beijing Opera vs Vortex Multix 104 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two full-size mechanical keyboards with distinct philosophies. The Varmilo VPM108 Beijing Opera is a themed, wired board with a specific aesthetic and sound profile. The Vortex Multix 104 is a feature-rich, wireless model focused on layout flexibility and user modification. The decision is difficult because both offer PBT keycaps and sound dampening, but their core functionality diverges sharply between plug-and-play and tinkerer-friendly designs.

Varmilo VPM108 Beijing Opera White LED EC Mechanical Keyboard
83
Vortex Multix 104 VIA Summer Hotswap Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Has Clicky switch options
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Made with a Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, White RGB lighting
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • Supports hot-swappable switches
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO layout standard
  • Offers Split Backspace ergonomics
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Made with a ABS case
  • Offers Yes, North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 53.3
  • Build Quality: 50
  • Productivity: 71.2
  • Customizability: 53.3
  • Portability: 44.8
Scores
  • Performance: 73.5
  • Build Quality: 70.4
  • Productivity: 89.1
  • Customizability: 87.4
  • Portability: 53.6
Name
Varmilo VPM108 Beijing Opera
Name
Vortex Multix 104
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Clicky
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
100%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Split Backspace
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
Wired, Wired only
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
Backlight
 
North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic
Case Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
-
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

The Vortex Multix 104 is the more versatile and future-proof investment for most users, thanks to its wireless options, hotswap capability, and robust programming support. It is designed to adapt to your needs over time. Choose the Varmilo VPM108 Beijing Opera if you are specifically drawn to its aesthetic theme, prefer a simpler wired setup, and do not plan on modifying switches or key mappings.

Varmilo VPM108 Beijing Opera

  • +Features a unique Beijing Opera themed design with specific keycap colors.
  • +Includes double silicone sound dampening pads for a quieter typing experience.
  • +Offers a 3-way cord channel for cable management from the left, right, or middle.
  • +Has a 2-step kickstand for adjustable typing angles.
  • +Uses dye-sublimated PBT keycaps for durable legends.

  • Wired-only connectivity limits placement and portability.
  • Not hotswappable, locking you into its pre-soldered clicky switches.
  • Lacks QMK/VIA support, offering no software-based key remapping.
  • Has white LED backlighting only, with no RGB options.

Vortex Multix 104

  • +Offers triple-mode connectivity: wired USB-C, Bluetooth 5.0, and 2.4 GHz wireless.
  • +Hotswap sockets support both 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches.
  • +Fully programmable with both QMK and VIA firmware support.
  • +Includes extensive sound dampening with latex foam, IXPE pads, a PET pad, and a silicone pad.
  • +Supports multiple layouts including ANSI, ISO, and split Backspace.

  • Wireless mode requires 2x AA batteries instead of a built-in rechargeable cell.
  • Has north-facing RGB LEDs, which may cause interference with certain Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • Case is constructed from ABS plastic, which may feel less premium than other materials.
  • Currently may be harder to find in stock based on vendor listings.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Vortex Multix 104 wins in most categories due to its wireless versatility, deep software customization, and hardware modding potential. It is the clear choice for programmers, travelers, and tinkerers. The Varmilo VPM108, as a wired board with a fixed switch type and limited programmability, serves users who prioritize a specific themed aesthetic and a simpler, out-of-the-box experience. For content creation, the full-size layout is a shared advantage, making the choice more about workflow preferences.

GamingVortex Multix 104
  • The Vortex Multix 104 offers wireless connectivity via 2.4 GHz for reduced cable clutter.
  • It features N-key rollover for reliable simultaneous key presses.
  • Its hotswap design allows for installing gaming-focused linear switches.
OfficeVortex Multix 104
  • The Vortex Multix 104 provides Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless for easy connection to multiple devices.
  • It supports silent switch options like Cherry MX2A Silent Red, as listed in its available switches.
  • Its programmable layers via VIA can streamline repetitive office tasks.
ProgrammingVortex Multix 104
  • The Vortex Multix 104 supports QMK and VIA for extensive key remapping and macro creation.
  • It offers layout support for split Backspace and split right Shift, providing ergonomic flexibility.
  • Full programmability is a core feature for coding workflows.
TravelVortex Multix 104
  • The Vortex Multix 104 is wireless, powered by AA batteries, eliminating the need for a power cable.
  • Its wireless functionality increases portability between workspaces.
  • The Varmilo VPM108 is wired-only, which can be less convenient for mobile setups.
ModdingVortex Multix 104
  • The Vortex Multix 104 has a hotswap PCB supporting 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
  • It features multiple internal foam layers (latex plate foam, IXPE switch pads, PET pad, silicone pad) for acoustic tuning.
  • It uses a stack-mounted structure and an FR4 plate, which are mod-friendly design choices.
  • The Varmilo VPM108 is not hotswappable and lacks the same level of documented internal access for mods.
Content CreationTie
  • Both are full-size keyboards, providing a dedicated number pad for numerical input.
  • Both lack dedicated multimedia keys, according to their vendor characteristics.
  • The Vortex's programmability can map macros, while the Varmilo's simpler design may appeal to those who prefer a fixed layout.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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