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Compare Varmilo VPT87 vs VPT87 R2 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between Varmilo's VPT87 and its slightly updated R2 version. The choice is difficult because both share the same core tenkeyless form factor, triple-mode connectivity, hotswap PCB, and sound-dampening design. The decision ultimately hinges on subtle differences in keycap composition and aesthetic options, which are the primary differentiators.

67
Varmilo VPT87 Mac TKL Hotswap Wireless RGB Mechanical Keyboard
67
Varmilo VPT87 Panda R2 TKL Hotswap Wireless RGB Keyboard

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  • Has Tactile, Linear, Silent, Clicky switch options
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
  • Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 76
  • Build Quality: 54
  • Productivity: 77.6
  • Customizability: 71.1
  • Portability: 74
Scores
  • Performance: 76.4
  • Build Quality: 55.3
  • Productivity: 78.8
  • Customizability: 72
  • Portability: 74.7
Name
Varmilo VPT87
Name
Varmilo VPT87 R2
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Silent, Clicky
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
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
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
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
 
Rgb, South-face, North-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS
Case Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Dimensions
-
Dimensions
-
Weight
-
Weight
-
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Pros and Trade-offs

The Varmilo VPT87 and VPT87 R2 are nearly identical keyboards with the same core functionality. Your choice should be guided by personal preference for keycap material and color. Opt for the original VPT87 if you prefer confirmed PBT keycaps and a white color scheme. Choose the R2 if the black 'Panda' theme and potential for polycarbonate keycaps are more appealing.

Varmilo VPT87

  • +Uses thick dye-sub PBT keycaps according to the vendor listing, which are generally more resistant to shine.
  • +Listed as being available in a white color option.
  • +Includes a flex cut PCB, as noted in the vendor description.
  • −The vendor description does not mention polycarbonate as a keycap material option.
  • −Lacks the specific 'Panda' color theme associated with the R2 model.

Varmilo VPT87 R2

  • +Vendor description lists keycap material as polycarbonate, which can offer a different sound and feel.
  • +Offered in a distinct black 'Panda' color theme.
  • +Metadata lists both PBT and ABS as keycap material options, suggesting potential variety.
  • −The vendor description does not mention a flex cut PCB feature.
  • −The listed polycarbonate keycaps may show wear differently than PBT.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

Across all major use cases, the VPT87 and VPT87 R2 are functionally tied. Their identical performance specs, connectivity options, and modding features make them equally suitable for gaming, office work, programming, and travel. The decision is purely aesthetic, based on the listed keycap material and color differences.

GamingTie
  • •Both offer a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired mode for low latency.
  • •Both feature N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
  • •Both have south-facing RGB lighting to avoid interference with certain keycaps.
OfficeTie
  • •Both support silent switch options like Cherry MX Silent Red.
  • •Both offer Bluetooth 5.1 and 2.4 GHz wireless for flexible connectivity.
  • •Both include preset multimedia key combinations.
ProgrammingTie
  • •Both use a standard TKL ANSI layout for familiar key placement.
  • •Both have a hotswap PCB for easily trying different switch types.
  • •Both are listed as compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux.
TravelTie
  • •Both share the same 80% (TKL) size for a portable footprint.
  • •Both feature triple-mode connectivity, including Bluetooth.
  • •Both have a 3-way cord channel for cable management.
ModdingTie
  • •Both have a hotswap PCB for easy switch changes.
  • •Both feature a plate-mount design with an aluminum plate.
  • •Both include double-layer silicone sound absorption foam.
Content CreationTie
  • •Both offer multimedia keys for quick media control.
  • •Both provide consistent wireless performance with 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth options.
  • •Both have adjustable two-step kickstands for ergonomics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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