Varmilo makes really nice and high quality mechanical keyboards and the Minilo98 Pro is no exception to the rule. Minilo98 Pro has CNC metal top case, QMK/VIA support, is hotswappable and with 1000Hz polling rate. It’s themed as “Star Sand” in white and beige/gold colors. But let’s review it in detail.
In the box, you get the keyboard, a manual, a cable, a key puller/switch puller, a 2.4GHz dongle, and extra keycaps. It’s available in ANSI and in ISO and the ISO-Swedish layout is the default, but additional keycaps for other ISO layouts are included if you choose it. Basically you then get replacement keycaps for the other European languages (ISO-DE/DK/NO/SW/IS, ISO-ES/IT/PT, ISO-UK/HU, ISO-FR/BEL layouts). Varmilo sells it with Kailh Prestige Silent and Kailh Prestige Voice switches.
Feature | Kailh Prestige Silent | Kailh Prestige Voice |
---|---|---|
Type | Linear/Silent | Linear/HiFi |
Noise Level | Extra quiet | Quite loud |
Operating Force | 42gf | 40gf |
Terminal Force | 50gf | 50gf |
Conduction Travel | 1.8mm | 2.0mm |
Total Travel | 3.6mm | 3.4mm |
Stem Type | Long-pole stem | Long-pole stem |
Lubrication | Factory lubed | Factory lubed |
I got the version with Prestige Voice switches and they sound pretty great but might be too loud for some people. The sound test is linked below. And if you want to hear the Presige Silent switches then you can check out the Varmilo Minilo75 review here (they are extremely quiet!).
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Polling Rate | 1000 Hz (wired and 2.4 GHz modes) |
Latency | 1ms ultra-low latency |
Customization | QMK/VIA support for key remapping and macros |
Keycap Material | PBT Double Shot, 1.5mm thick |
Keycap Profile | Cherry Profile |
Hot-swappable | Yes, supports 3/5 pin switches |
Backlighting | South-facing RGB |
Battery Capacity | 4000mAh |
Connection Modes | Wired (USB-C), Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless |
Operating Systems | Compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, iOS |
The compact size of the Minilo98 Pro is a major plus for me. It saves about 20% of space compared to a full-sized keyboard with its 98 key layout (hence the name – Minilo98). One small thing that bothered me at first was that the arrow keys are placed very closely to the right Shift key, but I quickly gotten used to it.
The keyboard is customizable with QMK/VIA, which allows for key remapping and creating macros, but setting this up might take a bit of time if you’re not familiar with it. I’ve tested the VIA to check if it works and it did. Varmilo website has the VIA manual and VIA JSON file available to download to setup it properly.
The gasket mount structure and the combination of different foams and dampeners make the typing experience comfortable. The two-stage kickstands (4°-7.5°-11°) let you adjust the typing angle, which is helpful for finding the right position. It’s functional without being overly complicated.
Switching between wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4G wireless modes is straightforward with a physical switch located at the back. The keyboard is compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, and switching between Windows and Mac OS is done by pressing Fn+Tab for five seconds. It’s practical and easy to manage if you use multiple devices.
The Varmilo Minilo98 Pro is a great choice if you’re looking for a compact, well-built full size keyboard. It offers good customization options, solid performance, and a comfortable typing experience. It’s practical without being overly flashy, making it a good fit for both work and casual use.
You can get Varmilo Minilo98 Pro from Varmilo store for $159.
I love testing and writing about new tech. I'm also a gamer and an engineer. Check out my Twitter for keyboard and controller news and reviews.