Varmilo Minilo98 Pro Keyboard Review

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.

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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.

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FeatureKailh Prestige SilentKailh Prestige Voice
TypeLinear/SilentLinear/HiFi
Noise LevelExtra quietQuite loud
Operating Force42gf40gf
Terminal Force50gf50gf
Conduction Travel1.8mm2.0mm
Total Travel3.6mm3.4mm
Stem TypeLong-pole stemLong-pole stem
LubricationFactory lubedFactory lubed
Varmilo switches comparison

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!).

FeatureDescription
Polling Rate1000 Hz (wired and 2.4 GHz modes)
Latency1ms ultra-low latency
CustomizationQMK/VIA support for key remapping and macros
Keycap MaterialPBT Double Shot, 1.5mm thick
Keycap ProfileCherry Profile
Hot-swappableYes, supports 3/5 pin switches
BacklightingSouth-facing RGB
Battery Capacity4000mAh
Connection ModesWired (USB-C), Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless
Operating SystemsCompatible with Windows, macOS, Android, iOS
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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.

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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.

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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.

Marcus Richardson
Editor-in-chief

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.

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