The Varmilo Victory is a wired, hot-swappable mechanical keyboard with a focus on smooth typing and fast response times. This review will explore the keyboard’s build quality, keycap feel, switch performance, and software functionality.

Build Quality and Design

The Varmilo Victory boasts a CNC machined black aluminum case, giving it a hefty and premium feel. This translates to excellent sturdiness during typing and resists any unwanted movement. The top-mount design keeps the keyboard profile relatively low, while the included magnetic feet offer adjustable typing angles.

The keyboard features a 67-key layout, making it a compact option for those seeking to save desk space. While some may miss dedicated function keys, the Victory offers them as secondary functions accessible through a function key combination.

Keycaps and Typing Experience

The Victory comes equipped with 3-sided pudding PBT keycaps. These keycaps offer a pleasant texture with a slight softness, and the pudding effect allows the RGB lighting to shine through beautifully. The legends are dye-sublimated, ensuring long-lasting wear and tear resistance.

The typing experience is the real highlight of the Victory. The pre-lubed Gateron x Varmilo magnetic switches deliver a very smooth keypress with minimal wobble. The actuation force feels light, making typing for extended periods comfortable. However, it’s important to note that the included switches are a linear type, which may not be ideal for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience.

Switches and Hot-Swapping

The Victory utilizes Gateron x Varmilo magnetic switches. These utilize magnets instead of traditional metal contacts for actuation, resulting in a noticeably smoother keypress. Additionally, the hot-swappable nature of the keyboard allows for easy switch customization without soldering. Users can swap in different switch types to personalize their typing experience.

Software and Functionality

The Varmilo provides downloadable software that allows for customization of the keyboard’s RGB lighting effects. Users can choose from a variety of pre-set effects or create their own. Interestingly, the software also allows for adjustment of the actuation point of each individual switch. This allows for fine-tuning the keyboard’s response to keypresses based on personal preference.

Conclusion

The Varmilo Victory is a well-built and feature-rich mechanical keyboard. The combination of a premium aluminum case, smooth magnetic switches, and comfortable keycaps makes it a compelling option for both gamers and typists. The hot-swappable functionality adds further value, allowing users to personalize their typing experience. However, the lack of dedicated function keys and the linear switch type may not be ideal for everyone. Overall, the Varmilo Victory is a strong contender in the premium mechanical keyboard market, offering a smooth and responsive typing experience with a touch of luxury.