| Price | Fumo Shop |
| Release | September 2024 |
| Compatibility | PC |
| Dimensions | 12.7″ x 8.8″ x 1.2″ |
| Weight | 3 lbs |
| Cable | 3 m |
Unboxing
After you open up the Varmilo FK2’s box, you should find the controller within its carrying case, which is robust and has a handle, making it like a briefcase. Then, unzip the case to see two things:
- Space where you can store items like documents
- The FK2 and some accessories under a protective layer with a Velcro strap
In addition to a manual, the FK2’s accessories are:
- Varmilo USB-C to A cable with a tie
- Extra switches
- Switch puller
- Prying tool
Items like the FK2 itself and its cable come in protective bags.
Performance
The FK2 is a regular sized controller with a sloped wrist rest. The carrying case that comes with the controller also doubles as a way to increase its height if you want.
The thickness of the FK2 was chosen so that it is comfortable to play with on both a desk and your lap. Thanks to the anti-slip rubber pad at the bottom, the controller should not slide when playing with it on a desk, and during lap play, your legs should feel comfortable. The width of the controller is another reason the controller is comfortable on a lap.
About the FK2’s buttons, they are slightly over 20 mm in size, including the jump button. That is even though most leverless controllers of this size have bigger jump buttons.
The FK2 has two extra buttons for L3 and R3 in case your fighting game of choice requires such buttons to execute certain mechanics.
The buttons of the FK2 are convex in a way that prevents them from popping off if you use sliding techniques when you play fighting games.
The FK2 uses Cherry MX Multipoint Silver switches, and their lifespan is a whopping two billion presses! Their linear nature means that the force required from you to press them remains consistent throughout the concentric and eccentric parts of the actuation.
Interestingly, the FK2 allows you to change the actuation point to your preferred position by 0.1 mm increments that range from a 1.5 to 2.2 mm stroke. The actuation force is 45 g. In addition, the controller was designed to be quieter as there is a cushion under the top panel. If needed, that cushion is removable.
Regarding the function buttons, they are small and hard to press, so it would have been preferrable for them to be soft and big, especially because the FK2 is not a mini controller. Anyway, the function buttons from left to right are labeled:
- Start
- Back
- Guide
- Unused
- Reset
In addition to an LED indicator that turns on to let you know that the FK2 is successfullly connected, there is a toggle for controller mode, lock mode, and PC mode. Featured is SOCD cleaning as well.
Hardware
The FK2 is made of quality ABS. If you would like to open it up, you can follow these steps:
- Using the prying tool, uncover 13 hidden screws at the bottom.
- Use an appropriate screwdriver to unscrew the 13 screws.
- Using the prying tool again, disconnect the bottom panel.
- Use your fingers to separate the bottom from the top.
At this point, you may be surprised to see that the FK2 is essentially a small controller housed within an enclosure that makes it bigger, which is a clever design idea.
That said, the USB-C to A cable goes in the FK2’s center back, with the USB-C port being under the top panel a little bit. You can choose to let the cable go through the center back, left, or right.
You may be glad to know that there is a web app for the FK2. Also, if you would like to enhance the controller’s compatibility for PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo support, insert the appropriate dongle if you have one.
Appearance
The FK2’s minimalistic design is a sight to behold. Its default black shade is soothing to see, and there are also blue Sea Melody and pink Sakura editions. The curved edges all around are a nice finishing touch.
Conclusion
The Varmilo FK2 is a cleverly designed leverless controller with buttons that stay in place during intense matches.
- Quality buttons
- Soundproof design
- Convenient size
- Wrist slope
- Anti-slip bottom
- Upgradeable compatibility
- Cable pathways
- Color options
- Included freebies
- Carrying case
- Small function buttons
Rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐