Epomaker EK68 Review: 65% Gasket Mount Mechanical Keyboard

Last Updated on October 29, 2023

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, enthusiasts and professionals alike seek a balance of performance, customization, and affordability. The Epomaker EK68 is a mechanical keyboard that strikes that balance, offering a feature-rich experience without breaking the bank. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve deep into the Epomaker EK68 to explore its design, build quality, switches, keycaps, hot-swappable PCB, stabilizers, RGB backlighting, connectivity options, software and programmability, performance, typing experience, and much more. By the end of this review, you’ll have a detailed understanding of the Epomaker EK68 and whether it’s the right keyboard for you.

Epomaker EK68 Overview

The Epomaker EK68 is a compact 65% mechanical keyboard, featuring 66 keys designed for space-efficiency. Its unique gasket mount design offers a quieter typing experience with a softer touch, ensuring comfort during extended typing sessions.

The EK68 boasts three versatile connectivity modes: Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and Type-C wired connections. Equipped with a 3000mAh battery, it supports wireless usage and seamless device switching. A notable addition is the rotary multimedia knob for convenient control.

One of the standout features of the EK68 is its hot-swappable PCB, allowing easy switch replacement or customization without the need for soldering. It accommodates both 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches, including popular brands like Cherry, Gateron, and Kailh.

The keycaps on the EK68 are crafted from double-shot PBT material, known for its durability and resistance to oils. You can choose between OEM or Cherry profile keycaps, depending on your preferred color option. The keyboard also offers customizable RGB backlighting for added visual appeal.

Constructed with a plastic case and a steel plate, the EK68 ensures stability and durability. It uses plate-mounted stabilizers to provide consistent and reliable key stability. N-key rollover support allows for simultaneous key presses without any issues.

The package includes the keyboard itself, an instruction manual, a Type-C cable for wired connections, a 2.4GHz receiver for wireless use, and a keycap/switch puller for customization.

In summary, the Epomaker EK68 is a feature-rich mechanical keyboard with its gasket mount design, hot-swappable PCB, various connectivity options, and customizable RGB backlighting. Its compact form factor and ergonomic features make it suitable for both gaming and productivity tasks.

What’s Inside the Box

Upon opening the Epomaker EK68 packaging, you’ll discover an array of essential components:

1. The Keyboard: The EK68 keyboard itself takes center stage in the box. This central piece houses all the requisite features and functions.
2. Instruction Manual: A comprehensive instruction manual is thoughtfully included to steer you through the setup and effective usage of the keyboard. It furnishes insights into the keyboard’s features, key functions, and offers specific instructions for customization and troubleshooting.
3. Type-C Cable: For wired connectivity, a Type-C cable is part of the package. This cable facilitates a stable and high-speed data and power transmission, enabling you to link the keyboard to your computer or other devices.
4. 2.4G Receiver: The package also incorporates a 2.4GHz receiver, which serves as the linchpin for wireless connectivity between the EK68 keyboard and your computer or device when opting for the 2.4GHz wireless mode.
5. Keycap/Switch Puller: To assist in keyboard customization, a keycap/switch puller tool is at your disposal. This tool simplifies the process of safely removing keycaps or switches, thereby facilitating switch replacement or customization.

These inclusions are meticulously provided to ensure that you possess all the necessary components and tools required to configure and personalize your Epomaker EK68 keyboard to your exact preferences.

Design and Build Quality

The Epomaker EK68 is a compact 65% mechanical keyboard that is designed to maximize functionality without wasting space. The keyboard features a gasket-mounted structure, which is a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts due to its cleaner sound profile and softer typing experience. The gasket mount also helps to reduce hand fatigue during long typing sessions.

The keyboard is made from high-quality plastic, which feels sturdy and durable. The plate is made from steel, which provides a solid foundation for the switches. The keycaps are made from double-shot PBT material, which is known for its durability, oil-resistance, and color retention even after prolonged use.

The EK68 features hot-swappable sockets that allow you to easily replace or change the switches without the need for soldering. The keyboard is compatible with most 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches, including Cherry, Gateron, Otemu, Kailh, and other MX switches and their clones. The hot-swappable sockets extend the lifespan of the key switches and provide more possibilities for DIY enthusiasts.

The EK68 comes in three different color options: black and purple, black and gold, and black and silver. Each color option has a unique look that will complement different setups.

The keyboard features a compact layout with 66 keys and one knob. The knob can be used to control the volume or multimedia functions, providing an intuitive way to navigate your media. The keyboard also features RGB backlighting, which can be customized using the included software.

Overall, the Epomaker EK68 is a well-designed and well-built mechanical keyboard that offers a premium typing experience with its gasket-mounted structure, hot-swappable sockets, and high-quality keycaps. The compact layout and customizable RGB backlighting make it an excellent choice for gamers and typists alike, and the various connectivity options make it easy to use with multiple devices.

The Keycaps

The Epomaker EK68 comes with double-shot PBT keycaps that are available in different color options depending on the keyboard model. The black and silver model comes with black and silver keycaps in OEM profile, while the black and purple model comes with black and purple keycaps in Cherry profile. The black and gold model comes with two options for keycap color: black and gold in Cherry profile, or black and gold in OEM profile.

Double-shot keycaps are made by injecting two layers of plastic material into a mold to create a keycap with two colors. This technique ensures that the legends (the letters and symbols on the keycap) will not fade or wear off with use. PBT plastic is a high-quality material used in keycaps that is durable, resistant to oil and grease, and has a matte finish that resists fingerprints.

The keycaps have a smooth texture and a slight texture on the surface to provide a comfortable typing experience. They are also compatible with Cherry MX and other similar switches, allowing for easy customization and replacement of switches without the need for soldering.

Overall, the keycaps of the Epomaker EK68 are well-made, durable, and aesthetically pleasing, making the keyboard an excellent choice for those who prioritize both function and form.

The Switches

The Epomaker EK68 keyboard comes with three different switch options to choose from: Epomaker Flamingo, Epomaker Budgerigar, and Gateron Pro 2.0 Yellow.

The Epomaker Flamingo switches are tactile and have a 55g actuation force, making them suitable for both typing and gaming. They have a travel distance of 4mm and a total travel distance of 2mm. The tactile bump is located at the top of the switch, providing feedback to the user.

The Epomaker Budgerigar switches are linear and have a 50g actuation force, making them suitable for fast typing and gaming. They have a travel distance of 4mm and a total travel distance of 2mm. The switches have a smooth linear feel with no tactile bump, allowing for quick and easy key presses.

The Gateron Pro 2.0 Yellow switches are also linear and have a 50g actuation force. They have a travel distance of 4mm and a total travel distance of 2mm. These switches have a smooth linear feel with no tactile bump, providing a comfortable typing experience.

All three switch options are hot-swappable, which means you can easily change them without the need for any soldering. This allows you to try different switches and find the one that suits your needs and preferences the most. The hot-swappable feature also extends the lifespan of the keyboard as you can replace switches that become faulty or worn out.

The Hot-Swappable Feature

The hot-swappable feature of the Epomaker EK68 keyboard allows users to change the mechanical switches on their keyboard without having to solder or desolder anything. This feature is especially useful for people who like to experiment with different types of switches, as they can easily swap out their current switches for new ones without any specialized tools or knowledge.

The EK68 keyboard supports both 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches, which means that it can work with a wide variety of switch brands, including Cherry, Gateron, Otemu, Kailh, and many others. This flexibility means that users can choose the exact type of switch that they prefer, whether it’s for gaming, typing, or any other activity.

To swap out a switch on the EK68 keyboard, users simply need to remove the keycap from the switch they want to replace, and then use the included keycap/switch puller to gently pull the switch out of the keyboard. Once the old switch is removed, users can then insert a new switch into the hot-swappable socket, making sure to align the pins correctly. The process is simple, fast, and requires no additional tools or equipment.

Overall, the hot-swappable feature of the Epomaker EK68 keyboard makes it a versatile and customizable keyboard that can be tailored to the specific needs and preferences of each individual user. Whether you’re a gamer, a writer, or just someone who wants a keyboard that feels and sounds a certain way, the EK68’s hot-swappable switches give you the freedom and flexibility to create the perfect typing experience for you.

The Stabilizers

The Epomaker EK68 utilizes plate-mounted stabilizers, which are an important component in a mechanical keyboard. Stabilizers are responsible for ensuring the stability and consistency of larger keys such as the spacebar, enter key, shift keys, and backspace key. They help prevent key wobble and provide a smooth and consistent keystroke experience.

Plate-mounted stabilizers consist of several parts:

1. Stabilizer Housing: The stabilizer housing is a plastic component that holds the stabilizer wire in place. It is inserted into the keyboard plate.
2. Stabilizer Wire: The stabilizer wire is a metal wire that connects to the keycap and helps stabilize the larger keys. It is inserted into the stabilizer housing.
3. Stabilizer Stem: The stabilizer stem is a plastic component that attaches to the keycap. It has two parts: the slider and the insert. The slider moves along the stabilizer wire, while the insert connects the stabilizer stem to the keycap.
4. Stabilizer Bar: The stabilizer bar is a metal bar that connects the stabilizer stems of both ends of the keycap. It ensures that both ends of the keycap move simultaneously when pressed.

The plate-mounted stabilizers in the Epomaker EK68 are designed to be compatible with the keyboard’s plate and layout. They provide a stable and consistent typing experience, reducing any potential key wobble or inconsistency. The plate-mounted design ensures that the stabilizers are firmly attached to the keyboard plate, minimizing any unwanted movement or noise.

When customizing or modifying the keyboard, it is important to note that the Epomaker EK68 uses plate-mounted stabilizers, which means that the stabilizers are integrated into the keyboard plate. This can affect the process of switching keycaps, as the stabilizers need to be properly aligned and engaged with the new keycaps.

Overall, the plate-mounted stabilizers in the Epomaker EK68 contribute to a stable and reliable typing experience, particularly for the larger keys, ensuring that each keystroke feels consistent and smooth.

RGB Backlit

The Epomaker EK68 keyboard features RGB backlighting, which allows you to customize the color and lighting effects of the keyboard to your preference. With 16.8 million color options and various lighting modes, you can create a unique and personalized look for your keyboard.

The RGB backlighting is located under each keycap and can be adjusted using the software that comes with the keyboard. The software allows you to choose from a wide range of lighting effects, including static, breathing, wave, and reactive modes. You can also adjust the brightness and speed of the lighting effects to suit your needs.

In addition, the Epomaker EK68 keyboard features south-facing LEDs, which are located on the underside of the switches. This design allows for better light diffusion and creates a more even and vibrant lighting effect.

Overall, the RGB backlighting of the Epomaker EK68 keyboard is a great feature for those who want to add some personality and style to their keyboard. With a wide range of color options and lighting effects, you can create a unique and personalized look that suits your taste.

Connectivity And Compatibility

The Epomaker EK68 mechanical keyboard offers versatile connectivity options to suit various user preferences. It can be connected to a device through Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, or Type-C wired connection. The Bluetooth 5.0 connection allows for a stable wireless connection with low latency, while the 2.4GHz wireless connection provides a reliable wireless experience with extended range. The Type-C wired connection allows for a fast and stable wired connection with no lag.

In terms of compatibility, the Epomaker EK68 is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. It can seamlessly switch between devices with the press of a button, making it convenient for users who frequently switch between devices. Additionally, the keyboard is hot-swappable, meaning users can easily replace the switches without any need for soldering. This feature makes the keyboard compatible with a variety of switches, including Cherry, Gateron, Otemu, Kailh, and other MX switches and their clones.

The Epomaker EK68 also comes with a 2.4GHz receiver that can be plugged into a device’s USB port for a reliable wireless connection. The receiver can be stored in a designated compartment in the keyboard for safekeeping when not in use.

Overall, the Epomaker EK68 offers flexible connectivity options and compatibility with a variety of devices and switch types, making it a versatile keyboard for a range of users.

Software and Programmability

The Epomaker EK68 mechanical keyboard offers a high level of customization and programmability through its dedicated software. The software allows users to fully personalize their keyboard experience by remapping keys, creating custom macros, and adjusting various settings.

With the software, users can easily remap any key on the keyboard to a different function or even assign it as a macro key. This flexibility enables users to tailor the keyboard layout to their specific needs and preferences. Whether it’s assigning multimedia controls to specific keys or creating complex macros for gaming, the software makes it easy to redefine the functionality of each key.

Furthermore, the software provides extensive lighting control options for the RGB backlighting. Users can choose from a wide range of colors and lighting effects, and they can also synchronize the lighting with other compatible devices. This level of customization allows users to create stunning lighting setups that match their personal style or gaming setup.

The software also supports the creation and storage of multiple profiles, making it convenient to switch between different settings for various tasks or games. Users can create separate profiles for gaming, productivity, or any other specific use case, and easily switch between them with a few clicks. This ensures a seamless transition between different setups without the need for manual adjustments each time.

Another notable feature of the Epomaker EK68 software is the ability to save and load custom configurations. Users can create backups of their personalized settings and share them with others. This makes it convenient to transfer settings between different computers or even share preferred configurations with the community.

Overall, the software provided with the Epomaker EK68 offers a robust and user-friendly interface for customization and programmability. It empowers users to create a keyboard experience tailored to their needs, whether it’s through remapping keys, creating macros, adjusting lighting effects, or managing profiles. The software’s intuitive design and extensive options make it easy for both beginners and advanced users to unlock the full potential of the Epomaker EK68 keyboard.

Performance

The Epomaker EK68 excels in terms of performance, offering a range of features that enhance both gaming and productivity experiences. The gasket-mounted design of the keyboard provides a cleaner sound profile compared to other mounting styles, such as top mount. This results in a more satisfying typing experience and reduces hand fatigue, making it ideal for users who spend long periods typing. The sound absorption foams further enhance the acoustic performance, ensuring a pleasant and quiet typing experience.

The EK68 offers three modes of connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and Type-C wired. This versatility allows users to easily switch between different devices, making it highly convenient for those who frequently work or game across multiple platforms. The inclusion of a 3000mAh battery ensures long wireless usage without the need for frequent recharging. When a stable and fast connection is required, the Type-C wired option provides a reliable transmission for uninterrupted performance.

One of the standout features of the EK68 is its hot-swappable PCB. This allows users to effortlessly replace or customize the mechanical switches without the need for soldering. The keyboard is compatible with both 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches, providing a wide range of options to suit individual preferences. This feature not only extends the lifespan of the keyboard but also caters to the needs of DIY enthusiasts who enjoy experimenting with different switches.

The EK68’s keycaps are made of double-shot PBT material, which offers durability and resistance to oil and wear. The keycaps come in either OEM or Cherry profile, depending on the chosen color option. The OEM profile provides a comfortable and ergonomic typing experience, while the Cherry profile offers a more traditional and sculpted feel. The black-gold-themed keycaps add an aesthetic touch to the keyboard, staying true to their color even after extended use.

In terms of construction, the EK68 features a plastic case and a steel plate, ensuring sturdiness and stability during intense typing or gaming sessions. The plate-mounted stabilizers contribute to consistent key stability, reducing any potential wobbling or rattling. The keyboard’s compact 65% layout maximizes functionality while minimizing desk space, making it a suitable choice for users who desire a compact and efficient setup.

With its RGB backlighting, the EK68 adds a visually appealing element to the overall experience. The backlighting can be customized to suit personal preferences, allowing users to create their desired lighting effects and ambience. The inclusion of an instruction manual, Type-C cable, 2.4GHz receiver, and keycap/switch puller in the package ensures that users have everything they need for easy setup and customization.

Overall, the Epomaker EK68 delivers exceptional performance with its gasket-mounted design, versatile connectivity options, hot-swappable PCB, and durable keycaps. Whether used for gaming or productivity, this keyboard offers a satisfying typing experience, excellent customization possibilities, and an attractive design, all at an affordable price point.

Typing Experience And Sound Test (Gateron Pro 2.0 Yellow)

The Epomaker EK68 keyboard, equipped with Gateron Pro 2.0 Yellow switches, offers a unique typing experience and sound profile. Here’s a brief explanation of what you can expect:

Typing Experience:

Gateron Pro 2.0 Yellow switches are linear switches known for their smooth keystrokes. They have a relatively light actuation force of around 50g, making them responsive and easy to type on. The lack of tactile feedback or audible click allows for a consistent and uninterrupted typing experience. These switches are favored by gamers and typists who prefer a smoother keystroke without the tactile bump.

The EK68 keyboard itself enhances the typing experience with its gasket-mounted design. This mounting style, combined with sound absorption foams, helps dampen key vibrations and reduces the sound produced by keystrokes. The gasket mount contributes to a softer and more cushioned typing feel, which can help reduce hand fatigue during long typing sessions.

Sound Test:

The Gateron Pro 2.0 Yellow switches on the EK68 keyboard produce a relatively quiet typing sound. The linear nature of these switches means there is no audible click or tactile bump. As a result, the sound produced is mainly from the keycap bottoming out and the keycap’s return spring. The sound is generally muffled and not overly pronounced.

However, it’s worth noting that the sound produced by a keyboard can also be influenced by various factors such as the keycap material, typing technique, and typing speed. Keycaps made of PBT material, like those included with the EK68, tend to produce a slightly lower-pitched and more solid sound compared to ABS keycaps.

Ultimately, the typing experience and sound produced by the Epomaker EK68 with Gateron Pro 2.0 Yellow switches offer a smooth and relatively quiet typing experience, making it suitable for both office environments and gaming scenarios where minimal noise is desired.

Price and Variants

The Epomaker EK68 is available at a price of $89.99, which is quite competitive considering the features and customization options it offers. With its affordable price tag, the EK68 aims to provide a high-quality mechanical keyboard experience without breaking the bank.

The EK68 comes in three color variants, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their preferences. The options include Black & Purple, Black & Gold, and Black & Silver. Each variant adds its unique aesthetic touch, giving users the freedom to select a keyboard that matches their personal style or setup.

In terms of switch options, the Epomaker EK68 offers three choices: Epomaker Flamingo, Epomaker Budgerigar, and Gateron Pro 2.0 Yellow. These switches provide different characteristics and typing experiences, catering to various user preferences. Whether you prefer a tactile, linear, or clicky switch, there is an option available to suit your needs.

Additionally, the EK68 features keycaps made from double-shot PBT material. Depending on the color variant chosen, the keycaps are available in either OEM profile or Cherry profile. The use of PBT material ensures durability, resistance to oil, and long-lasting color vibrancy even after extended use.

The inclusion of a hot-swappable PCB is another noteworthy feature of the EK68. This allows users to easily replace or customize their switches without the need for soldering. It supports both 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches, providing compatibility with a wide range of switch options from popular brands like Cherry, Gateron, and Kailh.

The Epomaker EK68 also offers multiple connectivity options to suit various user preferences. It supports Bluetooth 5.0 and 2.4GHz wireless modes, allowing for wireless usage and seamless switching between devices. Additionally, a Type-C cable is included for stable and fast wired connection when desired.

Overall, the Epomaker EK68 provides a well-rounded package with its competitive price, color variants, switch options, keycap profiles, and connectivity choices. Its affordability, coupled with its feature-rich design, makes it an appealing choice for keyboard enthusiasts, gamers, and productivity users alike.

Pros and Cons of Epomaker EK68

Pros	Cons
Gasket-mounted design for cleaner sound and softer typing	Plastic case may not feel as premium as metal alternatives
Three modes of connectivity: Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, and wired	Limited color options available
Hot-swappable PCB for easy switch replacement	Keycap options limited to OEM or Cherry profile
Supports both 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches	Plate-mounted stabilizers may require additional maintenance
Double-shot PBT keycaps for durability and aesthetics
RGB backlighting for customizable lighting effects
Compact 65% layout maximizes functionality
Sound absorption foams for improved acoustics
N-key rollover for simultaneous key presses
Comes with a variety of accessories

Should You Buy The Epomaker EK68?

The Epomaker EK68 is a highly versatile mechanical keyboard that offers a range of features at an affordable price. With a gasket-mounted design, hot-swappable switches, and a compact 65% layout, the EK68 is a great option for anyone looking for a keyboard that can handle both gaming and everyday typing tasks.

One of the most notable features of the EK68 is its gasket-mounted design, which provides a cleaner sound profile and softer typing experience compared to other mounting types. This can be especially beneficial for those who type for long periods of time, as it can help reduce hand fatigue. Additionally, the keyboard is equipped with sound absorption foam to further enhance its acoustic performance.

Another major selling point of the EK68 is its versatility in terms of connectivity. It can be used wirelessly via Bluetooth 5.0 or 2.4GHz, or wired via Type-C cable, which allows for fast and stable transmission. Seamless switching between different devices is also possible, making it easy to use the keyboard across multiple platforms.

The EK68 also boasts a hot-swappable PCB that is compatible with most 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches, such as Cherry, Gateron, Otemu, and Kailh, which provides more possibilities for DIY enthusiasts. The keyboard also comes with double-shot PBT keycaps, which are durable and oil-resistant, and are available in either OEM or Cherry profile.

Overall, the Epomaker EK68 is a great keyboard for anyone looking for a versatile and affordable option that can handle both gaming and typing tasks. Its gasket-mounted design, hot-swappable switches, and versatile connectivity options make it a solid choice for anyone looking for a high-quality mechanical keyboard.