Epomaker GK96S Review: Things You Should Know About it!

Last Updated on December 5, 2023

Epomaker GK96S is an 1800-Compact (96%) Mechanical Keyboard that has very complete features. This keyboard supports the Hot Swappable Switch feature and can use 3 or 5 pin mechanical switches. This keyboard also has complete connectivity options with UBS Type C and Bluetooth options so it can connect with your Android, iOS, or iPad devices. The battery capacity of the Epomaker GK96S is very large with a 4000mAh capacity, this keyboard can last up to 240 hours.

In this article we will cover many important aspects and try to answer any questions about the Epomaker GK96S 96% Mechanical Keyboard. We will also discuss the features of this keyboard along with its design and build quality. Let’s get started!

Epomaker GK96S 1800-Compact (96%) Mechanical Keyboard

Epomaker GK96S is a keyboard with a layout size of 1800-Compact or 96% keyboard that has very complete specifications and features. Not only that, the build quality of this keyboard is also very great because it uses components made of quality materials. Here we will discuss all aspects of the Epomaker GK96S in detail.

Specifications

Model	GK96S/SK96S
Keyboard Size	1800-Compact (96% Keyboard)
Number OF Keys	100 Keys
Switches	Gateron Mechanical Switch or Gateron Optical Switch
Keycaps	PBT Keycaps
Battery Capacity	4000mAh
Connection	Wireless Bluetooth or USB-C
Bluetooth Version	Bluetooth 5.1
Working Hours	2 to 5 weeks depending on the usage; 20 to 80 hours with RGB lights on Charging Time: 8-10 Hours with USB-C
USB Type	USB Type C
Cable Length	1.5 meters
Compatibility	Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android, iPad
Keyboard Dimension	370mm*123mm
RGB Backlit	Yes, 9 RGB Animations Effects
Hot Swappable Switch	Supports 3 or 5 Pin Switch
Software Support	Yes
Programmable Keys	Yes
Multimedia Keys	Yes

The specifications of this keyboard are very good with very complete features. The components used on this keyboard also have very good quality. The switch uses a Gateron Switch which is famous for its smoothness, then the keycap used is a color sublimation keycap set made of quality thick PBT plastic.

The connectivity options are also very complete because it supports connection via USB Type C and also Wireless Bluetooth so that it can connect with various types of devices with different operating systems such as Windows, Linux, Mac OS, Android, iOS or iPad.

Unboxing

In the packaging of the purchase of the this keyboard you get several equipment such as 5 spare keycaps for certain keys, spare switch, keycap puller, switch puller and a USB Type C cable Braider with a length of 1.5 meters.

Design And Build Quality

this keyboard has a very solid and sturdy build quality with a body made of thick plastic. When you try to press it, you will not find a flexible part on the body of this keyboard. The quality of the keycaps is also very extraordinary by using a keycap set made of thick PBT plastic and there is also a texture on the surface of the keycaps which is very comfortable for typing.

For design, this keyboard comes with an 1800-Compact keyboard layout which is a compact and ergonomic version of the full size keyboard. The keyboard still has a numpad, the most obvious difference is that there is no distance between the main and numpad keys so that the Epomaker GK96S has a very compact design and size that is even the same as the size of a TKL keyboard.

The Keycaps

this keyboard has very high quality and thick keycaps because it is made of PBT plastic. The keycaps on this keyboard consist of 100 keys with non-standard sizes so you have to be careful choosing the keycap set when changing the keycaps on this keyboard.

If you are interested, there is also the Epomaker GK96S option which uses the Panda PBT Keycap Set which is a quality PBT keycap set as well. Each of the keycaps on this keyboard has a thick design, this is one of the best quality keycaps on the pre-built keyboard and has a texture on the surface so it is very comfortable to use for typing.

Switches Options

For switch options, the Epomaker GK96S is available with a choice of Gateron Mechanical switches and Gateron Optical Switches. We certainly prefer the Gateron Mechanical Siwtch because if you want to replace it with another mechanical switch, there are many options available such as switches from Cherry MX or Kailh. For the mechanical switch options for the Epomaker GK96S, the following is a complete list of the this keyboard switch options:

• Gateron Red Switch: This is a smooth, linear type switch that has blank typing feedback and produces a quiet typing sound.
• Gateron Black Switch: This is also a linear switch that provides a smooth typing experience and produces a quiet sound too. The actuation of this switch is slightly heavier than the Gateron Red Switch.
• Gateron Brown Switch: This is a tactile type switch that provides slightly bumpy feedback when typed and produces a typing sound that is not too loud.
• Gateron Blue Switch: This switch is a clicky type switch that provides loud bumpy typing feedback and produces a loud typing sound as well.

If you want to buy this keyboard, we highly recommend you to choose the Epomaker GK96S option with a mechanical switch because if you want to replace the switch, there are many options that you can use. Meanwhile, if you choose the Epomaker GK96S with Optical switch, you will be very limited with the switch options.

We highly recommend you choose Gateron Brown or Red because both switches are very smooth and very comfortable for typing or playing games.

Stabilizers

This keyboard has a very nice and smooth stabilizer. There is not the slightest rattle when using the stabilizer attached key. The stabilizer on this keyboard works very well by maintaining the balance of the keys and can dampen vibrations and sounds perfectly.

As everyone expects to buy a GK keyboard, the stabilizer on the Epomaker GK96S is factory lubricated before assembly giving you super smooth typing and no vibration at all.

Typing Experience

By using quality components such as a textured PBT keycap that is very comfortable to type on, a choice of very smooth tactile Gateron Brown switches and also a very balanced stabilizer, this keyboard can give you a typing experience that is extraordinary and feels very precise.

The distance between the keys is very close and measured so that typing using this keyboard feels very accurate. Its compact size also provides excellent ergonomics and typing comfort. This is one of the 1800-Compact Keyboard which is very reliable for typing.

Bluetooth Connectivity

To activate bluetooth on this keyboard, you just need to use a combination of FN + Space, then to connect the the keyboard with other bluetooth devices, you can use the FN + 1, 2, and 3 functions.

This keyboard can be connected to a maximum of 3 devices at the same time via a Bluetooth 5.1 connection. The Bluetooth on the Epomaker GK96S is very stable and you don’t experience the slightest delay when using it while using it to connect with your device via bluetooth.

RGB LED

The RGB on the this keyboard is great with a wide range of animation options. RGB lights light up in the gaps in the keycaps which looks really cool, especially when using this keyboard in a low-light room.

To turn on the RGB backlit on this keyboard, you just need to use the FN + – (Minus key) key combination and to change your RGB animation effects use the FN + + (Plus key) combination. You can also use software from Epomaker to customize RGB on the Epomaker GK96S.

Software

Software support for this keyboard is excellent. This software can be used to reprogram key functions and also reprogram keyboard layer functions. In addition, you can also fully customize RGB using this software.

this keyboard’s software has a cool interface with very easy to understand navigation. All customization can also be done through this software so that you can maximize the keyboard function according to your needs. You can download the Epomaker GK96S software here.

Price and Variants

Epomaker GK96S has keyboard variants, the first is the best option that uses a Gateron Mechanical Switch, and the second is the Epomaker GK96S Optical Switch. We highly recommend that you choose the Epomaker GK96S Gateron Mechanical Switch variant because there are more mechanical switches available than Optical switches. The Epomaker GK96S retails for $119.00 on Amazon. You can buy it through this link to get a friendly price.

Is Epomaker GK96S Bluetooth?

Yes, Epomaker GK96S supports connectivity via USB Type C Cable and also via Wireless Bluetooth 5.1. The bluetooth connection on the Epomaker GK96S allows you to connect with various types of devices with different operating systems such as Android, iOS, Mac OS, and Windows. With this bluetooth connection, you can also connect with 3 devices at the same time.

Is Epomaker GK96S Good?

The Epomaker GK96S is a very good 1800-Compact (96%) mechanical keyboard because it has a very great design and build quality. The features on this keyboard are also very complete such as Hot Swappable Mechanical switches that support switches with 3 or 5 pins, Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity options, quality PBT plastic keycaps that are thick and very comfortable for typing or playing games, then good software support. This is one of the best 1800-Compact keyboards out there.

Which Better Epomaker GK96S or Keychron K4?

In the table below is a comparison of specifications between the Epomaker GK96S and Keychron K4:

Aspect	Epomaker GK96S	Keychron K4
Layout	1800-Compact (96%)	1800-Compact (96%)
Number Of Keys	100 Keys	100 Keys
Body	Thick Plastic	Aluminium
Connectivity	Wired/Wireless Bluetooth	Wired/Wireless Bluetooth
Keycaps	PBT Keycaps	ABS Keycaps
Switches Options	Gateron Switches	Gateron Switches
RGB Backlit	Yes	Yes
Battery Capacity	4000mAh	4000mAh
Software Support	Yes	No
Hot Swappable Switches	Yes, Support 3 and 5 Pin Switches	Yes, Support 3 and 5 Pin Switches
Price	$119.00	$109.00

For build quality on the keyboard body, the Keychron K4 has a better body quality because it uses a body made of thick aluminum, while the Epomaker GK96S uses a body made of thick and solid plastic. But the Aluminum body on the Keychron K4 is better than the plastic body on the Epomaker GK96S.

For the quality of the Keycaps, the Epomaker GK96S has higher quality keycaps than the Keychron K4 because the Keychron K4 only uses an ABS plastic keycap set, while the keycap set on the Epomaker GK96S is made of thick and quality PBT plastic and is more comfortable for typing.

Both of these keyboards have RGB backlit with lots of animations, wireless bluetooth connectivity, both use Gateron Switch, have the same battery capacity of 4000mAh and both support the hot swappable switch feature for 3 or 5 pin switches.

Although Keychron K4 has a better body quality, the Epomaker GK96S overall is superior in several aspects such as having software support, better Keycaps Quality. While the Keychron K4 does not have software support for customizing keys or RGB.

Pros and Cons

Aspect	Epomaker GK96S
Layout	96% layout
Keycaps	PBT or ABS
Keycap Profile	PBT: GK1
	ABS: OEM
Connectivity	Wireless with Bluetooth 5.1 and wired mode
Wired Connection	USB-C
Battery Capacity	4000mAh
Backlight	16M RGB
Size	370mm*123mm

Pros:

• 96% layout provides a compact design with a number pad for increased functionality.
• PBT keycaps are more durable and long-lasting, while ABS keycaps provide a smoother feel.
• The GK1 profile of the PBT keycaps is comfortable for typing, while the OEM profile of the ABS keycaps is a popular and comfortable choice.
• The wireless connectivity via Bluetooth 5.1 allows for flexibility and mobility, while the wired connection via USB-C provides stability and fast charging.
• 4000mAh battery capacity provides long-lasting use on a single charge.
• 16M RGB backlighting offers customizable lighting options for personalization.
• The size is compact and easy to transport.

Cons:

• Some users may prefer a full-size layout instead of the 96% layout.
• ABS keycaps may show signs of wear and shine over time, leading to a less desirable appearance.
• The GK1 profile of the PBT keycaps may not be comfortable for all users.
• Wireless connectivity may experience occasional connectivity issues or lag.
• The keyboard is relatively heavy due to the large battery and wireless capabilities, which may not be ideal for those who frequently transport their keyboard.
• The RGB backlighting may not be essential for all users and may drain the battery faster.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Epomaker GK96S?

Epomaker GK96S is a mechanical keyboard that is highly customizable and versatile. It offers a wide range of features and is designed for both gaming and work purposes.

What type of switches does the Epomaker GK96S have?

The Epomaker GK96S is available with several types of switches, including Gateron Red, Blue, Brown, and Yellow switches, as well as Kailh Box switches.

Does the Epomaker GK96S have RGB lighting?

Yes, the Epomaker GK96S features RGB lighting with various lighting effects that can be customized using the software.

Is the Epomaker GK96S wireless?

Yes, the Epomaker GK96S has both wired and wireless connectivity options. It can connect to devices via Bluetooth or USB cable.

What is the battery life of the Epomaker GK96S?

The battery life of the Epomaker GK96S varies depending on usage and lighting settings. It has a 4000mAh battery that can last up to 8 hours with the RGB lighting turned on and up to 24 hours with the lighting turned off.

Can the Epomaker GK96S be programmed?

Yes, the Epomaker GK96S can be programmed using the Epomaker software, which allows users to remap keys, create macros, and customize lighting effects.

What is the build quality of the Epomaker GK96S?

The Epomaker GK96S is built with high-quality materials, including an aluminum frame and PBT keycaps. It has a solid and durable feel.

Is the Epomaker GK96S compatible with Mac computers?

Yes, the Epomaker GK96S is compatible with Mac computers and can be used with both Windows and Mac operating systems.

What is the layout of the Epomaker GK96S keyboard?

The Epomaker GK96S keyboard has a 96% layout with 100 keys.

What are the keycaps made of on the Epomaker GK96S keyboard?

The keycaps can be made of either PBT or ABS material.

What is the keycap profile for the PBT and ABS keycaps on the Epomaker GK96S keyboard?

The PBT keycaps have a GK1 profile, while the ABS keycaps have an OEM profile.

How can the Epomaker GK96S keyboard be connected to a computer?

The Epomaker GK96S keyboard can be connected wirelessly with Bluetooth 5.1 or through a wired USB-C connection.

What is the battery capacity of the Epomaker GK96S keyboard?

The Epomaker GK96S keyboard has a 4000mAh battery capacity.

Does the Epomaker GK96S keyboard have backlighting?

Yes, the Epomaker GK96S keyboard has 16 million RGB backlighting.

What is the size of the Epomaker GK96S keyboard?

The size of the Epomaker GK96S keyboard is 370mm*123mm.

Conclusion

The Epomaker GK96S is an 1800-Compact (96%) mechanical keyboard of the highest quality. This keyboard has a very good build quality with a body made of thick plastic. The design of the Epomaker GK96S is also very compact even having the same size as a TKL keyboard, what’s great is that the Epomaker GK96S still provides a numpad.

Very complete features such as RGB, large battery capacity, Hot Swappable Switch feature, and complete connectivity options using USB Type C or Bluetooth wireless are really great things. If you want a compact keyboard but still have a very full-featured numpad, the Epomaker GK96S is a mechanical keyboard that is worth having.