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Tech Reviews

Cypher 81 Mechanical Keyboard Review: Comfort and Style

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Disclaimer

Epomaker sent me the Cypher 81 mechanical keyboard to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinions. This will be my honest review. Make sure you check out my latest reviews for the Epomaker HE65 or TH85.

What’s in the box?

  • Cypher 81 Mechanical Keyboard
  • USB-C to USB-A Charging Cable
  • Key/Switch Puller
  • 3 Extra Switches
  • Plastic Dust Cover
  • User Guide

Features

The Cypher 81 is a 75% keyboard with a fun purple, blue, and white color scheme, and small TFT screen for live updates and customization. The South-facing RGB backlight is optional, but it provides the keyboard its soft elegant flare. There is also also third-party software for added customization.

This cute form factor keyboard promises as quiet high quality typing experience through its wireless and wired connections. The keyboard supports 2.4Ghz wire connections with the included dongle, and Bluetooth 5.0. Its impressive 4000 mAh battery gives users less wires to juggle while they work or play their games.

Most importantly, the Cypher 81 won’t sacrifice comfort for design. With its ideal and adjustable typing angle as well as the key placement, users can enjoy a mechanical keyboard that looks good, performs well, and won’t cause fatigue.

Sound Test

Review

The Cypeher 81 is one of the most comfortable keyboards I’ve tried. The height, after a few adjustments was perfect. I need special ergonomics for my repetitive stress that never triggered it. The color and design is great. I love the color scheme, and the RGB creates enough flare to make the whole thing pop against any setup. The small monitor is fun, but I never really used it. It’s nice to to have for things like battery power, but not the reason to get this keyboard.

The reason to get this keyboard is for fantastic typing experience. The sound was loud enough to create that melody we all crave without being obnoxious, and it performs well for just about any task. I was able to complete my long hours of work with very little pain, if any, and it was good enough for my casual levels of gaming. If you’re looking for new keyboard with a fun and cute aesthetic, the Cypher 81 is what you’re looking for. It is a well constructed machine with a satisfying sound and solid performance at a great price point.

You can pick up the Cypher 81 for $89.99 on the official Epomaker website, or $99.99 on Amazon using my affiliate link.

Tech Reviews

Is the Mechlands M75 the Best Budget Keyboard for Gamers?

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Disclaimer

Mechlands sent me the M75 hall effect magnetic gaming keyboard to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinions. This will be my honest review.

What’s in the box?

  • Mechlands M75
  • USB-C to USB-A Braided Cable
  • 2 Extra Switches
  • Insert Keycap
  • Plastic Dustcover
  • Key/Switch Puller
  • User Manual

Features

The Mechlands M75 is a 75% hall effect magnetic keyboard designed for the gamer who craves high performing peripherals at affordable prices. This stylish keyboard comes in a green/grey scheme reminiscent of classic xbox. The default typing angle guarantees a comfort for most users, but it is adjustable as needed for added comfort. The M75 features the hall effect magnetic cherry profile switches for a fantastic sound and a great feel. Everything on this keyboard can be swapped easy repair and customization.

This keyboard is more than just a pretty piece of hardware. The M75 is a wired keyboard that boasts only 0.128 latency and 8K polling rate. That means it can keep up with the most competitive level of gameplay when needed. The keyboard also has some added advanced features like programable DKS, MT, TGL, and SOCD (note some FPS ban these features).

Sound Test

Review

The M75 is a fantastic wired keyboard, and a strong contender for a best budget gaming keyboard. The keyboard sports a cool design with a fun color scheme. I like the color scheme, but it isn’t going to be for everyone. The extra wire clutter is also going to be an issue for some folks, but the performance it gets more than makes up for it. It may not match my current aesthetic, but I am very pleased with the performance. The switches have a very soothing sound, and they feel great to the touch. The keyboard layout may not be strictly ergonomic, but I had no issues with hand pain. This is one of the most comfortable keyboards I’ve tried, and I struggle heavily with my repetitive stress injury.

I didn’t notice any latency in gaming. I don’t play at a very competitive level, but it was able to handle all the games I threw at it with no issues. It was very good for Guild Wars 2 PVE content at least. I didn’t mess with any of the the advanced features because I don’t want to risk getting banned, but they are available if that is how you have fun. Overall, I am very happy with the Mechlands M75, and it is definitely going to be my main keyboard for a bit. It is comfortable, cool looking, and it does the job.

If you are looking for your own MechLands M75, pick it up on official MechLands website.

Tech Reviews

Epomaker HE65 Mag Review: A Compact Gaming Keyboard

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Disclaimer

Epomaker sent me the TH65 Mag to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinions. This will be my honest review. Make sure you check out my latest reviews for the Epomaker TH85 and HE68.

What’s in the box?

  • HE65 Magnetic Keyboard
  • 2.4 GHz Wireless Dongle
  • USB-C to USB-A Braided Cable
  • 2 Extra Switches
  • Key/Switch Puller
  • Plastic Dust Cover
  • User Manual

Features

The Epomaker HE65 Mag is the companies compact 65% hall effect gaming keyboard. It only comes in black, with a splash of blue and grey keys to help it stand out. It wouldn’t be a gaming keyboard without RBG, and the keyboard comes with a few preset profiles to make the HE65 shine against any aesthetic. Personally, I appreciate the dongle cubby in the back an the volume control on the side. What makes the HE65 unique is the onboard screen that displays the date, time, and battery life.

But the HE65 is more than just its looks. The keyboard boasts low latency on its wired and wireless connections, making it the ideal choice for the competitive gamer who needs a smaller keyboard. The keys utilize its soft magnetic switches, which can be programed for the perfect gaming experience through the official app. Most importantly, this keyboard boasts up to 600 hours of use (without the RBG or screen) so you never have to reach for a cable unless you really want to.

Sound Test

Review

If you are looking for a keyboard this size, the Epomaker HE65 Mag works well enough. The keys feel good under my fingers, and the sound isn’t loud but satisfying all the same. The volume dial on the side looks a little weird at first, but I ended up loving it the more I used it. Aesthetically, the color scheme is fine, but you might want to buy a different set of keys if you want it to match your setup. The screen is an interesting gimmick, but I hardly used it. Its fine, but it sort of messes up the aesthetic.

As far as performance goes, its a solid keyboard for the most part. The keyboard was a little too small for my hands, and that is a personal issue. If you have big hands, you need a bigger keyboard. My thumbs were always rubbing up against each other, and it made typing uncomfortable. It worked well enough for my day to day, but I will be switching to something bigger to ease up on some of the strain.

One thing to note is that the keyboard was that the wireless connection was a little bugged. The bluetooth randomly stopped working, and I couldn’t reconnect, even with the dongle. Hard resetting seemed to solve the issue, but it is a little concerning. I don’t think this has the potential to be a lifelong keyboard, but it might be a good budget option for now.

Aside from that, the keyboard was fine. It was responsive, and it had a long battery life. Epomaker boasts a 30 hour battery life with all the lights on, and I got just about that. If you like the aesthetic and are looking for a hall effect keyboard, check out the Epomaker HE65.

You can pick up the HE 65 Mag on the official website for $89.99.

Tech Reviews

Is the KiiBoom Phantom98 Worth It? Honest Insights

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Disclaimer

KiiBoom sent me the Phantom98 mechanical keyboard to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinions. This will be my honest review. Make sure you also check out my reviews for the Moonshadow V2 and the Breeze75 if you’re looking for other great Kiiboom Product.

What’s in the Box?

  • Phantom98
  • USB-C to USB-A Braided Cable
  • 2.4 GHz Wireless Dongle
  • Key/Switch Puller Tools
  • Mini Screw Drive
  • 2 Extra Screws
  • 2 Extra Switches
  • User Manual

Sound Test

Features

The Phantom98 is Kiiboom’s stylish full-sized keyboard. The keyboard has 98 keys, which include a function bar and number pad. That means users have access to everything they need in one unique package. The Phantom98 comes in 5 colors: clear, pink, black, blue, and purple. I chose purple, but every color looks good!

The clear keys and case its futuristic design. The design truly comes alive with any of the preset RGB profiles. The RGB can be switched off for those who don’t want the light show, but the presets are so pretty, it’s going to be hard to.

But the Phantom98 is more than just its looks. Its has Bluetooth 5.0 support to eliminate the need for pesky cables, and a 2.5 GHz cable for those who need it. It has a solid wireless connection, but nothing will beat the speed of the included high quality cable. The Ghasket design is adjustable, but the default gives it the satisfying typing sound enthusiasts crave.

The keyboard can switch between Mac and Windows presets, but Mac users will need to buy new caps if they care about that kind of stuff. There is also a nifty volume control dial which is always nice to have. Now the typing angle isn’t adjustable, but the default angle and height is good enough for most cases. If you’re looking for a unique keyboard with a lot of function, you might need the Phantom98.

Review

The Phantom98 is one of the coolest looking keyboards you’ll set on your table. The clear design is so clean and seeing the inner components is very cool. It reminds of the clear gameboy colors from back in the day. Now the keys did take a bit of getting used to. The letters were a little hard to see without the backlight, and they keys felt too smooth. Once I got used to them however, it is really hard using anything else. Something about the smooth feel of the keys just feels right in a way I didn’t know was possible. It also has one of the best typing sounds around. This keyboard made typing a true joy.

As far as performance goes, I didn’t see any issues. The default typing angle was comfortable enough for the very long sessions I tend to have. The wireless and wired connections were all fast and responsive. I don’t play very competitive games, but it handled my Guild Wars 2 grind perfectly. As far as battery life goes, I was getting about 8 hours with the RGB profiles on a single charge.

My only complaint is that the lighting is a little overbearing. The thing glows up like a Christmas tree on your desk. I didn’t mind it, but people are either going to hate or love it based on personal taste. Make sure to check out my sound test video to see what it looks like with the backlight on. Other than that, the Phantom98 is a fantastic keyboard, and perfect for anyone looking for a full-sized keyboard who doesn’t mind the aesthetic. Trust me, this thing looks a lot cooler in person.

You can pick up the Phantom98 on the official KiiBoom website.

Tech Reviews, Uncategorized

Unboxing the KM300: A Hands-On Karaoke Experience

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Disclaimer

Sudotack sent me the KM300 Karaoke machine and the KM03 wired microphone to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinions. This will be my honest review. I’ll be leaving my Amazon Affiliate links where possible. It really helps me out if you use them.

KM300 Unboxing

  • KM300
  • USB-C to USB-A cable
  • User Manual
  • Strap

KM03 Unboxing

Features

The KM300 is a wireless PA speaker system for those who want the Karaoke experience on the go. It features a stylish durable design and comes in three colors: white, black, pink. I got it in white, but all three colors look great.

But it doesn’t just look good. Its 30W subwoofer, 15W tweeters, and 45W speakers promises a loud, clear sound that will fill any room. The two included wireless mics are always at the ready in their built in holders. The speaker has a variety of features to adjust the sound like pitch and reverb control, so you are always sounding your best. Best of all, the KM300 supports a number of different connections to make a versatile media machine.

All of the features on the KM 300 can be enjoyed wirelessly, but users can attached two additional wired mics for those quartets. Media can be played through its easy to link Bluetooth connection, but the KM300 supports HDMI and coax connections. You can also store your music on a USB drive or SD card. Whatever you end up using, media and volume controls are easily accessible on the device for so you aren’t spending the whole party, looking at your phone.

Now it wouldn’t be a proper party without flashing lights. The KM300 has nine preset lighting profiles with adjustable brightness. You can turn this off to extend battery life, but its so pretty, you aren’t going to want to. It’s got a decent enough battery where it shouldn’t matter anyways.

Review

The KM300 is a solid budget speaker. The sound is good enough for most music, especially if you’re outdoors. You aren’t getting deep rich concert sound, but its loud enough for what you need. Trust me, you can do a lot worse at this price range.

The sleek design is clean and well manufactured, and it is light enough for travel with is a huge plus. The strap it comes with feels a little flimsy. While it will do the job, I would swap it out for something sturdier if you’re going to use it a lot. The RBG is a nice touch. The preprogramed profiles are fun, but I like that it can be turned off when needed.

My unit arrived completely dead. This isn’t a deal breaker, but users should note that the device may require an initial charge. One issue that came up is that the device wouldn’t charge no matter what I used. The KM300 does not like fast charging, so make sure you are using chargers that give 9V = 2A / 5V = 2A. Its a bit of a bummer that a charger isn’t included with the device, but its not a deal breaker either. As for the battery life, I was able to get about 6 hours on a single charge, and I didn’t charge it to full. Charging it from completely empty to about 80/90% took about 2 hours though, but you can use the speaker plugged in.

I was not expecting to use much of the Karaoke part, but it is surprisingly a fun little speaker. At least my family enjoyed using it to sing. The sound can be easily adjusted with the on board controls, and the mics have additional features for further customization. It took no tinkering to get a quality sound, and the mics are pretty good. They do feel a little flimsy, but they are light and sound great. They have a good amount of sensitive that can be adjusted. The voice changing is a fun little touch, but we didn’t use that feature much. I also like the built in stand for holding phones or tables. Its subtle and effective.

The wired KM03 microphone is just as good. The cable is a good length, and includes an adapter for versatility. I do prefer the freedom the wireless mics give, but it is nice to have a wired mic if they die or if you have more people who want to sing. You aren’t getting a studio mic at this price, but you are getting a decent and compatible mic for a fun night of karaoke.

If you’re looking for a budget PA Speaker system, this is a solid machine that will get the job done. The KM300 has a clean and simple design, and it gives a descent sound for $50.

You can pick up the KM300 and the KM03 on Amazon using my affiliate link.

Tech Reviews, Uncategorized

Epomaker HE68 Mag Review: Stylish, Compact & Functional

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Disclaimer

Epomaker sent me the HE68 Mag Keyboard with the Pink Magnetic to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinions. This will be my honest review. Make sure you check out my reviews for the TH99 or the Cypher 96 if you’re looking to upgrade your style.

What’s in the box?

  • Epomaker TH68 Mag
  • USB-C to USB-A Braided Cable
  • 2 Extra Switches
  • Key/Switch Puller
  • User Manual

Sound Test

Features

The HE68 Mag is a 65% keyboard which means you get no function bar or number pad, but you do get a compact usable experience if you are trying to minimize your footprint. The keyboard comes in black or white, and both look very stylish.

I chose the white version because of the purple keys. It comes with a fun little removable strap for when you’re on the go, but you probably aren’t going far since this is a wired keyboard.

Do not be discouraged by the wire only connection. The included high quality braided cable provides users a an impressive 8k polling rate, and it can be swapped out for a cable that better fits your aesthetic. The HE68 Mag boasts only 0.125ms latency, supports SOCD (Simultaneous Opposite Key Detection), and adjustable actuation hall effects making it a fantastic gaming keyboard.

All this fuctionality is good, but it wouldn’t be a gaming keyboard with out RGB. The HE68 has subtle south facing rgb with a good amount of customization, but it can be switched off if you don’t want all the lights.

Review

The HE68’s size had me a bit apprehensive. I was afraid that using it would kill my hands, and not having function bar was going to affect my gameplay. To my surprise, I can’t see myself using anything different from gaming. I was able to find the ideal typing position after adjusting the height, and the layout never triggered my repetitive stress injury. While I wouldn’t call the HE68 an ergonomic keyboard, it provides a comfortable enough experience for to get the job done.

Aesthetically, the keyboard is very pleasing. I love the simple and compact layout and use of color. I love the shinning base that peaks between the keys for the perfect accent of color. The RGB is very subtle, and I love the amount of customization that comes with it. Everything on this keyboard can be swapped out and customized, but it provides a fantastic aesthetic upgrade at the stock level. The only thing I would change is the strap. It feels like a random gimmick. Since it is a wired keyboard, I doubt it will see enough travel for the strap to be useful. It is removable and not a deal breaker, but I wish it didn’t have it.

Performance wise, this keyboard is fantastic. The keys felt comfortable, and everything is responsive. I don’t play at a competitive level, but I did notice some difference. My hands would be less fatigued after the more intense moments of game play, and I never had to worry about running out of battery. You can easily adjust the actuation to truly minmax your setup, but I felt like the stock settings were perfect for level of play.

If you’re looking for a stylish gaming keyboard that works well and don’t mind the lack of wireless connectivity, the Epomaker HE68 Mag is a fantastic choice that I wholeheartedly recommend. It has easily become my main keyboard, at least until Epomaker comes out with something better.

You can pick up the HE68 Keyboard for only $59.99 directly from the site.

Tech Reviews

Upgrade Your Setup with theKiiBoom Moonshadow V2

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Disclaimer

KiiBoom sent me the Moonshadow V2 for free to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinions. This will be my honest review. Make sure you also check out my review for the Kiiboom Breeze 75 if you’re in the market for a very pretty keyboard.

What’s in the box?

  • Moonshadow V2
  • USB-C to USB-A Braided Cable
  • Key/Switch Puller
  • 2 Extra Switches
  • Mac Keys
  • User Guide
  • Extra Plate

Features

The KiiBoom Moonshadow V2 is a stylish 75% mechanical keyboard that is ready to upgrade your aesthetic. It well designed aluminum body gives it its durable construction and its weight will keep it from sliding across your table. The keyboard comes in black, pink, and silver. All schemes look great, but I chose the black because I liked the mascot on the escape and enter keys.

The keyboard features 81 keys and a knob that can easily be swapped so it always matches your aesthetic. There is also a nice and subtle backlight preprogrammed with a good amount of profiles to accent any aesthetic. You can also turn it off if you really want to. As far as performance goes, you can’t go wrong with the Moonshadow V2. All 81 keys can be easily remapped or programed through QMK and VIA to maximize any workflow, and the low latency with both wired and wireless connections is nothing to scoff at. Coupled with its powerful 4000mAh battery, and you have a solid workhorse.

Sound Test

Review

The Moonshadow V2 is a premium feeling keyboard at a reasonable price. This keyboard is ready to upgrade both the aesthetic and performance of any setup. The color layout in all three options are so good, choosing one will be the hardest choice. I got mine in black and am very impressed with how vibrant the colors are and how well the mascot is printed on the keys. The manufacturing is very clean and sturdy, and the keyboard has a good amount of heft to it. It feels like it will last me enough to make it a bargain.

The keyboard performed extremely well. There was no noticeable ghosting or latency, and everything mostly worked as intended. I did have to swap out one of the switches early on in my testing because it stopped working, but the swap was very easy to make. That said, the Moonshadow V2 has one of the most satisfying experience I’ve had in a mechanical keyboard. It has one the most satisfying and creamiest sounds, and the keys feel amazing under your fingers. It may not be the most ergonomic layout, but it doesn’t matter because it feels so good to type with.

If you’re looking for a mechanical keyboard, the Moonshadow V2 is the perfect place to start. It comes in good colors, the performance is solid, and the typing experience is perfect. I may have gotten unlucky with the defect, but the rest of the experience more than made up for it. I recommend you pick one up today!

You can pick up the KiiBoom Moonshadow V2 in all three colors on the official KiiBoom website!

Tech Reviews, Uncategorized

Epomaker TH99: A Stylish and Functional Mechanical Keyboard

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Disclaimer

Epomaker sent me the TH99 mechanical keyboard to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinions. This will be my honest review. Make sure you also check out my latest reviews for the Cypher96 and the Hack59.

What’s in the box?

  • Epomaker TH99
  • Braided USB-C to USB-A Cord
  • 2.4 GHz Wireless Dongle
  • Keycap/Switch Puller
  • User guide

Features

The Epomaker TH99 is a full-sized mechanical keyboard with the innovative 1800 design for a more compact yet functional experience. This means the keyboard includes a numb pad, a function bar, and few other useful buttons in its 102-key layout. The keyboard comes in a classic black, and a very pretty blue and white aesthetic. I got the blue, and it is ideal for the coziest of setups. The south-facing RGB is subtle, but gives the keyboard a perfect amount of accent, but it can be toggled off at any time.

As far as performance goes, users can enjoy respectable sessions of use with its 4000mAh battery and fast wireless connections. The high quality braided cable included with the cable will make sure users don’t miss a second of gaming, and the low latency is always a solid plus. The TH99 comes with the choice of Creamy Jade Switches, which come pre-lubed and promise a fantastic typing sound.

Sound Test

Review

The Epomaker TH99 has some fantastic presentation. The box is very good looking, even though it was beat during transit, and it was very safely neatly packed. The keyboard itself is very good locking. The layout is clean, and the color color scheme (I got it in white and blue) is so pretty. The included braided cable looks like it very high quality. The included key puller is a little flimsy, but it will get the job done.

As far as design goes, the keyboard is made with the high standards I’ve come to expect from Epomaker. The manufacturing is clean, the layout makes sense, and there is even a cubby for the wireless dongle which is always appreciated. The keyboard has slight inclined, with stands to adjust the height for a more ideal typing angle. The keyboard is very light weight, with a little flex, but it does not feel cheap.

The performance is as I would expect from an Epomaker keyboard. The 4000 mAh battery gave me about 10 hours of continuous use with the RGB on, but the backlight can be toggled off for an even longer session. I did not notice any latency with any of the connections for my casual gaming and non-professional competitive play. My only complaint is that the keys do feel a little heavier to press. While the creamy jade switches provide a very smooth and satisfying sound, they make my hands hurt after prolonged use. Now this issue is unique to me. I need specific ergonomics to combat my the repetitive stress injury in my hands and won’t affect the average user. If you are struggling with hand pain looking for a more ergonomic solution, Epomaker has better options available. If you prefer a heavier creamier key and need a full sized keyboard, the Epomaker TH99 is a fantastic option.

You can pick up the Epomaker TH99 mechanical keyboard on the offical website for $82.99.

Tech Reviews

Epomaker Cypher96: A Stylish and Functional Keyboard

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Disclaimer

Epomaker sent me the Cypher96 mechanical keyboard for free to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinions. This will be my honest review. Make sure you also check out my reviews for the Hack59 if you’re looking for something more minimalistic.

What’s in the box?

  • Cypher96 Mechanical Keyboard
  • 3 Additional Switches
  • Key/Switch Puller
  • USB-C to USB-A Braided Charging Cable
  • User Guide
  • 2.4 GHz Wireless Dongle

Features

‘The Cypher 96 mechanical keyboard is a full-sized keyboard with 96 keys. The keyboard comes with Epomaker Wisteria and Flamingo switches. I got mines with the Wisteria switches. The keyboard is a very pretty blue/purple/white scheme that will fit any cozy aesthetic, The south facing RGB is soft, and the perfect accent to the already pretty keyboard. The slight incline and built in tents make it easy for users to find the most comfortable position.

Functionally, the Cypher 96 supports high-powered, low latency wireless connections through its Bluetooth 6 support or 2.4GHz dongle, but users can enjoy an even faster connection with the included, high-quality braided charging cable. The two 4000 mAh batteries mean you won’t be reaching for the wire unless you really want to.

What makes the Cypher 96 a unique keyboard is the onboard screen above the number pad. This screen displays important information like the time, battery, and connection information. It also doubles as a calculator, which can easily be toggled at any time.

Sound Test

Review

The Cypher96 comes expertly packed, and although my box looked like it was thrown around by the mailman, came in excellent condition. The keyboard looks amazing out of the box. Every piece is finely manufactured and high quality, there is little flex, and it has a very pretty color scheme. The screen does throw off the aesthetic, but it is very handy to have. I use the number pad regularly, and being able to switch to a calculator was a feature I didn’t know I needed. I particularly love the connection switch placement. I regularly switch between the different connections during my testing, and having a switch in the corner is very convenient.

Functionally, the Cypher96 is a great keyboard. The keys are soft, responsive, and don’t make too much noise. The design is ergonomic enough to allow for prolonged use, and the high adjustments only add to the comfort. All the connections felt responsive. I had no issue with latency, but I don’t play at a high enough competitive level for it to matter. The battery life was incredible. I was getting 10-12 hours of continuous use, and I don’t think I ever charged it to 100%. Best of all, it is GMK compatible, making it a customizable beast for gaming or other work flows.

If you’re looking for a good full sized keyboard with a pretty color scheme, the Epomaker Cypher96 is a great place to start. The issue will be the onboard screen, but it is an issue that goes away if you get a lot of use out of it. This thing looks great, feels great, and works great. Pick yours up on the official Epomaker store for only $99.99.

Tech Reviews

Is the Hack 59 Keyboard Right for You? Key Features Explored

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Disclaimer

Epomoker sent me the Hack 59 mechanical keyboard to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinions. This will be my honest review. make sure you also check out my other Epomaker reviews to find the perfect keyboard for your setup.

What’s in the Box?

  • Hack 59 Mechanical Keyboard
  • USB-C to USB-A charging cable
  • Key and Switch Puller Tool
  • 2.4 GHz Wireless Dongle
  • User Instructions

Features

The Hack 59 is the mechanical keyboard for the enthusiast who wants to shrink their footprint. This stylish mini-keyboard only has 59 keys with QMK and VIA support so you can make the most of every key. Ramapping is extremely easy, and turns it into a formidable powerhouse. This is a wireless keyboard with bluetooth 5 compatibility with up to 3 different devices, and a wireless 2.4 GHz dongle for those who need it. Its incredible 3000 mAh means less time with wires on your desk for a truelly minimalist experience, but the wired connection is fast and reliable when its needed. All the keys and switches are replaceable, but its unique aesthetic is going to be hard to give up. This is a well machined keyboard with soft RBG lighting that will be a great fit for many setups.

Sound Test

Review

Out of the box, the Hack 59 is an impressive little keyboard with a good amount of potential. I like the aesthetic and unique keys. I also like that it comes with the high quality and care I’ve come to expect from Epomaker. The machining is nice, the design is tight, and printing is clear and visible. I love the included slot for the dongle.

As for its performance, the keyboard is solid with a few modifications. The keyboard does make its noise, but it is a more subtle and soothing clacking. I didn’t notice any latency in any of my games, but the tight design required some getting used to. The battery is solid and I was getting about 10 hours on a single charge, with the the RGB on. It can be switched off for a longer session, but I like epomaker’s RGB lighting.

The biggest issue most people are going to have with this keyboard is with its form factor design. The keyboard has some handy built in shortcuts, and users can easily program more or remap keys through GMK and VIA, but I missed having the arrow keys and control handy. The size was an issue for me because I am too big for the keyboard. I felt like I had to bunch up to use the keyboard which caused some discomfort, and my fat clumsy hands was always pressing the wrong keys. I would erase entire sections of my review with a clumsy mistake, and it made the experience frustrating. This issue is strictly user error and physical limitations, so your millage will vary.

So is the Hack 59 a good keyboard? It depends. If you’re big with wide shoulders and big hands, its not. The size takes away any ergonomic design and it will get uncomfortable. I require special ergonomics for my hands to work, and the size made it hard to use. If you are a size that fits this keyboard, it is a solid device with a bit of tinkering. The only real hurdle I see is knowing if the keyboard is right size, and liking the aesthetic.

If you like the design and don’t mind the 302.7x40x118.5MM dimensions, you can pick up the Hack 59 on the official Epomaker site.

User Guide

Epomaker_hack59_manualDownload