Chilkey ND104 vs Epomaker TH40Full-Size vs 40% Layout Showdown

The Chilkey ND104 is far better for numerical entry. It includes a dedicated numpad, which is essential for efficient data entry, accounting, or any work involving frequent numbers. The Epomaker TH40 lacks a numpad and even the top number row, requiring you to use a function layer to type numbers.

You can, but with significant compromises. The TH40 lacks dedicated arrow keys and function keys, which are often used in games for menus, inventories, or secondary actions. You would need to remap these to layers. It does have a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired/2.4G mode and N-key rollover, which are suitable for gaming from a technical standpoint.

Yes, the Chilkey ND104 features tri-mode connectivity, including Bluetooth 5.4 according to the vendor description. It can connect to up to three devices wirelessly and also includes a 2.4 GHz wireless mode with a dedicated receiver and a USB-C wired connection.

The Chilkey ND104 has a significantly larger combined battery capacity of 8000mAh (2* 4000mAh), which should translate to much longer usage between charges compared to the Epomaker TH40's 3000mAh battery. Actual battery life will depend on usage patterns and RGB lighting settings.

Yes, both the Chilkey ND104 and the Epomaker TH40 support hot-swappable switches. This allows you to change switches without soldering. The TH40's PCB supports 3-pin and 5-pin switches, while the specific pin support for the ND104 is not detailed in the provided information.

Both keyboards are programmable using VIA software, allowing for key remapping and layer customization. The Chilkey ND104 can also be programmed with a proprietary Chilkey web driver. User reviews for both models mention some software-related frustrations, so compatibility may vary.

The Chilkey ND104 uses a CNC machined aluminum case, an FR4 plate, and includes screw-in stabilizers, which are generally associated with a more premium and sturdy build. The Epomaker TH40 uses an ABS plastic case and a polycarbonate plate, which contributes to its lighter weight but is typically less rigid than metal.

No, the Epomaker TH40 does not have a knob or a screen. The Chilkey ND104 includes a hot-swappable knob for controlling volume, media, and its built-in LCD screen, which can display a calculator, clock, or dynamic backgrounds.

Potentially, yes. With dimensions of 438 x 140 mm, the full-size ND104 requires substantial desk space. If your desk is small or you prefer a minimalist setup with more room for a mouse, the compact 258 x 97 mm Epomaker TH40 would be a much better fit.

Both keyboards incorporate sound-dampening materials. The Chilkey ND104 lists five layers of dampening, including plate foam, switch foam, PET pads, and case foam. The Epomaker TH40 uses Poron plate foam, an IXPE switch pad, and bottom Poron foam. The ND104's more extensive dampening and aluminum case may lead to a deeper, less hollow sound, but switch choice is a larger factor in noise.

The Chilkey ND104 is listed as available in a DIY Kit/Barebones version. The provided information for the Epomaker TH40 only mentions it as a pre-built keyboard, so a barebones kit option is not confirmed for that model.

Yes, both the Chilkey ND104 and Epomaker TH40 are listed as compatible with Mac and Windows operating systems. The vendor description for the ND104 also explicitly mentions Linux compatibility.