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Compare Epomaker EK21 vs HE68 Lite Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for users deciding between a specialized accessory and a complete gaming keyboard. The Epomaker EK21 is a 20-key numpad, while the HE68 Lite is a full 65% keyboard. The decision hinges on whether you need a portable, wireless add-on for data entry or a feature-rich, wired board built for gaming. Both are from Epomaker and share a similar price range, making the choice about core functionality.

84
EPOMAKER EK21
81
EPOMAKER HE68 Lite

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4.6 (12)
4.8 (54)
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Available in a Numpad layout
  • Comes with a knob
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 1000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 200 g
  • Sized at 29 x 138 x 93 mm
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Has Linear, Magnetic switch options
  • Available in a 65% layout
  • Utilizes Hall effect sensors
  • Enables rapid trigger functionality
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Runs at a 8000 Hz polling rate
  • Weighs about 650 g
  • Sized at 40 x 120 x 322 mm
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 77.4
  • Build Quality: 76.8
  • Productivity: 86.7
  • Customizability: 82.6
  • Portability: 87.8
Scores
  • Performance: 96.3
  • Build Quality: 74.3
  • Productivity: 85.1
  • Customizability: 73.9
  • Portability: 74.2
Name
Epomaker EK21
Name
Epomaker HE68 Lite
Release year
2025
Release year
2025
Switch Options
Linear
Switch Options
Linear, Magnetic
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
Numpad
Layout Size
65%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
8000 Hz
Battery capacity
1000 mAh
Battery capacity
-
Hall Effect Support
 
Hall Effect Support
 
QMK Support
 
QMK Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIAL Support
 
VIAL Support
 
N-Key Rollover
 
N-Key Rollover
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Mount Style
Tray Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS
Case Material
ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
29 x 138 x 93 mm
Dimensions
40 x 120 x 322 mm
Weight
200g
Weight
650g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you require a dedicated, high-performance gaming keyboard with cutting-edge Hall Effect switches, the Epomaker HE68 Lite is the obvious pick. If you already have a main keyboard and want a versatile, wireless number pad for data entry, creative work, or portability, the Epomaker EK21 is a powerful accessory. Consider the HE68 Lite for a primary board and the EK21 as a supplement.

Epomaker EK21

  • +Triple-mode wireless connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired).
  • +Extremely portable at 200g with a 20-key numpad layout.
  • +Gasket-mount structure with Poron bottom foam and IXPE switch pad.
  • +Fully programmable via VIA software.
  • +Includes a customizable aluminum alloy knob.

  • Limited to numpad functionality, not a standalone keyboard.
  • Lower 1000 Hz polling rate in wireless mode compared to the HE68 Lite.
  • Relies on a battery, requiring periodic recharging.

Epomaker HE68 Lite

  • +High 8000 Hz polling rate and 128kHz scan rate for ultra-low latency.
  • +Hall Effect switches with 0.01mm adjustable actuation and rapid trigger.
  • +Includes gaming features like SOCD, DKS, and macro support via software.
  • +5-layer sound dampening with PRO sandwich foam, IXPE, and PET pads.
  • +Complete 65% layout with 68 keys in a relatively compact form.

  • Wired-only connectivity limits placement flexibility.
  • Heavier at 650g and less portable than the EK21.
  • Uses proprietary Epomaker software instead of open-source VIA.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The HE68 Lite is the clear choice for gaming and as a primary keyboard for programming due to its high-performance specs and complete layout. The EK21 excels in office, travel, and content creation scenarios where its wireless numpad form factor and programmable knob add focused utility. For modding, both offer solid foundations with hot-swap sockets and sound-dampening foams, though their software and mounting styles differ.

GamingEpomaker HE68 Lite
  • The HE68 Lite has an 8000 Hz polling rate and 0.125ms latency for faster response.
  • It features Hall Effect switches with adjustable actuation and rapid trigger support.
  • It includes gaming-specific software features like SOCD (Snap Key) and DKS.
OfficeEpomaker EK21
  • The EK21's triple-mode connectivity (wired, Bluetooth, 2.4GHz) offers flexible desk setup.
  • Its compact numpad form factor saves space and can be used alongside a compact main keyboard.
  • The 1000mAh battery supports wireless use without frequent charging.
ProgrammingEpomaker HE68 Lite
  • The HE68 Lite provides a complete 68-key layout with arrow keys and a dedicated function row.
  • Its software allows for macro programming for complex coding sequences.
  • The included hand strap aids in portability between workstations.
TravelEpomaker EK21
  • The EK21 weighs only 200g and is significantly smaller than a full keyboard.
  • Its wireless modes and battery eliminate the need for a cable on the go.
  • It can easily fit in a bag as a supplemental input device.
ModdingTie
  • Both keyboards are hot-swappable, supporting switch changes.
  • The EK21 uses a gasket-mount structure with Poron and IXPE foam, while the HE68 Lite uses a tray mount with a 5-layer foam package.
  • The EK21 supports VIA for easy key remapping, while the HE68 Lite uses proprietary Epomaker software.
Content CreationEpomaker EK21
  • The EK21's programmable aluminum knob is ideal for timeline scrubbing or brush size adjustment.
  • VIA support allows deep customization of the numpad keys for application-specific shortcuts.
  • Its wireless design reduces cable clutter on a creative workstation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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