Epomaker EK21 vs HE80Wireless Numpad vs Wired Gaming Keyboard

No, the EK21 is specifically a 20-key numeric keypad. It is designed to be used alongside a separate main keyboard, as it lacks letter keys, modifiers, and a space bar essential for general typing.

The HE80's Hall Effect switches use magnets instead of physical metal contacts to register keystrokes. According to Epomaker, this allows for adjustable actuation points down to 0.02mm, rapid trigger functionality, and a theoretically longer lifespan of up to 1 billion keystrokes.

Both keyboards are designed with sound dampening. The EK21 uses three layers of foam including Poron and IXPE, while the HE80 uses four layers including latex foam and silicone. With their included linear switches, both should be relatively quiet, but the final sound will depend on the specific switches installed.

Yes, the manufacturer's specifications list the HE80 as compatible with Mac, Windows, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Nintendo Switch. The EK21 is listed as compatible with Mac, Windows, and Android.

Yes, both the EK21 and HE80 feature hot-swappable sockets. The EK21 is compatible with 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches. The HE80 is compatible with other south-facing magnetic Hall Effect switches.

The EK21 is fully programmable using VIA software, an open-source configurator. This allows you to remap every key and assign functions to the aluminum knob, such as volume control, scrolling, or application-specific macros.

The Epomaker EK21 is equipped with a 1000mAh battery. The vendor description states it offers 'extended usage time,' but the exact battery life in hours is not specified and will depend on usage patterns and RGB lighting settings.

The HE80 includes extra items for customization: three additional magnetic switches, three extra PBT keycaps, and a keycap/switch puller. The EK21 includes a puller, an extra 'Back' keycap, a braided USB cable, and a 2.4GHz dongle.

The HE80's marketing highlights features beneficial for rhythm games, such as adjustable actuation for faster taps and rapid trigger functionality. Its high 8000Hz polling rate and low latency also contribute to precise input timing.

The product specifications confirm the EK21 has triple-mode connectivity, but they do not specify if it can be connected to multiple devices via different modes simultaneously. Typically, such devices switch between one active connection at a time.

The HE80 comes with double-shot PBT keycaps in a Cherry profile. The manufacturer also includes extra PC (polycarbonate) transparent keycaps in the box, which can be used to enhance the RGB lighting effect.

Yes, the Epomaker EK21 features dynamic RGB backlighting. The vendor description confirms it has RGB, and the included Wisteria linear switches have a light diffuser to spread the backlight effect.