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Compare Epomaker EK21 vs Luma40 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for users deciding between two specialized Epomaker products with fundamentally different purposes. The EK21 is a 20-key numpad designed as an accessory, while the Luma40 is a 47-key ortholinear main keyboard. The decision is challenging because both offer high customizability via VIA, triple-mode connectivity, and premium features, but serve entirely different roles in a setup. Your choice hinges on whether you need to augment an existing keyboard or replace it entirely with a minimalist layout.

83
EPOMAKER EK21
87
EPOMAKER LUMA40

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4.6 (12)
5.0 (3)
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Available in a Numpad layout
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Comes with a knob
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 1000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 200 g
  • Sized at 29 x 138 x 93 mm
  • Made with a ABS case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Has Clicky, Linear switch options
  • Features a low-profile design
  • Available in a 40% layout
  • Offers Ortholinear ergonomics
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Uses a Tray Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 1450 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 410 g
  • Sized at 21 x 240 x 87 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Features PC keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, North-face, Rgb North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 76.7
  • Build Quality: 76.6
  • Productivity: 86.5
  • Customizability: 82
  • Portability: 87.8
Scores
  • Performance: 73.8
  • Build Quality: 81.1
  • Productivity: 88.5
  • Customizability: 86
  • Portability: 85.3
Name
Epomaker EK21
Name
Epomaker Luma40
Release year
2025
Release year
2025
Switch Options
Linear
Switch Options
Clicky, Linear
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
Numpad
Layout Size
40%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Ortholinear
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
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
1000 mAh
Battery capacity
1450 mAh
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, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PC
Dimensions
29 x 138 x 93 mm
Dimensions
21 x 240 x 87 mm
Weight
200g
Weight
410g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. The Epomaker EK21 is a specialized, highly capable accessory for users who already have a compact or tenkeyless main keyboard and require dedicated number entry or a macro pad. The Epomaker Luma40 is a complete, premium main keyboard for enthusiasts seeking an ultra-portable, ergonomic ortholinear experience and are willing to adapt to layers. Consider the Luma40 if you want to minimize your desk footprint, and the EK21 if you want to expand your existing keyboard's functionality.

Epomaker EK21

  • +Includes a programmable aluminum alloy knob for media or macro control.
  • +Gasket-mount structure with Poron and IXPE foam dampening for a cushioned typing feel.
  • +Flex-cut PCB and plate, as noted in the technical specs, for additional typing flexibility.
  • +Extremely lightweight at 200g for easy repositioning.
  • +Comes with pre-lubed and tuned stabilizers for consistent keypresses.

  • ABS plastic case feels less premium than aluminum alternatives.
  • Limited to 20 keys, functioning only as an accessory, not a standalone keyboard.
  • Smaller 1000mAh battery capacity.

Epomaker Luma40

  • +CNC-cut aluminum case provides a solid, premium build.
  • +Ortholinear, low-profile layout designed for ergonomic typing and reduced finger travel.
  • +Larger 1450mAh battery for extended wireless use.
  • +Includes low-profile, light-transmitting PC keycaps for vibrant RGB effects.
  • +Comes with a detachable wrist strap and three extra switches in the box.

  • Ortholinear layout has a significant learning curve for touch typists.
  • 40% size requires heavy reliance on layers for numbers and punctuation.
  • Tray mount design may offer a less uniform typing feel than gasket mounts.
  • Substantially heavier at 410g, though this is due to the aluminum construction.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Luma40 wins for programming and travel due to its ortholinear layout and complete, portable form factor. The EK21 is the pick for gaming and content creation where its knob and dedicated numpad layout provide tangible advantages. For office use and modding, the choice is a tie, as both offer strong programmability and connectivity, with the decision resting on the need for a numpad versus a full compact keyboard.

GamingEpomaker EK21
  • The EK21's dedicated knob can be programmed for volume or in-game controls via VIA.
  • Its gasket mount and Poron/IXPE foam dampening, as described by Epomaker, may provide a more cushioned feel for repetitive keypresses.
  • It serves as a supplementary macro pad without requiring layer shifts for number input.
OfficeTie
  • The Luma40's aluminum case and low-profile design offer a professional, minimalist aesthetic.
  • The EK21 provides dedicated number entry for spreadsheets and data work without a layer.
  • Both support triple-mode connectivity for switching between multiple devices.
ProgrammingEpomaker Luma40
  • The Luma40's ortholinear layout is promoted by the manufacturer to reduce finger strain during long typing sessions.
  • Full VIA programmability allows creating dedicated layers for symbols and shortcuts.
  • Its compact 40% size frees up significant desk space for notes or other peripherals.
TravelEpomaker Luma40
  • The Luma40 is a complete, ultra-compact 40% keyboard measuring 240 x 87 x 21 mm.
  • It includes a detachable wrist strap with tools, as listed in the box contents, for portability.
  • Its 1450mAh battery offers longer wireless use compared to the EK21's 1000mAh cell.
ModdingTie
  • Both are hot-swappable, with the EK21 supporting 3/5-pin switches and the Luma40 supporting Kailh low-profile switches.
  • Both feature full VIA support for key remapping and macro programming.
  • The EK21 has a gasket mount and flex-cut PCB/plate, while the Luma40 has a tray mount with switch pad and bottom sponge dampening.
Content CreationEpomaker EK21
  • The EK21's aluminum knob offers tactile control for timeline scrubbing or brush size adjustment.
  • It can be programmed as a dedicated macro pad for editing software shortcuts.
  • Its standalone nature allows it to be positioned ergonomically separate from the main keyboard.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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