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Compare Epomaker EK21 vs TH40 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for users deciding between two very different Epomaker products: a dedicated numpad and a full 40% keyboard. The choice hinges on whether you need a supplementary tool for data entry or a primary, space-saving typing device. Both share features like gasket mounts, VIA programmability, and triple-mode connectivity, making the core decision about layout and function.

83
EPOMAKER EK21
-10% off
82
Epomaker TH40

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4.6 (12)
3.9 (52)
  • Released in 2025
  • Available in a Numpad layout
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Comes with a knob
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Equipped with a 1000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 200 g
  • Sized at 29 x 138 x 93 mm
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Released in 2024
  • Available in a 40% layout
  • Offers Split Spacebar ergonomics
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Equipped with a 3000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 500 g
  • Sized at 35 x 258 x 97 mm
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 77.2
  • Build Quality: 76.6
  • Productivity: 86.8
  • Customizability: 82.4
  • Portability: 87.8
Scores
  • Performance: 73.9
  • Build Quality: 75.3
  • Productivity: 62.5
  • Customizability: 86
  • Portability: 84.1
Name
Epomaker EK21
Name
Epomaker TH40
Release year
2025
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Linear
Switch Options
Linear
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
Numpad
Layout Size
40%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Split Spacebar
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
3000 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
Gasket 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
35 x 258 x 97 mm
Weight
200g
Weight
500g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Select the Epomaker EK21 if your goal is to enhance an existing keyboard setup with a programmable numpad and control knob for data entry, gaming, or content creation. Choose the Epomaker TH40 if you want to replace your main keyboard with a minimalist, ultra-portable device and are willing to learn layers for programming or travel. The core trade-off is between a supplemental tool and a primary, space-saving daily driver.

Epomaker EK21

  • +Dedicated 20-key numpad layout with an aluminum alloy knob for volume or macro control.
  • +Includes a comprehensive accessory kit with a braided cable, 2.4GHz dongle, keycap puller, and extra keycap.
  • +Features three layers of sound dampening foam: bottom Poron, sandwich Poron, and an IXPE switch pad.
  • +Very lightweight at 200g and small (138mm wide) for easy portability as a secondary device.
  • +Lower cost option for adding programmability and wireless connectivity to a setup.
  • −Not a standalone keyboard; requires a separate primary keyboard for letter inputs.
  • −Smaller 1000mAh battery compared to the TH40's 3000mAh.
  • −Some user reviews mention persistent firmware or VIA configuration issues.

Epomaker TH40

  • +Ultra-compact 40% layout with 44 keys and a split spacebar to maximize desk space.
  • +Larger 3000mAh battery capacity for extended wireless usage.
  • +Supports both QMK and VIA firmware for advanced programmability and four switchable layers.
  • +Features south-facing RGB LEDs, which are compatible with more keycap profiles.
  • +Functions as a complete, independent wireless keyboard.
  • −Steeper learning curve due to the minimal 40% layout requiring heavy use of function layers.
  • −More expensive than the EK21 numpad.
  • −User reviews report challenges with VIA recognition and a clip-in case design that's difficult to open.
  • −Does not include a switch puller in the box, only a keyboard, USB cable, and manual.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The EK21 numpad wins for office work, gaming macros, and content creation due to its focused numeric and knob controls. The TH40 40% keyboard is the choice for programming and travel, where its compact, layered layout serves as a complete primary keyboard. For hardware modding, both offer a similar foundation of hot-swap sockets and gasket-mounted foam. Your primary task dictates the winner.

GamingEpomaker EK21
  • •The EK21's 20-key layout provides dedicated macro keys without replacing your main gaming keyboard.
  • •Its included aluminum knob can be mapped to volume or other in-game controls via VIA.
  • •It offers a 1000Hz polling rate in wired and 2.4GHz modes for responsive input.
OfficeEpomaker EK21
  • •The EK21 numpad is designed specifically for numeric data entry, a common office task.
  • •It can be used wirelessly alongside a laptop or compact keyboard that lacks a numpad.
  • •The product listing highlights its use for professionals to enhance productivity.
ProgrammingEpomaker TH40
  • •The TH40's 40% layout with split spacebar and layers is built for efficient typing with minimal hand movement.
  • •It supports QMK and VIA for deep key remapping and macro creation, essential for coding workflows.
  • •Its compact footprint frees up desk space for other tools.
TravelEpomaker TH40
  • •The TH40 is a complete, ultra-portable keyboard at 258mm wide and 500g.
  • •Its 3000mAh battery is larger than the EK21's 1000mAh, potentially offering longer wireless use.
  • •It functions independently as a primary input device for a laptop on the go.
ModdingTie
  • •Both are hot-swappable, supporting 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches.
  • •Both feature gasket mount designs and programmability via VIA software.
  • •The EK21 listing details a PC plate with CNC cutting and three layers of Poron and IXPE foam.
  • •The TH40 listing mentions Poron plate foam, an IXPE switch pad, and bottom Poron foam.
Content CreationEpomaker EK21
  • •The EK21's knob is explicitly mentioned for volume control, useful in audio/video editing.
  • •It provides quick access to numbers for timeline scrubbing or parameter adjustments.
  • •It acts as a supplemental tool that doesn't disrupt the primary keyboard's layout for shortcuts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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