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Compare Epomaker EK21 vs TH99 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for users deciding between two very different Epomaker products. The EK21 is a dedicated 20-key numpad, while the TH99 is a full 96% layout keyboard. The decision is difficult because both offer triple-mode connectivity, gasket mounts, and hot-swappable switches, but serve fundamentally different purposes. This guide helps you pick based on whether you need to augment an existing setup or replace your primary keyboard.

84
EPOMAKER EK21
66
EPOMAKER TH99

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4.6 (12)
5.0 (46)
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Available in a Numpad layout
  • Comes with a knob
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • 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, Silent switch options
  • Available in a 96% layout
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 2000 g
  • Sized at 20 x 402 x 303 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: 74.8
  • Build Quality: 60.7
  • Productivity: 76.5
  • Customizability: 59.8
  • Portability: 54.1
Name
Epomaker EK21
Name
Epomaker TH99
Release year
2025
Release year
2025
Switch Options
Linear
Switch Options
Linear, Silent
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
Numpad
Layout Size
96%
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
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
1000 mAh
Battery capacity
4000 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
20 x 402 x 303 mm
Weight
200g
Weight
2000g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your choice is defined by need, not features. Purchase the Epomaker TH99 if you are looking for your main keyboard and value a full layout with a numpad. Choose the Epomaker EK21 only if you specifically need a high-quality, programmable numpad to complement an existing compact keyboard or laptop. They are complementary products, not direct competitors.

Epomaker EK21

  • +Extremely portable at 200g with a compact 20-key footprint.
  • +Fully programmable via VIA software for key remapping and macros.
  • +Features a programmable aluminum alloy knob for media or custom controls.
  • +Includes a polycarbonate plate with CNC cutting and flex-cuts for a softer typing feel.
  • +Comes with a 2-in-1 keycap/switch puller and an extra keycap in the box.

  • Is only a numpad, not a standalone keyboard for full typing.
  • Smaller 1000mAh battery offers less wireless runtime.
  • Lacks the full set of keys needed for most computing tasks.

Epomaker TH99

  • +96% layout provides a numpad and navigation cluster in a compact form factor.
  • +Large 4000mAh battery supports extended wireless use.
  • +Offers a choice of linear or silent linear pre-lubed switches.
  • +Features five layers of sound-dampening material including a PET sound-enhancement pad.
  • +Includes south-facing RGB LEDs for compatibility with Cherry-profile keycaps.

  • Much heavier at 2000g and larger, making it less portable.
  • Uses a plastic plate instead of polycarbonate.
  • Does not list VIA support, relying on proprietary driver software.
  • The manufacturer states it is not compatible with PS4, PS5, or Nintendo Switch.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The TH99 is the clear choice for primary use as a gaming, office, or programming keyboard due to its complete key set and long battery life. The EK21 excels in portability for travel and offers more detailed modding features like VIA support and a flex-cut PC plate. For content creation, the choice hinges on whether a programmable knob or a full layout is more critical to your workflow.

GamingEpomaker TH99
  • The TH99 provides a full set of keys for game controls and macros.
  • Its listed 2ms latency in wired mode is lower than the unspecified latency of the EK21.
  • N-key rollover on a full layout is more practical for complex key combinations.
OfficeEpomaker TH99
  • The TH99's 96% layout includes a dedicated numpad and function row for data entry and shortcuts.
  • Its 4000mAh battery offers significantly longer wireless runtime than the EK21's 1000mAh battery.
  • The inclusion of silent linear switch options, like the Sea Salt Silent Switch, is suited for shared workspaces.
ProgrammingEpomaker TH99
  • The TH99 provides all standard alphanumeric and punctuation keys essential for coding.
  • The full layout supports complex keyboard shortcuts without layer switching.
  • South-facing RGB LEDs on the TH99 avoid interference with Cherry-profile keycaps, a common choice for programmers.
TravelEpomaker EK21
  • The EK21 weighs only 200g and measures 29 x 138 x 93 mm, making it extremely portable.
  • Its compact 20-key design takes up minimal space in a bag.
  • It can function as a wireless numpad for laptops that lack one.
ModdingEpomaker EK21
  • The EK21 explicitly supports VIA software for deep key remapping and macro programming.
  • It features a polycarbonate plate with CNC cutting and flex-cuts in both the PCB and plate.
  • Its construction includes three specified foam layers (Poron bottom, sandwich, and IXPE switch pad) for sound tuning.
Content CreationTie
  • The EK21's programmable knob via VIA is excellent for timeline scrubbing or brush size control.
  • The TH99's full layout is better for shortcut-heavy software like Adobe Premiere or Blender.
  • Both offer RGB backlighting for low-light environments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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