Epomaker EK21 vs AULA F99 MaxNumpad vs Full Keyboard Choice

No, the EK21 is a 20-key numpad. It does not contain letter, number, or function keys for primary typing. It is designed as a secondary input device to augment a TKL, 75%, or 60% keyboard, or a laptop.

According to Epomaker, south-facing RGB LEDs on the F99 Max offer better gaming immersion. This orientation also prevents interference with Cherry profile keycaps, a common issue with north-facing LEDs, allowing for a wider range of aftermarket keycap compatibility.

The EK21 supports VIA, an open-source, cross-platform configuration tool that works via a browser. The F99 Max uses proprietary custom software from Epomaker, which the manufacturer notes is for Windows and functions when the keyboard is in wired mode for features like time sync.

The F99 Max has a significantly larger 8000mAh battery, which the vendor claims supports long wireless usage. The EK21 has a 1000mAh battery, appropriate for a small peripheral. Direct runtime comparisons aren't provided, but the F99 Max will last much longer between charges.

Yes, both the Epomaker EK21 and F99 Max are hot-swappable. Their specifications confirm compatibility with both 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches, allowing for easy switch customization without soldering.

The EK21 includes the numpad, a 2-in-1 keycap and switch puller, an extra 'Back' keycap, a 1.8m detachable USB A-to-C braided cable, a 2.4GHz wireless dongle, and a multilingual manual.

Yes. The F99 Max is a 96% layout keyboard, which integrates a numpad into a compact form factor by removing some of the navigation cluster spacing. It retains all the number pad keys.

The F99 Max has a two-stage kickstand that provides three typing angles (5.02°, 7.37°, and 9.7°). The EK21 numpad does not have adjustable feet or a kickstand, as it is a low-profile peripheral.

The EK21 listing mentions options including Wisteria Linear or Zebra Linear switches, both factory-lubed. The F99 Max comes with LEOBOG Reaper linear switches, which are also factory-lubed and include a light diffuser.

The EK21 is ideal for minimalism, as it takes up very little space and can be stored away easily. For a minimalist setup that still requires a full keyboard, a TKL or 75% layout would be a better primary choice than the numpad-inclusive F99 Max.

Both keyboards offer a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired and 2.4GHz modes. The F99 Max vendor specifically lists latency figures of 5-6ms (USB) and 7-9ms (2.4GHz). The EK21 does not list specific latency numbers but shares the same high polling rate for responsive input.

The manufacturer states the TFT screen can be customized with GIFs and used to check vitals like time and battery level. The custom software for Windows is required to upload custom images and for features like time synchronization.