Epomaker Galaxy100 vs WhatGeek SKN Thunder 3.0QMK vs Simpler Build
Choose the Epomaker Galaxy100 for deep software customization and battery life, or the WhatGeek SKN Thunder 3.0 for a lighter build with a specific FR4 plate.
KeebFinder may earn a commission when you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you.
4.6 (68)4.6 · 68 reviews
from$87at Epomaker
90-day lowLowest price in 90 days
No reviews
from$129at WhatGeek
Which one should you get?
Get the
Epomaker Galaxy100
QMK
Build quality in the top 15% of 96% boards under $100.
- Advanced QMK and VIA firmware support for deep key remapping and macro programming.
- Large 8000mAh battery for extended wireless use.
- Includes a programmable metal knob for media or macro control.
- South-facing LEDs. Shine-through legends stay dark, and some sculpted keycaps can clip the LED.
Get the
WhatGeek SKN Thunder 3.0
Simpler Build
Build quality in the top 50% of 96% boards under $150.
- Lighter weight (1130g) makes it easier to carry.
- Features an FR4 fiberglass positioning plate, which the vendor states offers a balance of hardness and softness.
- Includes a self-developed HoS switch seat claimed to reduce wear.
For most users, the Epomaker Galaxy100 is the recommended choice due to its superior software customization, exceptional battery life, and included knob. Its detailed construction is appealing for modders. Only choose the WhatGeek SKN Thunder 3.0 if you specifically value a much lighter keyboard with an FR4 plate and do not need advanced programmable firmware. Always check current availability, as the SKN Thunder 3.0 was listed as out of stock.
The differences that matter
Skip the 40-row spec sheet. These are the specs that change how each board feels, sounds, and fits your desk.
Epomaker Galaxy100
WhatGeek SKN Thunder 3.0
Battery
8,000 mAh
4,000 mAh
A larger battery means fewer cables during the day
Switch options
Clicky, Linear
Linear
Knob
Yes
No
Weight
2,000 g
1,130 g
Heavier boards stay planted and lighter ones travel
QMK
Yes
No
The deep option when you want to remap every key
- Epomaker Galaxy100
- WhatGeek SKN Thunder 3.0
- Performance
- 8376
- Build quality
- 8469
- Productivity
- 9380
- Customizability
- 8865
- Portability
- 6258
- Layout size: 96%
- Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Case material: Aluminum
- Mount style: Gasket Mount
- Sound dampening
What will you mostly use it for?
The Epomaker Galaxy100 is the more versatile choice, winning in most categories due to its advanced software, larger battery, and detailed modding features. It is particularly strong for gaming, programming, and content creation where customization and endurance are key. The WhatGeek SKN Thunder 3.0's primary advantage is its significantly lighter weight, making it the better option for users who need to move their keyboard frequently, despite having a smaller battery.
Pick the Epomaker Galaxy100
- The Galaxy100 has a documented 1000Hz polling rate and low latency figures for wired and 2.4GHz modes.
- It includes a programmable metal knob for quick volume or macro control during sessions.
- South-facing RGB LEDs prevent interference with Cherry-profile keycaps, a common choice for gamers.
Epomaker Galaxy100 vs WhatGeek SKN Thunder 3.0 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
9 of 25 specs differ
Epomaker Galaxy100
WhatGeek SKN Thunder 3.0
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Knob
Display
Connection
Max polling rate
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Typing angle
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
Compare prices
Live prices from the stores we track, cheapest in-stock offer first.
Prices in USD are converted to your currency and can change at any time. KeebFinder may earn a commission when you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Lowest price across stores, Amazon excluded.
- Check on Amazon
Amazon
Check price
Epomaker Galaxy100 vs WhatGeek SKN Thunder 3.0: your questions
The Epomaker Galaxy100 explicitly supports both QMK and VIA, allowing for extensive key remapping, layer creation, and macro programming. The WhatGeek SKN Thunder 3.0's product description does not mention any comparable software support for customization.
The Epomaker Galaxy100 has an 8000mAh battery, which is double the 4000mAh capacity of the WhatGeek SKN Thunder 3.0. This suggests the Galaxy100 will last significantly longer between charges when used wirelessly, although actual runtime depends on usage patterns and RGB settings.
The Epomaker Galaxy100 uses south-facing RGB LEDs, which prevent the switch housing from interfering with the north-facing legends on Cherry-profile keycaps. The SKN Thunder 3.0's product description does not specify LED orientation, so compatibility with Cherry profiles is not guaranteed and may cause interference.
The WhatGeek SKN Thunder 3.0 is more portable. It weighs 1130g, which is nearly 900g lighter than the 2000g Epomaker Galaxy100. Both have similar 96% footprints, but the reduced weight makes the SKN Thunder 3.0 easier to carry.
Both keyboards feature hot-swappable sockets. The Epomaker Galaxy100 listing confirms compatibility with both 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches. The WhatGeek SKN Thunder 3.0 vendor page also states its self-developed HoS switch seat is compatible with three-pin and five-pin switches.
Yes, the Epomaker Galaxy100 includes a metal knob. The manufacturer states it is essential for volume control and data entry, and it is programmable via QMK/VIA software for other functions.
The Epomaker Galaxy100 uses a plastic (PP) plate. The WhatGeek SKN Thunder 3.0 uses an FR4 fiberglass positioning plate, which the vendor claims offers a balance of hardness and softness for a consistent typing feel.
Both keyboards are designed with sound dampening. The Galaxy100 uses five layers including Poron and PET pads. The SKN Thunder 3.0 uses a four-layer filling with ASL foam and silicone. Both come with pre-lubed linear switches, which are generally quieter than tactile or clicky switches, making them suitable for offices.
According to its technical specifications, the Epomaker Galaxy100 has a 1000Hz polling rate in both wired and 2.4GHz wireless modes. Its Bluetooth 5.0 mode operates at a 125Hz polling rate. The SKN Thunder 3.0's polling rate is not specified in the provided information.
The Epomaker Galaxy100 has 57 reviews with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5, providing real-world user feedback on its performance. The WhatGeek SKN Thunder 3.0 listing shows no customer reviews, so its real-world performance is less documented.
Yes, both the Epomaker Galaxy100 and the WhatGeek SKN Thunder 3.0 list Mac and Windows compatibility in their specifications. The Galaxy100 listing also explicitly mentions Android compatibility.
The Epomaker Galaxy100 includes the keyboard, a USB cable, a user manual, and a keycap puller. The WhatGeek SKN Thunder 3.0 includes the keyboard, a 2.4G receiver, a Type-C cable, and a user manual. A switch puller is not mentioned for the SKN Thunder 3.0.
Not sold on either?
Still torn?
Answer a few quick questions and the keyboard finder ranks 2,000+ boards by how you will actually use yours.









