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Compare Epomaker Galaxy100 vs WhatGeek SKN Thunder 3.0 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two 96% aluminum gasket-mount keyboards. The choice is difficult because both offer triple-mode connectivity, hot-swap PCBs, and PBT keycaps in a similar layout. The decision hinges on whether you prioritize extensive firmware customization and a massive battery, or prefer a lighter keyboard with a specific plate material and a potentially simpler out-of-box experience.

90
EPOMAKER Galaxy100 QMK/VIA
71
SKN Thunder 3.0 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

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4.6 (64)
0.0 (0)
  • Has Clicky, Linear switch options
  • Comes with a knob
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate
  • Equipped with a 8000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 2000 g
  • Sized at 20 x 405 x 138 mm
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1130 g
  • Sized at 34 x 138 x 405 mm
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 83.1
  • Build Quality: 83.8
  • Productivity: 92.8
  • Customizability: 88.9
  • Portability: 62
Scores
  • Performance: 76.6
  • Build Quality: 68.8
  • Productivity: 79.3
  • Customizability: 65.4
  • Portability: 57.8
Name
Epomaker Galaxy100
Name
WhatGeek SKN Thunder 3.0
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Clicky, Linear
Switch Options
Linear
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
96%
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
-
Battery capacity
8000 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, South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
20 x 405 x 138 mm
Dimensions
34 x 138 x 405 mm
Weight
2000g
Weight
1130g
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Pros and Trade-offs

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.

Epomaker Galaxy100

  • +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.
  • +Detailed sound dampening with five specific material layers (Poron, IXPE, EMDP, PET).
  • +South-facing RGB LEDs to avoid interference with Cherry-profile keycaps.

  • Very heavy at 2000g, reducing portability.
  • QMK support is noted to require a downloaded JSON file and may not be natively recognized in VIA.
  • Uses a plastic (PP) plate, while the competitor uses an FR4 plate.

WhatGeek SKN Thunder 3.0

  • +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.
  • +Four-layer sound-absorbing filling includes ASL foam, IXPE, PET, and silicone.

  • Lacks QMK, VIA, or any mentioned advanced software for key remapping.
  • Smaller 4000mAh battery.
  • No dedicated volume knob or programmable encoder.
  • No user reviews are available to confirm real-world performance.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

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.

GamingEpomaker 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.
OfficeEpomaker Galaxy100
  • Its 8000mAh battery promises significantly longer wireless use between charges.
  • QMK/VIA support allows for deep key remapping and macro creation to streamline repetitive tasks.
  • The 96% layout with numpad is efficient for data entry while saving desk space.
ProgrammingEpomaker Galaxy100
  • QMK and VIA firmware support enables limitless layer programming and complex macros essential for developers.
  • The hot-swappable PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switches for testing different typing feels.
  • The inclusion of a knob can be programmed for scrolling, workspace switching, or other IDE commands.
TravelWhatGeek SKN Thunder 3.0
  • The SKN Thunder 3.0 is substantially lighter at 1130g compared to the Galaxy100's 2000g.
  • Its slightly slimmer profile (33.8mm height vs ~32.3mm) may fit more easily in a bag.
  • Both have similar wireless capabilities, but the lighter weight is a clear advantage for portability.
ModdingEpomaker Galaxy100
  • The Galaxy100's build is detailed with five named sound-dampening layers (Poron, IXPE, EMDP, PET) for targeted acoustic tuning.
  • It offers explicit support for both QMK and VIA, allowing firmware-level modifications.
  • The product listing specifies compatibility with both 3-pin and 5-pin switches in its hot-swap sockets.
Content CreationEpomaker Galaxy100
  • The programmable knob and QMK/VIA macros are highly valuable for video editing shortcuts and audio level adjustments.
  • Long battery life supports extended wireless use during editing marathons.
  • The stable, heavy aluminum construction reduces movement during aggressive typing or shortcut use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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