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Compare Epomaker Galaxy70 vs Keychron K17 Max Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a premium compact keyboard and a feature-rich, low-profile board. The Epomaker Galaxy70 offers a dense, high-quality 75% layout with a focus on acoustic tuning, while the Keychron K17 Max provides a nearly full-sized 96% layout in a slimmer, low-profile form factor with advanced firmware support. The choice hinges on whether you prioritize a thocky, gasket-mounted typing feel in a smaller footprint or need a dedicated numpad and deep customization in an ultra-slim design.

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75
Epomaker Galaxy70
88
Keychron K17 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection

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4.9 (92)
4.5 (2)
  • Available in a 75% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1790 g
  • Sized at 33 x 351 x 141 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting
  • Has Tactile, Linear, Clicky switch options
  • Features a low-profile design
  • Available in a 96% layout
  • Built with the ISO, ANSI layout standard
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Uses a PCB Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 2000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 750 g
  • Sized at 27 x 119 x 387 mm
  • Made with a ABS, Aluminum case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White, North-face, Rgb North-face, White North-face RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 77.8
  • Build Quality: 72.4
  • Productivity: 73.4
  • Customizability: 66.4
  • Portability: 75.5
Scores
  • Performance: 83.7
  • Build Quality: 81.9
  • Productivity: 93.2
  • Customizability: 93.1
  • Portability: 54.6
Name
Epomaker Galaxy70
Name
Keychron K17 Max
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch Options
-
Switch Options
Tactile, Linear, Clicky
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Low Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
75%
Layout Size
96%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ISO, 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
4000 mAh
Battery capacity
2000 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
PCB Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb, South-face
Backlight
 
Rgb, White, North-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
ABS, Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
33 x 351 x 141 mm
Dimensions
27 x 119 x 387 mm
Weight
1790g
Weight
750g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you want a dense, acoustically tuned typing experience with a premium metal build and don't need a numpad, the Epomaker Galaxy70 is compelling. If your workflow requires a numpad, deep firmware customization with QMK/VIA, or you prefer a low-profile typing feel, the Keychron K17 Max is the more functional tool despite its smaller battery.

Epomaker Galaxy70

  • +Full aluminum case with powder coating for a premium, durable feel.
  • +Gasket mount structure with five specified layers of sound-dampening foam (PORON, IXPE, PET, EMDP) for a tuned acoustic experience.
  • +Larger 4000mAh battery capacity for extended wireless use.
  • +South-facing RGB LEDs, which are compatible with more aftermarket keycap profiles.
  • +Compact 75% layout saves desk space while retaining a function row and navigation cluster.

  • Heavier weight (1790g) may reduce portability despite the compact size.
  • Lacks the advanced QMK/VIA firmware programmability found on the K17 Max.
  • Does not include a dedicated numpad, which is a drawback for data-heavy tasks.

Keychron K17 Max

  • +96% layout includes a full numpad in a relatively compact form factor.
  • +Supports QMK and VIA firmware for extensive key remapping and macro programming.
  • +Low-profile design with a 4° typing angle and compatible low-profile Gateron switches.
  • +Offers both ANSI and ISO layout options for broader regional compatibility.
  • +Includes 12 multimedia keys for quick access to controls.

  • Smaller 2000mAh battery capacity compared to the Galaxy70.
  • North-facing RGB LEDs may cause interference with some Cherry-profile keycaps.
  • Officially compatible only with Gateron or Keychron low-profile mechanical switches, limiting hot-swap options.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron K17 Max is the clear choice for office work, programming, and content creation due to its numpad and superior programmability. The Epomaker Galaxy70 is better suited for travel with its more compact size and larger battery. For gaming and modding, the two are closely matched, offering high performance and customization in different forms.

GamingTie
  • Both offer a 1000 Hz polling rate in wired and 2.4 GHz modes for responsive input.
  • The Galaxy70's vendor page cites low latency of 2.8ms (wired) and 5ms (2.4GHz).
  • The K17 Max's 96% layout retains arrow and navigation keys useful for some games.
OfficeKeychron K17 Max
  • The K17 Max's 96% layout includes a full numpad, essential for data entry.
  • Its low-profile design and 4° typing angle may suit ergonomic desk setups.
  • It includes 12 multimedia keys for quick controls.
ProgrammingKeychron K17 Max
  • QMK and VIA support on the K17 Max allows for deep key remapping and macros.
  • The 96% layout provides dedicated arrow and navigation clusters without taking up much more desk space than a TKL.
  • The vendor description highlights the ability to master any keys or macro commands via the Keychron Launcher web app.
TravelEpomaker Galaxy70
  • The Galaxy70's 75% layout is more compact (351mm wide vs. 387mm).
  • It has a larger 4000mAh battery compared to the K17 Max's 2000mAh for longer wireless use.
  • It is heavier (1790g), which may indicate a sturdier build, but the K17 Max is significantly lighter at 750g.
ModdingTie
  • Both keyboards are hot-swappable, allowing for easy switch changes.
  • The Galaxy70 features a gasket mount and five layers of sound-improving material (PORON foam, IXPE pad, etc.) for acoustic tuning.
  • The K17 Max supports QMK/VIA for extensive firmware customization and uses IXPE and latex foam for sound dampening.
Content CreationKeychron K17 Max
  • The dedicated numpad on the K17 Max is valuable for shortcut macros and numerical input in editing software.
  • QMK programmability allows for creating complex macro layers for editing workflows.
  • The inclusion of a knob on both boards provides quick media or parameter control.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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