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.

Model
	-10% off 75	88	Select a keyboard to compare
Rating	4.9 stars (94 reviews)	4.7 stars (3 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	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 Linear, Tactile, 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
Score	Scores Performance: 77.9 Build Quality: 72.4 Productivity: 73.5 Customizability: 66.1 Portability: 75.4	Scores Performance: 83.9 Build Quality: 81.8 Productivity: 93.3 Customizability: 93 Portability: 54.5
Name	Name Epomaker Galaxy70	Name Keychron K17 Max
Release year	Release year 2024	Release year 2024
Switch Options	Switch Options -	Switch Options Linear, Tactile, Clicky
Profile	Profile Normal Profile	Profile Low Profile
Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable
Layout Size	Layout Size 75%	Layout Size 96%
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ANSI	Layout Standard ISO, ANSI
Layout Ergonomics	Layout Ergonomics Normal	Layout Ergonomics Normal
Knob Support	Knob Support	Knob Support
Display Support	Display Support	Display Support
Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support
Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys
USB-C	USB-C	USB-C
USB passthrough	USB passthrough	USB passthrough
Connection	Connection Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless	Connection Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate	Polling Rate 1000 Hz	Polling Rate 1000 Hz
Battery capacity	Battery capacity 4000 mAh	Battery capacity 2000 mAh
Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support
QMK Support	QMK Support	QMK Support
VIA Support	VIA Support	VIA Support
VIAL Support	VIAL Support	VIAL Support
N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover
Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger
Mount Style	Mount Style Gasket Mount	Mount Style PCB Mount
Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers
Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening
Backlight	Backlight Rgb, South-face	Backlight Rgb, White, North-face
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material Aluminum	Case Material ABS, Aluminum
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material PBT	Keycaps Material PBT
Dimensions	Dimensions 33 x 351 x 141 mm	Dimensions 27 x 119 x 387 mm
Weight	Weight 1790g	Weight 750g

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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)

They offer distinctly different typing experiences. The Epomaker Galaxy70 uses a gasket mount with multiple foam layers for a cushioned, 'thocky' sound and feel. The Keychron K17 Max provides a low-profile, slimmer typing experience with redesigned stabilizers and IXPE foam for a quiet, responsive feel. The better choice depends on your preference for a traditional, cushioned stroke versus a low-profile, shallow keypress.