Epomaker TH40 vs Feker Alice98Ultra-Portable vs Ergonomic Layout
Choose the Epomaker TH40 for extreme portability and layering, or the Feker Alice98 for a full, ergonomic layout without compromise.
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Which one should you get?
Get the
Epomaker TH40
Ultra-Portable
Build quality in the top 30% of 40% boards under $150.
- Extremely portable at 500g with a compact 40% layout.
- Offers tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired) for versatile device pairing.
- Programmable via VIA software with multiple layers for a highly customized typing experience.
- South-facing LEDs. Shine-through legends stay dark, and some sculpted keycaps can clip the LED.
- Compact layout only. No function row, dedicated arrow keys, or numpad.
Get the
Feker Alice98
Ergonomic Layout
Build quality in the top 15% of 98% boards under $150.
- Ergonomic Alice split layout is designed to promote a more natural typing posture.
- Massive 8000mAh battery promises exceptionally long wireless operation.
- Available as a DIY kit with screw-in stabilizers and includes multiple sound-dampening foam layers (Poron, cotton).
- South-facing LEDs. Shine-through legends stay dark, and some sculpted keycaps can clip the LED.
- Compact full-size layout. The numpad is present, the gaps of a full-size board are not.
Your primary need dictates the choice. If your priority is saving desk space, traveling light, or you enjoy mastering complex key layers, the Epomaker TH40 is the compelling option. If you need a full set of keys for work, value ergonomic comfort for long sessions, and want extensive modding potential out of the box, the Feker Alice98 is the better investment. Consider the TH40 a specialized tool for portability and the Alice98 a full-featured workstation keyboard.
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 TH40
Feker Alice98
Layout size
40%
98%
Battery
3,000 mAh
8,000 mAh
A larger battery means fewer cables during the day
Ergonomics
Split Spacebar
Alice
Case material
ABS
ABS, Plastic
Switch options
Linear
Clicky, Linear, Tactile
- Epomaker TH40
- Feker Alice98
- Performance
- 7468
- Build quality
- 7575
- Productivity
- 6297
- Customizability
- 8590
- Portability
- 8465
- Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired
- Hot-swappable
- Mount style: Gasket Mount
- VIA
- Keycaps: PBT
What will you mostly use it for?
The Feker Alice98 is the clear choice for productivity-focused tasks like office work, programming, and content creation due to its full layout, ergonomic design, and programmable knob. The Epomaker TH40 dominates for travel and can suit gaming with its high polling rate and space-saving design. For keyboard modding enthusiasts, the Alice98 offers more advanced starting components like screw-in stabilizers and detailed foam layers.
Pick the Epomaker TH40
- The TH40 has a specified 1000Hz polling rate for wired and 2.4GHz modes, which the Alice98 listing does not mention.
- Its 40% layout and 500g weight free up significant desk space for mouse movement.
- Full N-Key Rollover is confirmed for both, but the TH40's compact form is more gaming-centric.
Epomaker TH40 vs Feker Alice98 specs
Every tracked spec, side by side. Rows marked with a dot differ between the boards.
15 of 25 specs differ
Epomaker TH40
Feker Alice98
Switch options
Hot-swappable
Mount style
Sound dampening
Screw-in stabilizers
Layout size
Layout standard
Ergonomics
Knob
Display
Connection
Max polling rate
Battery
USB-C
Case material
Plate material
Keycaps
Weight
Dimensions
Backlight
QMK
VIA
N-key rollover
Mac & Windows
Released
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Epomaker TH40 vs Feker Alice98: your questions
The Feker Alice98 is likely easier for beginners due to its standard key layout, which includes a numpad and arrow keys. The Epomaker TH40's 40% layout requires immediate learning of complex function layers, which has a steeper learning curve according to user reviews.
Yes, but it requires adaptation. The TH40 is programmable via VIA software, allowing you to create layers that place numbers and symbols on the home row. However, this means frequently holding modifier keys, which some programmers may find less efficient than a dedicated number row.
The product metadata lists Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity, but the primary vendor description focuses on its wired Type-C connection. It is advisable to confirm with the seller if the specific model you are purchasing includes the wireless functionality, as it may vary.
The Feker Alice98 has a significantly larger 8000mAh battery compared to the TH40's 3000mAh battery. While actual runtime depends on usage and RGB settings, the Alice98's battery capacity suggests it will last much longer between charges.
Yes, both keyboards use standard keycap mounts. However, the Feker Alice98's unique Alice layout and split spacebars may require specific keycap sets designed for Alice layouts. The Epomaker TH40's 40% layout and split spacebar also require a non-standard keycap set for a full replacement.
Both aim for a quieter experience. The Feker Alice98 listing emphasizes multiple sound-absorbing layers including Poron sandwich cotton and bottom cotton padding. The Epomaker TH40 uses a gasket mount with Poron plate foam and an IXPE switch pad. The Alice98's additional foam may offer more sound dampening, but switch choice will be the largest factor for noise.
Yes. Both the Epomaker TH40 and Feker Alice98 support VIA software, allowing for extensive key remapping and macro programming without needing to flash firmware. The TH40's product description specifically highlights this programmability across multiple layers.
The Feker Alice98's ergonomic layout can be comfortable for gaming, and it features N-Key Rollover. However, its listing does not specify a polling rate, whereas the Epomaker TH40 explicitly offers a 1000Hz rate. Gamers who prioritize the lowest possible latency may want a board with a confirmed high polling rate.
The Epomaker TH40 comes with linear switches. The vendor description specifies it includes EPOMAKER Flamingo switches, which are linear. It does not offer a choice of tactile or clicky switches in its standard configuration.
According to the vendor listing, the Feker Alice98 package includes the keyboard itself, a USB Type-C cable (described as a spring-coiled stock cable), an instructional manual, and a dust cover.
Based on user reviews and the vendor's response, firmware for the TH40 is available for download from Epomaker's website. Some users reported issues with VIA recognition that were addressed by updating the firmware. The vendor provides a specific JSON file for V2 versions.
The main difference is layout philosophy. The TH40 forces you to type using layers on a very small grid, which can be efficient once memorized. The Alice98 uses an ergonomic, split Alice layout that changes the physical angle and key placement to align with natural finger movements, aiming to reduce strain over long periods.
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