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Compare Epomaker TH40 vs Nuphy Gem80 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between a highly portable, budget-friendly compact keyboard and a premium, feature-rich custom board. The Epomaker TH40 offers a radical 40% layout in a lightweight, tri-mode package, while the Nuphy Gem80 provides a substantial TKL form factor with extensive sound customization and high-end materials. The decision hinges on whether your priority is desk space and travel or a top-tier typing experience and modding potential.

-10% off
82
Epomaker TH40
96
Nuphy GEM80 Barebones Keyboard Kit

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3.9 (52)
0.0 (0)
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Available in a 40% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Offers Split Spacebar ergonomics
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 3000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 500 g
  • Sized at 35 x 258 x 97 mm
  • Made with a ABS case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Has Mechanical switch options
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO layout standard
  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Provides dedicated media keys
  • Connects via USB-C
  • Includes screw-in stabilizers
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only connectivity
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1120 g
  • Sized at 37 x 358 x 141 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Polycarbonate case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
Scores
  • Performance: 73.8
  • Build Quality: 75.4
  • Productivity: 62.5
  • Customizability: 86.1
  • Portability: 84.2
Scores
  • Performance: 79.9
  • Build Quality: 87
  • Productivity: 93.7
  • Customizability: 97.2
  • Portability: 75.9
Name
Epomaker TH40
Name
Nuphy Gem80
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Linear
Switch Options
Mechanical
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
40%
Layout Size
80%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, ISO-DE, ISO
Layout Ergonomics
Split Spacebar
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, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
3000 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, South-face
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
ABS
Case Material
Aluminum, Polycarbonate
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Dimensions
35 x 258 x 97 mm
Dimensions
37 x 358 x 141 mm
Weight
500g
Weight
1120g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your choice fundamentally comes down to form factor and investment. The Epomaker TH40 is a compelling, affordable gateway into ultra-compact keyboards and wireless convenience, perfect for minimalist desks or frequent travelers. The Nuphy Gem80 is a premium project for enthusiasts who value acoustic tuning, material quality, and a standard layout, and are willing to invest more time and money into building their perfect keyboard.

Epomaker TH40

  • +Extremely compact and lightweight 40% layout, ideal for portability.
  • +Offers tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired) in a budget-friendly package.
  • +Hot-swappable PCB and programmable via VIA software with multiple layers.
  • +Includes sound-dampening foams like Poron plate foam and an IXPE switch pad.
  • +Features a split spacebar design which can be remapped for additional functionality.
  • −The 40% layout requires heavy reliance on function layers for numbers, arrows, and punctuation.
  • −Built with an ABS plastic case, which may feel less premium than metal alternatives.
  • −Some user reviews mention challenges with VIA software recognition and firmware updates.
  • −Limited to linear switch options in its pre-built configuration.

Nuphy Gem80

  • +High-end construction with an aluminum top case and polycarbonate bottom case.
  • +Extensive sound customization with six included mods and an omni-mount system for different feels.
  • +Sold as a versatile barebones kit, offering great flexibility for switch and keycap choice.
  • +Large 4000mAh battery and a 1000Hz polling rate on both wired and 2.4GHz wireless.
  • +Includes advanced features like light-emitting homing bar keycaps and Mac-optimized function keys.
  • −Substantially larger, heavier, and more expensive than compact alternatives.
  • −Being a barebones kit, it requires a separate purchase of switches and keycaps, increasing total cost.
  • −The complex assembly and modding options may be intimidating for beginners.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Nuphy Gem80 is the more versatile choice for stationary use cases like gaming, office work, programming, and content creation, thanks to its standard layout and premium features. The Epomaker TH40 dominates for travel due to its minimal size and weight. For modding enthusiasts, the Gem80 offers unparalleled depth with its barebones nature and customizable mounting system, while the TH40 provides a solid, more accessible hot-swap foundation.

GamingNuphy Gem80
  • •The Gem80 offers a 1000Hz polling rate on both wired and 2.4GHz connections, matching the TH40's wired/2.4G performance.
  • •Its standard TKL layout includes dedicated arrow and function keys, which are more intuitive for gaming shortcuts without layers.
  • •The listing mentions a 1000Hz Nordic wireless chip optimized for gaming, a feature not highlighted for the TH40's wireless.
OfficeNuphy Gem80
  • •The Gem80's 80% layout provides a full set of arrow and navigation keys without relying on function layers.
  • •It offers silent switch options like the Cherry Silent Red Clear-Top, which the TH40's listing does not mention.
  • •Its larger 4000mAh battery may require less frequent charging compared to the TH40's 3000mAh battery.
ProgrammingNuphy Gem80
  • •The standard TKL layout on the Gem80 provides immediate access to symbols, brackets, and arrow keys crucial for coding.
  • •Both support QMK/VIA for deep key remapping, but the Gem80's larger layout reduces the need for complex layer programming for common keys.
  • •The Gem80's listing emphasizes Mac-specific optimizations, including special feature keys for F3-F6, which can benefit developers on macOS.
TravelEpomaker TH40
  • •The TH40 is significantly smaller (258x97mm) and lighter (500g) than the Gem80 (358x141mm, 1120g).
  • •Its 40% layout is designed for portability, as stated in its vendor description.
  • •It includes tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4G, wired) for use with multiple devices on the go.
ModdingNuphy Gem80
  • •The Gem80 is sold primarily as a barebones kit, inviting user customization with switches and keycaps.
  • •It features an 'omni-mount' design allowing users to switch between gasket, top, and bottom mount styles.
  • •The vendor description details extensive, customizable sound mods including multiple poron absorbers, an IXPE dampener, and optional FR4, PC, POM, or aluminum plates.
Content CreationNuphy Gem80
  • •The Gem80's TKL layout offers dedicated media keys and shortcuts via its function row, which are absent on the 40% TH40.
  • •Its premium aluminum and polycarbonate construction provides a more stable, high-end feel for a desk setup.
  • •The extensive RGB lighting with over 40 modes, as listed, allows for more personalized desk aesthetics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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