Compare Epomaker Tide Alice vs X-Bows X Bows Nature Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for typists and programmers seeking ergonomic relief without sacrificing customization. The decision is challenging because both boards offer hot-swappable PCBs and QMK/VIA support for deep programmability, but diverge sharply on core ergonomics, connectivity, and build materials. The Tide Alice offers a familiar Alice layout with wireless versatility, while the X-Bows Nature presents a unique radial-columnar design focused solely on wired, anatomical typing.

Model
	90	84	Select a keyboard to compare
Rating	4.0 stars (20 reviews)	0.0 stars (0 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	Released in 2026 Available in a 65% layout Comes with a knob Connects via USB-C Features N-key rollover Has built-in sound dampening Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery Weighs about 1600 g Sized at 31 x 343 x 139 mm Made with a Aluminum case Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting	Released in 2024 Has Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent switch options Available in a 75% layout Supports VIAL configuration Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity Made with a ABS case Features ABS keycaps Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
Score	Scores Performance: 77.3 Build Quality: 82.4 Productivity: 92.4 Customizability: 89.9 Portability: 88.5	Scores Performance: 72.4 Build Quality: 73.9 Productivity: 83.4 Customizability: 92.3 Portability: 62.9
Name	Name Epomaker Tide Alice	Name X-Bows X Bows Nature
Release year	Release year 2026	Release year 2024
Switch Options	Switch Options -	Switch Options Clicky, Tactile, Linear, Silent
Profile	Profile Normal Profile	Profile Normal Profile
Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable
Layout Size	Layout Size 65%	Layout Size 75%
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ANSI	Layout Standard ANSI
Layout Ergonomics	Layout Ergonomics Alice	Layout Ergonomics Alice
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 Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate	Polling Rate 1000 Hz	Polling Rate -
Battery capacity	Battery capacity 4000 mAh	Battery capacity -
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 -
Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers
Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening
Backlight	Backlight Rgb, South-face	Backlight Rgb
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material Aluminum	Case Material ABS
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material -	Keycaps Material ABS
Dimensions	Dimensions 31 x 343 x 139 mm	Dimensions -
Weight	Weight 1600g	Weight -

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Pros and Trade-offs

Your need for wireless functionality is the decisive factor. The Epomaker Tide Alice is the clear choice for a clean desk, multi-device workflow, and a premium metal build with tuned acoustics. Opt for the X-Bows Nature if you prioritize a dedicated, wired ergonomic tool with a lighter build and are willing to relearn your typing posture for potential long-term comfort gains.

Epomaker Tide Alice

+Tri-mode wireless connectivity with Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz, and wired USB-C.
+Full CNC anodized 6063 aluminum case for a premium, solid build.
+Five-layer sound dampening system including Poron and PET foams for a controlled acoustic profile.
+Gasket-mounted FR4 plate for a softer typing feel.
+Includes a 4000mAh battery for cordless operation.

−Heavy at 1.6 kg, limiting portability.
−The Alice layout has a specific, non-rectangular footprint that may not suit all desk spaces.
−Requires management of battery charging for wireless use.

X-Bows X Bows Nature

+Unique radial-columnar layout with a split spacebar designed to promote a neutral wrist posture.
+Lighter weight (690g) due to its hybrid ABS chassis with an aluminum top panel.
+Supports VIAL firmware in addition to QMK and VIA for customization.
+The vendor emphasizes a designed transition period for adapting to the ergonomic layout.

−Wired-only connectivity, lacking Bluetooth or 2.4GHz wireless options.
−Uses ABS keycaps, which may develop shine over time compared to PBT.
−The radical layout requires a significant learning period, as noted in the vendor's 'Two-Week Promise'.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Epomaker Tide Alice wins for mobile and multi-device scenarios like office work, gaming, and content creation due to its wireless features and battery. The X-Bows Nature's primary advantage is portability, thanks to its lighter weight. For stationary, focused tasks like programming and modding, the keyboards tie, offering equally powerful firmware support and customization in different ergonomic forms.

GamingEpomaker Tide Alice

•The Tide Alice offers a 1000Hz polling rate for wired and 2.4GHz connections.
•Its wireless modes provide cable-free flexibility for different gaming setups.
•The included knob can be programmed for in-game adjustments.

OfficeEpomaker Tide Alice

•Tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, wired) allows easy switching between devices.
•A 4000mAh battery provides extended cord-free use.
•South-facing RGB with a 5-layer sound dampening system can create a quieter, more polished desk presence.

ProgrammingTie

•Both keyboards support QMK and VIA for extensive key remapping and macro creation.
•Both feature hot-swappable PCBs for customizing switch feel.
•The X-Bows' split spacebar and thumb clusters may suit some workflows, while the Tide Alice's wireless connectivity aids multi-device use.

TravelX-Bows X Bows Nature

•The X-Bows Nature is significantly lighter at 690g compared to the Tide Alice's 1600g.
•Its 75% layout is more compact than the Tide Alice's 65% Alice shape, potentially fitting better in bags.
•The wired-only design eliminates the need to manage battery charging on the go.

ModdingTie

•Both have hot-swappable PCBs, though the X-Bows listing specifies 3-pin switch compatibility.
•Both support open-source firmware (QMK/VIA, with X-Bows adding VIAL).
•The Tide Alice's gasket mount and five-layer foam system offer acoustic modding potential, while the X-Bows' hybrid ABS/aluminum construction is a different modding platform.

Content CreationEpomaker Tide Alice

•Wireless connectivity reduces desk clutter for clean filming or streaming setups.
•The programmable knob can be mapped to timeline scrubbing or brush size adjustments.
•The aluminum case and detailed sound profile may be preferable for audio-sensitive work.