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| Novice 68 | Epomaker TH65 | Royal Kludge R65 |
68 Overall/ Value 67.9Build Quality 63.2Customizability 67.0Performance 58.5Productivity 76.2Portability 94.0![]() | 86 Overall/ Value 86.3Build Quality 84.0Customizability 89.7Performance 66.6Productivity 89.1Portability 85.7![]() | |
0.0 stars (0 reviews) | 5.0 stars (1 reviews) | 0.0 stars (0 reviews) |
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Name Novice 68 | Name Epomaker TH65 | Name Royal Kludge R65 |
Release year 2026 | Release year 2026 | Release year 2024 |
Switch Options - | Switch Options Linear, Tactile, Silent | Switch Options Linear |
Profile Normal Profile | Profile Normal Profile | Profile Normal Profile |
Hot Swappable | Hot Swappable | Hot Swappable |
Layout Size 65% | Layout Size 65% | Layout Size 65% |
Layout Standard ANSI | Layout Standard ANSI | Layout Standard ANSI |
Layout Ergonomics Normal | 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 - |
Battery capacity - | Battery capacity 8000 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 Gasket Mount |
Screw in Stabilizers | Screw in Stabilizers | Screw in Stabilizers |
Sound Dampening | Sound Dampening | Sound Dampening |
Backlight | Backlight Rgb | Backlight Rgb |
Case Colors | Case Colors | Case Colors |
Case Material - | Case Material ABS, Plastic | Case Material Aluminum |
Keycaps Material - | Keycaps Material PBT, PC, ABS | Keycaps Material PBT |
Dimensions - | Dimensions 41 x 298 x 102 mm | Dimensions 41 x 116 x 41 mm |
Weight - | Weight 700g | Weight 580g |
The Novice 68 is a compact mechanical keyboard designed for users who want a smaller footprint without sacrificing essential keys. It suits typists and casual gamers who prefer a 65% layout, which retains arrow keys and some navigation functions while saving desk space. This board is a fit for those who value straightforward functionality and moderate customization options.
The case is made from plastic, which keeps the keyboard lightweight but may feel less sturdy compared to metal alternatives. The mounting style is tray-mounted, which can produce a firmer typing feel but may transmit more sound through the desk.
Hot-swappable switches enable users to experiment with different switch types to find preferred tactile or linear feedback. The keyboard’s sound profile depends largely on the chosen switches and keycaps, as the case material offers limited sound dampening.
Connectivity options are limited to wired USB-C only. This suits users who prioritize stable, low-latency connections and do not require wireless functionality.