If you're tired of the standard mechanical gaming keyboards that dominate the market, then the TH96 from Epomaker might be worth a look. The new keyboard is built with customisation in mind, offering a hot-swappable board, custom branded switches, RGB lighting and QMK/VIA support.
Epomaker designed the TH96 to be a fully-featured keyboard at an affordable price. When typing, the TH96 should be noticeably quieter than your average keyboard thanks to the use of sound-absorbing foam and a thick silicone damping pad. There is also a media dial in the corner, so you can quickly play/pause video or raise/lower system volume.
The TH96 wireless model supports Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity, and a wired connection, allowing you to connect to three different devices simultaneously. To configure this model, users should utilise the provided proprietary software. On the QMK/VIA model, which connects exclusively via USB-C cable, users may program individual layers, create macros, remap keys and customise the RGB lighting using open-source tools.
Regardless of the variant, the TH96 may feature Flamingo Linear or Budgerigar Tactile switches. With a travel distance of 3.8mm and an actuation force of 45g, the Flamingo switches use dual extended springs to rebound faster. As for the Budgerigar switches, they have an actuation force of 47g, a travel distance of 3.8mm and are rated for up to 100 million clicks, which should be enough to last a couple of decades.
Epomaker's new keyboard is available in dark grey with white and grey keycaps or in white with grey, light grey and yellow keycaps. You can get the TH96 wireless for $119 as part of its super early bird campaign (first-come-first-serve service), increasing to $149 once it ends. The QMK/VIA variant has a super early bird price of $159, but it will bump to $179 at the end of the campaign.
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KitGuru says: If you're looking for a new mechanical keyboard, you're no longer limited to the popular gaming brands. Other companies like Epomaker, Durgod and Leopold have been creating good alternatives to the traditional mechanical gaming keyboard. The TH96 is one such alternative, and it packs an impressive range of features for its price.