Epomaker TH80-X Review

mmorpg.com:

Last spring, Epomaker launched its Theory line of mechanical keyboards: mechs designed to bring enthusiast features to affordable price points. We looked at the TH66 and TH96 and were impressed at how much they offered — the TH66 was especially impressive with one of the best typing experiences and stylish looks of the entire year. The one keyboard we missed from the series was the TH80.

That changes today with the TH80-X, an updated version of that keyboard that now features a programmable OLED display, a multifunction knob, a massive 8,000 mAh battery, and a suite of other improvements, like sound tuning foam and doubleshot keycaps. If you can get on with its aesthetic, it’s an outstanding value at $99 and delivers a typing experience that will leave you wondering why the big-brand keyboards are so much more expensive.

The Epomaker TH80-X is a 75% keyboard with tricks up its sleeve. Like the original version , it includes a full function row and arrow keys, splitting the difference between compact gaming and productivity. The keyset is remappable and can support three different layers of keymaps for individual apps and games. The layout on the TH80-X isn’t exactly the same, however, as the Delete key has been shifted into the F13 position, leaving Page Up and Page Down on their own.

That space above those keys is now occupied by an OLED screen, which is both visually neat and genuinely useful. By default, it displays an information screen that shows the date, time, charge level, connection type and status, layer, and OS. By holding FN and pressing the knob, you can cycle through menus for lighting type, speed, brightness, operating system, layer, and even set it to display custom graphics and animated GIFs.

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