The EPOMAKER RT65 65% hot-swappable wireless mechanical keyboard is here, and it’s packed with features that are bound to excite keyboard enthusiasts. Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring some fantastic keyboards from EPOMAKER.
Last time, I reviewed the HE75 Tri, which had a unique charm of its own. But today, we’re taking a closer look at the EPOMAKER RT65 a keyboard that instantly grabs attention with its eye-catching design and incredible versatility. Whether you’re looking for functionality, durability, or just something fun to use, the RT65 seems to have it all. Let’s see how it holds up in this detailed review.
Unboxing
The Epomaker RT65 arrives in sturdy packaging that immediately reflects its premium quality. The box is well-designed and solid, ensuring the keyboard and accessories are secure during transportation. You can also see at a glance the array of features, supported operating systems, and the mini display mentioned prominently.
The reverse side highlights straightforward features, such as the gasket-mounted structure, reinforcing the product’s attention to detail. This is indeed the packaging of a major manufacturer.
Upon opening the box, you’ll find the keyboard securely placed in the centre, with the accessories tucked neatly in the rear compartment. The snug fit prevents unnecessary movement during transit a thoughtful touch that adds to the unboxing experience. The package includes the main unit, a replacement keycap, a detachable mini display, three spare key switches, a Type-A to Type-C cable, a keycap and switch puller, and a user manual, showing the level of care taken to enhance usability. The high quality and design of the cable left me particularly impressed, adding to the premium feel of the product.
Epomaker RT65 price
Epomaker RT65 specifications
A closer look
Build and design
The EPOMAKER RT65 features a 67-key layout in a 65% form factor, making it a compact yet functional choice for those who prioritise desk space without compromising on essential keys. Its gasket mount structure provides a robust and flexible build, ensuring a comfortable typing experience.
The keyboard’s casing is sturdy, with a smooth finish that feels premium to the touch. On the back side, non-slip rubber feet have been added, providing excellent grip on the table to keep the keyboard stable during use. However, height adjustment feet are not included, which might be a consideration for those who prefer customised typing angles.
The overall body has been designed with well-crafted curves, adding to both its ergonomic appeal and aesthetic charm.
The detachable mini display is a unique addition, allowing users to display information such as date, time, battery status, or even custom animations like anime GIFs. Beneath the display, a hidden port houses the 2.4GHz wireless receiver, adding to the keyboard’s clean and minimalist aesthetic.
The joystick replaces the traditional knob, offering intuitive controls for volume adjustment, muting, and even functioning as a mouse with the Fn key combination. This innovative feature adds a playful and versatile aspect to the keyboard.
Keycaps and Switches
The Epomaker RT65 is equipped with high-quality Cherry profile keycaps made from durable PBT material. These keycaps resist oil and wear, keeping the keyboard looking fresh for longer. The ergonomic profile also helps reduce fatigue, making it more comfortable for long typing sessions.
Under the hood, the keyboard features Wisteria Linear switches that are factory lubed for a smoother experience right out of the box. These switches are designed to offer a consistent, soft feel with each press. Here’s a quick look at their specs:
- Material: POM+PTFE stem, PC top housing, PA66 bottom housing
- Spring: 20.4mm extra-long spring
- Pin: 5 pins
- Actuation Force: 45gf
- Pre Travel: 2mm
- Total Travel: 3.6mm
The result is a linear, quiet typing experience that’s perfect for both typing and gaming. The factory lubrication makes the switches feel smooth and reduces friction, providing a more refined, satisfying keystroke.
RGB lighting
With south-facing RGB LEDs, the RT65 offers excellent visibility and customisation. The south-facing orientation ensures better compatibility with keycap profiles and enhances the lighting’s aesthetic appeal.
Users can choose from 16 default lighting patterns or create their own through the EPOMAKER driver.
Typing experience
The Epomaker RT65 excels in providing a satisfying typing experience. Its gasket mount structure, combined with five layers of premium fillings such as Poron sandwich foam and IXPE switch pads, dampens vibrations and reduces noise. The result is a smooth and consistent typing experience, with soft bottom-outs and minimal sound.
The finely tuned stabilisers ensure that larger keys like the spacebar and shift key are free from rattling, maintaining a cohesive feel across the entire keyboard.
NKRO
The Epomaker RT65 supports N-key rollover (NKRO), allowing for accurate registration of multiple simultaneous key presses. This feature is particularly beneficial for gamers and users who rely on complex key combinations.
Joystick functionality
The joystick is a standout feature, offering unique functionality that goes beyond traditional keyboard controls. Its ability to act as a mouse adds an extra layer of versatility, making the keyboard a multifaceted tool.
Connectivity and battery life
The Epomaker RT65 supports tri-mode connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and Type-C wired. It can connect to up to three devices simultaneously via Bluetooth, making it an excellent choice for multitasking. The 3000mAh battery offers impressive longevity, ensuring uninterrupted use for extended periods. This versatility in connectivity and battery life makes the RT65 suitable for both work and play.
Final thoughts on the EPOMAKER RT65
The EPOMAKER RT65 is a mechanical keyboard that truly stands out with its innovative features, thoughtful design, and engaging personality. From the detachable mini display that lets you showcase your style to the multifunctional joystick that adds a whole new dimension of usability, the Epomaker RT65 feels like a keyboard built for those who value both function and fun. The typing experience is smooth and satisfying, with its gasket mount and premium fillings making every keystroke a pleasure.
While the battery life is decent and holds up well for most uses, I can’t help but think a bit more capacity, like a 4000mAh battery, would have made it perfect. That said, its compact layout, customisation options, and versatile connectivity make it an excellent choice for gamers, professionals, and casual users alike. The RT65 isn’t just a keyboard; it’s an experience that blends practicality with personality in a way few others do.
As we wrap up this review, I’d like to wish all my readers a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! Enjoy the festive season with your loved ones, and I’ll be back soon with reviews of EPOMAKER’s next keyboards, the Galaxy 70 and Galaxy 100. Stay tuned, and have a wonderful holiday!
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