The Complete Epomaker GK68XS Review

Epomaker is a comparatively newer keyboard manufacturing brand, but its products are top-notch. You get quality for your money, and this is what you'll acknowledge at the end of this Epomaker GK68XS review.

The Epomaker GK68XS is a hot-swappable 65% mechanical keyboard, but it's not a typical one. It features a unique spacebar module where a single key can be replaced with three keys for different functionalities. The keyboard has high functionality and a fine build. Besides, you can customize it all you want. The GK68XS also has a Bluetooth 5.1 wireless connection.

This was just a short summary of some of the features this board has. In this article, I'll highlight many different pros of getting the Epomaker GK68XS. This board will make you a much better gamer, along with improving your typing experience.

There is also an FAQ section at the end that answers some of the common questions people have regarding this keyboard.

Is the GK68XS a good keyboard?

The GK68XS is undoubtedly a good keyboard for everyday use. It will be beneficial for both typists and gamers. This board isn't very expensive either, which is great for people with a limited budget.

Epomaker GK68XS

This keyboard isn't very popular like some of the others, but it definitely packs a punch. You can compare it with keyboards from brands like Ducky, Durgod, and more.

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Furthermore, the GK68XS is wireless and has a fast Bluetooth connection. Your keystrokes will register the moment you press the key. Secondly, its easy-to-use software makes it simpler to customize the board.

Your product must have something different to stand out from the crowd. And that's exactly what Epomaker has done by introducing the split spacebar module in the GK68XS.

You can either use a single regular spacebar or replace it with a spacebar key and two additional function keys. Isn't that an exciting feature?

In The Box

Before starting our in-depth Epomaker GK68XS review, let's look at what's in its box. This keyboard comes with much more accessories compared to many other keyboards.

Once you do the unboxing, there will be the following parts in the box:

1. The GK68X Keyboard

Of course, the keyboard is the main part, and it will be the first thing you see in the box. It'll come with the switches of your choice and pre-installed keycaps.

2. Spacebar Module

You can install the spacebar module by simply fixing three screws that also come with the board. This will allow you to replace the spacebar with the three switches you have.

3. Three Additional Switches

You can use these keys in the spacebar module to have more functionality on the keyboard. These will be the same switches that came installed on your board.

4. Extra Spacebar Keycaps

Obviously, you'll need additional keycaps for the added switches. These will have the same color as your keyboard.

5. Extra Mac-compatible Keycaps

Five supplementary keycaps for the Mac symbol keys, Control, Command, and Option, will come on the box.

6. Wire Keycap Puller

If you want to replace or clean a keycap, you can easily do it with this wire keycap puller. Thankfully, it doesn't leave any scratches on the keycap.

7. Switch Puller

This switch puller will help you remove the switches to replace them with other ones if you want.

The GK68X is hot-swappable, so you won't be doing any soldering to remove and fit the switches.

8. Detachable USB-C Cable

A high-quality, detachable USB-C cable will come in the box to connect your keyboard to the computer.

The GK68X is not wireless, so you'd need a USB cable. Contrarily, the GK68XS is wireless. People often confuse the X and XS variants.

9. Manual

People usually ignore the manuals, but this one is super important. The GK68X's manual will teach you how to use the software, key combos to change the RGB lighting, and so on.

Build Quality

You can get the Epomaker GK68XS in either a plastic or aluminum case. The former isn't the strongest, but the latter is seriously sturdy. Of course, the aluminum build will cost you some more bucks, but it guarantees more safety too.

Secondly, the plate on this keyboard is made from aluminum, and no plastic is used there. Your keys will be firmly mounted, with no danger of them falling apart from excessive pressing.

The plastic case is either white or black, and the aluminum one features silver and purple colors.

Also, there are no extra stands on the back of the keyboard. The board has a good typing angle, but unfortunately, you won't be able to adjust it further.

The Keycaps

The GK68X has dye-sublimated PBT keycaps, which guarantee oil resistance and early wear and tear.

The keycaps have the GSA profile, which fans of DSA and XDA keycaps will appreciate. The keycaps are uniform and concave except for the spacebar keys, which are convex.

But apart from that, you'll get exactly the same feeling, no matter which key you press. Users who like consistent keystrokes will love this board.

The Stabilizers

The stabilizers are plate-mounted, factory-lubed, and have the Cherry MX style. You won't hear any rattle on this keyboard except for the large spacebar key.

However, if you use three switches in its place, then there will be no rattling whatsoever. But if you still don't like the feel, then I recommend lubing it again. Don't overdo it; otherwise, the experience will just get worse.

You can also consider clipping the stabilizers to make them even more stable.

Moreover, upon removing a switch, you'll find that the stem of the stabilizers is white while the housing is black. This gives them a fine look!

The Switches

The GK68XS comes with multiple switch options from Gateron and Cherry MX, as follows:

Cherry MX Blue
Cherry MX Black
Cherry MX Brown
Cherry MX Red
Gateron Blue
Gateron Black
Gateron Brown
Gateron Red

So, as can be seen, there's something for everyone. If you're a writer, the GK68X gives you the liberty to get it with clicky or tactile switches.

Similarly, if you're buying the keyboard for gaming, then consider the linear red switches.

Gateron and Cherry are both reliable and proven brands. Their products are the best in the business, and you won't have any complaints about the switches on the GK68X or GK68XS.

The Layout

The layout of the Epomaker GK68XS keyboard is 65% with 68 keys, which makes it ideal for gaming. Gamers mostly look for a compact keyboard so they have extra desk space for their mouse.

Besides, a smaller keyboard also makes you faster as compared to a full-size board.

I have personally used many 60% and 65% keyboards and can safely say that they are the best choice for gamers.

But this board is not only for gamers. Even typists who don't often use the numeric pad can work on this keyboard without any issues. Get a suitable switch and see how your typing speed increases with time.

The Software

The Epomaker GK68XS has its own software, which you can download easily after reading the manual. As for the software itself, it's easy to operate and allows you to change the RGB lights, set key macros, and more.

There will also be a guide in the software about how to use it. So, in case you don't know how certain things will work, do go through the instructions.

Apart from this, this keyboard has some key shortcuts that will also change the RGB lights for you. You can also change them using the software.

Compatibility

This keyboard is compatible with all the major operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. Yes, you can use it with all of them. Simply switch between them by pressing a switch.

Not only that, but the GK68X is one of a handful of mechanical keyboards that come with the Mac layout media keys. So, you won't be compromising on anything.

It'll be like using a Mac keyboard but with mechanical switches.

Bluetooth Connectivity

The GK68X does not have Bluetooth connectivity, but the GK68XS sure does. It features Bluetooth 5.1 and a 1900 mAH battery, guaranteeing long use without any problems.

You can connect three devices at the same time with this keyboard and switch between them seamlessly. It's excellent for multitasking.

The latency is low, so your keystrokes will register as soon as you press the keys. There might be a rare delay of a few milliseconds sometimes, but that's not a big issue.

Again, the GK68X doesn't have Bluetooth connectivity; rather, it's the GK68XS that does. The former only gets connected with a USB-C cable.

FAQs

Is GK68XS hot swappable?

Yes, the GK68XS is hot-swappable. You can use any switch with similar pins, like the Gateron, Kailh, or Cherry MX switches.

The keyboard initially comes with either Gaterons or Cherry MXs, depending on what you choose while buying. Both of these switches need no introduction. They are top-of-the-line in their domain and provide excellent typing experience.

But if you experimented with a switch but want to change it now, the hot-swappable feature of the GK68XS allows you to do that easily.

You won't have to do any soldering. Simply take out the switch with the switch puller and insert the newer ones carefully.

What switches are compatible with GK68XS?

The GK68XS 65% keyboard is compatible with Cherry MX, Gateron, and Kailh switches. You have options like getting the Cherry MX Red, Cherry MX Blue, Brown, and so on.

You have similar color options with the Gaterons and Kailhs as well. Get the color switch that suits you the most. If you want something heavier in the linear category, then there's also the option of black switches.

For instance, linear red switches are excellent for gaming. On the other hand, writers prefer the blue or brown ones.

What plate does the gk68x use?

The GK68X uses a solid aluminum plate for mounting the switches. The case also has both plastic and aluminum options. Getting the latter will make your keyboard even more durable. However, it'll make it heavier than plastic, too.

But I'll suggest that it's still better to invest once in the aluminum version for long-term relief. Even if you drop the keyboard by mistake, the sturdy build will make sure nothing gets broken, including the switches, stabilizers, and the plate.

Is GK68 an optical?

The SKYLOONG GK68 is a hot-swappable keyboard with optical switches, and it's one of the finest boards you can find of its kind. Optical switches are a lot different than typical mechanical switches.

In short, these switches use a photo sensor that detects the light emitted by the LEDs. As soon as the detection takes place, the keystroke is registered.

Optical switches are faster and have a longer lifespan as well. However, mechanical switches are still more pleasing to use.

Final Verdict: Is the Epomaker GK68X Worth It?

So, is the Epomaker GK68X worth it? Despite the cost, this keyboard is one of the best available options for users looking for a quality mechanical gaming keyboard at an affordable price.

The GK68X has all the features you need to get the job done, from its RGB backlighting to its durable PBT keycaps. It also has a solid build quality and excellent switches that make it perfect for gaming and typing alike.

Of course, you don’t have to take my word for it, the Epomaker GK68X has plenty of satisfied customers who can vouch for its quality.

Whether you’re looking for a durable gaming keyboard or a reliable workhorse, you can’t go wrong with this one. And at less than $100, so it won’t break the bank either.

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