Epomaker and Keychron are top keyboard manufacturing companies that have made a name for themselves in the keyboard community. Today will be a comparison between two of their best products, namely, the Epomaker TH80 vs Keychron V1 to help make an informed decision,
The TH80's hot-swappable switches allow for easy customization without having to de-solder individual switches - a feature notably absent on the V1. While both keyboards have their strengths, if you're looking for a keyboard that will last you years without feeling cheap or outdated, then the Epomaker TH80 might just be your best bet.
You can find the Epomaker TH80 here.
Both are high-class keyboards used by people of all fields and domains. Moreover, the majority of the users have left positive feedback for them.
Below, I will cover the 9 major points in which we can compare these boards. Afterward, there will be an FAQ section to answer more of your queries.
In the Box
Both keyboards have multiple items in the box but the V1 has a little more. Here's how the two keyboards compare:
Epomaker TH80: It comes with Epomaker TH80 75% keyboard, Charging cable USB-A to USB-C, 8x alternative keycaps, 3x extra switches, keycap/switch puller, and user manual.
Keychron V1: It comes with Keychron V1 75% keyboard, USB-C to USB-C cable and adapter, 3x Windows keycaps, keycap puller, switch puller, screwdriver, hex key, 6x extra screws, and user manual.
Connectivity
Connectivity plays a huge role in the connection strength and latency of keyboards. Here's how both keyboards fare:
Epomaker TH80: It has a wireless connection with an option for a wired one too. It comes with a detachable USB type-C connection. Besides, the latency is 7 ms which is suitable for casual gaming.
Keychron V1: It is a wired keyboard with the same USB type-C connection. The wire is detachable so you can change it if it gets broken. Its latency is 10.9 which is a bit more than the TH80.
Compatibility
A good mechanical keyboard is compatible not just with Windows but with many other operating systems too. Similar is the case with the two boards under discussion.
Epomaker TH80: The keyboard and its EPOMAKER Driver software are completely compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux. The TH80 also works fine with Android and iOS devices.
Keychron V1: The keyboard along with its VIA software is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux. The board, unfortunately, is not compatible with mobile devices.
Build Quality
A solid and sturdy keyboard doesn't get broken easily. Everyone drops their keyboards at least once or twice. Therefore, the build quality of the keyboard is an essential aspect to consider.
Epomaker TH80: This board uses plastic throughout its structure. However, the plastic doesn't look cheap by any means and gives a premium look.
The keycaps are top-quality PBT and minimize the key wobble. The keyboard also has rubber feet to keep it firmly in place.
Keychron V1: The frame of V1 is made of translucent plastic and the base plate uses solid steel. It rocks the OSA profile double-shot PBT keycaps and has the same rubber feet as the TH80.
Typing Performance
Both keyboards have multiple switch options to choose from. Besides, you can easily swap them since the boards are hot-swappable.
Epomaker TH80: It comes with linear, tactile, and clicky switches. The typing experience is excellent if you select any of the latter two. Every keystroke gets registered instantly negating any typos.
Keychron V1: By default, the V1 has either K Pro Red or Brown switches. The former is linear while the latter is tactile. The brown switches provide a better typing experience since they have tactile bumps.
Again, you can swap them out for any other 3-pin or 5-pin switches.
Psst! You might want to read this article to know the different features between:Linear Vs Tactile Switches
Gaming Performance
These keyboards are not specifically built for gaming. However, they do perform well if you don't play competitive tournaments that much.
Epomaker TH80: It's a good keyboard if you're a casual gamer who likes playing games for fun. But if you're a pro gamer, then consider a different gaming board.
Keychron V1: Similar to the TH80, the V1 is also not suitable for high-paced gaming. Secondly, its latency is a little too much for pro gamers.
Ergonomics
Ergonomics play a vital role in the health of your fingers, palm, and wrists. So, choosing a keyboard that has good ergonomics is essential.
Epomaker TH80: It has a straight design and a minimum inclination angle of 5°. This might make it hard for someone with small hands to reach all the keys.
The medium incline is 9.5° while the maximum is 11.5°. The TH80 does not have a wrist rest but you can attach one separately for comfort.
Keychron V1: The V1 also has a straight design but the minimum typing angle is 3.5°. This means you won't have to raise your wrist every time to reach for some keys.
Secondly, the medium and maximum incline angles are 7° and 9.5°. It also doesn't come with a wrist rest so you'd have to purchase it separately.
Backlighting
The aesthetics of mechanical keyboards is a deciding factor before buying. And the most aesthetically pleasing thing is the backlighting or RGB lights.
Epomaker TH80: It has individually-backlit keys but the color mixing is not the best. The LEDs are south-facing and have noticeable illumination.
However, no shine-through legends on the keycaps mean you won't be getting the best out of your lighting.
Keychron V1: The V1 also has individually-backlit keys and its color mixing is better than the TH80. The LEDs face south and are greatly visible even though the keycaps don't have any shine-through legends.
Pricing
Pricing is another important factor for many people. Not everyone can afford a premium keyboard that costs $500 or $600.
The good thing about the Epomaker TH80 and Keychron V1 is that they fall in the medium-low range. Anyone with a little above-average budget will be able to afford them.
Overall Winner
The Epomaker TH80 vs Keychron V1 battle was tied for the most part but the former had a significant advantage of being wireless. Besides, the TH80 has lower latency, more compatibility, and slightly better gaming and typing performance.
So, in short, the overall winner is the Epomaker TH80.
FAQs
What is the best keyboard like Keychron?
Keyboards from brands like Hexgears, Epomaker, Akko, Anne, Realforce, and others are the best alternatives to Keychron.
What is the best wireless keyboard for the Epomaker?
The TH80 is the best wireless keyboard manufactured by Epomaker. It has a fine build, great customization, good lighting, compact design, excellent ergonomics, and sublime performance.
Besides, it's not very heavy on the pockets too.
What switches does the Keychron V1 use?
The Keychron V1 gets shipped with either the K Pro Red or the Brown switches. However, since it's a hot-swappable board, you can easily replace the default switches and insert any 3-pin or 5-pin ones.
What is similar to the Keychron Q1?
The Glorious GMMK Pro is the best keyboard if you're looking for something similar to Keychron Q1. It is a little heavy but has a solid build with hot-swappable switches. It's excellent for both typing and gaming and is a fine choice overall.
Conclusion
Both keyboards have their pros and cons and it's up to the buyer to decide which one they are gonna go for. I, personally would suggest you to get the TH80 since it's a better choice in this price range.
I cover more comparisons between keyboards and switches like this, here on TheTechSetup.com, so do keep a check!
Until then, read: Epomaker TH80 Pro Review