Epomaker TH80SE Review (vs. Keychron K2)

Summary

In this video, the creator compares the Keychron K2 to the EPO Maker TH80se mechanical keyboard, highlighting key differences and features. They discuss the TH80se's sturdier build, superior keycaps made from more durable PBT plastic, and improved sound quality due to reinforced switches. The keyboard offers wireless connections via Bluetooth and a 2.4 GHz radio, with a metal volume knob for added control. However, the TH80se lacks a German layout, which was a challenge for the creator, leading them to opt for keycap replacements. Despite this, the TH80se is recommended for its exceptional typing experience and overall functionality.

Takeaways

• 😀 The EPO Maker TH80SE is heavier (1051g) compared to the Keychron K2 (799g), giving it a more solid and premium feel.
• 😀 The TH80SE has a lower tilt compared to the Keychron K2, which may reduce wrist strain for some users.
• 😀 The keycaps on the EPO Maker TH80SE are made of durable PBT material, while the Keychron K2 uses less durable ABS keycaps.
• 😀 The TH80SE has reinforced switch mounts, leading to a firmer keycap attachment and a more satisfying typing sound.
• 😀 The TH80SE features Boba U4T switches, which provide a more refined typing experience compared to the Gateron Reds on the Keychron K2.
• 😀 Both keyboards are wireless and compatible with macOS, Windows, and Linux, with switches to toggle between these systems.
• 😀 The EPO Maker TH80SE offers 2.4GHz RF connectivity in addition to Bluetooth, providing more reliable connections in certain scenarios, especially during BIOS access.
• 😀 The TH80SE includes a premium metal volume dial that can mute the sound with a press, adding convenience and luxury.
• 😀 One major downside of the EPO Maker TH80SE is that it only comes with a US layout, which may cause difficulty for users who are accustomed to a different layout.
• 😀 A workaround for the layout issue is to replace the keycaps with a German layout set, although it’s not a perfect solution.
• 😀 Overall, the EPO Maker TH80SE is recommended for its build quality, switch refinement, and connectivity options, but users should consider the layout issue.

Q & A

What is the main reason the reviewer prefers the Eco Maker TH80se over the Keycron K2?

The reviewer prefers the Eco Maker TH80se primarily due to its superior build quality, better typing experience, and additional features like the 2.4GHz connection and the volume dial.

How does the weight of the Eco Maker TH80se compare to the Keycron K2, and what impact does this have?

The Eco Maker TH80se weighs 1051 grams, significantly heavier than the Keycron K2, which weighs 799 grams. The added weight makes the Eco Maker feel more solid, stable, and premium on the desk, reducing movement and improving stability.

What kind of keycaps does the Eco Maker TH80se use, and how are they different from those on the Keycron K2?

The Eco Maker TH80se uses PBT keycaps, which are more durable than the ABS keycaps used on the Keycron K2. PBT keycaps are less prone to wear and tear, providing a more premium and long-lasting typing experience.

What is the significance of the way keycaps are attached to the switches on the Eco Maker TH80se?

The keycaps on the Eco Maker TH80se are more securely attached to the switches, with additional reinforcement on the mounting points. This results in a firmer fit, better sound quality, and a more solid typing feel compared to the Keycron K2.

How do the switches on the two keyboards differ, and how does this affect the typing experience?

The Keycron K2 uses Gateron Red switches, while the Eco Maker TH80se features Buster Jerry gas switches. The Buster Jerry switches provide a more substantial and refined typing experience, with better sound quality compared to the Gateron Red switches.

What connectivity options do both keyboards offer, and how does the Eco Maker TH80se have an advantage?

Both keyboards offer Bluetooth and wired USB-C connections, but the Eco Maker TH80se also supports 2.4GHz wireless connectivity. This gives it an advantage, as it allows the keyboard to function even during system boot-up, unlike Bluetooth, which only works once the operating system is loaded.

How does the layout switch work on both keyboards, and why is it important?

Both keyboards have a switch that allows users to toggle between Mac and Windows layouts. The Keycron K2 has the switch on the side, while the Eco Maker TH80se places it on the bottom. This feature is important for users who work with multiple operating systems and need to easily switch between them.

What additional feature does the Eco Maker TH80se have that the Keycron K2 doesn't?

The Eco Maker TH80se includes a metal volume dial, which feels high-quality and can be used to adjust the volume or mute it entirely. This feature adds convenience and a premium touch compared to the Keycron K2, which lacks this functionality.

What is the major downside of the Eco Maker TH80se, and how did the reviewer try to resolve it?

The major downside of the Eco Maker TH80se is that it only offers a US layout, which caused issues for the reviewer, who uses a German layout. The reviewer tried to remap the keyboard in the operating system but found it inefficient. They resolved the issue by purchasing replacement keycaps with a German layout.

Would the reviewer recommend the Eco Maker TH80se to others, and under what conditions?

Yes, the reviewer would recommend the Eco Maker TH80se, but with the caveat that users should be comfortable with the US layout or willing to switch to a custom layout by changing keycaps. If users can handle this, the Eco Maker offers a superior typing experience and great additional features.