This Budget Keyboard is SO GOOD...

Summary

In this tech review, the host explores the Epomaker Galaxy 80 keyboard, a budget option that challenges the need to build custom keyboards. Despite its affordable price starting at $16, it boasts features like a solid aluminum build, wireless connectivity, and hot-swappable switches. The video delves into the keyboard's sound profile, demonstrating how removing foam layers can significantly alter the typing experience, from a standard thock to a more clacky sound. The host also critiques the keyboard's software, which, while functional, is described as 'sketchy' and 'clunky.' The review concludes with a sound test and a discussion on the importance of personal preference in keyboard customization.

Takeaways

• 😀 The video humorously addresses the overwhelming process of building a custom keyboard by suggesting a pre-built option.
• 🔨 The reviewer, Hippo Tech, critiques and praises various aspects of the pre-built keyboard, the epomaker Galaxy 80.
• 💰 The epomaker Galaxy 80 is highlighted for its affordability, starting at $16 and including pre-installed switches and keycaps.
• 🔗 The keyboard features wireless connectivity with both 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth options, although it defaults to Bluetooth.
• 🛠️ The build quality is discussed, with the keyboard having a solid aluminum case but using a standard cut of aluminum, not a high-end grade.
• 🎨 The keycaps are noted for their clean look and color, but their flat profile and durability issues are criticized.
• 🎶 The keyboard's software is described as basic and clunky, yet functional for rebinding keys and offering a music mode.
• 🔊 The sound of the keyboard is a focus, with the reviewer experimenting with removing foam to alter the acoustics and enhance the 'thock' or 'clack'.
• 🔩 The ease of disassembly is praised, allowing for customization and sound modification, which is a significant part of the video.
• 🎚️ The video concludes with a discussion on personal preference in keyboard building, encouraging viewers to experiment with different modifications.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video?

The main topic of the video is a review of a budget keyboard, the epomaker Galaxy 80, which is pre-built and does not require assembly, focusing on its features, build quality, and sound customization.

Why does the reviewer suggest that one might not need to build a custom keyboard?

The reviewer suggests that one might not need to build a custom keyboard because the epomaker Galaxy 80 offers a good pre-built option with decent switches, keycaps, and a case, which can be further customized to fit personal preferences.

What is the starting price of the epomaker Galaxy 80 keyboard mentioned in the video?

The starting price of the epomaker Galaxy 80 keyboard is $16.

What unique features does the epomaker Galaxy 80 keyboard have?

The epomaker Galaxy 80 keyboard features a TKL compact layout, wireless capability with a 2.4 GHz dongle, a solid aluminum build, and a variety of foam materials for sound customization.

How does the reviewer plan to demonstrate the keyboard's sound quality?

The reviewer plans to demonstrate the keyboard's sound quality by removing different foam layers and showing how each change affects the sound profile.

What is the reviewer's opinion on the switches that come with the keyboard?

The reviewer finds the switches, which are fcker marble white linear switches, to be smooth and of good quality, especially considering the keyboard's budget price.

What is the reviewer's take on the keycaps that come with the epomaker Galaxy 80?

The reviewer notes that the keycaps have a flat profile, which is different from what is typically expected with Cherry profile keycaps. They also mention that the keycaps are of decent quality but not the most durable.

What issue does the reviewer have with the keyboard's software?

The reviewer finds the software that comes with the keyboard to be sketchy and clunky, although it does allow for rebinding keys and has a music mode.

How does the reviewer suggest improving the keyboard's sound if there is metal-on-metal contact?

The reviewer suggests using painter's tape or electrical tape on the direct metal-to-metal contact points to reduce ping and improve the sound quality.

What is the reviewer's final verdict on the epomaker Galaxy 80 keyboard?

The reviewer concludes that the epomaker Galaxy 80 is an incredibly good package for its price, with good switches, keycaps, and a decent case, but notes that the software is lacking and there are only linear switches available.