Epomaker Ak84s Vs Gk96s Review: The Ultimate Guide To Finding Your Perfect Keyboard
What To Know
- The AK84S comes with a dedicated software that allows you to customize the подсветка, create macros, and adjust the key mapping.
- It provides a similar value proposition to the AK84S, but with a more traditional 96% layout and a larger battery capacity.
- The GK96S, on the other hand, provides a dedicated numpad, a wider selection of switch options, and a slightly heavier typing experience.
The mechanical keyboard market is a vast and competitive landscape, with countless options to choose from. Two contenders that have gained immense popularity are the Epomaker AK84S and the GK96S. Both keyboards offer a premium typing experience, but they cater to different preferences and needs. In this comprehensive review, we will compare the Epomaker AK84S and GK96S, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and which one might be the right choice for you.
Design and Build Quality
Epomaker AK84S: The AK84S boasts a sleek and minimalistic design with a compact 75% layout. It features a durable aluminum frame with a sandblasted finish that gives it a premium feel. The keyboard is surprisingly lightweight, making it easy to carry around.
GK96S: The GK96S, on the other hand, adopts a more traditional 96% layout, providing a dedicated numpad for those who need it. It also has an aluminum frame, but with a more angular and aggressive design. The keyboard is slightly heavier than the AK84S, but it still feels well-built and sturdy.
Keycaps and Switches
Epomaker AK84S: The AK84S comes with PBT double-shot keycaps that are known for their durability and resistance to wear. The switches are hot-swappable, so you can easily customize the typing feel by installing different switches. The keyboard supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
GK96S: The GK96S also uses PBT double-shot keycaps, but it offers a wider selection of switch options. It supports Gateron, Cherry MX, and Kailh switches, giving you more flexibility in choosing the perfect typing experience.
Connectivity and Features
Epomaker AK84S: The AK84S offers both wired and wireless connectivity via Bluetooth 5.0. It has a built-in 2000mAh battery that provides up to 100 hours of battery life with the подсветка turned off. The keyboard also features full RGB подсветка, macro programming, and dedicated media keys.
GK96S: The GK96S provides only wired connectivity via USB-C. It has a 4000mAh battery that offers up to 80 hours of battery life with the подсветка turned off. The keyboard also has full RGB подсветка, but it lacks macro programming and dedicated media keys.
Typing Experience
Epomaker AK84S: The AK84S provides a responsive and tactile typing experience. The keystrokes are well-balanced, with a moderate actuation force and a satisfying feedback. The 75% layout is ideal for those who prefer a compact and portable keyboard.
GK96S: The GK96S offers a similar typing experience to the AK84S, but with a slightly heavier actuation force. The dedicated numpad provides additional convenience for those who frequently use numeric inputs. The 96% layout is more spacious, but it may not be as portable as the AK84S.
Software and Customization
Epomaker AK84S: The AK84S comes with a dedicated software that allows you to customize the подсветка, create macros, and adjust the key mapping. The software is easy to use and offers a wide range of customization options.
GK96S: The GK96S does not have dedicated software. However, it supports VIA and QMK firmware, which are open-source software that provide even more advanced customization options.
Price and Value
Epomaker AK84S: The Epomaker AK84S is available for around $120-$150, depending on the switch type and keycap color. It offers a great value for money, considering its premium build quality, hot-swappable switches, and wireless connectivity.
GK96S: The GK96S is priced slightly higher at around $150-$180. It provides a similar value proposition to the AK84S, but with a more traditional 96% layout and a larger battery capacity.
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
The Epomaker AK84S and GK96S are both excellent mechanical keyboards that offer a premium typing experience. The AK84S is more compact, lightweight, and offers wireless connectivity, making it ideal for those who prioritize portability and versatility. The GK96S, on the other hand, provides a dedicated numpad, a wider selection of switch options, and a slightly heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual preferences and needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which keyboard has better keycaps?
A: Both keyboards use durable PBT double-shot keycaps, but the GK96S offers a wider selection of keycap colors and designs.
Q: Can I replace the switches on both keyboards?
A: Yes, both the AK84S and GK96S have hot-swappable switches, allowing you to easily customize the typing feel.
Q: Which keyboard has a better battery life?
A: The GK96S has a larger battery capacity and offers up to 80 hours of battery life with the подсветка turned off, compared to 100 hours on the AK84S.
Q: Does the GK96S support wireless connectivity?
A: No, the GK96S only provides wired connectivity via USB-C.
Q: Which keyboard is more affordable?
A: The Epomaker AK84S is slightly more affordable than the GK96S, but both keyboards offer excellent value for money.