If you ever wanted to try a split keyboard but afraid that you can’t get used to it, the Epomaker Split 65 could be worth a shot due to “safe” design and support for VIA software. The Split 65 costs S$164 (~USD$120).
Unboxing
Here is what you will find the box:
- EPOMAKER Split 65 keyboard
- Connecting USB-C to C cable
- 2.4G Dongle
- Type-C Cable
- 2-in-1 Keycap/Switch Puller
- Spare switches
- User Manual
Build quality and design
The Epomaker Split 65 comes in a pre-built option and is only available in single color option – black case with a gradient-blue keycaps. Overall, it looks quite clean and modern, which should fit right in any office space. The keycaps are made of PBT plastic and use Cherry profile which is my preference of choice. The design of the board is also kept simple, through a wedged-shaped case. No shouty EPOMAKER branding as well to make things clean.
Build-wise, the Epomaker Split 65 uses mainly ABS plastic which feels high quality. The PCB is also hot-swappable, compatible with any 3-pin or 5-pin switches as well. There is also a knob located at the top right of the keyboard. It isn’t the smoothest of knob but still pretty much usable. One thing to note is that the Epomaker Split 65 does feel a little cluttered especially on the bottom row as EPOMAKER decided to cram three keys next to the arrow cluster, sacrificing the small gap usually present on 65% layouts. It’s probably done to cater to Mac users.
There is also RGB lighting add some of that gamer aesthetic and pop. Good if you’re into such lighting effects, and if you’re not you can simply turn it off via a keyboard shortcut. The RGB lighting is mainly a backlight underneath the keycaps so it is too overpowering under the opaque PBT keycaps. The USB port and connectivity switch is housed on the left side of the keyboard.
You’d have to connect a USB-C to C cable between both units of the Epomaker Split 65 to have all fully functioning keys. The cable provided is really nice, and has the nimbleness of a mouse paracord. If you’re gaming and just need the left side, you can just use connect use the left-hand side of the Epomaker Split 65 only – saving more space for your mouse.
As mentioned in the intro, the Epomaker Split 65 is a “safe” split keyboard to try as it is able to be joined together to form a non-split 65% keyboard. It becomes quite versatile in its use case, as you can use it split, joined, or as a single left split half The only drawback with this design choice is that it lacks the ‘B’ key typically found on the right split half on Alice-layouts.
Typing acoustics & experience
Epomaker Split 65 comes in two linear switch options – (1) Wisteria linears, and (2) Flamingo linears. The unit I have comes with the Flamingo linear switches, which has a 60g bottom out force at 3.8mm travel. The plate used in the keyboard is a PC plate.
As for mounting style, the Epomaker Split 65 has a top mount. There is a well-distributed typing feel across the board and no harsh bottom out. Epomaker used a total of 4 layers of sound dampening in the board to minimize any ping and resonance. The resulting sound profile leans more towards a “thock”, with the higher end frequencies largely dampened out. It is more of a muted sound compared to the recent Epomaker keyboards that pushes out a marbly “PE foam” sound. This type of sound profile would be more suitable to use in offices.
Epomaker Split 65 uses plate-mounted stabilisers which are pre-lubed and the stock performance is good. There weren’t any keys having rattling or tick sounds at all.
Connectivity and battery
Epomaker Split 65 offers three modes of connectivity – (1) wired via USB, (2) Bluetooth 5.0, and (3) 2.4GHz wireless. Split 65 is equipped with a 3,000mAh battery but there is no advice of how long the battery will last. You can check the battery percentage status of the keyboard by holding the Fn + B. If the keys from 1 to 8 light up it means that the battery is at 80% – it’s quite a nifty feature. I also like how there is a keyboard shortcut to switch between Mac and Windows mode. For other functions, you can refer below:
I really like how Epomaker is starting to adopt VIA in more of the newer keyboards. Split 65 also follows suit, and having VIA support for a 65% layout is much appreciated in order to customise it to each individual. Being able to do key remapping and customise your own keyboards shortcuts is really useful.
Conclusion
One thing that Epomaker could have consider adding into the box is a tenting kit to make the setup of a split keyboard more ergonomic. Or perhaps include an adjustable feet on each half to allow it to be raised at an angle. Having said that, the overall idea of the Epomaker Split 65 is well appreciated – giving you a safe, versatile keyboard to explore this new layout. The support for VIA is the cherry on top.