The Epomaker TH80 V2 mechanical keyboard aims to strike a balance between performance and noise level, making it suitable for shared office spaces. Its compact 75% design and gasket-mounted construction contribute to its quiet operation. The keyboard is available in black or white, with the review model featuring a black case and grey keys. A metallic rotary knob on the top-right handles volume control and mutes the sound when pressed.
The TH80 V2's build quality exceeds expectations given its affordable price. The plastic case feels sturdy, weighing enough to prevent creaking during normal use. The keyboard's styling is reminiscent of a retro workstation rather than a gaming keyboard. Two switch options are available: Creamy Jade and Sea Salt Silent V2. The review model featured Creamy Jade switches, which produce a deep clacking sound suitable for home use but may not be ideal for shared spaces.
The keyboard's key spacing is comfortable, reducing accidental key presses during rapid typing. However, its compact layout means it lacks a numpad, which may be a drawback for users who frequently work with spreadsheets. In terms of connectivity, the TH80 V2 supports Bluetooth, wired USB-C, and a 2.4 GHz dongle. The dongle provides reliable connectivity but takes up device real estate, while Bluetooth supports up to three paired devices.
A physical switch on the top of the keyboard changes the connection mode, and a Windows/macOS toggle is located beside it. However, the battery life and charging experience leave room for improvement. With RGB lighting enabled, the keyboard lasts around two days before needing a recharge. The low-battery warning system, indicated by a small flashing red LED under the Ctrl key, is easy to miss.
Furthermore, when the keyboard was fully drained, it did not begin charging when connected to a laptop overnight, requiring a phone charger to initiate charging. Despite these drawbacks, the TH80 V2 is an excellent choice for newcomers to mechanical keyboards, those with limited desk space, and users seeking a feature-rich board at an affordable price.
The Epomaker TH80 V2 delivers impressive build quality, typing comfort, and flexibility considering its price. While it has some faults, such as weak battery alerts and inconsistent charging behavior, these do not detract from the typing experience. At $70, the trade-offs are acceptable for most users. The keyboard's versatility and value make it an attractive option for those seeking a reliable mechanical keyboard.
In conclusion, the Epomaker TH80 V2 is a well-built, comfortable mechanical keyboard with versatile connectivity and a compact design, offering great value for beginners. Its drawbacks, including inconsistent charging behavior and weak battery notifications, do not significantly impact its overall performance. The lack of a dedicated numpad is a consideration for potential buyers, but for many users, the TH80 V2's benefits will outweigh its limitations.
Key points
- The Epomaker TH80 V2 offers excellent build quality and typing comfort at an affordable price of less than $70.
- The keyboard's battery life and charging experience have room for improvement, with a short battery life and inconsistent charging behavior.
- Despite drawbacks, the TH80 V2 is suitable for newcomers to mechanical keyboards, those with limited desk space, and users seeking a feature-rich board at an affordable price.
Reporting sources
- techweez.com · techweez.com
