Mechanical keyboards are starting to look alike, with the same endless iterations of RGB lightings, gasket mounts, flashy OLED screens and fancy magnetic switches. But Epomaker’s latest release, RT98, actually does something different in a long time. Instead of just slapping another tiny screen on a standard layout, Epomaker has dropped a modular, shape-shifting 98% keyboard that lets you choose exactly how you want to work and play.
- Price: US$119 (or S$154), get it at Epomaker
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, 2,4GHz wireless, USB-C
- Weight: 1.18kg
| PROS | CONS |
| Sturdy modular number pad design (Right-handed or Southpaw) | Plastic ABS chassis might not appeal to full-aluminum purists |
| Delightful customisable magnetic Mini TV smart display | Switching the number pad placement requires some time and effort |
| Retro looks | No volume dial |
| Fantastic dampened typing acoustic profile | |
| Massive 8000mAh battery | |
| Full VIA software support for easy key remapping |
The standout feature of the RT98 is undoubtedly the detachable number pad. Sure, detachable number pad is not really that new. I remember reviewing the Microsoft Sidewinder X6 gaming keyboard nearly 18 years ago (gee, I am old), which has an easily-detachable number pad that can inserted on either side of the keyboard. Indeed, this also means we haven’t seen this feature for quite a while.
If you are a hardcore spreadsheet warrior, you can keep it on the traditional right side. But if you’re jumping into a gaming session and need extra sweeping room for your mouse, you can move it to the left. This essentially turns the RT98 into a native “Southpaw” keyboard, which is my review unit’s default. You can also opt for the normal right-handed model out of the box.
Moving the number pad to the left is an absolute game-changer for ergonomics. It allows you to input numbers with your left hand while keeping your right hand firmly on the mouse. Something I prefer, which I understand might not be everyone’s cup of tea.
On the downside, reconfiguring the layout isn’t an instant magnetic snap-and-go affair like the Sidewinder X6. It requires a bit of physical effort involving removing frames and securing screws to ensure the structure remains sturdy. While it takes some time (depending on your confidence and skills) and effort to switch sides, the reward is a rock-solid board that doesn’t flex or wobble during heavy use.
Design wise, the RT98 screams retro with its grey and beige tones from the casing to the Cherry Profile keycaps. Adding to the retro aesthetic is the 1.14-inch detachable Mini TV smart display. It connects via magnetic PogPins and shows the time, battery status, connectivity mode, or custom animated GIFs. It is a highly satisfying piece of desk eye-candy, and sure to attract attention if you bring it to your office desk.
Epomaker didn’t skimp on the typing experience just to focus on gimmicks. The RT98 features a gasket-mounted structure paired with a massive 5-layer sound-dampening system (including sandwich latex foam, an IXPE switch pad, and a PET sound-enhancement pad). The result is an incredibly plush, cushioned typing feel. The keystrokes feel soft under the fingers without feeling mushy.
My review unit came equipped with pre-lubed linear Creamy Jade switches that deliver a clean, deep, and quiet “thocky” sound right out of the box. It is quiet enough for an open office environment, yet tactile enough to feel incredibly responsive. But you can also opt for Sea Salt silent switches if your colleagues prefer some peace and quiet. At its back, there are adjustable tilt legs that offer typing angles of 0, 4, or 8.5 degrees. So you can surely find a typing angle you prefer.
Connectivity wise, the RT98 features triple-mode connectivity, allowing you to cycle through Bluetooth, low-latency 2.4GHz wireless, and a traditional wired USB-C connection. It handles multi-device multitasking across Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android seamlessly as well. The keyboard also includes a dedicated storage slot for the 2.4GHz USB dongle.
Powering all of this – including the bright, south-facing RGB backlighting and the mini display – is a massive 8,000mAh battery. This is easily double the capacity of many standard wireless boards in the market, ensuring you won’t be constantly hunting for a charging cable.
For the enthusiasts, the board features a fully hot-swappable PCB supporting both 3-pin and 5-pin switches, meaning you can swap out the switches down the line without ever touching a soldering iron. It also features full VIA support, making complex macro programming and key remapping incredibly straightforward. Out of the box, it comes with three keycaps that let you seamlessly change to Mac keys. Toggling to Mac mode is also a simple press of Function with S key, so there is no need to remap via macOS settings.
However, changing volume is done with the Function and corresponding F keys in Windows. This is where I miss the volume dial found in many mechanical keyboards.
But if ever there’s a dealbreaker for keyboard aficionados, it is probably RT98’s plastic chassis. While it certainly makes the keyboard a lot lighter, it might not appeal to full-aluminium keyboard purists who want something more sturdy or better looking.
VERDICT: The Epomaker RT98 is a rare beast in the mechanical keyboard world. It successfully balances enthusiast-level customisation with genuine daily practicality. If you are a hardcore gamer looking purely for ultra-fast magnetic switches or aluminium chassis, this might not be your choice. But if you are someone who splits their day between intensive productivity, content creation, and casual gaming, the RT98 is arguably one of the most versatile mechanical keyboards you can buy right now.