Epomaker SK21 numpad assessment – customizable and flexible numpad – The Gadgeteer
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![](https://the-gadgeteer.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/epomaker-sk21-13.jpg)
Overview – My significant entire measurement keyboard at my workstation has been a little bit of overkill: I rarely use the range pad and could absolutely use that area to the appropriate for much more mouse room. I was psyched to critique the Epomaker SK21 numpad and transfer to a smaller sized day to day keyboard. In general I’m really happy with it, and it had attributes and functions that went previously mentioned and over and above a uncomplicated numpad alternative. Nevertheless, I did operate into problems with the software package and incompatibility with most of my docking stations and USB hubs. Relying on what you want to use a individual numpad for, this may possibly be a great machine for you.
What is it?
![](https://the-gadgeteer.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/sk1-4.jpg)
The Epomaker SK21 numpad is a standalone customizable backlit mechanical-keyed numpad. It is a wired unit, with a USB-C to A connector. The device I was sent for evaluation was a black and crimson keyed design with Optical Brown switches, while it’s available with a selection of switches so if you choose clicky or silent keys there are choices for you.
What is in the box?
![](https://the-gadgeteer.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/sk1-8.jpg)
- SK21 Numpad
- USB cable
- Guide
- Keycap puller
- Swap puller
Hardware specs
- Range of keys: 21
- Switch choices: Chocolate Optical Brown/Blue/Purple/Silver or Gateron Optical Black/Brown/Blue/Pink
- Keycap kind: PBT Shine-by way of
- Cable style: USB-C Removable
- Command device: 32-little bit with 8 MB onboard flash memory
- Lighting: 16.8 million coloration for every crucial, downloadable library of effects
Design and style and options
![](https://the-gadgeteer.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/sk1-7.jpg)
The Epomaker SK21 numpad is a rather conventional number-pad structure, with the exception of an excess row of keys I’m not made use of to at the incredibly prime. As you can see in the picture above, when the backlight is off and there are vivid lights, it can be tricky to browse some of the keys. This wasn’t a challenge in the course of regular use, but if you did have bright lights at just the completely wrong angle and did not use backlighting it could be a little bit troublesome.
![](https://the-gadgeteer.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/sk1-6.jpg)
The build is a large-strength plastic exterior. As you can see over, the keys have a modest angle to them, and even distinct rows have distinctive angles. I found it easy to use in many positions with this layout.
![](https://the-gadgeteer.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/sk1-5.jpg)
On the back of the unit is the USB-C connector.
![](https://the-gadgeteer.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/epomaker-sk21-09.jpg)
All of the keys have RGB lights, customizable in the program. The key essential capabilities are pretty visible, but the secondary features are tough/difficult to see in some lighting situations.
![](https://the-gadgeteer.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/20210803_105355-1.jpg)
All of the keys which include the double-sized ones have very minor horizontal wiggle, they really feel excellent.
Installation and set up
Installation of the Epomaker SK21 numpad is as simple as plugging it into an available USB port. This is where by I ran into my first concern, I function and perform on laptops which have much a lot less USB ports than desktop pcs so I count on hubs and docking stations fairly intensely. The gadget would only operate on 3 of the 6 USB hubs and docking stations I examined with. I couldn’t obtain a unique pattern as to why some worked and some did not (all were being USB-C/non-thunderbolt with different quantities and kinds of ports).
![](https://the-gadgeteer.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/sk1-3.jpg)
If you wanted to change keycaps and/or the actual vital switches, the process is quite easy. The integrated keycap slips about the top rated and bottom of the keycap and you pull it straight out. The switches included were being compatible with all of the keycaps I experienced lying close to.
![](https://the-gadgeteer.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/sk1-2.jpg)
Pulling the switches by themselves out is identical, apart from that tiny tabs have to be pressed in order for them to detach accurately.
![](https://the-gadgeteer.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/epomaker-sk21-11.jpg)
Software package is obtainable for Windows and Mac computers (examined on Home windows 10). As you can see in the screen higher than, there are tons of customization possibilities. You can adjust shades for every essential, implement color techniques including animations, generate your possess light outcomes, utilize different lights to diverse keyboard “layers”, and fully personalize what each crucial does on just about every layer (so you can assign various functions to each individual important). I straight away set up a 2nd layer with hotkeys for OBS video game streaming/recording software package, which turned really useful for fast digital camera switching and other workflows. Though the gadget is made and promoted for gamers, it would also be a relatively minimal cost way for industry experts to produce a macro-wealthy multifunction keypad for systems like Adobe and Microsoft Workplace (or any other individuals wherever repeated hotkeys can be employed). Combine this with personalized keycaps and the choices are in close proximity to limitless!
![](https://the-gadgeteer.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/epomaker-sk21-12.jpg)
Here’s an example of switching the RGB gentle options. I appreciated the wealthy customization selections, but the computer software was a bit overpowering at very first (and I work with sophisticated software for a living). This is just one of those packages wherever it could be essential to go through the manual to properly customize points the way you want them. Once you learn it, you can produce macros or levels to do just about just about anything.
General performance
The Epomaker SK21 numpad done terrific when I had it related to a hub or docking station that worked with it. I was really pleased with the functionality, experience, and customization. I enjoy being equipped to location it over my common keyboard, or to the right of the mouse, or even clear away it if not required. If you’re left handed, this could also be an fantastic device for 10-important number entry, making it possible for you to use your dominant hand a lot more quickly to do the range entry.
What I like
- Sound create
- Multi-operate and customization alternatives
What I’d transform
- Incompatibility with numerous USB hubs and docking stations
- Wireless/bluetooth
Ultimate feelings
![](https://the-gadgeteer.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/epomaker-sk21-10.jpg)
I never consider I’ll ever go back again to a entire-measurement keyboard like a quantity pad once again. Immediately after applying the Epomaker SK21 numpad for a several weeks, I a lot prefer the adaptability of placement and customizability of the keys/switches/functions/macros. Put together with a reliable make excellent that appears to be like it will very last a prolonged time, this product or service feels like a winner (with the exception of weird incompatibility with some USB hubs). Probably Epomaker will fix that with a upcoming computer software/firmware update, I’ll be positive to check out for and update my evaluate if so!
Cost: $39.99
Wherever to buy: Epomaker and Amazon
Resource: The sample for this evaluate was provided by Epomaker
Assist The Gadgeteer: The Gadgeteer is supported by visitors like you! If you buy a thing via the backlinks on our site, we may receive a smaller affiliate fee. Thank you! Find out far more.
Overview – My significant entire measurement keyboard at my workstation has been a little bit of overkill: I rarely use the range pad and could absolutely use that area to the appropriate for much more mouse room. I was psyched to critique the Epomaker SK21 numpad and transfer to a smaller sized day to day keyboard. In general I’m really happy with it, and it had attributes and functions that went previously mentioned and over and above a uncomplicated numpad alternative. Nevertheless, I did operate into problems with the software package and incompatibility with most of my docking stations and USB hubs. Relying on what you want to use a individual numpad for, this may possibly be a great machine for you.
What is it?
The Epomaker SK21 numpad is a standalone customizable backlit mechanical-keyed numpad. It is a wired unit, with a USB-C to A connector. The device I was sent for evaluation was a black and crimson keyed design with Optical Brown switches, while it’s available with a selection of switches so if you choose clicky or silent keys there are choices for you.
What is in the box?
- SK21 Numpad
- USB cable
- Guide
- Keycap puller
- Swap puller
Hardware specs
- Range of keys: 21
- Switch choices: Chocolate Optical Brown/Blue/Purple/Silver or Gateron Optical Black/Brown/Blue/Pink
- Keycap kind: PBT Shine-by way of
- Cable style: USB-C Removable
- Command device: 32-little bit with 8 MB onboard flash memory
- Lighting: 16.8 million coloration for every crucial, downloadable library of effects
Design and style and options
The Epomaker SK21 numpad is a rather conventional number-pad structure, with the exception of an excess row of keys I’m not made use of to at the incredibly prime. As you can see in the picture above, when the backlight is off and there are vivid lights, it can be tricky to browse some of the keys. This wasn’t a challenge in the course of regular use, but if you did have bright lights at just the completely wrong angle and did not use backlighting it could be a little bit troublesome.
The build is a large-strength plastic exterior. As you can see over, the keys have a modest angle to them, and even distinct rows have distinctive angles. I found it easy to use in many positions with this layout.
On the back of the unit is the USB-C connector.
All of the keys have RGB lights, customizable in the program. The key essential capabilities are pretty visible, but the secondary features are tough/difficult to see in some lighting situations.
All of the keys which include the double-sized ones have very minor horizontal wiggle, they really feel excellent.
Installation and set up
Installation of the Epomaker SK21 numpad is as simple as plugging it into an available USB port. This is where by I ran into my first concern, I function and perform on laptops which have much a lot less USB ports than desktop pcs so I count on hubs and docking stations fairly intensely. The gadget would only operate on 3 of the 6 USB hubs and docking stations I examined with. I couldn’t obtain a unique pattern as to why some worked and some did not (all were being USB-C/non-thunderbolt with different quantities and kinds of ports).
If you wanted to change keycaps and/or the actual vital switches, the process is quite easy. The integrated keycap slips about the top rated and bottom of the keycap and you pull it straight out. The switches included were being compatible with all of the keycaps I experienced lying close to.
Pulling the switches by themselves out is identical, apart from that tiny tabs have to be pressed in order for them to detach accurately.
Software package is obtainable for Windows and Mac computers (examined on Home windows 10). As you can see in the screen higher than, there are tons of customization possibilities. You can adjust shades for every essential, implement color techniques including animations, generate your possess light outcomes, utilize different lights to diverse keyboard “layers”, and fully personalize what each crucial does on just about every layer (so you can assign various functions to each individual important). I straight away set up a 2nd layer with hotkeys for OBS video game streaming/recording software package, which turned really useful for fast digital camera switching and other workflows. Though the gadget is made and promoted for gamers, it would also be a relatively minimal cost way for industry experts to produce a macro-wealthy multifunction keypad for systems like Adobe and Microsoft Workplace (or any other individuals wherever repeated hotkeys can be employed). Combine this with personalized keycaps and the choices are in close proximity to limitless!
Here’s an example of switching the RGB gentle options. I appreciated the wealthy customization selections, but the computer software was a bit overpowering at very first (and I work with sophisticated software for a living). This is just one of those packages wherever it could be essential to go through the manual to properly customize points the way you want them. Once you learn it, you can produce macros or levels to do just about just about anything.
General performance
The Epomaker SK21 numpad done terrific when I had it related to a hub or docking station that worked with it. I was really pleased with the functionality, experience, and customization. I enjoy being equipped to location it over my common keyboard, or to the right of the mouse, or even clear away it if not required. If you’re left handed, this could also be an fantastic device for 10-important number entry, making it possible for you to use your dominant hand a lot more quickly to do the range entry.
What I like
- Sound create
- Multi-operate and customization alternatives
What I’d transform
- Incompatibility with numerous USB hubs and docking stations
- Wireless/bluetooth
Ultimate feelings
I never consider I’ll ever go back again to a entire-measurement keyboard like a quantity pad once again. Immediately after applying the Epomaker SK21 numpad for a several weeks, I a lot prefer the adaptability of placement and customizability of the keys/switches/functions/macros. Put together with a reliable make excellent that appears to be like it will very last a prolonged time, this product or service feels like a winner (with the exception of weird incompatibility with some USB hubs). Probably Epomaker will fix that with a upcoming computer software/firmware update, I’ll be positive to check out for and update my evaluate if so!
Cost: $39.99
Wherever to buy: Epomaker and Amazon
Resource: The sample for this evaluate was provided by Epomaker