EPOMAKER TH99 PRO, Blue&White / Creamy Jade Linear

The EPOMAKER TH99 PRO is a versatile 96% mechanical keyboard designed for users who seek a balance between a compact footprint and full functionality. This model, released in 2023, caters to enthusiasts and professionals requiring a dedicated numpad and function row without the bulk of a full-size board. Its modern design, coupled with advanced features like a smart screen and metal knob, positions it as a strong contender in the mid-to-high-end keyboard market.

This keyboard boasts hot-swappable switch sockets, allowing users to easily change switches without soldering, ideal for experimenting with different typing feels. It comes equipped with pre-lubed linear switches, offering a smooth and consistent keystroke. The gasket-mounted design further enhances the typing experience by providing a softer, more flexible feel and improved acoustics. Durable PBT keycaps and south-facing RGB lighting complete the build, offering both aesthetic appeal and a pleasant tactile experience.

The TH99 PRO offers comprehensive tri-mode connectivity, supporting Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless via a dongle, and a reliable USB-C wired connection. This flexibility makes it suitable for various setups, whether for gaming, programming, or general office work across multiple devices. Its 96% layout is perfect for those who need all essential keys in a space-efficient design, providing a comfortable and efficient typing environment for long sessions.

The EPOMAKER TH99 PRO emerges as a compelling option for keyboard enthusiasts and power users who appreciate a compact yet fully functional layout. This 96% mechanical keyboard, released in 2023, strikes an excellent balance, offering a dedicated numpad and all essential keys without consuming excessive desk space. Its design, featuring a smart screen and a metal knob, positions it as a modern and interactive peripheral, appealing to those who value both aesthetics and utility in their setup.

A standout feature of the TH99 PRO is its hot-swappable switch sockets, providing immense flexibility for users to customize their typing experience without the need for soldering. It comes equipped with pre-lubed linear switches, offering a smooth and consistent keystroke that is often favored for gaming and fast typing. The gasket-mounted design further enhances the typing experience by providing a softer, more flexible feel and improved acoustics. Durable double-shot PBT keycaps and south-facing RGB lighting complete the build, offering both aesthetic appeal and a pleasant tactile experience.

One potential consideration for the TH99 PRO, despite its many strengths, is its overall weight, which can be substantial due to its robust construction, making it less ideal for frequent travel. While the smart screen and metal knob add significant functionality, some users might find the initial learning curve for customizing these features slightly steep without clear software guidance. Additionally, while the battery life is generally good, heavy wireless usage with full RGB brightness might require more frequent recharging.

For those seeking a highly customizable and feature-rich 96% layout keyboard, the EPOMAKER TH99 PRO presents a strong case. Its hot-swappable design, coupled with the smart screen and metal knob, offers a premium user experience. It's particularly well-suited for users who frequently use a numpad but prefer a more condensed form factor than a full-size board. Alternatives in this segment might include other 96% or 1800-compact layouts from brands like Keychron or Akko, depending on specific switch preferences and budget.