The Epomaker RT98 is a customizable mechanical keyboard with a modular number pad, offering a unique typing experience and retro design.
New Delhi, India Jul 4, 2026 ALN: The Epomaker RT98 is a retro-looking mechanical keyboard that has garnered significant attention for its unique design and customizable features. The keyboard's standout characteristic is its modular number pad, which can be repositioned to either side, making it an appealing option for both right-handed and left-handed users. This flexibility caters to a broad audience, including gamers, typists, and professionals who require numeric input for their work. The RT98 also boasts a charming aesthetic, featuring a CRT-like screen that adds a nostalgic touch to the overall look. In a market saturated with mechanical keyboards, the RT98 offers a blend of functionality and style that has resonated with enthusiasts.
In recent years, mechanical keyboards have surged in popularity, driven by an increasing number of users seeking customizable and tactile typing experiences. The Epomaker RT98 is one of the latest entries in this competitive landscape, having been crowdfunded and priced at $119 for a prebuilt model. This price point positions it as a budget-friendly option compared to many high-end aluminum keyboards, which can often exceed $200. The RT98 is available with two switch options: the brand’s own Creamy Jade linear switches, known for their smooth actuation, and the Sea Salt Silent V2 linears, which prioritize quiet operation. This variety allows users to select a switch that best fits their typing preferences.
The RT98 is designed with several key features that enhance its usability and appeal. One of the most notable aspects is its ambidextrous number pad, which can be moved to the right or left side of the keyboard. This modular design is particularly beneficial for users who may have spatial constraints on their desks or who simply prefer a different layout. The ability to customize the position of the number pad without compromising functionality is a significant advantage for many users.
To fully evaluate the RT98, I began my testing in right-handed mode using the silent switches. The typing feel was solid, with the keyboard's internal gasket-mounted design contributing to a pleasant experience. This design feature includes layers of foam beneath the PCB, which enhances the acoustics and overall feel of the keyboard, even though it is housed in a plastic chassis. The combination of a solid PCB and a polycarbonate switch plate without flex cuts results in a sharper typing feel compared to other boards that might provide a more cushioned response.
After testing the keyboard in its default configuration, I moved the number pad to the left and switched to the Creamy Jade switches. This transition further showcased the versatility of the RT98, as the typing experience remained enjoyable regardless of the configuration. The Creamy Jade switches are particularly noteworthy for their smooth actuation and satisfying tactile feedback, making them a popular choice among enthusiasts.
In terms of sound, the Epomaker RT98 delivers a commendable typing experience whether equipped with silent or creamy switches. The Sea Salt Silent V2 linears provide a smooth and quiet typing experience, which is especially advantageous in shared workspaces or during late-night gaming sessions. However, the sound profile is slightly offset by the louder stabilizers used in keys such as the space bar and enter key, which can produce a noticeable clack when pressed. This contrast may be a consideration for users who prioritize a completely silent operation.
The included PBT keycap set features a nostalgic beige color scheme that complements the retro aesthetic of the keyboard. However, the dye-sublimated legends on the keycaps have been noted to appear somewhat cheap and lack the crispness that many users expect from higher-quality keycap sets. This aspect of the RT98 may be a point of contention for keyboard enthusiasts who value the finer details of their typing experience.
The modular number pad is undoubtedly the standout feature of the RT98. While not all users may require a numpad regularly, the convenience of having it off to the left side for occasional numeric input can be a game changer. The process of changing the position of the number pad involves removing screws, swapping internals, and reattaching components. Although this may sound complex, it is not particularly labor-intensive and can be accomplished with care to avoid damaging the ribbon cables. Epomaker has provided a step-by-step video tutorial to guide users through the process, making it accessible even for those who may not be particularly -savvy.
In conclusion, the Epomaker RT98 is a unique mechanical keyboard that caters to a diverse range of users with its modular number pad. While it does have its quirks, such as the plasticky build quality and the quality of the keycap legends, the overall typing experience and customization options make it a compelling choice for keyboard enthusiasts. The retro design, combined with thoughtful features like the magnetic CRT-style screen and ambidextrous number pad, allows the RT98 to stand out in a crowded market. As mechanical keyboards continue to evolve, the RT98 exemplifies how innovative design can enhance user experience while remaining budget-friendly. For those in search of a versatile and aesthetically pleasing keyboard, the Epomaker RT98 deserves serious consideration.
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