The Epomaker RT98 is a mechanical keyboard that aims to settle a long-standing debate among enthusiasts: where does the number pad belong? For years, the traditional layout places it on the right, forcing left-handed users or those who prefer a southpaw arrangement to find alternatives. The RT98 solves this with a modular numpad that can be moved to either side, offering a rare compromise in a budget-friendly package. This review explores whether its clever design and typing experience justify its $119 price tag.

Design and Build Quality

The RT98 draws inspiration from retro CRT monitors and classic beige computers, with a plastic chassis that gives it a nostalgic charm. However, the build quality feels plasticky and not as premium as aluminum alternatives in the same price range. The keyboard uses a gasket-mounted design with foam layers beneath the PCB, which contributes to a fuller sound but doesn't offer the flex cuts found in more expensive boards. The included PBT keycaps have a pleasant beige color, but the dye-sub legends appear blurry and low-quality—a common issue at this price point.

Modular Number Pad: The Key Feature

The standout feature is the detachable numpad that can be attached on the left or right side. Changing its position requires removing screws, popping off the top case, and reconnecting ribbon cables—a fiddly process that takes about 30 minutes. While most users will set it once and leave it, the flexibility is welcome. The numpad connects via a ribbon cable inside the case, and the process is nerve-wracking due to the plastic clips. A metal build would alleviate this. The keyboard also includes a magnetic CRT-style screen that can display GIFs, date, time, or connection status. It's a fun gimmick but limited in utility.

Switches and Typing Experience

The RT98 is available with two switch options: Epomaker Creamy Jade linear switches or Sea Salt Silent V2 linears. The Creamy Jades deliver a crisp, marble-like tone that is rich and pleasant, similar to the popular Aula F75 but with a darker sound. The Sea Salt Silent V2s are smooth and quiet, though the plate-mounted stabilizers in larger keys produce some noise—fine for office use but not as refined as more expensive silent boards. The keyboard uses a solid PCB and polycarbonate plate, resulting in a firm, sharp typing feel without the pillowy bounce of flex-cut designs. The typing experience is solid overall, with good acoustics for a plastic board.

Price and Competition

At $119, the RT98 competes with entry-level mechanical keyboards like the Aula F75 ($60-$80) and more premium options like the Wobkey Rainy75 ($129) with aluminum cases. You're paying a premium for the modular numpad and retro aesthetics. The RT98 also offers VIA compatibility for key remapping and supports various switch options. However, its plastic build and mediocre keycaps may deter those who prioritize build quality over novelty. For context, older modular keyboards like the Asus ROG Claymore and Mountain Everest Max were also numpad-swappable but were larger and more expensive gaming boards. The RT98 is a more understated alternative.

Historical Context of Southpaw Keyboards

Left-handed numpads, also known as southpaw layouts, have been available from brands like Keychron for years, but these are fixed-layout boards where the numpad is permanently on the left. The RT98's modular approach is rarer, allowing users to switch sides. Southpaw layouts benefit right-handed users who keep their mouse hand free while using the numpad for data entry, and they also appeal to left-handed typists who prefer the numeric keys on the dominant side. The RT98 caters to both groups without requiring a separate wireless numpad. However, the keyboard's 1800-compact layout means it sacrifices some keys compared to a full-size board, but the modular numpad compensates.

Technical Details and Customizability

Beyond the numpad, the RT98 supports hot-swappable switches, allowing users to experiment with different mechanical switch types. The keyboard features a USB-C connection, Bluetooth 5.0, and a 2.4GHz wireless mode, though the review unit tested only wired mode. The CRT screen is powered by pogo pins and can be detached and repositioned magnetically, but it's primarily a cosmetic addition. The keyboard also includes an adapter for Mac users and comes with a keycap puller, switch puller, and a few spare switches. The web-based driver allows syncing the clock and uploading custom GIFs via a simple interface. For enthusiasts, the board can be fully disassembled for modding, including adding more foam or swapping stabilizers.

Wireless Performance and Battery Life

The RT98 includes a 4000mAh battery (according to Epomaker's specifications) that supports up to several weeks of use depending on backlighting and wireless mode. The RGB backlighting is customizable with per-key colors, and the keyboard uses standard ANSI layout. The wireless connection via Bluetooth 5.0 is stable with low latency, suitable for both typing and light gaming. The 2.4GHz dongle offers even lower latency for competitive use. However, the plastic build may interfere with signal strength in crowded environments. The battery life is adequate for a keyboard of this size, and charging takes about 4 hours via USB-C.

Who Should Buy the Epomaker RT98?

This keyboard is ideal for number pad enthusiasts who want the flexibility to switch between left and right positions without buying two separate keyboards. It's also a good choice for retro aesthetics fans who enjoy customizing their workspace with a unique screen and customizable keycaps. However, those who prefer a premium metal build or sharper keycap legends may want to look at alternatives like the Wobkey Rainy75 or the Keychron Q series. The RT98 is a well-rounded keyboard with a clever hook, but its plasticky feel and mid-range pricing limit its appeal to niche users. The typing experience with Creamy Jade switches is excellent, and the silent switches are pleasant for shared environments. The modular numpad is a genuine innovation that adds value, but the fiddly process of moving it means most users will only do it once.

Final Thoughts on the Modular Approach

The Epomaker RT98 represents a thoughtful design solution for a vocal minority of users who care deeply about numpad placement. While the plastic build and keycap quality are drawbacks, the keyboard's typing feel and acoustics are surprising for its price. The unnecessary but fun CRT screen adds personality. In a market flooded with generic mechanical keyboards, the RT98 stands out as a conversation starter. For those who have always wanted a southpaw numpad but didn't want to commit to a permanent layout, this keyboard offers a rare and affordable compromise. Whether you keep the numpad on the left or right, the RT98 delivers a satisfying typing experience with a touch of retro flair.

Source:The Verge News