The Epomaker Cypher 96 is a 96-key mechanical keyboard that might look ordinary but actually has some interesting additions. It combines sleek design that seamlessly integrates a numeric keypad and calculator (!). With triple-mode connectivity, decent materials, and an enticing price ($99.99), it’s an interesting new addition to Epomaker’s collection.
- Layout: 96-key, 1800 compact
- Connectivity: Triple-mode – Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, USB-C wired
- Battery: Dual 4000mAh lithium-ion batteries (total: 8000mAh)
- Switch Options: Flamingo tactile switches (hot-swappable)
- Backlight: South-facing RGB LED with customizable effects
- Build: ABS plastic case with gasket mount and five-layer sound-dampening structure
- Software: Key remapping, macros, RGB control
- Weight: Approximately 1.2 kg
- Dimensions: 380mm x 136mm x 32mm
Design
The Cypher 96 is available in a clean white-and-blue color scheme. Its 96-key layout includes a full numeric keypad without sacrificing desk space, making it suitable for workspaces of all sizes. Usually, adding a numpad means the keyboard feels too big on my desk, but not this time. Somehow, the Cypher 76 retains the compact size.
The layout also incorporates a unique transition between the numeric keypad and a calculator function, controlled by a combination of the FN key and Num Lock. It’s a… peculiar feature, to say the least, but apparently the Cypher 21 Numpad was very popular.
The keyboard features a south-facing RGB LED setup. The RGB effects are customizable through the Epomaker software, which allows users to tailor lighting patterns, colors, and brightness to match their preferences or setup aesthetics. We’ve talked about the software a number of times: it works just fine and is easy to use, allowing you not only to customize everything but also to download other peoples’ creations.
The keyboard and the software work just fine both on Windows and Mac. The keyboard has a Mac mode as well, but, unlike the Epomaker DynaTab 75X there are no replacement Mac-specific keys, which is a bit of a bummer.
Read also: Logitech MX Creative Console review: Loupedeck, reincarnated
Materials and technical Info
Built with an ABS plastic body, the Cypher 96 maintains a lightweight and portable form but it still feels sturdy. Despite the use of plastic, the keyboard features a gasket-mounted structure with five layers of sound-dampening material. This includes Poron foam, silicon pads, and a plate that absorbs vibrations and minimizes unwanted noise. It has a noticeable heft to it.
The keyboard comes with factory-lubricated Flamingo tactile switches. These switches provide a pleasant typing experience and are hot-swappable. Additionally, the double-shot PBT keycaps are highly durable, ensuring resistance to shine and wear over time.
Read also: Epomaker DynaTab 75X review: Unabashedly gimmicky
Its triple-mode connectivity is here as you might expect: Bluetooth 5.0 allows for pairing with up to three devices, the 2.4GHz wireless connection ensures low latency, and the USB-C wired option offers stability.
Typing feel
Typing on the Cypher 96 is a pleasure, thanks to its gasket mount and multi-layered sound-dampening design. Sure it’s plastic, but the keyboard offers a typing experience reminiscent of higher-end aluminum boards. The stabilized keys, including the spacebar and shift, are free from the rattle, providing satisfying tactile or linear feedback depending on the chosen switch.
The addition of a built-in buzzer that provides audio feedback for key presses is a unique touch, although it can be toggled on or off as per user preference. Yet another strange addition, but someone might like it, I guess? I much prefer the keys’ natural clacking sound.
Verdict
The Epomaker Cypher 96 is a sleek keyboard for those seeking functionality, comfort, and a touch of whimsy. Its standout features include the integration of a numeric keypad and calculator, a gasket-mounted structure, and triple-mode connectivity.