Epomaker is a relatively new brand, but it’s making waves with a steady release of high-quality, budget-friendly keyboards. Epomaker has a distinct advantage—it is not just a keyboard manufacturer but also a marketplace for custom parts. And with the Galaxy70, that advantage is on full display.
The Epomaker Galaxy70 is a compact 75% mechanical keyboard with an aluminum case, hot-swappable switches, tri-mode connectivity, and RGB lighting. Its design combines premium switches, PBT keycaps, gasket mounting, and sound dampening to deliver a truly luxurious typing experience.
Unboxing a Galaxy70 is an exercise in being pleasantly surprised. Before I even opened the packaging, I was impressed by its weight. The compact form factor and baby blue colour scheme give the keyboard an almost toy-like appearance. I expected it would be lightweight–maybe even a little flimsy. But looks can be deceiving–the Galaxy70 is a four-pound billet of powder-coated aluminum that also happens to be an incredible keyboard.
The build quality is solid. Despite its gasket-mounted plate, magnetically secured dongle cover, and switches with extended springs, there wasn’t a single rattle when I applied my highly scientific shake test. The robust aluminum frame rests on a set of rounded rubber feet that eliminate any unwanted movement during regular use. The feet elevate the board to a 7-degree typing angle with a front height of 23mm, a comfortable and ergonomic setup for extended typing sessions.
“Performance-wise, the Epomaker Galaxy70 is a capable all-arounder, but best suited for typing and productivity.”
The second surprise was Epomaker’s approach to the 75% layout. To optimize for space, 75% layouts routinely crush the arrow keys and navigation cluster into the right-side controls, essentially making a solid block of keys that, for my tastes, has always felt cramped and awkward. However, the Galaxy70 has opted to use a standard 100% layout that’s simply missing a numpad. It’s a best-of-both-worlds decision that made transitioning from a full-sized Razer Blackwidow V4 feel natural while also saving space.
There are 82 keys in total on the Epomaker Galaxy70, plus a single dial for volume controls. For other media controls, users will have to rely on the function or “FN” key. The FN key is also used to control wireless connectivity, check the battery status, cycle between the preset RGB lighting options, and can be used to set up macro layers in Epomakers customization software.
The customization software is OK. It’s a little clunky, slow to apply changes, and has a messy UI, but it does have all the tools needed to fully customize your keyboard. The Epomaker Galaxy70 is clearly meant to appeal to an enthusiast market, so having the option to use more accessible software like VIA would have been welcome. VIA did recognize the keyboard, but there currently isn’t any official support.
“The Epomaker Galaxy70 is clearly meant to appeal to an enthusiast market…”
Performance-wise, the Epomaker Galaxy70 is a capable all-arounder, but best suited for typing and productivity. Its 1000Hz polling rates in both wired and 2.4G make it a competitive option with other keyboards in the $99 price range. However, for gaming, the response time of 2.8ms (wired) and 5ms (2.4G) won’t make you the fastest gun on the server. That said, when it comes to typing experience, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better keyboard for the price.
At the heart of that typing experience are Epomakers buttery-smooth Zebra switches–factory-lubed linear switches with extra long 21mm springs. With linear switches, there’s no bump or tactile feedback, but there is a slight build-up of resistance as you press the key, followed by a quick and silent return. However, if you prefer a more tactile or clicky switch for gaming, the hot-swappable PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin MX-style switches.
“Out of the box, though, the Epomaker Galaxy70 is the best-sounding production keyboard I’ve ever used.”
To replace a switch, simply use the included key removal tool to take off the keycap. Then, flip the tool to the switch removal side, press the switch’s locking tabs, and gently pull it out. To install a new switch—simply plug it in; no soldering required.
Out of the box, though, the Epomaker Galaxy70 is the best-sounding production keyboard I’ve ever used. Each keystroke is reported by a muted “thock” with no trace of spring grind or rattle. Typing takes on a marble-like ASMR quality tone. Partially, that tone comes from the Zebra switches, but those switches also ride on a gasket-mounted polypropylene plate and seven layers of sound-dampening foam. A feature that, until recently, was reserved for custom builds.
The switches are sandwiched between south-facing RGB lights on the bottom and topped with side-printed, shine-through PBT keycaps. PBT is a premium material compared to the more affordable (and less durable) ABS plastics. PBT has a smoother, satiny feel and is also more dense, which is yet another factor in giving the Galaxy70 its distinct register.
“The Epomaker Galaxy70 comes with 19 preset lighting modes and five levels of brightness…”
This particular set of Keycaps is Epomakers Cherry profiled “Sky Blue” set, featuring a gradient of pastel blues that are lightest toward the top row. The plastic is fairly opaque compared to the brightness of the RGB lights, which makes the shine-through lettering look great from the right angle. However, a slight change in posture can cause the RGB diodes to overpower the print, making things look a bit muddy.
The Epomaker Galaxy70 comes with 19 preset lighting modes and five levels of brightness that can be controlled through the FN key. The lighting can be customized in the software, but matching the on-screen colour to the RGBs is imprecise and will require some patience.
I found that a static, reddish-orange lighting scheme was the best compliment for the “Sky Blue” keycaps. Not only was it the most readable, but it also gave my keyboard a summer sunset vibe–and in the dead of winter, vibes are terribly important.
The Galaxy70 has tri-mode connectivity, meaning it can pair with devices over Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4G wireless, or tethered via USB-C. The Bluetooth connection can be paired to three different devices simultaneously and toggled through using FN macros, however, the 2.4GHz connection can only connect to a single device through its USB dongle. Keeping that wireless connection active is an impressive 4000mAh battery, which got me through 5 full days of use with the RGB lighting set to 25% power, with a recharge speed of just under two hours.
The Epomaker Galaxy70 mechanical keyboard is an exceptional keyboard for typing. Its weighty aluminum case, thoughtful design, and premium components give it the sound and feel of a custom keyboard–but at a mid-range price. While its average polling rates and response times are less ideal for competitive gaming, those seeking a top-tier typing experience will find the Galaxy70 among the best in its class.
- 【CNC Aluminum Gaming Keyboard】Fully crafted with an aluminum body, the Galaxy70 gaming keyboard is robust and durable beyond standard plastic keyboards. Cut via CNC and electrostatic powder coated, the metallic case of Galaxy70 brings the keyboard’s overall feel and aesthetic to the next level. With greater durability and eye-catching colors, it is perfect for gaming enthusiasts and professionals alike.
- 【Popular 75% Compact Layout Keyboard with Metal Knob】Continuing from the success of the Galaxy80 TKL mechanical keyboard, EPOMAKER introduce the sibling Galaxy70 in 75% ANSI layout, which is one of the most popular layouts among keyboard enthusiasts. With only essential keys retained and more space for mouse, the 75% Layout Galaxy70 now features a metal knob for easy volume control. No matter which layout you prefer, the Galaxy series has it all.
