Epomaker AK61 61-Key Hot-Swappable Mechanical Keyboard Review
The Epomaker AK61 61-Key Hot-Swappable Mechanical Keyboard is an immensely preferred pick by gamers, typists, and mechanical keyboard lovers. Supported by its small size, hot-patching, and RGB lighting, this keyboard is developed based on the principle that the typing experience has to be customized to the user’s needs. As for the outcomes of the review, let us discuss the design, construction quality, functionality and efficiency as well as cost and quality ratio of Epomaker AK61.
Design and Build Quality
The Epomaker AK61 features a clean and tidy appearance in terms of design and structure because it owns a 60% layout, so it is completely suitable for a neat keyboard lover. Nonetheless, the keyboard is quite portable, measuring only 12 inches in length and 8 inches in width and thickness respectively; this is coupled with an aluminum construction translating to high end and durability. The keycaps are made from PBT plastic, which doesn’t absorbs oil or fades; this means the keys stay textured and colored for longer.
AK toxins are produced as a black variant, while AK61 have offered different color schemes that appealed to the users. The keyboard also has an RGB light system where the keyboard can be backlit in various colors as well as different patterns. The backlighting is also bright and is fully adjustable and provides an extra level of eye candy for the keyboard layout.
Hot-Swappable Feature
Another impressive aspect of the Epomaker AK61 is that its switch is hot-swappable that means that users do not need to do soldering for changes. This feature helps make the keyboards more unique than the other, since users can be able change this switches in order to get the most appropriate keyboard for typing or gaming. You can use 3 pin and 5 pin switches on the AK61 which gives it better compatibility with various switches such as Gateron, Cherry MX, Kailh among others.
Another feature that is hot-swappable makes this function very useful for individuals who do not have prior experience in mechanical keyboards’ maintenance because it does not require additional knowledge to replace the switch. Due to this, users can quickly detach and substitute switches with yet another switch utilizing the switch puller for customization purposes hence, making it convenient for users out there.
Typing Experience and Performance
The Epomaker AK61 offers spectacular key satisfaction due to its consistently high category switches and proper outlook of the key caps. The keyboard arrive with Gateron switches for seamless sliding and durability. Switches that come with the keyboard have different typing characteristics and sounds, and they include the Gateron Red, Blue, Brown, and Yellow switches.
The amount of feedback that the keyboard provides to the actions of typing is accurate and percussive to the touch. COS and space bar shift keys are most stable have less wobble their support enhance the typing comfort. This makes the AK61 very useful for typing work and gaming as well because the accuracy of keystrokes is important.
The keys of the AK61 are playable and gamers will be particularly impressed by the performance features of the keyboard such as N-key rollover and the anti ghosting technology which ensures that all the key inputs produced are detected without any overlooking due to the speed of operation of the game. This also means less space is being utilized on the keyboard placing more space at the disposal of the mouse which is an added advantage to gamers interested in competitions.
Customization and Software
Alongside that, through Epomaker’s software, users have the ability to manage virtually all aspects of the AK61 starting from its RGB lighting to key mapping and macro programming. The software is easy to control and understand it has many set light modes like wave, ripple or even reactive. There are also programmable lighting setting options which gives the users an opportunity to customize intensity, range, and tonality to the user’s choice.
Besides the lighting feature, this software allows one to remap the keys and even program macros which makes it easier to set some specific shortcuts for business purposes or while gaming. Many other profiles can be set, and thus the users can easily change between the different settings depending on the situation. This kind of flexibility enables the AK61 and ensures that it fits into a range of use such as business and gaming among others.
Connectivity Options
The followers of Epomaker AK61 provide ambitious connectivity opportunities both at the cable and Wi-Fi levels. The keyboard has a detachable USB-C cable when used in wired mode this results to smooth connection and low latency especially for gaming. Aptiv AK61 also has options for those who do not like wires; it also supports Bluetooth connection where the maxim can connect up to three devices at a time. This enables one to switch from using a computer, a tablet and a smartphone by using a keyboard command.
When operating in the wireless mode, it is possible to have quite a decent battery life, which is 10 hours when the RGB lighting is turned on. Switching off the lights significantly helps in the conservation of power hence makes it possible to have an all day usage of the AK61.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Compact and Space-Saving Design: This is suitable for low component layouts, and affords further desk area as a result of a 60% structure.
Hot-Swappable Switches: Easy adjustment of the typing per force without soldering.
Durable Build Quality: The durability is served by the aluminum frame with PBT keycaps on it which provide a proper feeling.
Extensive RGB Customization: Animate RGB lightshow at is best and also comes with full color customization.
Versatile Connectivity: Extra advantages of using both wired and wireless modes of operating the set easily.
Cons:
No Dedicated Arrow Keys: Approved 60% layout may not be comfortable for users that often use arrow keys.
Software Complexity: One disadvantage of customization software is that it has almost all the features one would need and may be intimidating for first time users.
1. What kind of switches can be used on Epomaker AK61?
The Epomaker AK61 has supports both 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches, therefore it is equipped for use with Gateron, Cherry MX, Kailh and other types of switches.
2. How to swap the switches on the Epomaker AK61?
AK61 is a hot-swappable device and therefore, it is not even difficult to change the switches on it. It was also made quite convenient with an included switch puller; you can easily pull the switch out and take its place with a new one without the need of using a soldering iron.
3. Is there any wireless connection on Epomaker AK61?
Yes, it is possible to type wired as well as wireless connectivity in the Epomaker AK61 keyboard. Though it has its connectivity to a maximum of three devices, switching between these devices can be done easily since it supports Bluetooth.
4. Under what circumstances does Epomaker AK61 work in wireless mode and how long the battery will last in this mode of operation?
However, in the wireless mode, the battery drains much faster hence the battery lasts up to 10 hours with the RGB lighting on. One is that switching off the RGB lighting is another way of increasing the battery duration and thus Bezbryukov gets more usage time out of the charger.
5. Is it possible to control RGB hotkeys of Epomaker AK61?
Yes, the RGB lighting of the keyboard can be tweaked to our desires on the desktop through the Epomaker software. There is also opportunity to select one of several built-in effects, or create own lighting mode according own preferences.
Final Thoughts
However, for those who have been looking for a customizable and compact mechanical keyboard of high aesthetic qualities the Epomaker AK61 61-key hot-swappable mechanical keyboard can come highly recommended. This is because it has the capability to support hot-swapping, thus, allowing the users to modify the typing style without having to solder. The AK61 is tough to beat when in comes to the build quality, a plethora of RGB options and connectivity options meaning it can please a variety of users ranging from gamers to content creators.
It does lack some familiar function keys and the small size may feel quite different if you’re used to larger models, but as an enthusiast’s keyboard or for the everyday user it is surprisingly strong. The Epomaker AK61 has shown that the company can create a fantastic keyboard both in the form of a small form factor as well as the performance that it gives.