EPOMAKER EK21 VIA Gasket Number Pad Review: A Deep Dive After Months of Use

For years, I’ve relied on a compact keyboard, sacrificing the numpad for a smaller footprint. This worked fine for gaming, but my productivity suffered when working on spreadsheets or data entry tasks. The constant reaching for the number keys on my main keyboard slowed me down significantly, impacting my efficiency and causing unnecessary wrist strain. I knew I needed a solution that wouldn’t clutter my workspace and would integrate seamlessly with my workflow. A dedicated numpad, like the EPOMAKER EK21 VIA Gasket Number Pad, seemed like the perfect answer.

EPOMAKER EK21 VIA Gasket Number Pad, Bluetooth 5.0/2.4ghz/Wired Hot Swappable Numpad, with Poron...
  • 【EPOMAKER EK21 Gasket Numpad】Introducing the EK21 Gasket Numpad, a powerhouse of functionality and customization designed to elevate your productivity...
  • 【VIA Programmable】As a response to the community, the EK21 numpad is programmable by VIA, providing you with the freedom to customize and personalize...
  • 【Triple Modes, 1000mAh Large Capacity Battery】Equipped with triple modes, the EK21 adapts to your specific needs. Choose between wired, Bluetooth, or...

Choosing the Right Numeric Keypad: Factors to Consider

Numeric keypads are designed to boost efficiency and comfort for tasks involving frequent number input. Whether you’re a data entry clerk, accountant, programmer, or gamer, a dedicated numpad can significantly improve your workflow. The ideal user is someone who values ergonomics and customization options. However, this product may not be suitable for those seeking a purely minimalist setup or who prefer a completely silent typing experience. If you’re in the latter group, consider exploring membrane numpads or alternative mechanical keyboards with quieter switches. Before purchasing, consider the following: connectivity options (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, 2.4GHz), switch type (linear, tactile, clicky), build quality (plastic vs. metal), programmability, and overall size and layout. The EPOMAKER EK21 VIA Gasket Number Pad excels in several of these areas.

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Introducing the EPOMAKER EK21: A Comprehensive Overview

The EPOMAKER EK21 VIA Gasket Number Pad is a hot-swappable numpad offering wired, Bluetooth 5.0, and 2.4GHz wireless connectivity. It boasts a 1000mAh battery, a gasket mount design for a cushioned typing experience, and an aluminum alloy knob for added functionality and style. Compared to market leaders, the EK21 offers a compelling balance of features and affordability. Previous EPOMAKER numpads lacked the VIA programmability, a significant upgrade in the EK21. This numpad is ideal for users seeking a comfortable, customizable, and versatile numeric input device. It’s less suited for users on a tight budget who prioritize a completely silent typing experience or those who find hot-swappable switches unnecessary.

* Pros: Hot-swappable switches, triple connectivity modes, VIA programmability, comfortable gasket mount, long battery life, aluminum alloy knob.
* Cons: Occasional first key press registration issues after waking from sleep, plastic housing (rather than metal), somewhat limited RGB customization options (compared to others).

Exploring the Features and Benefits of the EPOMAKER EK21

Connectivity and Battery Life

The EK21’s triple connectivity (wired USB-C, Bluetooth 5.0, and 2.4GHz wireless) offers unmatched versatility. I’ve used it with all three methods, finding each reliable and seamless. The switch between modes is straightforward. The 1000mAh battery has significantly exceeded my expectations. Even with regular use, I only need to charge it every few weeks. This eliminates the frustration of constantly needing to plug it in. The EPOMAKER EK21 VIA Gasket Number Pad’s long battery life makes it perfect for portable use.

Programmability and Customization with VIA

The VIA programmability is a game-changer. It allows for complete customization of key functions, macro creation, and layer management. Setting up custom macros for frequently used functions (like copy/paste shortcuts) has streamlined my workflow significantly. The intuitive VIA software makes this process surprisingly simple, even for beginners. The programmable aluminum alloy knob is particularly useful, functioning as a multi-function control. I use mine for adjusting system volume, a feature I find invaluable. The EPOMAKER EK21‘s VIA support is a major strength.

Ergonomics and Build Quality

The gasket mount design and Poron foam significantly reduce key wobble and noise. Typing on the EK21 is a surprisingly pleasant experience, even for extended periods. While the housing is plastic, it feels surprisingly sturdy and doesn’t flex easily. The large rubber feet keep it securely in place on my desk. The overall design is sleek and modern, complementing my other peripherals nicely. While not a metal chassis, the plastic construction of the EPOMAKER EK21 remains robust enough for daily use.

Hot-Swappable Switches

The hot-swappable nature of the EK21 allows for easy switch replacement. This is a significant advantage, enabling me to experiment with different switch types to find my perfect typing experience. I initially used the Gateron Pro Yellow switches, but I later switched to a quieter option for late-night use. The included switch puller makes the process smooth and painless. The EPOMAKER EK21‘s hot-swappable design contributes significantly to its versatility and longevity.

User Feedback: Real-World Experiences

Many online reviews praise the EK21’s build quality, comfort, and programmability. Users appreciate the wireless connectivity options and the long battery life. While some users reported minor initial issues with VIA software, most resolved these issues through firmware updates and online resources. Overall, user feedback overwhelmingly supports the EPOMAKER EK21 VIA Gasket Number Pad as a solid, feature-rich numpad.

Final Verdict: A Highly Recommended Numpad

If you’re seeking a dedicated numpad to enhance your productivity and typing experience, the EPOMAKER EK21 VIA Gasket Number Pad is a fantastic option. Its versatile connectivity, comfortable design, extensive programmability, and long battery life make it a standout choice. While minor drawbacks exist, the overall benefits significantly outweigh the few drawbacks. To upgrade your workflow and address the challenges of limited number key access, click here to check out the EPOMAKER EK21 today!

Last update on 2025-08-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API