The Epomaker Shadow-X, priced at $85.99, positions itself as an economical choice in the keyboard market. However, its affordability raises questions about its performance and durability compared to higher-end models. Is the price too good to be true? Here’s my review.
Sneak attack
At first glance, the Shadow-X impresses with its sleek design, featuring an ANSI layout and 70% keyboard size. The double-shot PBT keycaps are a plus, as they look fantastic and feel great, especially considering the price of the complete package.
The color screen and metal rotary knob, while aesthetically pleasing, feel more like decorative afterthoughts rather than functional necessities. The gasket-mounted structure with Poron foam is a commendable attempt at comfort.
Go ahead and connect
One of the Shadow-X’s strong suits is its versatile connectivity options. Including a built-in 3000mAh battery supports prolonged use, minimizing the hassle of frequent charging. Users can choose between wireless (Bluetooth 5.0 or 2.4GHz) and wired connections, catering to different user preferences and setups.
It’s got a screen
The keyboard’s display screen is unique, but its practicality is debatable, as it often serves more as a novelty than a tool. Given the budget pricing, the tactile response of the keys and tuning of the stabilizers is impressive. The decision to include extra keycaps and switches is thoughtful and should help avoid any headaches should a switch need to be swapped out in the future.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, the Epomaker Shadow-X is an exceptional choice for those looking for a high-quality, feature-rich keyboard at under $100. While it has some drawbacks, such as some minor software challenges, its positives far outweigh these. Its build quality, design, and user-friendly features, combined with its affordability, make it a highly recommended option for both keyboard enthusiasts and casual users alike.
Disclosure: Shadow-X keyboard review sample provided by Epomaker.
Positives and Negatives
-
Fantastic price.
-
Sleek design.
-
High quality keycaps and switches.
-
Built-in battery.
-
The screen is cool.
-
Software experience isn't great.
