In this article, I’m reviewing the Epomakers Shadow X keyboard. The Shadow X is a 70% gasket-mount hot-swappable wired/wireless keyboard with a customizable colour screen. It’s priced at $73.

Disclaimer: This sample was provided by Epomaker for an honest review. All observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product.

Epomaker Shadow X

In the Box

• Keyboard
• Instruction Manual
• Type-C Cable
• 1*2.4G receiver
• 1*keycap/switch puller
• Extra Keycaps

Epomaker Shadow X Design

The Shadow X embodies a 70% key layout, boasting 70 keys and one metal rotary knob. If you’re wondering what the 70% is all about, it just means that the F keys and numpad have been omitted to create a more compact keyboard. Shadow X features double-shot PBT keycaps with a smooth finish.

In the upper right corner, there’s a metallic rotary knob serving as the interface for switching between connectivity modes on the Shadow X. This device offers three distinct modes: wired, 2.4GHz, and Bluetooth, all accessible through this knob.

The Shadow X is available with 4 different types of Epomaker switches or Gateron Pro Yellow switches, so you can choose the type of key response that’s ideal for you. The model I received came with the Epomaker Bluebird linear switches.

The Bluebird keys feel and sound great. They’re a bit louder and clickier than the Epomaker Wisteria linear switches I have on my EK68. The EK68 elevates the tactile experience with its double-shot PBT keycaps, providing a satisfying sensation when touched. Crafted for durability, these keycaps are resistant to oil build-up and retain their vibrant colours even after extended periods of use.

But of course, the headline feature of Shadow X is its 1.06-inch colour LCD screen. The screen displays useful information such as the current date and time, battery level, Caps Lock status and connection mode. In addition, users can download or create their own colour images and even animated GIFs. This is a pretty neat feature and I must admit that seeing my brand logo on the screen brought a smile to my lips.

The EK68 is built with a plastic case surrounding an internal steel plate, ensuring robustness and minimal flex. Its base includes rubber feet to prevent slipping, along with two-stage tilt feet featuring a rubberized coating. This construction highlights outstanding build quality throughout.

Epomaker Driver Software

The driver software is fairly comprehensive but is still easy to use. Within the app you can change Key and Function settings, as well as set macros and RGB lighting effects. There’s also a screen where users can upload or create photos and animations. If you don’t have the time or knowledge to make your own animations there are several premade ones that you can download via the app.

Shadow X RGB

The Shadow X RGB is similar to the EK68. There are multiple lighting patterns that you can choose from the driver software or directly via the keyboard itself. Shadow X features south-facing LEDs that supposedly enhance visibility but just like the EK68, I found the lighting effects look somewhat muted and lacking brightness. In addition, the keycaps don’t have transparent symbols so the LEDs don’t do a very good job at lighting them up.

Epomaker Shadow X Performance

Typing on the Shadow X has been extremely satisfying for me. Your experience may differ based on the switches you have installed, but my overall impression of Epomaker’s factory-lubed Bluebird switches has been very positive so far. The switches feel fast and responsive and are among the best linear switches that I have ever used for typing.

The keyboard feels sturdy to type on and the gasket mount effectively helps to keep the noise down. There’s not much give in the keys so they are fairly stiff to type on. You don’t get much flex because of the PC plate which works well for me.

The preset key combinations for switching between functions are fairly simple and most are done by pressing the FN (Function) key and one additional key. These commands can be customized in the driver software.

Verdict

In conclusion, the Epomaker Shadow X is an impressive keyboard for the price. Initially, I was worried that the LCD screen might be a gimmick but I found it quite useful. The feel and typing experience of the board is excellent. I love the feel of the aluminium rotary knob but I wish it was a volume control because once I set my preferred connection method I didn’t touch it again during the entirety of my testing. There’s a lot to like about Shadow X for the price and would recommend it to anyone looking for a compact and affordable keyboard.

Specifications

Model: EPOMAKER Shadow-X
Number of keys: 70 keys+1 knob
Connectivity: wireless and wired
Battery: 3000mAh
Structure: Gasket-mounted
LED Direction: South-facing LED
Keycaps: double-shot PBT material
Plate material: PC
Hot-swappable: yes
Bottom layer: Silicon pad
Sandwich layer: Poron foam, IXPE switch pad
Compatible system: Win/macOS/Linux/Android/iOS
Dimension: 370.4*129.8*47.8mm
Weight: Around 0.8kg