Gaming is evolving, and having the best tech is a must. Whether it is customisable inputs, low-latency keystrokes, or high-quality design, we want the best bang for our buck. Thankfully, Epomaker understand this and constantly adapts their products to fulfil our needs. The Epomaker Magforce 87 keyboard is the latest keyboard to tick every gaming box. It has market-leading functionality and a wired-only approach. Though the latter may make you frown, it shouldn’t!
A wired-only design ensures you get low-latency inputs and no battery concerns. Furthermore, Epomaker sell some incredible high-end USB cables to add flair to your gaming set-up. This gaming peripheral uses inductive switches for a next-level gaming experience. Unlike other mechanical devices, this lives and breathes consistency. What’s more, it is ridiculously durable and it can be customised within an inch of its life. As such, it will impress elite gamers and professionals.
What’s in the box of the Epomaker Magforce 87 keyboard?
- The packaging isn’t as eye-catching as I expected. However, the contents are well protected, and that’s all that matters.
- The Epomaker Magforce 87 keyboard is remarkably heavy and sturdy. The aluminium case is premium, and the TKL design is perfect for a smaller workstation. Furthermore, the black livery is clean, understated, and beautifully professional.
- A braided USB-C cable powers the device.
- Pull the keycaps with the puller tool.
- Spare keycaps are provided.
- Learn the basics with the user manual.
Technical aspects.
This wired-only keyboard is similar to the Magforce 68 keyboard. However, it pushes things up a gear with its stunning inductive switches. These consistent and ridiculously smooth switches are a joy to work with. Whether you are playing games or you are composing an email, you enjoy buttery smooth inputs. Moreover, you enjoy adjustable actuation distance for the ultimate experience. Whether you want a deft touch or a deep and definitive strike, this keyboard adjusts to your needs.
Dynamic Keystroke or DKS is another key element for this gaming device. Up to 4 different inputs can be keyed to the same keystroke. Accordingly, you can walk, run, or jog using one key. This will set you apart from your competitors and save vital seconds. On top of this, NKRO or anti-ghosting is another prime feature. This prevents inputs from being lost in the void when one or more keys are hit at the same time. The result is rapid movement and pinpoint accuracy.
The Epomaker Magforce 87 keyboard delivers remarkable polling rates to reduce latency and improve your gaming experience further still. 8k polling rates can be enjoyed thanks to the impressive wired-only design. Consequently, you can forget about battery life and underwhelming gaming performances.
Usability.
This keyboard is wonderfully clean and brilliantly streamlined. However, it retains full functionality regardless of its TKL form factor. Thanks to the handy preinstalled FN macroing, gamers can adjust settings and enjoy every input of a full-size device. Yet, the smaller form factor is more convenient if your workspace is somewhat tight.
On top of this, VIA functionality allows you to customise practically every element of the product. Alternatively, the free-to-download Epomaker software can be used for key tasks if you wish. Either way, you can play with the RGB, actuation distance, macros, and much, much more. This was great as it increases versatility without creating a complex and uncomfortable gaming peripheral.
Build quality.
Epomaker won’t cut corners. High-end products with incredible durability and comfort are the goal. Thankfully, the Epomaker Magforce 87 keyboard achieves this standard! This flat-formed TKL device is simply stunning to look at. The sleek black finish makes the south-facing RGB pop. This low hue lighting complements the refined and professional finish. Additionally, the lack of switches creates a streamlined and eye-catching device.
The cherry profile keycaps can be removed if you have a special set you love. Alternatively, you can retain the black and clear blue keycaps for a plug-and-play approach. I wasn’t a fan of the clear blue, so I plan to swap these with the spare keycaps provided. The aluminium case weighs around 1.7kg. This is quite heavy for a keyboard, and it has a noticeable and substantial presence.
Finally, sound-dampening material reduces unwanted clacky sounds. Though many gamers love the traditional tapping noise of mechanical and analogue keyboards, too much of a good thing can be overwhelming. Thankfully, this device uses multiple sound-dampening layers to deliver a pleasant audio profile.
Is the Epomaker Magforce 87 keyboard worth it?
This keyboard is available for around $199.99. Now, this price point may seem steep, but this incredible device offers some amazing market-leading tech. The 8k polling rate is lightning-fast. Moreover, the switches are responsive, consistent, and reliable. Additionally, the build quality and aesthetics are second to none. Accordingly, it is amazing and I recommend buying it here!
(More information on Epomaker can be found here!)
(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)
