Epomaker Split65 Review (2025) BY AOP3D
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Epomaker Split65: The Ergonomic Thock
The Epomaker Split65 is a wireless ergonomic mechanical keyboard in a compact 65% layout. Separate it into two halves for a natural hand position, or snap them together magnetically. Is this the ultimate budget-friendly ergonomic board? Let's dive in.
Specs & Market Overview
Out of the box, the Split65 comes with Cherry-profile double-shot PBT keycaps and per-key south-facing RGB lighting. It connects via Bluetooth 5.0, a 2.4 GHz USB dongle, or USB-C (wired). The top case is plastic and the bottom is iron, giving it a solid 0.8 kg heft.
Key Specifications
| Layout | Split 65% (68-key ANSI) with Volume Knob |
| Switches | Hot-swappable 3-/5-pin (Wisteria 45g or Flamingo 60g Linears) |
| Connectivity | USB-C (1000Hz), 2.4GHz Wireless (1000Hz), Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Battery | 3,000 mAh |
| Customization | Open-source QMK firmware with VIA support |
| Price | ~$119.99 USD |
Competitors and Alternatives
In the ergonomic keyboard market, the Split65’s closest competitors cost significantly more. Keychron’s fully split Q11 ($204) and the Kinesis Freestyle Pro ($179) offer similar freedom. Epomaker achieves much of the same ergonomic flexibility at roughly half the cost.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
The Split65 is very well-built for its price. The plastic top case is rigid and the iron bottom adds weight. The magnetic connection between halves is reassuringly strong; if you press them together, they align perfectly and click into place.
The Ergonomic Adjustment
When separated, each half sits flat at a default ~7° angle. This flat orientation is better than many standard keyboards, though it lacks built-in tenting feet. The included cable allows separating the halves by about a foot for a comfortable shoulder-width position.
Learning Curve Warning: Split keyboards require adjustment. Initially, keys like B and Y can feel “reversed” depending on your muscle memory. However, reviewers agree that with practice, the postural benefits (straighter back, reduced wrist strain) are entirely worth it.
Performance: Typing & Gaming
Typing Experience
Out of the box, the Split65 uses Epomaker’s in-house linear switches. The Wisteria linears (45g) are crisp and quick, while the Flamingo switches (60g) are stiffer for a heavier bottom-out.
Four layers of foam dampening (poron, IXPE, PET) yield a satisfying "thock" sound, eliminating pinging. It’s not silent, but the noise is deep and pleasant. In practical typing tests, users maintained their touch-typing accuracy without noticing hand fatigue during extended sessions.
Gaming Performance
For gaming, the Split65 is surprisingly capable. Running at 1000 Hz polling with full N-key rollover in wired or 2.4 GHz modes, there’s no input lag or ghosting. While it lacks dedicated macro keys, the linear switches are highly responsive for fast inputs in shooters and action games.
Software, Controls & RGB
QMK/VIA Support
The Split65 is fully programmable. Running open-source QMK firmware, it is compatible with the highly popular VIA configurator. You can remap every key, create macros, adjust lighting, and reassign the smooth metal volume knob simply by loading Epomaker’s JSON file into the VIA web UI.
Battery & Tri-Mode Wireless
The 3000 mAh battery is a workhorse, easily surviving marathon sessions. Switching between up to 5 paired devices is straightforward. If the battery runs low, you can plug in the braided cable and continue typing while it charges.
Vibrant RGB
The per-key south-facing RGB backlighting is bright and customizable (16.8M colors). It shines through the Cherry-profile keycaps evenly without shadows. It's especially striking when the halves are separated and showing different color profiles.
Pros, Cons & The Final Verdict
The Good
- Highly comfortable and ergonomic; encourages upright posture.
- Excellent build quality (solid frame, PBT keycaps).
- Full QMK/VIA support (hot-swap, macros, RGB).
- Versatile tri-mode connectivity.
- Deep "thock" typing sound with NKRO for gaming.
The Bad
- Split layout requires a distinct learning curve.
- No Mac-specific legends included.
- Limited accessories (no wrist rest or tenting feet).
- VIA requires loading a JSON file manually.
The Bottom Line
The Epomaker Split65 is a well-built, feature-rich split keyboard that earns high praise for its comfort and customizability. It’s an incredibly compelling choice if you want to experience split ergonomics without spending over $200. Just be prepared for the initial muscle-memory adjustment.