The core innovation of the Epomaker RT98 lies not in it being „just another 98-layout keyboard,“ but in its modular design—featuring a detachable, repositionable numeric keypad—that brings „left-hand friendliness“ and „dynamic desktop space management“ to the hardware level. Complemented by a 1.14-inch „Mini TV“ display that attaches via magnetic Pogo pins, the RT98 packs two distinct modular features into a retro-styled chassis—a combination rarely seen together. It is worth noting that this is not a magnetic-switch keyboard; with a polling rate capped at 1000Hz, it is positioned more as a mechanical keyboard for productivity and desk aesthetics, rather than a high-performance tool designed for ultra-fast competitive response.
I. Repositionable Numeric Keypad: Catering to Left-Handers and Mouse Space
The RT98’s most significant differentiator is its modular numeric keypad, which is separate from the main key cluster and can be installed on either the left or right side. This design serves two specific user groups: left-handed users can position the number pad where their left hand naturally rests, eliminating the need to reach across the entire keyboard; meanwhile, right-handed mouse users can move the keypad to the left, creating more contiguous desktop space between the main keyboard and their mouse.
It should be clarified that this reconfiguration is not an „instant“ hot-swappable process. According to ComputerBase, changing the side of the keypad requires unscrewing the back panel and disconnecting the internal battery to swap the positions of the two PCB modules. A review by The Verge describes the process as „a bit fiddly.“ Consequently, this feature is better suited for a „set it and forget it“ approach—configuring the layout once for long-term use—rather than frequent switching. For most users, the most practical approach is to choose either a left- or right-configured version at the time of purchase and stick with that layout.
II. Magnetic „Mini TV“: A Modular Display via Pogo Pin Connection
The second modular feature of the RT98 is a 1.14-inch detachable display located above the numeric keypad, designed to resemble a vintage CRT television. It connects to the main keyboard body via magnetic Pogo pins, allowing for easy attachment and detachment at any time.
Functionally, the screen can display information such as the time, date, battery level, connection mode, and system metrics like CPU and memory usage. Using Epomaker’s web-based driver, users can upload custom GIFs—storing up to three at a time—and assign hotkeys to switch between them. From an engineering perspective, the Pogo pin design enables the screen module to be attached or removed without the need for tools or cables; the magnets handle alignment and securing, while the pins manage power and data transmission—a feature that aligns perfectly with the RT98’s modular design philosophy.
One notable detail is that the screen’s position shifts depending on which side the number pad is placed. When the number pad is on the left (the default configuration), the screen sits at the far right of the keyboard; when the number pad is moved to the right, the screen shifts to the center. While this alters the overall visual balance, it has no impact on functionality.
III. Structure and Typing Feel: Gasket Mount with Five Layers of Dampening—“Soft and Bouncy“ within a Plastic Chassis
The RT98 utilizes a gasket-mounted structure, complemented by five layers of dampening material (latex sandwich foam, IXPE switch-pad, PET acoustic sheet, bottom foam, and a bottom silicone pad). It features a slotted polycarbonate (PC) mounting plate and a PCB with south-facing, slotted switch cutouts.
A review by The Verge notes that the RT98 lacks „flex-cuts“ (precision-cut channels for added flexibility), resulting in a typing feel that is „sharper“ than keyboards with a more pronounced, „cushiony“ bounce. In other words, the gasket system provides „supported flexibility“ rather than a „mushy“ or „sinking“ sensation. Combined with the PC mounting plate, the sound profile leans toward „thocky“ and „marbley,“ delivering a clean acoustic experience within the ABS plastic chassis, free from hollow-sounding resonance.
The case is constructed from ABS plastic, and the unit weighs approximately 1.18kg (largely due to its 8000mAh battery). While The Verge praised its solid, wobble-free build, it also pointed out that the „noticeable plastic feel“ is a drawback—especially considering that the keyboard is not positioned as an entry-level product. IV. Switches, Keycaps, and Connectivity
The RT98 offers two proprietary switch options from Epomaker: the „Creamy Jade“—a linear switch with a 45gf actuation force and 2.0mm travel, designed for a crisp, smooth typing feel—and the „Sea Salt Silent V2,“ also a linear switch, featuring a 1.8mm travel and an integrated silencing structure, making it ideal for office or shared environments. Both come factory-lubricated and support full-key hot-swapping (compatible with both 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches).
The keycaps feature a Cherry profile and are crafted from PBT plastic using a dye-sublimation process; their retro color scheme complements the keyboard’s overall Windows 95-inspired aesthetic. It is worth noting that a review by The Verge remarked that the print quality of the keycap legends „looks cheap and lacks sharpness.“
Connectivity is tri-mode: USB-C wired, 2.4GHz wireless, and Bluetooth 5.0/5.1. In wired and 2.4GHz modes, the polling rate is 1000Hz, with a nominal wired latency of approximately 2ms; in Bluetooth mode, this drops to 125Hz. The keyboard houses an 8000mAh battery, which, according to the manufacturer, provides up to 45 days of use—or 300 hours of continuous typing—with the lights and screen turned off. It is compatible with the web-based VIA software, allowing for key remapping and macro configuration.
V. Limitations and Trade-offs
The positioning of the RT98 dictates a clear set of trade-offs.
This is not a competitive-grade magnetic-switch keyboard. It lacks features like Rapid Trigger (RT), adjustable actuation points, and an 8K polling rate. For FPS gamers who demand 0.01mm actuation precision and ultra-fast response times, the RT98 is not the right choice. Instead, it is aimed at productivity-focused users who need to strike a balance between having a dedicated number pad, sufficient space for their mouse, and a cohesive desktop aesthetic.
Relocating the number pad (switching its side) comes with a learning curve. The process—which involves unscrewing components and disconnecting the battery—means the device is not well-suited for frequent switching between a left-handed and right-handed configuration. It is more practical to decide which side you need before making a purchase.
There is a tension between the plastic casing and the product’s price point. The Verge pointedly noted that its starting price is „close to that of better aluminum keyboards.“ If you have specific preferences regarding build materials, the ABS casing of the RT98 may fall short of your expectations.
