I have always preferred smaller keyboards for their compact size, and I rarely miss the number pad. But for those who do, the Epomaker Cypher 21 offers a smart solution. It’s a detachable, wireless mechanical number pad that’s perfect for compact keyboard users or laptop users who want the convenience of a number pad. It also compliments compact keyboards that don’t feature a dedicated number pad. In this detailed review, I will explain the features, design, and performance of Epomaker Cypher 21.
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Epomaker Cypher 21 Review
Epomaker Cypher 21 Unboxing
- Epomaker Cypher 21
- USB-A to USB-C cable (1.1m in length)
- Keycap and switch puller
- User guide
The Epomaker Cypher 21 features a retro-inspired aesthetic with its glossy piano black finish and thick bezels. It’s compact, measuring 146mm x 96mm x 43mm and weighing 298g. This ensures a sturdy feel without taking up excessive desk space. The device is available in two color options: a sleek black-and-gray version and a playful pink variant. The numpad is constructed from a durable ABS plastic shell and boasts a polycarbonate deck supported by a gasket-mounted design. The addition of four rubber feet on the underside prevents unwanted movement during use.
A standout feature is the integrated LCD screen at the top. It enhances its functionality as a calculator. But there’s no backlight for the display. The rotary knob on the right side serves as a volume control for your PC. The keycaps are well-made to ensure a comfortable typing experience even during prolonged use. There is a white LED under each key for backlighting that constantly breathes in and out. There’s no option to change the lighting effect, however, you can turn it off by pressing the knob.
The keyboard also features a built-in speaker and you can see it at the top. It produces a beeper sound when you press any key. This beeper sound is too loud and becomes irritating after some time. Thankfully, you can turn it off by pressing the AC key and – key at the same time. You also see a toggle for switching to the keyboard ON or OFF.
Cypher 21 is designed for users who need a number pad occasionally but don’t want to sacrifice desk space with a full-size keyboard. The wireless connectivity ensures that it doesn’t clutter your workspace with cables. It also supports multi-device connectivity. Bluetooth pairing is a seamless process and the connection is stable. It also supports multiple device profiles. So, users can switch between devices with ease. The USB-C port ensures fast and reliable connections when you need to go wired.
At the heart of the Epomaker Cypher 21’s performance are its Wisteria switches, which deliver a smooth and responsive typing experience. These switches offer an excellent balance between tactility and quiet operation. So, the keyboard is ideal for office environments and home usage. Their consistency ensures accurate inputs, whether you are performing quick calculations or engaging in any repetitive task. There’s no input lag or missed key presses.
Its hot-swappable keys allow you to change the mechanical switches without soldering. This offers users the flexibility to experiment with different switches based on their typing or gaming preferences.
You can also use it as a calculator for basic calculations. The integration of the speaker and beeper sound provides feedback for each key press while using the calculator. Long press the AC button quickly switches to calculator mode and back to keyboard mode.
Battery life of Cypher 21 impresses. On a full charge, it offers several weeks of use, depending on how often the backlight is used. For those who prefer to keep the key backlighting on, the battery drains faster, but it still provides a reasonable battery backup. Charging via USB-C is quick and hassle-free.
Wrap Up
The Epomaker Cypher 21 is an excellent addition to the desk of anyone who values flexibility without sacrificing functionality. Its smart design, customizable features, and reliable performance make it a standout product for compact keyboard users and laptop owners alike. Its dual functionality makes it a notable keyboard for people looking for a numpad keyboard.
Pros:
- Compact and portable design
- Hot-swappable switches for customization
- Dual connectivity options
- Durable PBT keycaps
- Integrated calculator functionality
Cons:
- Non-adjustable backlight effect
- High-pitched beeper noise
- Limited advanced calculator functions
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