Epomaker EK21 Review: A Hot-Swappable Numpad with an Aluminum Knob at a Great Price

Hello, I’m Itsuki, a big fan of numpads (@saigalog).

If you want to make numeric input and macro operations more comfortable, I highly recommend Epomaker’s new numpad, the “EK21.”

When people think of a numpad, they often imagine a simple input device meant to complement a laptop or tenkeyless keyboard, but the EK21 goes far beyond that role.

It features a soft typing feel thanks to its gasket mount structure, triple-mode connectivity supporting USB, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz, and flexible key remapping via VIA—packing full-size keyboard-level specifications into a compact chassis.

It also supports hot-swapping, making it easy to replace switches, which is another appealing point for those who want to pursue their preferred typing feel and sound.

In this article, I’ll share my honest impressions of the typing feel, usability, advantages, and disadvantages after actually using the EK21.

Let’s explore its potential as a “small companion” that goes beyond being just a numeric input device.

※This article was created with a product provided by the manufacturer.

What’s Included with the Epomaker EK21

The outer box of the “Epomaker EK21” features a mysterious design based on green tones.

The back side lists the product features.

The following items are included as accessories.

The USB Type-A to C cable is unified in black.

A replacement key switch is included.

A BackSpace keycap is included.

The tool has a keycap puller on one side and a switch puller on the other.

Epomaker EK21 Specifications

Epomaker’s “EK21” is a mechanical numpad featuring a compact design, a comfortable typing feel, and built-in backlighting.

The main specifications are as follows.

Product Name	Epomaker EK21
Dimensions	140 × 96 × 42 (mm)
Weight	234 g
Number of Keys	20 keys + 1 knob
Switch Type	Steel plate-mounted stabilizers
PCB Type	Supports 3/5-pin hot-swappable PCB
Connectivity	Type-C, 2.4G wireless, and Bluetooth connection
Battery Capacity	1000mAh

Design

The appearance of the “Epomaker EK21” features a simple design based on black.

The illuminated backlight is a key feature.

The knob located on the upper right can adjust your PC’s volume.

The keycap legends are simple.

Since it is compatible with Cherry MX switches, you can also replace the keycaps with your own to enjoy a different look.

Here’s what it looks like from the front side.

The side has a slope rising from the front toward the back.

On the back, there is a power switch, a USB Type-C port, and a USB receiver.

Here’s what the bottom looks like.

There is a label attached in the center.

Non-slip pads are attached to the four corners.

There is no stand, so the angle cannot be adjusted.

Size and Weight

The size of the “Epomaker EK21” is 140 × 96 mm.

The height is 42 mm.

Here’s how the size compares to a smartphone (iPhone 15 Pro).

Its compact size means it doesn’t take up much space, allowing you to use your desk more efficiently.

The weight was 234 g.

Features

The “Epomaker EK21” offers three different connection methods in total.

I’ve put together a video showcasing the typing sound and the backlight illumination.

Epomaker EK21 Review Summary

In this article, I wrote about “[Epomaker EK21 Review] A High-Value Numpad with Hot-Swappable Switches and an Aluminum Knob.”

Despite its price in the ¥6,000 range, the EK21 delivers an exceptionally high level of refinement, featuring a comfortable typing feel thanks to its gasket mount structure, flexible usability with three connection modes, and full customizability via VIA.

While offering specifications that clearly stand out compared to typical external numeric keypads, it is by no means expensive. In fact, being able to get this level of functionality at this price point is a major attraction in itself.

For those who want to make numeric input more comfortable, improve the efficiency of their laptop setup, or add a compact yet uncompromising peripheral to their workspace, the EK21 is a choice that delivers a step-up experience while keeping costs down—truly offering value beyond its price.