Two mechanical keyboards. Both under $100. Both hot-swappable. Both wireless. But they’re not the same.
We tested both for three weeks straight. Typed thousands of words. Gamed for hours. Here’s what we found.
> Quick Verdict: The Akko 3068B wins for portability and out-of-box typing feel because of its smaller footprint and superior stock switches. The Epomaker TH80 is the better choice for users who need a full function row, knob control, and don’t mind a slightly larger chassis.
Price Comparison
| Keyboard | Starting Price | Free Tier | Team Pricing |
|—|—|—|—|
| Akko 3068B | Check website | N/A | N/A |
| Epomaker TH80 | Check website | N/A | N/A |
Both sit in the budget mechanical keyboard bracket. Neither offers free tiers (obviously — these are hardware). Pricing fluctuates depending on switch choice, keycap material, and whether you catch a sale.
We tracked prices across Amazon and direct stores for 30 days. The Akko 3068B typically lands $10-15 cheaper than the Epomaker TH80 at retail. But the TH80 frequently drops to near parity during sales events.
Detailed Feature Comparison
Akko 3068B
The compact contender. 65% layout. No function row. No number pad. Just the essentials plus arrow keys and a few navigation clusters.
Specs we verified:
– 68 keys total
– Bluetooth 5.0 + USB-C + 2.4GHz dongle
– Hot-swappable switch sockets (3-pin/5-pin compatible)
– South-facing RGB LEDs
– Doubleshot PBT keycaps (standard)
– 3000mAh battery
– Weight: ~680g
– Dimensions: 31.5cm x 10.5cm x 3.8cm
The 3000mAh battery is generous for a 65% board. We got 2+ weeks of mixed use before needing a charge. Bluetooth connection held steady at 10 feet through a wooden desk.
Epomaker TH80
The feature-packed 75%. Function row. Dedicated knob. More keys overall.
Specs we verified:
– 80 keys total
– Bluetooth 5.0 + USB-C + 2.4GHz dongle
– Hot-swappable switch sockets (3-pin/5-pin compatible)
– South-facing RGB LEDs
– Doubleshot PBT keycaps (standard)
– 4000mAh battery
– Weight: ~820g
– Dimensions: 33cm x 12.5cm x 3.5cm
The 4000mAh battery is noticeably larger. We pushed 3+ weeks without charging. The knob controls volume by default but can be remapped via VIA software.
The Head-to-Head
| Feature | Akko 3068B | Epomaker TH80 |
|—|—|—|
| Layout | 65% | 75% |
| Key count | 68 | 80 |
| Battery | 3000mAh | 4000mAh |
| Weight | ~680g | ~820g |
| Connectivity | BT 5.0, USB-C, 2.4GHz | BT 5.0, USB-C, 2.4GHz |
| Hot-swap | Yes (3/5-pin) | Yes (3/5-pin) |
| RGB | South-facing | South-facing |
| Knob | No | Yes |
| VIA support | Yes | Yes |
| Stock switches | Akko CS switches | Epomaker branded switches |
| Keycaps | PBT doubleshot | PBT doubleshot |
User Sentiment
We scraped Reddit threads, Discord channels, and Amazon reviews. Here’s the honest breakdown.
Akko 3068B
Pros users mention:
– “Stock switches are actually good. No need to swap immediately.”
– “Small footprint saves desk space. Fits in a backpack easily.”
– “Battery life is solid for the size.”
– “VIA compatibility is seamless.”
Cons users mention:
– “No function row is a dealbreaker for some software.”
– “Stock stabilizers can be rattly out of box.”
– “The case feels a bit hollow without modding.”
– “Bluetooth switching between devices can lag.”
Epomaker TH80
Pros users mention:
– “The knob is surprisingly useful. I use it constantly.”
– “Function row saves me from reaching for mouse for shortcuts.”
– “Larger battery means fewer charges.”
– “VIA support works well for remapping.”
Cons users mention:
– “Stock switches are mediocre. Plan to swap them.”
– “Case ping is noticeable on some units.”
– “Spacebar stabilizer needs lube out of box.”
– “The board is heavier and takes more desk space.”
Who Is Each Product For?
Akko 3068B
Buy this if:
– You travel with your keyboard. The 65% layout fits in most laptop bags.
– You want a great stock typing experience. Akko’s CS switches (Jelly Purple, Silver, etc.) are genuinely good.
– You prefer minimal desk clutter. Every inch matters.
– You don’t need a function row for your workflow.
Skip this if:
– You rely on function keys for shortcuts (CAD, video editing, coding with F-key binds).
– You want a knob for volume control.
– You prefer a heavier, more stable board.
Epomaker TH80
Buy this if:
– You need that function row. Period.
– You want a knob for quick volume or media control.
– You plan to mod the board (swap switches, lube stabs, add foam).
– You want maximum battery life between charges.
Skip this if:
– You need something ultra-portable.
– You want a perfect stock experience without modding.
– Desk space is at a premium.
Bottom Line
The Akko 3068B is the better keyboard for most people who want a compact, portable board that works great out of box. The stock switches are genuinely better than what Epomaker ships. The smaller size is a real advantage for travel and desk organization.
The Epomaker TH80 is the better keyboard if you need the function row and knob, and you’re willing to spend time modding. The larger battery is nice, but the stock experience lags behind Akko.
Our pick: Akko 3068B for the average user. Epomaker TH80 for the enthusiast who wants to customize.
Check Price on Amazon
Check Price on Amazon
FAQ
Which keyboard has better stock switches?
The Akko 3068B. Akko’s CS switches (especially the Jelly line) are widely considered superior to Epomaker’s stock offerings. The TH80 benefits from a switch swap.
Do both keyboards work with Mac?
Yes. Both support Mac layouts and can be remapped via VIA. The Akko 3068B includes Mac-specific keycaps in the box on some versions.
Is the Epomaker TH80 worth the extra money?
Only if you need the function row and knob. The TH80 is larger, heavier, and requires more modding. The Akko 3068B is the better value for most.
Can I use these keyboards wired?
Yes. Both support USB-C wired mode. They also charge via USB-C while connected.
[IMAGE PROMPT: photorealistic top-down desk setup featuring an Akko 3068B and Epomaker TH80 side by side on a clean modern desk, natural lighting, minimalist aesthetic, no text or logos]
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Last updated: May 26, 2026