EPOMAKER has released a bunch of wireless mechanical keyboards in the last year and the new CIDOO V65 V2 offers consumers another great choice, showcasing an amalgamation of premium features, impressive aesthetics, and robust performance.
Disclosure: We received the keyboard from the manufacturer as a courtesy for review purposes. However, the review is intended to provide honest, unbiased insights about the product, based on personal experiences and observations.
Unboxing & Typing Test
Specifications
| Mount Type | Gasket Mount |
| Number of Keys | 66 keys + 1 knob |
| Case Material | Aluminum |
| Keycaps | PBT |
| Switch | Customized Linear Switch |
| Plate Material | PC |
| Gasket | Poron |
| Foam Material | Poron |
| Stabilizers | Plate-mounted |
| Hot-Swappable | Yes, for 3-pin & 5-pin switches |
| Battery | 3000mAh |
| Dimension | 320*119*45mm |
| Weigh | 2.91 lbs (1.32 kg) |
| Software | Programmable with VIA |
Design & Build
Inside the box, you can find the keyboard, a USB-C cable, a keycap/switch puller, light diffusers, and a hex screwdriver. First look at the CIDOO V65 V2, and you’re instantly attracted by its retro charm. The full CNC aluminum case gives off a solid and premium aura, feeling every bit as luxurious as it looks. But beneath its vintage look lie some genuinely modern functionalities, like plate-mounted stabilizers, gasket-mounted PCB, and compatibility with both 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
Its origin as the FinalKey V65, a custom keyboard kit, provides it an edge. It’s a pre-built custom keyboard, removing the fuss of self-assembly while retaining the essence of bespoke craftsmanship.
Functionality
The 65% layout is an ideal middle ground, retaining essential keys while doing away with the less frequently used ones. This compact design doesn’t compromise the typing experience, with key inclusions like Delete, Page-up, and Page-down ensuring functionality isn’t sacrificed for form. The metal rotary knob is a valuable addition, seamlessly integrating volume control into the design.
Switching configurations is a breeze, courtesy of the hot-swappable 3-pin & 5-pin switches. The inclusion of a PORON foam layer, renowned for its compression resistance, further elevates the typing experience, adding a cushioned, resonance-free touch.
The RGB backlighting, although restricted to bed lighting due to the keycaps not being backlit, adds flair, enhancing the keyboard’s overall visual appeal.
Performance
Straight out of the box, the CIDOO V65 impresses with its Quake Matt Linear switches. Factory-lubed and featuring a 47g operating force, these switches are a treat, offering a responsive and buttery smooth experience for both typing and gaming. The gasket-mounted design ensures that even the heaviest of typists won’t find bottoming out an issue.
Bluetooth connectivity is smooth, supporting up to three devices without discernible lag, although, for high-intensity tasks, the USB Type-C connection is recommended. The weight, although on the heavier side, gives the keyboard a reassuring heft, keeping it firmly anchored during intense gaming sessions or rapid-fire typing.
Software & Customization
VIA offers deep customization options, allowing users to tailor the keyboard experience to their preferences. Although there’s an initial learning curve, once you’re familiar, the possibilities are immense. Macro creation and key remapping are straightforward, and the on-board memory ensures your settings remain consistent across devices.
Conclusion
The EPOMAKER CIDOO V65 V2 is a triumph in mechanical keyboard design. Merging the retro with the modern, it delivers on both form and function. Whether you’re a gamer, a writer, or someone who simply appreciates the tactile pleasure of a well-crafted keyboard, the V65 V2 will not disappoint. With its premium build, versatile features, and standout aesthetics, it’s a keyboard that both looks the part and plays it exceptionally well.
