Enos Tech Verdict
The EPOMaker Cypher 21 number pad and calculator combo is an unusual but highly functional design. It can be used as an independent calculator with its built-in LCD screen, but also as a fully functional Bluetooth/wired number pad for your PC. It’s the perfect peripheral that nobody needed, but ideal if you’re using a reduced-sized keyboard, or restricted by space constraints or just need the ability to add/remove a number pad as required. Its highly modifiable design brings something new to the table. I never thought I would have been reviewing a number pad with upgradeable switches. But EPOMaker has re-written the rulebook on repairability and customizability.
Pros:
- Convenient dual-use calculator and number pad
- 3-5 Pin Hotswap PCB with EPOMaker Linear Wisteria Switches
- Bluetooth and USB Type-C Connectivity
- Upgradeable
Cons
No backlight on the screen itself.
Limited colour options at the moment
EPOMaker Cypher 21 Video
Pricing
Cypher 21 Specifications
| Model: | EPOMaker Cypher 21 |
| Number of Keys: | 18 |
| Layout: | Numpad |
| Connectivity: | USB Type-C or Bluetooth |
| Backlight: | White light only |
| Battery Capacity: | 1000mAh Rechargeable |
| Case Material: | ABS Plastic |
| Dimensions: | 100mmx145mmx43mm |
| Weight | 0.5KG |
| Switch Type | Replaceable/Upgradeable EPOMaker Wisteria Linear Switches |
A Closer Look
So looking at the packaging you can see a nice Pink illustrated finish. Although oddly our review sample inside was Black. Normally with EPOMaker the packaging style matches the product. But on this occasion it did not. Possibly a cost saving exercise, who knows?
Looking at the rear of the box, you can see the manufacturer’s contact details, as well as the usual regulatory/compliance markings. With a QR code that links back to the EPOMaker website.
Inside the box, we can see the Cypher 21, a quick start manual, a USB-C cable and a keycap puller. Because yep, this is an upgradeable design.
The keycaps have a well-printed font and the volume/media control dial on the side is a nice touch. If you’re busy jamming out to some music, you can use the dial to adjust your media on the go. Particularly handy if you’re already using a small form factor keyboard which doesn’t have this facility.
Looking at the back of the device it kind of reminds me of a credit card machine with the upward angle. But you can see the power switch, followed by the USB-C Port and the holes for the speaker. Overall it feels well built. The ABS plastic though is prone to sticky/greasy finger marks.
To touch on that speaker. Each time you press a key, it sounds like you are operating a checkout in ASDA or Walmart. It’s a nice gimmicky feature to have. Especially when using it as a calculator. But it can be switched off by pressing the AC+- keys as it did become annoying after a while.
Looking at the top of the device, you can see the LCD screen and the Grey to Black colour scheme. This looks really presentable and will pair well nicely with some other EPOMaker accessories. Like the EPOMaker Shadow-X as an example..
l do think EPOMaker may have missed a trick slightly. If the actual screen could illuminate, then it would make it perfect for use in a dark room or at night time. Given that the number pad has a White RGB style effect which pulses. This can also be turned off completely if it’s not your cup of tea.
Taking a closer look at the switches, by default the Cypher 21 comes with Wisteria Linear switches. Which is absolutely fine if you’re using these in your keyboard already. However, if you have a switch preference, providing you use 3 or 5-pin switches, they should work fine in the Cypher 21. Otherwise, you might notice the acoustic differences between your keyboard and the number pad as an example. It all depends on personal preference and whether you are planning on making the Cypher 21 a permanent addition to your desk or not.
The EPOMaker Wisteria Linear switches have a very smooth buttery-like press to them with a satisfying bounce-back style effect. They are clicky but not overly loud. With a built-in LED, and POM+PTFE stem design. They are rated for approximately 100 million key presses. Don’t get me wrong, they are on the cheaper end of switches, but still feel pretty awesome to type on. I use them in my main keyboard and they are very comfortable after a long day’s worth of typing and gaming.
EPOMaker has a variety of switch kits for sale on its website. Of course, you can source your own but you just need to double check the compatibility first. You can also see that south-facing White LED present on each key.
You can see just how nicely the Cypher pairs with existing EPOMaker devices. The profile matches nicely. Granted the colour scheme is off but we just wanted to show you an example of it with the Shadow-X (which is a 70% keyboard). So if you’re in the market for new peripherals then it might be worth seeing what other products EPOMaker have to offer.
Final Words
For $39.99 the Cypher 21 brings a lot to the table. I love the fact it can be used as a standalone calculator. Don’t get me wrong, you aren’t going to be saving the world with scientific-style calculus but it’s a nice touch to have. Particularly if your role involves processing a lot of number work. I like how easy it is to alternate between the number pad and calculator by holding the AC key.
Hot-swappable switches are a joy to have on a separate number pad, it means you can really tailor the aesthetics to suit your overall setup. I would have liked to have seen a backlight on the screen itself but it’s not a must-have by any means.
I’m slowly converting my own setup to EPOMaker products and the Cypher 21 is another awesome peripheral to have in my arsenal. Its portable size means it’s another accessory which can easily be transported between home and the office.
If you’re looking for full upgradeability and the option to customize your setup even further, then the EPOmaker Cypher 21 may be worth a look.
