The Epomaker RT98 Tries to Solve the Numpad Dilemma

The RT98 stands out for its flexibility rather than its build quality. While many southpaw configurations are fixed at the factory, this board features a modular design that lets users physically relocate the number pad. It is a rare functional middle ground, reminiscent of the Mountain Everest Max but stripped of the aggressive gaming aesthetic. The package includes a quirky, magnetic CRT-style screen and a choice between Creamy Jade linear switches or Sea Salt Silent V2 linears. For those who prioritize desk ergonomics, the ability to move the pad to the left can open up valuable space for mouse movement without sacrificing data entry speed.

However, the trade-offs are evident upon closer inspection. The chassis feels distinctly plasticky, and the keycap legends lack the crispness found on more premium, albeit pricier, aluminum decks. Relocating the number pad is not a seamless hot-swap experience; it is a fiddly process that requires some patience. At $119, the board enters a competitive price bracket where buyers often expect higher-grade materials. While it succeeds as a functional tool for numpad loyalists, it remains a device for those who value customization over a refined, heavy-duty feel.