This summary of the video was created by an AI. It might contain some inaccuracies.
00:00:00 – 00:08:38
The video by Hippiotech centers on exploring the EPO Maker Shadow X, a budget-friendly, gasket-mounted keyboard notable for its unique features and customization potential. Initially, the presenter highlights the keyboard's deceptive plastic construction, which offers a satisfying feel that mimics aluminum, and an intriguing knob primarily for Bluetooth settings. Priced at approximately $85 with a 65% layout, the keyboard supports connectivity via Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless, and multiple device pairing, though it requires some troubleshooting to optimize functionality.
A significant focus is the built-in screen that, while slowly loading animations and having limited viewing angles, enables customization through somewhat clunky software. The keyboard benefits from modding, particularly through replacing the default Gateron Pro yellow switches with alternatives like pre-lubed WS Mirandi switches, which enhance the typing sound and feel. The inclusion of pre-installed silicone gaskets and a hot-swappable PCB simplifies the modding process, adding to the keyboard's versatility.
Despite its budget nature, the keyboard offers decent keycaps and a satisfactory typing experience post-modding. The presenter's overall positive assessment acknowledges the keyboard's innovative layout and screen, suggesting it as a good budget option while recommending alternatives for more discerning keyboard enthusiasts.
00:00:00
In this part of the video, the presenter Hippiotech introduces the EPO Maker Shadow X, a budget gasket-mounted keyboard, and highlights his current preference for keyboards with screens. He jokes about looking for screens rather than sound or feel. The keyboard comes with a few accessories, including yellow keycaps, three yellow switches, and a USB-C braided cable. While it appears to be made of aluminum, it’s actually plastic but retains a nice finish and a hefty feel. The keyboard features a knob used for adjusting Bluetooth settings rather than volume and can pair with three devices. Hippiotech mentions a glitch he encountered with the wireless functionality, needing to read the manual to resolve an issue with the knob settings. Overall, the keyboard costs around $85, has a 65% layout, and supports multiple devices, with its wireless feature requiring a bit of troubleshooting.
00:03:00
In this part of the video, the presenter discusses a versatile keyboard that can connect via 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth, and features a unique aspect of pricing and display. The screen on the keyboard shows various customizations, such as animations, though it loads slowly. The software for the screen is criticized for being clunky but functional, allowing key rebindings and macro settings.
The presenter also critiques the screen’s viewing angles and mentions that while the typing experience is decent, modding the keyboard with other switches significantly improves the sound and experience. Disassembling the keyboard was straightforward, revealing silicon gaskets that provide a dampened typing feel and a hot-swappable PCB for easy switch replacement.
Overall, the keyboard offers customization potential but may not justify its layout and features for all users, prompting the presenter to suggest alternative options later.
00:06:00
In this segment, the presenter discusses their experience with modifying a budget keyboard. They encounter pre-installed silicone, which prompts an existential dilemma regarding their role in customizing keyboards. Deciding to enhance the keyboard’s sound, they apply two layers of tape, which makes the board slightly poppier. However, they are dissatisfied with the Gateron Pro yellow switches due to leaf chatter and suggest two solutions: lubricating the switches manually with Krytox 205 g0, a time-consuming but cost-effective method, or purchasing pre-lubed WS Mirandi switches for around $30.
The presenter proceeds to swap the switches, improving the keyboard’s sound. They also address the hollow feel of the space bar by adding automotive dampening film. Despite being budget-friendly, the keyboard’s keycaps are decent, but require an adjustment period due to their flat profile. The segment concludes with a positive evaluation of the budget keyboard, citing its unique layout, wireless features, and integrated screen, while recommending an alternative keyboard model for better value. The presenter engages the audience by asking for suggestions on what to display on the keyboard’s screen.