Epomaker Tide 65 vs Tide 75: Best $100 Keyboard?

content: Budget Keyboard Showdown

Finding the best keyboard around $100 just got complicated. After testing Epomaker's new Tide series, it's clear these boards disrupt the budget market with aluminum builds, knobs, and VIA support. Both models challenge favorites like the Keychron Q1 and Rainy 75 by offering premium features without the premium price tag. Through hands-on testing and modding, I discovered surprising performance nuances that'll impact your buying decision.

Key Differences at a Glance

Layout & Pricing

Tide 65: Compact 65% layout starting at $89 (with free shipping). Ideal for minimalists who sacrifice F-keys for desk space.
Tide 75: Includes function row and knob, priced at $120 (effectively $89 after shipping savings). Better for productivity-focused users.

Design & Build

Both use 6063 aluminum cases with electrocoated finishes.
Tide 75's knob sits in a recessed divot for cleaner aesthetics versus the Tide 65's protruding design.
Critical note: Tide 75 exhibited more case ping, requiring a force break mod for optimal sound.

What They Share

Tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth/2.4GHz/wired)
Gasket-mounted PCBs
Pre-lubed Epomaker Lemon linear switches (clacky sound profile)
VIA software support for easy remapping

Performance & Modding Insights

Stock Experience Analysis

Testing both boards stock revealed three key takeaways:

Stabilizers are factory-lubed well, with minimal rattle—uncommon at this price.
Switches deliver consistent light actuation but emphasize higher-pitched clacks due to PA66 housings.
Keycaps disappoint significantly. Shine-through ABS caps with "gamer" fonts undermine aesthetics, and RGB barely penetrates the opaque switches.

Sound Transformation Tests

I modded the Tide 65 to quantify improvement potential:

Keycap Swap: Replaced stock caps with PBT doubleshots (e.g., Polycaps Hippo). Result: Deeper, marble-like acoustics and improved RGB diffusion.
Foam Removal: Eliminated case and plate foams. Surprise outcome: Reduced noise levels despite expectations, likely due to dampening material interactions.
Force Break Mod: Added tape between case halves. Verification: Eliminated 90% of Tide 75's ping.

Pro Tip: The Tide 65's internal plastic sheet adheres permanently to foam. Remove carefully to avoid short-circuit risks.

Who Should Buy Which Model?

Choose Tide 65 If...

You prioritize minimalism and portability
Clacky sound signatures appeal to you
$89 is your strict budget ceiling

Choose Tide 75 If...

You regularly use F-keys or media controls
Prefer deeper sound profiles (achievable via mods)
Value streamlined knob integration

The Value Proposition

Epomaker undercuts competitors by including switches and keycaps while offering premium elements like aluminum cases. Crucially, the effective $89 price (with free shipping) beats the Keychron Q1's $149 barebones kit. Even after keycap upgrades, total cost stays competitive.

VIA Software: The Hidden Advantage

Unlike many budget boards, both Tides support VIA—a major differentiator. This means:

No proprietary software bloat
Real-time key remapping without firmware flashes
Macros and layer customization in minutes
Expert insight: VIA implementation suggests Epomaker's commitment to enthusiast needs, even at entry-level.

Action Plan & Final Verdict

Your 3-Step Decision Checklist

Verify layout needs: 65% for space savings, 75% for functionality.
Budget for keycaps: Allocate $30-$50 for PBT replacements immediately.
Mod strategically: Prioritize force break mod on Tide 75; foam experiments on Tide 65.

The Bottom Line

The Tide series sets new benchmarks for sub-$100 keyboards. For most users, the Tide 75 delivers better long-term value with its flexible layout and superior modding foundation. However, the Tide 65 wins for pure minimalism. Both models prove that with minor tweaks, budget boards can rival premium alternatives.

Question for you: Which mod excites you most—keycap swaps, foam adjustments, or sound dampening? Share your project ideas below!

Recommended Tools:

Kinetic Labs desk mats ($24.99): Ideal for sound dampening
Thockpop switch films: Refine Lemon switch acoustics
Tempest Mod Tape: Perfect for force break applications

Disclosure: Epomaker provided review units but exercised no editorial control. Sound tests used stock configurations on Kinetic Labs mats.