The Epomaker Phantom 98 is a compact mechanical gaming keyboard that blends a unique transparent design with solid performance. Featuring hot-swappable switches, vibrant RGB lighting, and versatile connectivity, it aims to deliver a premium typing and gaming experience in a space-saving form factor.

Design & First Impressions

The Phantom 98 immediately stands out with its fully transparent chassis, allowing the internal components and RGB lighting to be showcased in full effect. Unlike typical full-size boards, this 98-key layout keeps the number pad and function row while reducing overall footprint. The result is a clean, modern design that saves desk space without sacrificing functionality.

Build quality feels solid, with no noticeable flex, and the transparent polycarbonate case gives it a premium yet playful aesthetic. Keycaps are also transparent, further enhancing the lighting effects, and the overall presentation is sleek and eye-catching straight out of the box.

Key Features

98-Key Compact Layout – Retains number pad and function keys in a smaller form factor.
Transparent Polycarbonate Case – Showcases internal components and lighting effects.
Hot-Swappable Switches – Supports easy customization without soldering.
Multiple Connectivity Options – USB-C wired, Bluetooth 5.0, and 2.4GHz wireless.
Customizable RGB Lighting – Per-key RGB with multiple effects and software support.
PBT Transparent Keycaps – Durable and shine-resistant while enhancing light diffusion.

Performance & Typing Experience

In day-to-day use, the Phantom 98 offers a satisfying typing feel with responsive keystrokes and consistent feedback. The included switches (depending on configuration) provide smooth travel with minimal wobble, and the stabilizers feel well-lubricated out of the box.

For gaming, the keyboard performs reliably with low input latency, especially in wired and 2.4GHz modes. Bluetooth works well for casual use, though competitive gamers will prefer the lower latency of wired or dongle-based wireless connections.

The RGB lighting is bright and vivid, with effects that look particularly striking against the transparent case. Customization through software allows for fine-tuning both aesthetics and key assignments.

Connectivity & Battery Life

Switching between devices is seamless thanks to tri-mode connectivity. In wireless modes, battery performance is solid, though heavy RGB use will reduce uptime. Charging via USB-C is straightforward, and the cable is detachable for easy portability.

Verdict

The Epomaker Phantom 98 successfully combines style, versatility, and performance in a compact package. Its transparent design makes it a visual centerpiece, while hot-swappable switches and tri-mode connectivity ensure adaptability for both gaming and productivity. While the software could be more polished and battery life better optimized for heavy RGB use, it remains a strong choice for users seeking a standout mechanical keyboard that performs as good as it looks.

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