What is old is new again. 8BitDo, the game accessory maker known for its third-party wireless controllers, is making its first foray into the world of mechanical keyboards — and it sure knows how to win users over. The debut device will tap heavily into nostalgia, featuring a design that takes after Nintendo’s classic 8-bit gaming consoles.
The 8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard is a tenkeyless (TKL) build with two different iterations: N Edition, which is inspired by the Nintendo Entertainment System, and Fami Edition, themed after the Famicom. Decked out in a charmingly old-school appearance, it features both wired USB and wireless Bluetooth support, mappable Super Buttons, and an independent control panel.
According to Engadget, Kalih Box White Switches V2 are used for the keyboard, while the Super Buttons sport Gateron Green Switches. The Fami Edition includes Japanese characters for each standard alphanumerical key, and comes in a white and crimson outfit that matches the Famicom’s colour scheme. Similarly, the N Edition ships in a familiar blend of white, dark grey, and black.
This latest offering also boasts a hot-swappable PCB, keymapping capabilities via 8BitDo’s Ultimate Software, and compatibility with both Windows and Android devices. Additionally, it runs on a 2,000mAh battery that touts a 200-hour lifespan from four hours of charging.
The 8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard is now open for preorder on the company’s direct website and Amazon. Both versions will be available at US$99 each, with shipping slated to begin 10 August.
The game accessory maker is the latest party to jump on the mechanical keyboard hype train, which has picked up in recent years. Prior to this, smartphone manufacturer OnePlus launched its first “fully customisable” mechanical keyboard as part of a collaboration with Keychron.
Si Jia is a casual geek at heart – or as casual as someone with Sephiroth’s theme on her Spotify playlist can get. A fan of movies, games, and Japanese culture, Si Jia’s greatest weakness is the Steam Summer Sale. Or any Steam sale, really.
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