Are you a gaming enthusiast with a penchant for retro-style gadgets? If so, you’re in for a treat! 8BitDo, renowned for its retro style and feature-rich game controllers, is now stepping into the mechanical keyboard market, introducing the 8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard, a true gaming marvel that comes with massive NES-style buttons.
Image: 8BitDo
The 8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard embraces its nostalgic roots by offering two colorways that pay homage to iconic gaming consoles: the Japanese Famicom and the American Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). These keyboards don 80s-style graphics and control knobs, instantly transporting gamers back to the golden era of gaming.
Classic NES Buttons and Custom Programming
The standout feature of this keyboard is the inclusion of two massive, separate buttons styled after the iconic A and B primary action buttons on the NES controller. These add-on “Super Buttons” are not just for show; they can be fully customized for individual keys or macros. The keyboard provides four inputs, allowing you to connect up to eight buttons in total (with two included in the box and additional sets available for purchase).
Image: 8BitDo
A Gamer’s Dream: High-End Features
- Don’t let the retro aesthetics fool you: the 8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard is a serious gaming peripheral equipped with top-tier features. Its PBT keycaps feature an “MDA-like” profile, ensuring durability and a comfortable typing experience. The hot-swap switch sockets, which come with Kailh BOX switches included, enable easy customization to suit your preferences.
- Advanced Functionality: The keyboard boasts N-key rollover, meaning it can register multiple key presses simultaneously, eliminating the dreaded ghosting issue during intense gaming sessions. Programming this gaming marvel is a breeze with 8BitDo’s “Ultimate” software, and with on-the-fly macro capabilities, gamers can create intricate combinations with ease.
Wireless Connectivity and Affordable Price Tag
With a rotary switch for Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless, you can enjoy seamless connectivity without the clutter of wires. Despite its impressive features, the 8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard comes at an affordable price point of just $100 (including the two Super Buttons). The only thing missing is RGB lighting, but given the retro theme, it’s a fitting omission.
Image: 8BitDo
Availability and Pricing
Excited to get your hands on this gaming gem? You can pre-order the 8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard now, and it is set to ship on September 20th. Both the keyboard and the add-on Super buttons are available in two color variants: “N Edition” and “Fami Edition,” inspired by the iconic consoles they pay homage to.
For those who crave the ultimate retro gaming experience, there is also the possibility to pair the keyboard with the 8BitDo NES-style mouse for the complete vintage setup that takes you back to the good old days of gaming.
Filed in . Read more about Bluetooth Keyboard and Gaming.