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There’s something uniquely satisfying about typing on a mechanical keyboard, especially when it channels the nostalgic vibes of retro gaming consoles. The 8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard does just that, and let me tell you, it’s an absolute delight to use. It’s like taking a trip down memory lane, but with modern technology at your fingertips. As someone who’s owned a slew of keyboards over the years—seriously, I think I have about 30 of them—this one stands out for its exceptional design and functionality.
Design that pays homage to the classics
The Retro Mechanical Keyboard is available for $89 on platforms like Amazon, and it comes in four distinct editions: the N Edition, C64 Edition, Fami Edition, and M Edition. I’ve been using the N Edition, which is styled to reflect the NES (Nintendo Entertainment System), and it looks absolutely fantastic. The attention to detail is remarkable, and the keyboard truly captures the essence of retro gaming aesthetics. I mean, who wouldn’t want a keyboard that reminds them of those glorious 8-bit days? It’s visually striking—definitely a conversation starter.
8BitDo has done a stellar job with the design. There’s a power button on the right that lights up when connected, and dials to switch between different modes. You can connect it via Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, or the standard USB-C, which is a huge plus in terms of versatility. I’ve paired it effortlessly with my iPad Pro M4, Vivo X200 Pro, and even tested it on my Windows machine without any connectivity hiccups. The unique 2.4GHz receiver neatly slots into a magnetic cubby on the back of the keyboard, so you won’t have to worry about misplacing it. It’s the little things that make a big difference, right?
Exceptional build quality and features
While the keyboard has an aluminum plate for durability, the chassis is made of plastic. Now, I know what you might think—plastic? But hold on! This isn’t just any flimsy plastic; it’s a faithful recreation of the nostalgic keyboards we all remember. Weighing in at 1050g, it’s not overly heavy, but it stays put on your desk thanks to the rubber feet underneath. I appreciate the dual knobs for switching modes and adjusting volume; they really add to the retro flair of the keyboard.
The keys themselves are equally impressive. 8BitDo uses dye-sublimated PBT keys with a custom MDA profile, which gives them a satisfying feel. And here’s a fun twist: the keyboard includes a set of programmable buttons called the Super Buttons, which you can connect via custom connectors. It’s like having your own mini arcade at your fingertips! You receive one set of buttons in the package, but you can easily connect up to three additional sets. This feature allows for extensive customization—set up macros or launch programs with just a flick of your finger.
Performance that stands out
As for the typing experience, the Retro Mechanical Keyboard comes with Kailh Box V2 White switches as standard. These clicky switches are loud, reminiscent of Cherry MX Blue switches, and provide a tactile feedback that many users, including myself, find satisfying. The switch has a 45gF actuation force and a total travel of 3.9mm, making it feel wonderful to use. Now, I generally lean towards Gateron’s linear switches, but I must say, these Kailh switches offer a different yet delightful experience.
However, if you’re looking for a silent typing experience, this keyboard might not be for you. On the bright side, the switches are easily replaceable since the keyboard supports standard 3- and 5-pin MX switches. While it doesn’t feature VIA support for advanced customization, 8BitDo’s software does a commendable job allowing you to program buttons and macros effortlessly.
No backlighting, but still a winner
Now, on to a significant drawback: the Retro Mechanical Keyboard lacks backlighting. I get it—some brands want to go for a minimalist aesthetic, but let’s be honest; a little bit of backlighting goes a long way in enhancing usability, especially in low-light conditions. It’s a shame that there isn’t even a white LED option to highlight the design, making it less practical in darker rooms. It’s a minor annoyance, but one that could easily be fixed.
Despite this, the build quality is solid, and the absence of backlighting contributes to its impressive battery life. Equipped with a 2,000mAh battery, 8BitDo boasts a staggering 200 hours of usage between charges. In my experience, I’ve managed to get about two weeks of usage on a single charge, which is quite remarkable compared to other keyboards I’ve used.
A must-have for retro gaming enthusiasts
Overall, the 8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard is not just a keyboard; it’s a piece of nostalgia that pairs beautifully with modern functionality. Its design is one of the best I’ve come across, and the versatile connectivity options make it incredibly user-friendly with a variety of devices. Yes, the lack of backlighting is a bummer, but if you can overlook that, you’ll find a keyboard that truly celebrates the golden age of gaming. Personally, I believe that if you’re a fan of retro aesthetics and solid performance, this keyboard deserves a spot on your desk.
So, whether you’re a gamer yearning for the past or a tech enthusiast excited about versatile peripherals, the 8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard is a fantastic choice. It’s a joyous blend of nostalgia and modern tech that I think many will appreciate.