8Bitdo announces mechanical retro keyboard in Nintendo design
I have no idea how good the first mechanical keyboard from controller manufacturer 8Bitdo is. But its design makes me want it.
Nintendo is not mentioned once in the description of the keyboard. Nevertheless, the sources of inspiration for the two design variants - with help in the comments - are clearly recognisable: the classic Gameboy and the even older «Game & Watch» consoles the NES and the Family Computer or Famicom for short. Special details are the rotary knob for the volume and the two "Dual Super Buttons", which are also available separately.
87 buttons and 1050 grams
I would go for the grey, white and red N version. The colours are more familiar to me. Even the A/B keys have made it onto the keyboard from the handhelds. I also like the rotary knob for the volume, even if there is no template for it on Nintendo devices.
Source: 8Bitdo
I should be able to map any action to the two large, red Dual Super Buttons without software. The keyboard supports the "8BitDo Ultimate Software V2" for custom mapping of all 87 keys.
Source: 8Bitdo
With a weight of 1050 grams, the keyboard is one of the heavier models. This is partly due to the aluminium plate inside. Other important key data are:
- Printed keycaps made from PBT
- Kailh Box White Switches V2
- Hot-swappable PCB
- N-key rollover
- Top mount style
The retro keyboard is designed to work with Windows and Android. Connections to the computer, smartphone or tablet are possible via radio, Bluetooth or cable.
Source: 8Bitdo
The keyboard's battery has a capacity of 2000 mAh. In four hours, it should charge enough energy for 200 hours of operation.
Source: 8Bitdo
Price and availability
8Bitdo is now accepting pre-orders for the retro keyboard. It will cost 100 US dollars and will be delivered in the USA from 20 September 2023. There is no information yet on availability in Europe.
Cover photo: 8Bitdo
As a primary school pupil, I used to sit in a friend's living room with many of my classmates to play the Super NES. Now I get my hands on the latest technology and test it for you. In recent years at Curved, Computer Bild and Netzwelt, now at Digitec and Galaxus.