8bitdo Retro Mechanical Keyboard
Introductory price €99
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We know 8Bitdo for its console and PC controllers available in all flavors, from the classic Xbox controller format to the style of the NES, but the manufacturer has just embarked on a slightly different field. Not so far away of course, since it is a keyboard that the brand has just unveiled, and it intends to tick all the boxes!
High end at a reasonable price
It is first of all a wireless mechanical model that offers Bluetooth or 2.4 GHz connectivity. In TKL format (without numeric keypad), it sports a clearly retro design echoing the oldest living room consoles… all of which seems really nice to us.
You will find clicky Box White V2 switches from Kailh, and surprise, the PCB is hotswappable: you can therefore change the switches as needed. Add to that quality PBT keys and a volume wheel, and you’ve got a high-end keyboard all the way.
Two colors are available. © 8BitDo
A little wink, the keyboard comes with two large red buttons called “super buttons”, which will serve as shortcuts or macros for the PC; it remains to be seen if they will be really practical in everyday life given their size.
PBT keys, volume wheel, mechanical switches, everything is there. © 8BitDo
If this technical sheet raised fears of a crazy price, 8Bitdo pleasantly surprised us by displaying its product at $100, or around €120 in Europe by applying VAT. Equivalent configurations easily sell for around €200 with the competition, so the price of 8Bitdo’s latest product seems very reasonable, probably because the keyboard isn’t backlit.
We will try to get our hands on the keyboard soon to offer you a full test on Digital !