2024-07-13 04:46:00
8BitDo’s new keyboard impresses with an ingenious retro look, but at the same time it’s like a toy that feels a little too much like plastic.
With the new Retro Mechanical Keyboard from 8BitDo, the focus is especially on style. The keyboard is available as an N Edition and a Fami Edition. Anyone who looks at them more closely will know why. The N Edition is based on the western look of the first Nintendo console, while the Fami Edition takes inspiration from the design of the Famicom. And there is also a C64 version available. It looks nice then, but is it worth the 100 euros you would want for it?
8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard
- Developer: 8BitDo
- Price: about 100 euros
Box & Accessories: The keyboard itself is in the packaging, and you also get a set of dual super buttons (more on that in a moment), a USB cable, a 2.4 GHz adapter, instructions and a few stickers.
Design and processing: If so, then already. That was probably 8BitDo’s motto with this keyboard. The retro look is very well executed and extends from the front to the back of the keyboard, from the keys to the switches and the backlight. The downside to all of this is that the Retro Mechanical Keyboard feels a lot more plastic compared to other higher priced options, almost like a toy type.
Undoubtedly, the design is really very stylish, which makes the keyboard really promising on the desk. Whether style is more important to you than the rest is another question.
As far as connection options are concerned, you can connect it with a USB cable or use a Bluetooth or 2.4 GHz connection via the included dongle. In this regard, the keyboard is quite flexible and did not cause any problems with the quality of the connection during the test period. The size of the keyboard is 376.6 x 169.6 x 46.8 mm and it weighs 1,050 grams.
8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard – Picture
Keys and typing feel: The typing itself generally feels good with the PBT keys (which are replaceable), but can’t keep up with the typing feel of a higher quality keyboard. White Kailh Box Switches (V2) work under the key caps. Together, this ensures a decent clacking sound while typing. Another sticking point for you is that the keyboard is only available with the US layout. Although the assignment can be changed via software, the layout of the keys is of course kept in US.
The Dual Super Buttons act as a supplement to the actual keyboard. It’s basically two giant individual buttons that are kind of modeled after the buttons on an NES controller. You can assign this a specific function or macro as you wish. If you want, you can theoretically connect four sets of Dual Super Bottons, ie eight buttons. Depending on the function/macro, this can be quite practical, but the more Super Buttons you have, the more crowded your desktop will be. Basically, it is a pleasant idea and, depending on the intended use, also useful, for example for better accessibility.
When it comes to runtime, the Retro Mechanical Keyboard definitely gets points. According to 8BitDo, it reaches up to 200 hours on a four-hour charge. And that is a completely realistic value. But it will probably change a bit if you connect, for example, the maximum possible number of Dual Super Buttons.
Special features & functions: In addition to the keyboard itself, 8BitDo also offers other accessories. For example, you can buy an extra joystick, number pad, extra super buttons or an extra pad with the A, B, Y and X keys, all in matching looks, of course. This can also be programmed and configured individually. So again, if you’re willing to spend a little more, it adds a little flexibility and accessibility.
Software: To configure everything, you will of course need the right software. Unfortunately, this has not been successful so far, as crashes occur and the user interface could be better organized and structured. In this regard, 8BitDo still has a lot to do compared to some other manufacturers who do not always offer the best software themselves.
You can buy the 8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard from, among others Amazon.de or at Alternative.de.
8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard – Fazit
The N Edition of 8BitDos Retro Mechanical Keyboard, which I had here to test, certainly looks awesome. You certainly can’t blame the manufacturer for doing anything wrong in this regard. If you value the typing experience and general feel of the keyboard, you’ll get your money’s worth elsewhere – unless that’s exactly what you need here. I think the idea of additional buttons is quite funny, especially since they can be individually assigned and equipped with functions. You just need enough space on your desktop. And 8BitDo should urgently work on the software.
So do you need the Retro Mechanical Keyboard? If you’ve fallen in love with the retro look and aren’t averse to a mechanical keyboard, it’s worth considering. It’s a shame it’s only available with the US layout so far.
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