8BitDo introduces full-size retro mechanical keyboard variants

[Shawn Knight]

In a nutshell: 8BitDo has introduced an updated version of its popular retro-inspired mechanical keyboard. The new clicker builds on the success of the 2023 variants by going with a full-size layout complete with number pad. The only question is, are you team N or team Fami?

The 8BitDo Retro 108 Mechanical Keyboard features an aluminum chassis and ships with Kailh Box White Switches V2. You also get PBT dye-sublimation keycaps, a hot-swappable PCB, and magnetic foldable feet. 8BitDuo says the top-mount structure affords a consistent feel for a seamless typing experience. The physical knobs and classic power status LED across the top really help with the retro look as well.

The board affords three options for connectivity: wired, Bluetooth, or 2.4 GHz wireless. Battery life from the 2,000 mAh pack is rated at up to 200 hours of use, and a full recharge will take about four hours.

The board is compatible with Windows and Android operating systems and as mentioned, comes in two flavors: N, which is modeled after the original Nintendo Entertainment System, and Fami for the Japanese counterpart, the Family Computer (Famicom for short). The N variant would pair perfectly with 8BitDo's N30, a wireless mouse that is also styled after the famed NES.

Worth mentioning is the fact that 8BitDo's latest includes a pair of Super Buttons – oversized, programmable buttons that can be used for just about anything. 8BitDo notes that up to four sets can be connected, although only one set is included with the keyboard. It is also compatible with other keyboard extensions like the Super Stick and the Super ABXY for those looking for a full-on, super-sized gaming experience.

The 8BitDo Retro 108 Mechanical Keyboard is priced at $119.99 and is available to pre-order right now over on Amazon. It is scheduled to ship in early December, meaning it should arrive in time for the holidays. If I didn't already have a mechanical keyboard that I absolutely love, I would be all over this.

Permalink to story:

8BitDo introduces full-size retro mechanical keyboard variants

 

[VariableSpike]

I'd be interested, but looks like they're only going to do it in ANSI layout and not ISO, which is a shame, definitely looks like a nice keyboard and sounds like it ahould be well built though

 

[kingmustard]

I'd be interested, but looks like they're only going to do it in ANSI layout and not ISO, which is a shame, definitely looks like a nice keyboard and sounds like it ahould be well built though

Can here to say exactly that - this keyboard is pointless in Europe.

 

[VariableSpike]

Can here to say exactly that - this keyboard is pointless in Europe.

Especially weird when they sell it in Europe, never mind what layout you are used to with regards to key shapes and so on, keys you use often, symbols like colons, hashes and so on end up all over the place and not anywhere near where you'd expect them, and that includes keyboard layout specific ones like currency symbols, as Windows, Linux etc. of course has no concept of a ANSI layout for any European keyboard, even a UK one

 

[dualkelly]

Worst thing about these keyboards is they horrible placement of the windows keys. CTRL and Alt should be right next to each other if you wanted a really retro keyboard. the windows key is useless and its placement is even more useless.

 

[kingmustard]

Worst thing about these keyboards is they horrible placement of the windows keys. CTRL and Alt should be right next to each other if you wanted a really retro keyboard. the windows key is useless and its placement is even more useless.

I use the Windows key all the time, so I am happy with their placement of it. It has been a standard for decades.

 

[TheBigT42]

Worst thing about these keyboards is they horrible placement of the windows keys. CTRL and Alt should be right next to each other if you wanted a really retro keyboard. the windows key is useless and its placement is even more useless.

The windows key is placed exactly in the same place as all modern keyboards. On the right and between the Ctrl and Alt.

 

[dualkelly]

The windows key is placed exactly in the same place as all modern keyboards. On the right and between the Ctrl and Alt.

Yes but the keyboard is selling itself as retro... Retro keyboards did not have a windows key. Also for gaming the windows key just gets in the way it could be placed elsewhere. on my keyboards I just turn it off and place the alt key next to the control key and reprogram it.

 

[kingmustard]

Yes but the keyboard is selling itself as retro... Retro keyboards did not have a windows key. Also for gaming the windows key just gets in the way it could be placed elsewhere. on my keyboards I just turn it off and place the alt key next to the control key and reprogram it.

Retro looks, not strict retro design.