8BitDo Unveils Xbox-Inspired Mechanical Keyboard with RGB
A nostalgic throwback meets modern gaming technology with 8BitDo’s latest offering.
8BitDo, a brand renowned for its retro-inspired gaming peripherals, has dropped a bombshell for Xbox fans and tech enthusiasts alike. The company has announced a special edition mechanical keyboard and mouse duo,
Paying homage to the iconic transparent green hue of the original Xbox console, the 8BitDo Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard – Xbox Edition is designed to evoke a wave of nostalgia while packing cutting-edge features. This is 8BitDo’s first foray into keyboards with RGB backlighting, adding a vibrant touch to its already stylish design.
A Blast from the Past, Powered for the Future
The Xbox Edition keyboard boasts a tenkeyless layout, sporting 87 keys including a full function row and a dedicated Xbox logo button that serves as a handy shortcut to the Windows Game Bar. 8BitDo stays true to its reputation for comfort and durability, utilizing double-layered ABS keycaps featuring a matte UV coating over Kailh Jellyfish X switches.
Customization is at the heart of this offering. The keyboard is compatible with 8BitDo’s Ultimate Software V2, allowing users to personalize key mappings and create macros to optimize their gaming experience.
Adding another layer of functional flair, the keyboard incorporates 8BitDo’s signature programmable Dual Super Buttons, capable of triggering custom macros or commands with ease.
Adding to its appeal, the keyboard comes equipped with eight different RGB backlighting modes, ranging from animated waves of rainbow colors to individually illuminated keys, allowing users to personalize the aesthetic to their liking. 8BitDo claims the built-in 2,000mAh battery can power the keyboard for up to 200 hours, although it’s unclear if this is with backlighting enabled.
Connection is a breeze, with options including Bluetooth for a cable-free setup or a 2.4GHz dongle for low-latency performance. In case of a drained battery, the keyboard can still be used via a USB-C cable, ensuring uninterrupted gaming sessions.
Completing the Retro Gaming Aesthetic
8BitDo doesn’t stop at the keyboard. Complementing this vibrant release is the matching 8BitDo Retro R8 Mouse – Xbox Edition, featuring the same transparent green shell and an ergonomic design that echoes the aesthetics of the original Xbox controllers. The mouse boasts four programmable side buttons, two on each side, further enhancing its customization potential.
Equipped with a PAW 3395 optical sensor, the Retro R8 Mouse offers six selectable sensitivity levels, ranging from 50 DPI for precise movements to a speedy 26,000 DPI for swift reactions.
The mouse also doesn’t skimp on customization: its polling rate can be adjusted from 125Hz to 8,000Hz using 8BitDo’s Ultimate Software. This level of control allows users to fine-tune the mouse’s responsiveness to their specific needs and gaming style.
Kailh Sword GM X Micro Switches are utilized for the primary buttons on the mouse, designed for durability and rated for up to 100 million clicks.
Similar to its keyboard counterpart, the Retro R8 Mouse boasts a long battery life. With Bluetooth, it can last for up to 100 hours, while the 2.4GHz connection offers between 26 to 105 hours depending on the polling rate. To simplify charging, the Retro R8 Mouse comes with a matching charging dock that features a "signal-extending feature" promising robust and uninterrupted connectivity.
Availability and Pricing
Both the 8BitDo Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard – Xbox Edition and the 8BitDo Retro R8 Mouse are currently available for preorder on Amazon.The keyboard is priced at $119.99, with shipping expected to commence on January 16th, 2025.
The new 8BitDo keyboard and mouse duo combines retro charm with modern features, offering a compelling option for gamers seeking a unique and personalized setup.
What are your thoughts on this Xbox-inspired release from 8BitDo? Let us know in the comments below!
