Let’s be real—mechanical keyboards are everywhere now. But not every keyboard makes your inner gamer geek do a double-take and say, “Damn, I need that.” The 8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard? That’s exactly what it does. Whether it’s the Xbox Edition of the Retro 87 or the full-layout Retro 108 N Edition, this keyboard doesn’t just sit on your desk—it flexes.

But before you drop some serious cash, the real question is: is it all style, or does it have the gaming muscle to back up the retro vibes?

 

That Nostalgia Hit (Without the Downgrade)

The moment you unbox the 8BitDo Retro Keyboard, you're hit with a blast from the past. The Xbox Edition’s translucent green shell? It’s a direct throwback to the OG Xbox “Halo” console—iconic, bold, and instantly recognisable. And the 8Bitdo Retro Mechanical Keyboard N Edition? A clean, NES-inspired layout that screams 80s gamer pride.

But don’t let the aesthetics fool you—this keyboard isn’t just for show. It brings the retro flavour with modern tech underneath, like Kailh Box White V2 switches (yeah, they click real nice), hot-swappable PCB, and PBT keycaps that feel durable as hell.

If you’re into peripherals that match your personality—and let’s face it, who isn’t—this keyboard absolutely delivers.

The Dual Super Buttons: Your New Gaming Sidekicks

Let’s talk about one of the biggest game-changers: the Dual Super Buttons. These massive programmable keys (included with the keyboard) sit independently from the rest, and you can slap them down like arcade buttons in a fighting game. Want one to launch OBS, mute Discord, or pull off a Genshin Impact combo macro? Done.

And it gets better—each keyboard supports up to four sets of these buttons. That’s next-level customisation for streamers, hotkey warriors, or anyone who lives and breathes macros. And the best part? No software needed for basic mapping. Just plug, tap, dominate.

 

Independent Control Panel: Say Goodbye to Shortcut Hell

You know what’s annoying? Mashing three keys just to adjust volume or switch profiles. The 8BitDo keyboard skips the frustration with a dedicated Independent Control Panel. A satisfying twist-and-click dial lets you adjust volume, manage connections, or map buttons. It’s simple, smooth, and, dare I say, kind of addictive.

In a world where everything feels software-bloated and over-complicated, this kind of clean, tactile control feels... refreshing.

 

Seamless Transition Between Work and Play

Here’s where 8BitDo really wins: this keyboard isn’t just for gaming. It’s perfect for switching between that 9-to-5 grind and your 8-to-12 gaming binge.

On one side, you’ve got productivity-friendly features like function key shortcuts, a full numpad (on the Retro 108), Windows-specific hotkeys (Calculator, Function Lock, etc.), and wireless connectivity that plays nice with both Android and Windows.

On the other? You’ve got RGB lighting with 8 vibrant modes, programmable keys, and the option to slap on those Super Buttons to tear through gaming sessions.

 

Connectivity That Covers All the Bases

Whether you’re rocking a cable-free setup or prefer that zero-latency wired connection, 8BitDo’s got your back:

• Bluetooth 5.0

• 2.4G wireless

• Wired USB
  
  

Switching between devices is quick and hassle-free. No weird dropouts. No lag. And when you do go wireless, that 2000mAh battery delivers around 200 hours of use. That’s a week of work and gaming on one charge. Respect.

 

RGB That Actually Looks Good

RGB is everywhere now—but good RGB is rare. The 8BitDo Keyboard Xbox Edition especially pulls this off with lighting that glows through the translucent green shell and the double-layered crystal keycaps. It looks slick without being obnoxious.

Whether you're vibing in a dark room mid-Diablo run or setting up the perfect Twitch stream background, it adds just the right amount of flair.

 

Hot-Swappable and Modular: Build Your Dream Deck

Both the Retro 87 and 108 keyboards feature hot-swappable PCBs. That means you can yank out the default switches and pop in whatever you love—linear, tactile, clicky, or silent. You want custom? You got it.

And if you're into building a truly personalised setup, the keyboard’s modular design supports all 8BitDo keyboard extensions, like:

• Super Stick

• Super ABXY Buttons

• Additional Dual Super Buttons
  
  

All sold separately, but if you’re deep in the customisation rabbit hole, these are the cherry on top.

 

The Price Tag: Justified or Overkill?

Alright, here’s the real talk. The 8BitDo Retro 87 clocks in around AUD $169, and the Retro 108 is a little more depending on where you grab it. That’s not cheap, especially when there are decent mechanical keyboards out there for less than half the price.

But here’s the thing: most of those keyboards don’t come with:

• Programmable macro buttons outside the main deck
  

• A throwback design that genuinely turns heads
  

• Triple-mode connectivity
  

• Seamless software support with 8BitDo Ultimate Software
  

• True hot-swappability and modular customisation
  

• An independent control dial (why isn’t this standard yet?!)
  
  

If you’re someone who values aesthetics, usability, and customisability—and especially if you grew up with retro consoles—this keyboard is more than worth the price. It’s not just a typing tool, it’s a statement piece.

 

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely.

If you’re looking for a no-frills budget keyboard, keep scrolling. But if you want something that blends style, substance, and satisfying tactile feel—the 8BitDo Retro Keyboard is in a league of its own.

For the gamer who loves a little flair. For the creative who craves control. For the collector who geeks out over retro aesthetics...

This keyboard doesn’t just deserve a spot on your desk. It commands it.

 

For more gaming updates and promos, make sure to follow Gamory on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.