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8BitDo, a company known for its retro gaming accessories, has revealed its newest creations: a mechanical keyboard and mouse inspired by the original Xbox console. These devices combine nostalgic aesthetics with functionality, making them noteworthy for gamers and fans of retro design alike.
The Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard
The Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard – Xbox Edition is a tenkeyless mechanical keyboard with 87 keys. It is designed with a translucent green shell that resembles the original Xbox console. The keyboard also features an Xbox logo key as a shortcut for opening the Windows Game Bar, adding a nod to Microsoft’s gaming ecosystem. The keyboard includes two programmable buttons known as Super Buttons. These allow users to customize the keyboard’s functionality based on their needs.
The device uses Kailh Jellyfish X switches for its keys, which aim to provide a satisfying tactile response while remaining durable. The keys are topped with double-layered ABS keycaps, ensuring resistance to wear over time. Additionally, the keyboard has an RGB backlight, giving it a modern appearance while maintaining its retro feel. Users can adjust key functions, remap layouts, and install macros using 8BitDo’s Ultimate Software V2. The Retro 87 can last up to 200 hours on a single charge, though this may vary depending on usage. The keyboard is available for preorder on Amazon for $119.99. Shipping begins on January 16, 2025.
The Retro R8 Mouse
8BitDo has also introduced the Retro R8 Mouse – Xbox Edition to complement the keyboard. Like the keyboard, the mouse sports a translucent green design that mirrors the aesthetic of the classic Xbox console. The Retro R8 Mouse has an ambidextrous shape, making it suitable for left- and right-handed users. Users can customize four side buttons to meet their gaming or productivity needs. The mouse has a PAW 3395 optical sensor, which supports sensitivity up to 26,000 DPI. It also allows users to adjust the polling rate to 8,000Hz for enhanced responsiveness. The mouse offers up to 100 hours of battery life and comes with a charging dock. While the mouse has been announced, it is not yet available for preorder.
Retro Design Meets Modern Features
8BitDo has established a reputation for its ability to merge nostalgic designs with contemporary technology. The Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard and the Retro R8 Mouse demonstrate this philosophy, bringing the look and feel of the original Xbox era into the modern gaming setup.
These devices are part of a broader trend where manufacturers pay homage to retro gaming while integrating today’s technological advances. Fans of the original Xbox and those who appreciate retro-inspired designs will likely find these products intriguing, even beyond their practical use.
Availability and Pricing
- The Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard is available for preorder on Amazon at $119.99, with shipping starting on January 16, 2025.
- The Retro R8 Mouse, while announced, is not yet available for preorder.
Further details about availability and pricing can be found on 8BitDo’s official website; for more news, stay tuned to the news section of our website.
