8BitDo has recently introduced a new Xbox-themed edition of its Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard.
This model stands out as the first from 8BitDo to incorporate RGB backlighting, providing an added layer of visual appeal and customization.
This keyboard is designed to appeal to both gamers and tech enthusiasts.
The design is inspired by the iconic transparent green of Microsoft’s original Xbox console, which featured a similar translucent shell and keycaps.
The 8BitDo Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard – Xbox Edition has a tenkeyless layout, including 87 keys featuring a full-function row and a Windows key.
The keyboard’s unique feature is the Xbox logo button located in the upper right corner.
This button serves as a shortcut to the Windows Game Bar.
The keycaps are made from double-layered ABS and boast a matte UV coating for a better durability.
The keyboard utilizes Kailh Jellyfish X switches, known for their seamless performance, making it a suitable choice for both gaming and typing.
This new edition offers extensive customization options through 8BitDo’s Ultimate Software V2.
Users can create macros, remap keys, and adjust the RGB lighting, which features eight different modes, including animated waves of rainbow colors or single-key illumination.
The keyboard’s RGB lighting shines through the translucent keycaps, inspired by the retro-inspired design.
The keyboard is powered by a 2,000mAh battery, which is capable of providing up to 200 hours of usage.
However, this battery life estimate may vary depending on the RGB backlight usage and the type of connection—either Bluetooth or the included 2.4GHz dongle.
The keyboard also supports a USB-C wired connection, ensuring it remains functional even if the battery runs out.
Alongside the new keyboard, 8BitDo has announced the Retro R8 Mouse – Xbox Edition, which is designed to complement the keyboard.
This mouse also features a transparent green shell and includes four programmable side buttons, two on each side, reflecting the design elements of the original Xbox controllers.
The mouse is equipped with a PAW 3395 optical sensor, offering six selectable sensitivity levels ranging from 50 DPI to 26,000 DPI, and an adjustable polling rate between 125Hz to 8,000Hz using 8BitDo’s Ultimate Software.
The Retro R8 Mouse’s primary buttons are fitted with Kailh Sword GM X Micro Switches, rated for up to 100 million clicks.
The 450mAh rechargeable battery provides up to 100 hours of use with a Bluetooth connection, and between 26 to 105 hours with a 2.4GHz connection.
The mouse includes a matching charging dock with a signal-extending feature to ensure stable connectivity.
Both the 8BitDo Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard – Xbox Edition and the Retro R8 Mouse are available for preorder on Amazon, with the keyboard priced at $119.99 and expected to ship on January 16th, 2025.