8BitDo’s NES-inspired retro mechanical keyboard is up for pre-order

8BitDo manufactures excellent gaming peripherals such as controllers, combat sticks and keyboards. Now, the company is expanding into mechanical keyboards. The NES-inspired model is the first, while the Famicom color scheme inspired the second. Amazon is selling both models for $99.99. They will ship on August 10.

The N Edition keyboard and the Fami Edition have identical specifications. Both support Windows, Android, Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, as well as wired USB connections. Macros and other functions on each keyboard can be mapped to your liking using 8BitDo’s Ultimate V2 Software.

Image: 8BitDo

They are great for smaller desktops and keyboards. However, it’s not lacking in features. In the top-left corner, you’ll find dedicated switches for adjusting volume and controlling playback in addition to power and connectivity. Both models are equipped with Kalih Box White switches, but the PCB (printed circuit board) that’s included is hot-swappable, meaning you can easily change out the stock switches with your preferred model, be it Cherry Silver, or Kalih Box Black switches.

While the PCB for the new 8BitDo keyboards lacks any kind of RGB backlighting (a bit disappointing to me personally, though some people won’t mind this omission), two aesthetic choices I can appreciate is the ominous red power indicator LED in the top right corner and the inclusion of a pair of comically large A and B buttons mimicking the classic NES controller. It’s no gigantic “Enter” key/pillow, but they’ll do.

Image: 8BitDo