/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25719877/8bitdo1.jpg?w=1200&resize=1200,628&ssl=1 "8BitDo now sells its retro mechanical keyboards with integrated number pads")
8BitDo has introduced a new version of the Retro Mechanical Keyboard it debuted last July with its original tenkeyless layout now expanded to include an integrated number pad. The new 8BitDo Retro 108 Mechanical Keyboard is available for preorder now through Amazon for $119.99 — $20 more expensive than the original — with the same NES or Famicom theming. Availability is expected to start on December 12th, 2024.
The new 108-key version of the keyboard uses the same hot-swappable Kailh Box White V2 switches as the tenkeyless version, paired with dye-sub PBT keycaps. The integrated numpad includes additional Windows shortcut keys, a calculator lock button, and a screen lock button. The 8BitDo Retro 108 Mechanical Keyboard’s compatibility is still limited to Windows and Android.
The keyboard carries over the original’s dedicated volume dial located on its top left corner, as well as a three-way toggle for switching between Bluetooth and 2.4GHz, or turning its wireless capabilities off altogether while using a USB cable for reduced lag. 8BitDo is also still including a set of its over-sized programmable “Super Buttons” that connect to the keyboard with a 3.5mm cable.
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In September, 8BitDo released a set of 165 keycaps featuring the same designs as the NES version of its Retro Mechanical Keyboard, allowing those who prefer larger layouts to customize their keyboard’s appearance to match. The company’s latest offering achieves the same goal, but as an all-in-one solution for those not interested in doing any keyboard customizations of their own.