Tag: keyboard

8bitdo Retro 18 Review – Retro Mechanical Number Pad

I recently got my hands on the 8bitdo Retro 18, a mechanical number pad designed to complement their retro mechanical keyboard. You can see it in action in my latest video.

As someone who was impressed by the keyboard, I was eager to see how this new addition would perform, especially since it addresses the only major shortcoming of the original keyboard—the lack of a number pad.

The Retro 18 maintains the same aesthetic and feel as the keyboard. It connects independently to your computer, using either a Bluetooth connection, a 2.4 GHz dongle, or a USB Type-C connection. But that means if you have the keyboard already connected via USB directly or with the 2.4ghz dongle, you’ll need to dedicate another USB port to the Retro 18. Bluetooth is also supported which is likely the best solution.

Like the keyboard, the Retro 18 comes in four color schemes: the NES version, which matches my NES-style keyboard, as well as schemes inspired by the Japanese Famicom, Commodore 64, and IBM keyboards. This allows users to maintain a cohesive retro look across their devices. My Retro 18 matched up perfectly with the NES style keyboard I already have.

Priced at around $45, the number pad is equipped with Kailh Box White V2 switches, known for their satisfying click and smooth travel. The key switches are hot-swappable, allowing for easy customization, though it’s worth noting that the number pad, like the keyboard, is not backlit. This might be a drawback for those who need to see the keys in low light, but as a touch typist, I didn’t find it to be a significant issue.

Operating the number pad is straightforward. It has an internal battery with a long lifespan between charges, and the display shows the battery level and power input when charging. One of the standout features is its ability to function as a standalone calculator. By pressing the “calc” button, the number pad switches to calculator mode, disabling input to the host device.

For Windows users, there’s a dedicated button to launch the calculator app, though this feature did not work on my Mac. Unfortunately, the number pad doesn’t offer the same level of key customization as the keyboard, which is a missed opportunity for those who like to tailor their setups.

Despite these minor limitations, the 8bitdo Retro 18 is a solid companion to the retro mechanical keyboard. It feels sturdy, has a satisfying typing experience, and includes the bonus of a built-in calculator. For users who need a reliable and aesthetically pleasing number pad, it’s a worthwhile investment.

8Bitdo Retro Mechanical Keyboard Review

My latest review is of the 8bitdo Retro Mechanical Keyboard. At first glance, its beige color, and angled clicky mechanical keys gives off that nostalgic retro vibe. But because its 8bitdo it also comes bundled with some fun: in this case a pair of huge NES style buttons that can be used as macro keys.

You can find the keyboard here on Amazon. It comes in four different color schemes including the NES, Famicom, C64 and IBM M Series. I opted for the NES theme, reminiscent of the classic Nintendo Entertainment System.

Both designs are appealing, but I have a soft spot for beige!

Typing on this keyboard is great. The clicky sound, courtesy of the Kailh box switches, is quite satisfying. The keyboard is very sturdy but not as heavy as vintage keyboards, weighing in at about 2.3 pounds. The keys rest on an aluminum board, but the exterior casing is heavy duty plastic. They keys angle up very similar to vintage IBM keyboards, and as such there’s no plastic feet to adjust the tilt angle.

The keyboard connects via Bluetooth, USB, or a 2.4 gigahertz USB dongle. I tested it on various devices, including Mac and Raspberry Pi, and it worked seamlessly. A switch on the left hand corner of the keyboard seamlessly switches between modes. So it’s possible to quickly switch beteween a phone or tablet paired up via bluetooth, a computer connected via USB, and a third device connecting with the 2.4 ghz dongle.

The standout feature are the programmable keys. The keyboard has a NES style “A” and “B” key at the bottom right along with those two additional large buttons. These can be customized to perform specific functions. For instance, I programmed one to pull up my task manager and another to close active windows. It’s a handy feature that adds a layer of personalization to the keyboard. The keyboard can work with four pairs of large buttons that connect to the back.

As great as this is there are two potential deal breakers: one is that this is in a “ten-keyless” design which lacks a number pad on the right hand side of the keyboard. And unlike most premium mechanical keyboards these days the 8bitdo lacks a backlight for use in the dark.

Overall the 8-bitdo Retro Mechanical Keyboard is a blend of nostalgia and modern functionality. It’s comfortable, versatile, and offers a unique typing experience.