8Bitdo
8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard
Bottom line: The 8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard: Hot-swappable PCB lets you change switches without soldering; main trade-off: 87-key TKL layout drops the full numpad.
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Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Hot-swappable PCB lets you change switches without soldering
- ✓ Dye-sub PBT keycaps resist shine and legend fade
- ✓ Three connection modes: Bluetooth, 2.4G wireless, and USB-C wired
- ✓ Dual Super Buttons remap on the fly with no software needed
Cons
- ✗ 87-key TKL layout drops the full numpad
- ✗ Officially supports only Windows 10 (1903+) and Android 9.0+
- ✗ Kailh Box White switches are clicky and loud for shared spaces
- ✗ Ultimate Software V2 is Windows-oriented, limiting Android customization
Manufacturer description
The 8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard in Fami Edition puts a 1980s console palette on a modern 87-key TKL board, and the spec sheet backs up the styling. You get Kailh Box Switch V2 White switches on a hot-swappable PCB, so you can change the feel later without soldering, plus dye-sub PBT keycaps that keep their legends far longer than pad-printed ABS. The top-mount construction and n-key rollover put it in the same build conversation as enthusiast boards rather than novelty retro clones. Connectivity is the flexible part: Bluetooth, low-latency 2.4G wireless, or USB-C wired, covering Windows…
SpecPicks Verdict
SpecPicks scored 8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the gaming peripherals category. 8Bitdo's gaming peripherals lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.
Common buyer scenarios for gaming peripherals of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I swap the switches without soldering?
Yes. The PCB is hot-swappable, so you can pull the stock Kailh Box Switch V2 White switches and drop in replacements by hand.
Does it work with a Mac or an iPad?
8BitDo lists compatibility with Windows 10 (1903) or above and Android 9.0 or above. Other platforms are not listed, so check the product listing before buying for macOS or iPadOS.
How does it connect to my PC?
Three ways: Bluetooth, wireless 2.4G, or wired over USB-C. You can pick whichever fits your desk setup.
What are the Dual Super Buttons for?
They are two large programmable keys you can map to any input instantly, without launching software. 8BitDo Ultimate Software V2 adds deeper custom mapping if you want it.
Is this a full-size keyboard?
No, it is an 87-key tenkeyless layout, so there is no dedicated number pad. It does support n-key rollover for simultaneous key presses.
Key Features
- Inspired by the classics. Compatible with Windows 10(1903) or above, and Android 9.0 or above.
- Connnect via Bluetooth, wireless 2.4G, or wired.
- 87-key layout. Kailh Box Switch V2 White. Dye-sub PBT keycaps.
- Top mount style. Hot-swappable PCB. Support n-key rollover.
- Dual Super Buttons - offer large, programmable keys. Map anything to the Super Buttons instantly without using software.
- Classic power status LED, with independent control panel.
Full Specifications
| Brand | 8Bitdo |
|---|---|
| Color | Fami Edition |
| Style | Retro |
| Theme | Retro |
| Weight | 2.4g |
| Language | English |
| Material | Polybutylene Terephthalate |
| Model Name | 6922621504283 |
| Style Name | Retro |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
| Switch Type | Kailh Box Switch V2 White |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, USB-C, 2.4GHz |
| Model Number | 6922621504283 |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Compatibility | Switch, Android |
| Built-In Media | 8BitDo Dual Super Buttons x 1 |
| Item Type Name | 8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard |
| Number of Keys | 87 |
| Button Quantity | 87 |
| Connection Type | Wired |
| Full listing title | 8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard, Bluetooth/2.4G/USB-C Hot Swappable Gaming Keyboard with 87 Keys, Dual Super Programmable Buttons for Windows and Android - Fami Edition |
Ready to buy?
8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard, Bluetooth/2.4G/USB-C Hot Swappable Gaming Keyboard with 87 Keys, Dual Super Programmable Buttons for Windows and Android - Fami Edition is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.
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