Tag Archives: 8bitdo

8BitDo unveils Retro Mechanical Keyboard with 108-key integrated Numpad, shipping begins December 12

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8BitDo is famous for its retro-themed accessories, especially mechanical keyboards inspired by the classics. Joining the foray is the full-size version of the company’s Retro Mechanical Keyboard. There is not much that has changed from the classic except that the 8BitDo Retro 108 Mechanical Keyboard comes in a 108-Key full layout complete with Numpad integrated into it. This makes it 22 percent wider than its predecessor.

Carrying the recognizable NES or Famicom theming, aside from the extra width to accommodate the Numpad, there is nothing much to separate it from the original tenkeyless layout board. The retro-modern peripheral comes in two variants – one is an NES-inspired version draped in white, dark gray and black color, while the other one based on the Famicom model features a white and crimson colorway with Japanese characters placed beneath English lettering. If that’s enough to win you, the Mechanical Keyboard is available for preorder at $119 through Amazon. The price is almost $30 more than the original, selling at a discount of $90 on Amazon!

Designer: 8BitDo

Click Here to Buy Now

The 8BitDo Retro 108 Mechanical Keyboard with integrated Numpad, hot-swappable Kailh Box White key switches, and Bluetooth is compatible with Android and Windows. The keyboard will start shipping from December 12, 2024, featuring dye-sub PBT keycaps and function key shortcuts.

As apparent from the images, the numpad on the right features Windows shortcut keys, a calculator lock button, and a screen lock button. At the same time, a pair of tactile input knobs on the top left comprise a dedicated volume dial and a three-way toggle that allows the user to switch between Bluetooth and 2.4GHz, or turning the keyboard wireless capabilities off and use the USB cable for reduced lag during your gaming sessions.

Along with the Retro 108 Mechanical Keyboard comes the identifiable over-sized programmable Super Buttons (in red, blue or yellow options) that connect to the new keyboard through a 3.5mm cable. This is an add-on accessory that’ll cost another $30 each. Besides coming forth as a refined version of the original, the keyboard is also a tribute to the Nintendo’s NES and Famicom consoles as it comes in their thematic colorways.

Click Here to Buy Now

 

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8BitDo’s Mod Kit turns wired NGC controller into wireless one with Hall Effect joysticks

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If you wish to again play games on your Nintendo console with the GameCube controller that has damaged wires and bad instances of drifting analog sticks, then this accessory arrives as a blessing in disguise. 8BitDo has introduced a mod kit that lets you upgrade your GameCube controller to a wireless gamepad, so that you’re not impulsively tempted into buying a new one.

This is not the first time 8BitDo has introduced a mod kit for the Nintendo controllers including the N64 and earlier ones, so this comes as no surprise. The trick here is that you’ll have to replace the existing PCB of the NGC controller with a drop-in board. The Chinese tech company is taking pre-orders for this useful gaming accessory that’ll make you go wireless if you hate the wire clutter on your Nintendo ecosystem. Called the NGC Mod Kit, this one is slated to ship on 25th September.

Designer: 8BitDo

You’ll need to have basic soldering knowledge and loads of patience to make the changeover. Remember, controllers are not that easy to put together when opened up. Although not as tedious as putting together something like a DualSense. Of course, there are certified adapters on the market (including 8BitDo GBros and Nintendo’s official adapter) that allow you to use the wired GameCube controller with the Switch but this mod kit cuts out the extra and brings straightforward wireless Bluetooth connectivity.

Along with making your gamepad wireless, there are other add-ons as well. It has Hall effect joysticks for improved lifespan and immunity against sensitive vibrations if you love to play your FPS games hard. The accessory adds a 300mAh USB-C rechargeable battery with 6 hours of playtime for gaming without interruptions. It also adds a new set of triggers to the controller, so basically, you’ll have a virtually new gaming controller to play around with.

8BitDo Mod Kit priced at $26 is worth the spend if you have a Nintendo GameCube controller with chewed-down wires and defunct joystick controls. The only catch is, that you’ll have to slash out another $26 for the Tetro Receiver for GNC to connect to the GameCube. So, spending $52 on a wire-free setup for your existing NGC controller makes logical sense.

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8BitDo SN30 Pro Gold and Silver controllers are as heavy as they look

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It seems that we’re seeing a rather curious design trend in the gaming market. Once filled with plastic-encrusted designs, there are a few coming out with more stylish cases, be it for the device itself or for its accessories. Analogue just recently launched its CNC aluminum limited edition Pocket, but 8BitDo was actually a few steps ahead of it. Although one’s eleventh anniversary isn’t actually associated with metal (it’s Turquoise, by the way), the famed maker of throwback controllers released metal versions of its widely popular SN30 Pro, giving fans of the brand a collectible they can actually use and, in case of an emergency, even throw like a deadly weapon.

Designer: 8BitDo

Game controllers are made to be light enough not to cause hand strain but still have enough weight to feel substantial and improve gameplay. Gamers have come to expect that bulkier controllers that follow the Xbox and PlayStation designs would be heavier than most, especially controllers that are patterned after the designs of yesteryears. Not so this variant of the SN30 Pro, itself designed after the super lightweight Super Nintendo gamepad, mostly because most of its body is made of metal.

The Gold and Silver editions of the SN30 Pro aren’t just cheap paint jobs, though you might be forgiven for making that presumption given the resemblance to powder-coated metallic paint. It’s true metal, or as 8BitDo calls it, metal zinc alloy, and it’s used not just for the main body but for almost every part visible to the eyes. That includes buttons, triggers, and, yes, even the joysticks. The gold edition gets a matte paint finish while the silver version undergoes electroplating. The cables aren’t metal, though, which is probably for the best.

More than just visual oddities, the SN30 Pro Gold/Silver Edition controllers also have one other advantage over their plasticky older siblings. They’re built to last, at least more than the common controller, as metal will not warp or deform over time. It’s also less likely to crack when accidentally dropped, though you might dent this here and there. And drop it you might indeed, given how heavy it is 381g. For comparison, the normal SN30 Pro weighs a mere 114g and even the Xbox Wireless Controller is just around 287g.

Not all that glitters is gold, as they say, and despite the luster and heft of these limited edition controllers, their feature set might leave gamers sorely disappointed. They’re definitely more like functional collectors’ editions rather than serious gaming weapons (unless you throw it like one), and the $99.99 price tag definitely cements, or rather forges, that image.

The post 8BitDo SN30 Pro Gold and Silver controllers are as heavy as they look first appeared on Yanko Design.

8BitDo Unveils Retro-Style Mechanical Numpad With Built-In Calculator Functionality

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Following the release of last year’s Retro Mechanical Keyboard, 8bitdo decided to give the keyboard the one good thing it was missing – a gorgeous numpad. Inspired by the retro aesthetic of tech from the 80s and 90s, the Retro 18 Mechanical Numpad exists as an independent peripheral device that can either pair up with its companion keyboard, or be used independently like an old-school calculator. A red and black seven-segment display on the top feels like retro-perfection to the eyes, and those clacky keys are sure to get your fingers crunching numbers every day because of how wonderfully tactile they are.

Designer: 8bitdo

Click Here to Pre-Order

The Numpad comes in four delightful flavors, ahem colors, each inspired by iconic gaming systems: the M edition, the Famicom edition, the C64 model, and the N edition reminiscent of the NES. These draw inspiration from the design language of those classic consoles, offering a delightful dose of retro charm for your desk setup. The M Edition is the only one to sport a black and white display, while all the others have a black-red screen that is literal eye-candy.

Beyond aesthetics, the Numpad boasts functionality in the form of two modes: a standard calculator mode with an integrated display and a PC numpad mode for entering numbers on your computer. This versatility allows it to seamlessly switch between basic calculations and data entry tasks. Buttons on the top let you alternate between modes and even explore connectivity options.

For connectivity, the Numpad offers a variety of options. It includes a USB cable, Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless freedom, and a 2.4GHz USB adapter for a lag-free connection. The rechargeable 1000mAh Li-on battery offers a solid 160 hours of use on a single charge, ensuring it can keep up with your workflow.

The Numpad’s quality matches 8bitdo’s high standards, featuring dye-PBT or double-shot ABS keycaps (depending on the edition) for a comfortable typing experience. It utilizes Kalih Box White V2 switches, known for their satisfying tactility and durability. Additionally, the hot-swappable PCB allows for easy switch customization to personalize your typing feel.

A dongle at the bottom allows easy 2.4Ghz pairing with any laptop or desktop

Priced at $44.99 and available for pre-order now, the 8BitDo Retro 18 Mechanical Numpad is a niche product, but one that caters to a specific audience. It injects a shot of retro charm into your workspace while offering a functional and well-built numpad experience. Besides, if you’ve got a keyboard with a layout that’s either 80% or smaller, chances are you’ll need a numpad to match – this one’s perfect to complement your mechanical setup or your retro sensibilities. I also appreciate the fact that you’ll never have to open your phone’s calculator app again.

Click Here to Pre-Order

The post 8BitDo Unveils Retro-Style Mechanical Numpad With Built-In Calculator Functionality first appeared on Yanko Design.

Retro Wired Controller for the Xbox is a legitimate Blast from the Past

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Remember the classic feel of your favorite retro console controllers? The chunky buttons, the responsive D-pad, the sheer simplicity of the design? The 8BitDo M30 Wired Controller for Xbox brings back that sense of nostalgia while offering features fit for modern gaming.

This officially licensed Xbox controller boasts a familiar 6-button layout, a hallmark of classic gaming experiences. But unlike its predecessors, the M30 boasts “updated” functionality for today’s titles. Exactly what these updates are remains to be seen in reviews, but it suggests the controller can handle the complexities of modern games while retaining the feel of a retro favorite.

Designer: 8bitdo

Beyond aesthetics, the M30 offers a wired USB-C connection for virtually lag-free gameplay. This is a major benefit for competitive gamers who rely on split-second reaction times. The controller is also built with precision engineering, featuring a smooth D-pad and calibrated buttons for optimal control.

Gamers who crave customization will appreciate the M30’s ability to remap buttons and adjust sensitivity. This allows for a personalized experience tailored to each player’s preferences. The controller also boasts additional bumpers and triggers for a more immersive gaming experience, particularly in genres like racing or shooters.

For fighting game enthusiasts, the M30 includes a dedicated mode button that lets them switch between regular and professional layouts. This is a thoughtful feature that caters to the specific needs of the fighting game community.

Whether you’re a seasoned gamer yearning for a simpler time or a newcomer curious about retro experiences, the 8BitDo M30 Wired Controller for Xbox offers an intriguing option. It blends classic design with modern functionality, creating a potentially compelling controller for a variety of gamers.

The post Retro Wired Controller for the Xbox is a legitimate Blast from the Past first appeared on Yanko Design.