8BitDo has introduced its latest mechanical keyboard, the Commodore 64 edition of the Retro Mechanical Keyboard series. Priced at $109.99, this keyboard pays homage to the design of the iconic Commodore 64 computer from the 1980s. The product is available for preorder now and is set to ship on May 26th.
The keyboard features chunky brown keycaps made from ABS plastic with double-shot legends. The classic Commodore-style rainbow logo adds a touch of nostalgia to the overall design. Equipped with clicky Kailh Box White V2 switches, the keyboard offers a tactile typing experience. What sets it apart is its hot-swappable switches, allowing users to customize the keyboard according to their preferences.
Connectivity and Functionality
Users have the option to connect the keyboard to their devices via USB, Bluetooth, or a 2.4GHz USB dongle. Additionally, a built-in volume dial located at the top left corner of the keyboard provides convenient control over audio settings. The keyboard retains the programmable “Super Buttons” from the previous NES model, resembling the A and B buttons of a Nintendo Entertainment System controller. This time, it also includes a small joystick called the “Super Stick.” These accessories can be plugged into the top of the keyboard using 3.5mm jacks.
Technical Specifications
Featuring a tenkeyless form factor, the keyboard omits the numpad but maintains a traditional layout. Unlike modern mechanical keyboards, the Commodore 64 edition does not have RGB lighting. Interestingly, the original Commodore 64 was equipped with Mitsumi hybrid switches, a unique blend of rubber dome and mechanical switch technology. This adds a layer of authenticity to the product, capturing the essence of the retro computing era.
For a more in-depth look at the original Commodore 64C, a variant of the Commodore 64 with a lighter color scheme, Retro keyboard YouTuber Chyrosran22 has done a comprehensive review. By examining the inner workings of the original device, users can gain a deeper appreciation for the evolution of mechanical keyboards over time.
8BitDo’s Commodore 64 Edition Retro Mechanical Keyboard is a nostalgic tribute to a classic computer. With its retro design elements and modern features, it offers a unique typing experience for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
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