Specifications Table
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product | Mechanical Keyboard |
| Model | Retro 87 |
| Brand | 8BitDo |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0 2.4GHz wireless USB-C |
| Switches | Kailh Jellyfish X |
| Key Count | 87 keys |
| Keycaps | Double-layer ABS with matte UV coating |
| Weight | 4.29 pounds. |
| Rating | 4.2 / 5 ⭐ (+80 ratings) |
| Price | 100 $ (approx) 🏷️ |
Main Features
🔋 Battery Life: Powers weeks of light use on a single recharge
📶 Wireless Modes: Bluetooth 5.0 2.4GHz and USB-C switching on the fly
🔧 Hot-Swappable Design: Swap switches without soldering
🛡️ Sturdy Construction: Solid ABS frame resists flex
🌈 RGB Backlight: Eight modes for personalized ambiance.
Pros and Cons
👍 Long Battery Life: Offers several days of wireless use
👍 Solid Build: Feels durable and premium on desk
👍 Hot-Swappable: Allows easy customization of switches.
👎 Software Quirks: Configuration tool can be unstable
👎 Dim Legends: Key markings are hard to see in bright light
👎 Loud Switches: Tactile clicks may disturb quiet environments.
8BitDo Retro 87 Opinions
User feedback highlights a striking blend of retro style and solid typing performance but points out that the backlight can feel muted at times and the companion software needs refinement.
Overall rating
When I first lifted this mechanical keyboard out of its box the weight and build quality immediately resonated with me The Xbox style buttons invited a grin and got me reminiscing about late night gaming marathons Every keystroke felt solid and purposeful as I tested a few rapid fire combos in my favorite shooter
On my gaming desk under warm lamplight the keyboard stood out with its matte coated keycaps and retro inspired silhouette The double layered ABS keys have a gentle texture that feels satisfying under fingertips Its low profile design settled neatly beside my mouse pad without overwhelming the space
Under dim room lighting the RGB backlight created eight distinct moods that transformed my setup from dull to dynamic The lighting modes ranged from soft breathing hues to bold color waves that danced across the keys At times the legends appeared slightly dim but the overall effect enhanced every late night session
As a freelance coder often working from coffee shops and coworking spaces this keyboard became my daily companion The clicky switches delivered responsive feedback on each line I typed while the wireless mode let me tuck the dongle safely in my laptop bag I even completed a tight deadline presentation on this keyboard without losing a single keystroke
The Kailh Jellyfish X switches produced a crisp audible click that provided a reassuring sense of each press I switched between Bluetooth and 2.4 gigahertz wireless with a flick of the switch as I moved between my PC and my tablet The USB C port also offered a reliable wired option when I needed zero latency
Compared to the Keychron K2 I found this keyboard heavier and more premium in feel but slightly noisier in a quiet room The 8BitDo model offers more straightforward hot swap access without tools while the K2 has a more refined software suite Gamers may appreciate the Xbox inspired extras here even if they sacrifice a numeric pad
After weeks of use this keyboard felt like a dependable gaming partner and a solid typing machine combined Some users may find the configuration software clunky and the backlight a little soft but the overall experience was rewarding For anyone seeking nostalgia with reliable performance this keyboard strikes a memorable balance.
