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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Nintendo Switch continues to be one of the most versatile gaming consoles around, with a massive catalog of great games to play and the ability to switch between TV, tabletop, and handheld mode on a whim – meaning you never have to put down your game for long. It’s an easy sell to anyone with even a casual interest in gaming (though it features plenty of 100+ hour, high-concept single-player games in its roster) which is likely why it’s sold over 129.53 million units since releasing in March 2017.
One of the coolest parts of setting up a Nintendo Switch in your room is playing it with retro-style controllers that feel better and often work better than the default Joy-Cons the console ships with. The Nintendo Switch Pro controller is a highly popular option thanks to its wealth of features and high build quality, but what if you want a more specialized look for your gaming room? I created this list to showcase a few of my top picks for Nintendo Switch controllers that feature a unique style. Whether you’re shooting for a retro look or adding more RGB to the space, there’s almost assuredly something here for you:
1. 8BitDo SN30 Pro Controller
The premiere retro controller of the bunch, the 8BitDo SN30 Pro looks just like an old SNES controller, and if you go for the crystal purple or jade green colors, it comes in a see-through case that exposes its internals and makes it look similar to an old GameBoy color. It’s completely unlike an actual SNES controller, however, thanks to its complete range of modern buttons and thumbsticks, rumble vibration, Bluetooth support, motion controls, and plug-and-play compatibility with your Nintendo Switch. It’s also rechargeable via USB-C.
Like many of the controllers on this list, it also connects to most other devices that take a Bluetooth controller, including: iPhone, iPad, Macintosh, Apple TV, Windows PC, Android, Steam Deck, and Raspberry Pi. This means you can buy this one controller and comfortably use it as your main controller for several systems.
The 8BitDo Pro 2 wireless controller is a step up from the SN30 albeit with a slightly less retro look. In exchange for that, it adds a few more bells and whistles like customizable back paddle buttons, a button that switches between input presets, a button that switches between custom profiles, a larger 1000 mAh battery (vs. the SN30’s 400 mAh battery), and access to 8BitDo’s Ultimate Software on PC and mobile where you can adjust button mappings and get granular with sensitivity.
Like the SN30, the 8BitDo Pro 2 is compatible with Windows, Apple, Android, SteamOS, and Raspberry Pi devices via Bluetooth 4.
PowerA Spectra Enhanced Wired Controller for Nintendo Switch is a quick way to connect an extra player or two to a docked Switch connected to a TV, but that’s not why I’d personally buy one. I haven’t found too many RGB-lit controllers for the Switch, but this is the perfect storm: PowerA is a respectable Switch controller manufacturer, and this happens to be one of the prettiest Switch controllers you can buy.
The RGB LEDs can cycle between eight different colors with a built-in Rainbow Phase or sync to the visuals of the game. Mappable buttons on the back of the PowerA Spectra controller can also make it easier to do certain actions. To be clear: there’s no vibration or motion control support, which may not make it the best first choice, but at least there’s no need to recharge a battery – for whatever that’s worth. And it has a 3.5mm AUX jack for an external headset, enabling voice chat within certain Switch games.
We really liked the NYXI Wizard wireless Switch controller when it first appeared in January. It’s not just a stylish competitor to the official Switch Pro Controller, clocking in at roughly the same price albeit with a stunning purple GameCube controller-esque design. Utilizing the magnetic NYXI Hall Joystick, it actively fights against the entropic forces that eventually bring every Joy-Con to its knees… figuratively speaking. In plain English, the NYXI Wizard is designed to be especially good at preventing Joy-Con drift, and that alone is why the controller is a perfect long-term option if you regularly play twitchy, action-heavy games like Super Smash Bros.
5. Nintendo Switch REALMz Controller (Wired or Wireless)
If you really love showing off character art in your room – especially if your room is themed around Sonic, which seems to be the flagship REALMz controller theme – you’d probably really appreciate these bespoke see-through PDP REALMz controller designs. REALMz offers both wired and wireless controllers, but no matter your preference, you’re getting a LED-backlit piece of artwork designed to boost the ambience of your gaming room. Every controller is layered with graphics and imagery from the IP it’s themed off of, and there’s at least one figurine inside of the bottom left grip to bring the entire design to life.
The wireless version of the REALMz Nintendo Switch controller is rated to last for 40 hours, and uses a rechargeable battery.
Gamers, brace yourselves up for a game-changer! 8BitDo, the renowned gaming accessories manufacturer, is releasing a pocket-sized wireless gaming controller, dubbed the Micro. This tiny gadget, with 16 buttons onboard, is tailor-made for Nintendo Switch and Android devices, delivering unparalleled portability and gaming convenience anywhere, anytime.
Whether you own a Nintendo Switch, impressive Switch Lite, or an Android device; this tiny wonder connects via Bluetooth, creating a seamless link between your device and your gaming desires. The Micro is a perfect match for lovers of 2D games, providing them impeccable controller to kick-off just about anywhere they want.
The Micro controller’s sleek design enhances its aesthetic appeal but also embodies the essence of precision gaming, given its fundamentally small size, which is not handy for all gamers. Indeed, it will be a fascination for many, who cannot but resist the idea of gaming using a controller, but do not always have one handy. Micro is meant to be carried around even in your swimwear!
Besides the size, the most astonishing feature of the Micro is its feather-light weight, tipping the scales at mere 24.8 grams. Such a weightless companion adds minimal strain to your gaming escapades. Powered by a 180mAh Li-on battery, this wireless gem offers an impressive 10 hours of gameplay on a single charge. You can recharge it in under 2 hours using the USB-C port.
Designed in two appealing color combinations, blue-white and green-white, the Micro controller stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to style and choice. Despite the miniature size, it also stands up for activities beyond gaming. By activating the Keyboard Mode and employing the 8BitDo Ultimate Software, you can customize every button of the Micro to suit the software of app preferences.
8BitDo Micro is available for pre-order on Amazon now for a reasonable $24.99 tag. If you think you can handle the size, it may be time for you to bid adieu to clunky controllers and embrace the tiny future of wireless gaming convenience!
8BitDo is renowned for making affordable controllers that come with customizable options. For their latest inspiration, they’ve chosen the cult-classic NEOGEO CD controller released back in 1994 and modernized it to be compatible with the current generation of devices.
The gaming accessory is compatible with Windows, Android and the lesser-known NEOGEO Mini miniature home arcade console released back in 2018 by Japanese publisher NSK. As per 8BitDo compatibility with iOS and macOS will follow soon. Without a semblance of doubt, the controller is yet another lucrative fusion of retro-modern in 8BitDo’s lineup.
To make sure this gaming controller is compatible with a wide array of games and platforms, there are L/R shoulder buttons, layout customization options and turbo function. According to 8BitDo, they were able to mirror the “click-style joystick” sound and feel of the original one. This attribute of surreal tactile input made the NEOGEO CD controller highly popular among gamers. Apparently, emulating the microswitch joystick is not an easy task, and it took 8BitDo around 3 years to just perfect the joystick of the NEOGEO CD gamepad!
Since were bang in the middle of 2023, the gamepad comes with wireless connectivity option over Bluetooth or a 2.4GHz connection. There’s a rechargeable battery fitted inside to bring wireless functionality for 35 hours to the classic controller. For times when you prefer zero latency gaming or the in-built battery is running low, a physical cable can be attached too for uninterrupted action.
The controller is officially licensed by SNK and can be pre-ordered right away for a price tag of $35. There are four limited edition variants too for $40 each – with respective decals of Iori Yagami, Terry Bogard, Kyo Kusanagi, and Mai Shiranui) – celebrating the King Fighters ’97. NEOGEO CD Wireless Controller will be available on August 15, so you’ll have to wait till then for fun arcade gaming on your favorite gaming companion.
We just hope it has the familiar precise controls and input for fighting games like Metal Slug or classic sports titles!
If Apple’s Vision Pro announcement was a little too dystopian for you, 8bitdo is here to take you back to a much more familiar time when computing was less about passive-aggressive emails and long spreadsheets, and more about popping a quarter into a machine to play Space Invader and Street Fighter. Coincidentally announced on the same day as the Street Fighter VI launch, the Arcade Stick from 8bitdo brings the glory of old-style gaming to your modern setup. The Xbox-licenced gaming controller comes with a familiar retro design sporting 8 arcade buttons and a joystick that are entirely customizable as well as DIY modder-friendly. The Arcade Stick works wirelessly too, connecting to the Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, and even Windows devices.
If there’s one thing 8bitdo does phenomenally well, it’s designing products that cater to the modern gamer who craves a retro touch. The Arcade Stick first debuted back in 2020 and was compatible with the Nintendo Switch as well as the PC. In its new avatar, the controller gets a color makeover to match the Xbox theme, along with a dedicated Xbox button on the top left. The controller works wirelessly via a 2.4G adapter, or can be hooked to your console or computer using a nearly 10-foot-long USB-C cable that comes along with the Arcade Stick.
Customization is at the core of the Arcade Stick. It offers swappable arcade buttons, allowing you to tailor your gaming setup according to your preferences. The 8BitDo Ultimate Software enables you to remap buttons and create personalized profiles effortlessly. The Arcade Stick’s joystick mounting plate is compatible with a wide range of arcade sticks too, giving you the ability to swap out the native joystick for hardware of your own. You can swap out the arcade buttons too, with 30mm/24mm arcade buttons of your choice – a feature that truly lets you make the controller exactly the one you remember playing with in your childhood.
On the inside, the Arcade Stick houses a battery capable of delivering a staggering 30 hours on a full charge. It reduces to 20 hours when you use the 3.5mm headphone jack to plug your gaming headset in, but that’s still a pretty impressive feat, with the estimated charging time being 4 hours. Given that the Arcade Stick rests perpetually on a table or your lap, keeping it hooked via the USB-C cable doesn’t feel like too much of a compromise.
The Arcade Stick is compatible with Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, and Windows 10, ensuring a seamless, lag-free gaming experience across platforms. It effortlessly integrates with your chosen device, providing you with a smooth and immersive gaming journey. With its sleek black and pristine white color options, the Arcade Stick complements your Xbox setup rather effortlessly, making it a rather good addition to any seasoned gaming enthusiast’s setup. Preorders are open for the controller, with deliveries beginning in the first week of July.
The classic gamepad with the Nintendo Entertainment System was hard to live with due to its boxy corners, but gamers loved it to the core because of the gaming goodness in the era. The nostalgia factor of the gamepad still lives on, and reason enough for 8BitDO to morph into a utility wireless charger.
8BitDO is already known for its impressive third-party accessories, especially controllers like the Pro 2, Zero 2 and OG NES gamepad. Now, with the NES gamepad-like wireless charger, they promise to bring home a gadget that’ll evoke sweet old memories while juicing up your device. To top it off, the price tag of $20 is the icing on the cake for all you NES lovers.
Since your smartphone will sit flush on the surface of the wireless charger, the physical buttons give way to convincing graphics, and the D-pad is also gone here. Gamers will instantly recognize the infamous Konami code from the 80s replacing the control buttons for a fuller look. Yes, I’m talking about the “up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right, B, A” code list. In place are the classic black and gray color schemes, along with the red buttons to brush up the iconic look without hindering the wireless coil underneath the pad. One nifty inclusion I really love is the addition of red action buttons as the wheels to make the accessories roll forward or back. Now, that’s going to be yet another nifty fidget toy to fiddle with on your work desk.
For nerdy gamers, the charger will juice up compatible devices at 15W speed. While most of the phones from major IEMs like Google, Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei, OnePlus and more are supported; some newer devices are still not on the list. So better go through the list before making a buying decision right away. These phones include the latest Google Pixel, Samsung’s 2022 flagship, and OnePlus’ freshest premium device. That however is expected to be sorted in the coming months.
8BitDO has made it a point not to overload the charger with unwanted gimmicks – just a LED that lights up when the phone draws power from the cool gadget. For the more skeptical lot, the NES gamepad wireless charger comes with voltage and current surge protection, and also shield against overheating.
