8BitDo’s Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard Xbox Edition has finally made room for international users. Nearly a year after launching with a US-only layout, the keyboard is now available for pre-order in UK, DE, FR, and ES variants though at a slightly steeper cost.
Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard brings ISO layouts to Europe
The original model launched with a US (QWERTY) layout and stayed that way for months. Now, 8BitDo is adding UK (QWERTY), German (QWERTZ), French (AZERTY), and Spanish (QWERTY) options. The layouts follow ISO standards and are set to ship on December 12.
This expanded offering gives users the same keyboard design with keys arranged to suit their region. Still, prices vary. The UK ISO version lists at £105, a bit more than the current £96.29 sale price for the US version. In Germany and France, the local layout is €119.99, while the US version costs slightly less at €109.24. Spain’s version isn’t listed yet, but availability is confirmed for next month.
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Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard keeps its core features
Even with the layout updates, nothing else has changed. The Retro 87 still features the distinctive translucent green shell, Kailh Jellyfish X switches, and matte-coated ABS keycaps. There’s also customizable RGB lighting with 8 modes and support for hot-swapping switches.
For connectivity, users can switch between Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, and wired modes. Compatibility includes Windows 10 and Android 9.0 or newer. Despite the “Xbox Edition” name, the keyboard doesn’t support Xbox consoles.
What you get with the Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard
If you’re wondering what you’re paying for, here’s the feature list:
- Kailh Jellyfish X mechanical switches
- Translucent green chassis
- RGB lighting with 8 effects
- ISO and ANSI layout options
- Wired Super Buttons for extra control
- Hot-swappable PCB
- Up to 300 hours battery life (Bluetooth)
- Triple-mode connectivity (BT, 2.4GHz, USB)
Regional layouts meet retro flair
With four new layouts joining the lineup, 8BitDo’s Retro 87 finally speaks more than just American QWERTY. The price bump stings a bit, but if you’ve been waiting for a mechanical keyboard that matches your setup and your fingers, December 12 might be your day.
