# 8BitDo Retro 68 AP50 Mechanical Keyboard: Apple II Retro Design with Modern Tech
Limited edition 8BitDo Retro 68 AP50 mechanical keyboards were released to celebrate Apple's 50th anniversary. The model captures the aesthetic of the Apple II from 1977–1993 with its beige-brown color scheme, compact 68-key layout, and aluminum chassis. Price: $500, limited run.
Design and Ergonomics
The Retro 68 AP50 features a full aluminum build: chassis, plate, and keycaps. Dimensions: 323 × 138 × 46 mm, weight: 2.2 kg. The gasket mount system reduces vibration, improves acoustics, and delivers a softer typing feel. This is standard for high-end mechanical keyboards designed for extended typing sessions.
Keys are equipped with Kailh BOX Ice Cream Pro Max switches—linear switches with low actuation force (45 g) and an 80 million keystroke lifespan. The PCB supports hot-swap: change switches without soldering using standard MX-compatible sockets.
Connectivity and Power
Supports three connection options:
- USB Type-C (wired)
- 2.4 GHz wireless (via dongle)
- Bluetooth LE 5.0
Compatibility: macOS, Windows, Android. The 6500 mAh battery delivers up to 300 hours without backlighting (real-world tests on similar models confirm 250–280 hours at moderate usage). Charging: 5V/2A, full charge in 4 hours.
Programming via 8BitDo Ultimate Software V2: remapping, macros, profiles. Alternative: onboard memory for quick Fn combos without a PC.
RGB backlighting: 16.8 million colors, per-key, effects (ripple, reactive). Brightness adjustable via scroll wheel or software.
Package Contents and Accessories
Included:
- Retro 68 AP50 keyboard
- Wireless “Super Buttons”: 270 g, 160 × 75 × 32 mm, 2.4 GHz + Bluetooth
- 2.4 GHz dongle
- USB-C cable (1.8 m, detachable)
Super Buttons are macro pads with programmable buttons for gamers and developers. Latency <1 ms over 2.4 GHz, ideal for automating tasks in IDEs or games.
Comparison with Previous 8BitDo Models
The Retro 68 AP50 continues the retro device lineup:
| Model | Style | Keys | Switches | Battery | Price |
|--------|-------|------|----------|---------|-------|
| Retro 68 AP50 | Apple II | 68 | Kailh BOX Ice Cream | 6500 mAh | $500 |
| Model M Edition (2024) | IBM PC | 68 | Kailh BOX | 4000 mAh | $450 |
| Commodore 64 | C64 | 65 | Gateron | 5000 mAh | $400 |
| NES Edition | Famicom | 68 | Kailh BOX | 6500 mAh | $420 |
| Xbox Edition | Xbox | 68 | Optical | 3000 mAh | $380 |
Key differences: gasket mount and Ice Cream switches—a 2026 innovation—plus full-metal aluminum versus partial in older models.
Key Features
- Gasket mount + Kailh BOX Ice Cream Pro Max: acoustics and tactility rival top custom keyboards (Keychron Q-series, Mode Sonnet).
- Three interfaces + 6500 mAh: versatility for dev environments (Mac/Windows/Android).
- Hot-swap + Ultimate V2: tool-free customization, onboard profiles.
- Limited run: collectible appeal, Apple II retro vibe.
- Super Buttons included: ready-to-use kit for productivity and hotkeys.
For mid/senior devs: perfect for code reviews, typing in Vim/Emacs, game dev. Bluetooth latency ~10 ms (fine for non-gaming), 2.4 GHz sub-1 ms. Recommended for mechanical keyboard fans with a retro obsession.
— Editorial Team
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