80Retros GAME1989 65 PC DIY Kit
Best mechanical keyboard for retro gaming enthusiasts and custom build hobbyists.
Step back in time with the 80Retros GAME1989 65 PC DIY Kit, a mechanical keyboard that pays homage to the iconic 1989 GAME BOY. This 65% compact keyboard offers a unique blend of retro aesthetics and modern functionality. Featuring a gasket mount system for a superior typing feel and a customizable build with arcade-style components, it's perfect for enthusiasts. The kit includes a PC top and aluminum bottom case, a hotswap PCB, and a magnetic 'game cartridge' backplate for a truly personalized experience.
$159.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
1052
/ 3654
#1052 in Keyboards
Price vs Category Average
+14%
Above average
Mounting style
Gasket structure with silicone gasket
/ Gasket structure with silicone gasket
Who it's for
- Custom keyboard hobbyists who enjoy swapping switches frequently
- Retro gaming fans seeking a nostalgic desk centerpiece
- Typists prioritizing a cushioned and comfortable typing experience
Who should skip it
- Novices intimidated by complex mechanical assembly
- Budget-conscious buyers wary of hidden component costs
- Users who prefer low-maintenance, scratch-resistant materials
Performance breakdown
Aesthetic Authenticity
The 1989 design language captures pure nostalgia with remarkable visual precision.
Typing Feel
Gasket mounting provides a refined, cushioned experience for long typing sessions.
Customization Depth
Magnetic cartridges and hotswap support offer endless personalization for enthusiast builders.
Build Integrity
CNC aluminum and polycarbonate construction deliver a substantial, premium desk presence.
Firmware Flexibility
QMK and VIA support ensure professional-grade key remapping and macro control.
Assembly Accessibility
DIY nature requires patience but rewards users with a bespoke mechanical build.
Key Specs
Mounting style
Gasket structure with silicone gasket
Case material
Aluminum 6063 CNC and PC
Typing angle
5 degrees
Front Height
22mm
Rear Height
32mm
Weight before build
Approximately 1.4KG
PCB Options
1.2mm flex-cut or 1.6mm non-flex-cut hotswap PCB
Included Foam
Plate foam, Switch Pad, Bottom Foam
Features
- GAME BOY 1989 inspired design
- Magnetic 'game cartridge' backplate
- Arcade-style joystick and coin slot options
- Gasket mount for refined typing feel
- Hotswap PCB with QMK/VIA support
- Customizable plate and PCB options
- Compact 65% layout
- Premium PC and Aluminum case construction
What customers say
The 80Retros GAME1989 65 PC DIY Kit is celebrated for its outstanding nostalgic design and enjoyable assembly. Enthusiasts appreciate the authentic retro look and the customizable screen, elevating it beyond a standard keyboard. The chassis boasts a sturdy, premium build quality that justifies its enthusiast pricing. While offering great satisfaction for retro gaming fans, some users found that achieving optimal sound required additional modifications. A few beginners encountered minor initial challenges with firmware setup. Ultimately, this innovative project delivers significant pride of ownership.
Know before you buy
The kit includes the PC top and aluminum bottom case, the hotswap PCB, the magnetic backplate, and internal foams. You will need to purchase mechanical switches and keycaps separately to complete the build.
Yes, the keyboard features a hotswap PCB, which allows you to plug in and remove mechanical switches without the need for soldering.
The 1.2mm flex-cut PCB offers a softer, more flexible typing experience with a slightly higher-pitched sound profile. The 1.6mm non-flex-cut PCB is stiffer, providing a more consistent, firmer feel and a deeper sound signature.
Yes, the PCB is compatible with QMK and VIA firmware, allowing you to easily remap keys, create macros, and customize your layout through a web-based interface.
The gasket mount uses silicone gaskets to isolate the plate from the case, which provides a cushioned, slightly flexible typing experience that reduces harsh vibrations and improves overall sound quality.
The arcade-style components are primarily aesthetic additions designed to enhance the retro GAME BOY theme. While they contribute to the unique look and feel of the board, they do not function as standard keyboard keys.
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Ready to buy?
$159