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Compare 8BitDo Retro18 Numpad vs Apos Gizmo Engineering GK6 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for users deciding between two specialized input devices. The 8BitDo Retro18 is a dedicated wireless numpad with a calculator screen, while the Apos Gizmo Engineering GK6 is a high-end, ortholinear 50% keyboard kit. The decision is difficult because they serve fundamentally different primary functions, with one focusing on numeric input and portability and the other on a compact, fully programmable main keyboard. Your choice hinges on whether you need a supplementary tool or a primary, customizable typing instrument.

8BitDo Retro 18 Mechanical Numpad
78
Gizmo Engineering GK6 Keyboard Kit

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  • Offers Normal ergonomics
  • Includes a Yes display
  • Features N-key rollover
  • Uses a Top Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity
  • Equipped with a 1000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 300 g
  • Sized at 46 x 104 x 170 mm
  • Made with a Plastic, Aluminum case
  • Features PBT, ABS keycaps
  • Offers No RGB lighting
  • Offers Ortholinear ergonomics
  • Includes a No display
  • Compatible with both Mac and Windows
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity
  • Weighs about 810 g
  • Sized at 31 x 250 x 116 mm
  • Made with a Steel, Aluminum case
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 53.7
  • Build Quality: 69.8
  • Productivity: 49.2
  • Customizability: 50
  • Portability: 83.2
Scores
  • Performance: 65.5
  • Build Quality: 72.2
  • Productivity: 85.4
  • Customizability: 80.3
  • Portability: 77.1
Name
8BitDo Retro18 Numpad
Name
Apos Gizmo Engineering GK6
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch Options
-
Switch Options
-
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
Numpad
Layout Size
Numpad
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Ortholinear
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
1000 mAh
Battery capacity
-
Hall Effect Support
 
Hall Effect Support
 
QMK Support
 
QMK Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIAL Support
 
VIAL Support
 
N-Key Rollover
 
N-Key Rollover
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Mount Style
Top Mount
Mount Style
-
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Plastic, Aluminum
Case Material
Steel, Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT, ABS
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
46 x 104 x 170 mm
Dimensions
31 x 250 x 116 mm
Weight
300g
Weight
810g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your need dictates the choice. If you require a convenient, wireless add-on for number entry and calculations, the 8BitDo Retro18 is the practical pick. If you seek a premium, compact main keyboard that you can build and program to your exact specifications, the Apos Gizmo Engineering GK6 is the investment. They are tools for different jobs.

8BitDo Retro18 Numpad

  • +Offers triple connectivity: Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless, and wired USB-C.
  • +Functions as both a PC numpad and a standalone calculator with a 9-digit LED display.
  • +Includes dye-sub PBT keycaps on most editions and is hot-swappable.
  • +Very portable at 300g with a built-in 1000mAh battery.
  • +Comes pre-built and ready to use with a 2.4G adapter and cable included.
  • −Limited to a numpad layout, not a full keyboard.
  • −Lacks RGB lighting.
  • −The vendor description mentions software is for firmware updates only, limiting customization.

Apos Gizmo Engineering GK6

  • +Fully programmable via QMK firmware for extensive key remapping and layering.
  • +Premium build with a unibody machined aluminum case and laser-cut steel plate.
  • +Sold as a customizable kit with hot-swap PCB, optional sound dampener, and PBT XDA keycaps.
  • +Features full per-key RGB lighting.
  • +Offers an ortholinear layout, which some users prefer for ergonomics.
  • −Wired-only connectivity, with no wireless option.
  • −Significantly more expensive than the 8BitDo.
  • −Requires assembly as it is a DIY kit, and switches are not included.
  • −Much heavier at 810g, making it less portable.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The 8BitDo Retro18 is the clear choice for office and travel, thanks to its calculator functions and wireless design. The Apos Gizmo Engineering GK6 dominates for programming and modding due to its deep programmability and kit-based, premium construction. For gaming and content creation, the choice is less clear and depends on whether you prioritize wireless convenience or a fully customizable primary keyboard.

GamingTie
  • •The 8BitDo offers wireless connectivity for flexible placement.
  • •The Apos GK6 has full per-key RGB lighting.
  • •Both support N-key rollover, though the GK6's listing does not explicitly confirm it.
Office8BitDo Retro18 Numpad
  • •The 8BitDo has a dedicated calculator mode and a screen for numeric display.
  • •Its wireless connectivity allows for easy sharing between multiple devices.
  • •It includes a shortcut button for the Windows Calculator app.
ProgrammingApos Gizmo Engineering GK6
  • •The Apos GK6 features fully programmable QMK firmware for custom layers and shortcuts.
  • •Its ortholinear layout can reduce finger movement for some users.
  • •The kit includes PBT keycaps with dye-sublimated legends.
Travel8BitDo Retro18 Numpad
  • •The 8BitDo is significantly lighter at 300g versus 810g.
  • •It offers Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity, requiring no cable.
  • •It has a built-in 1000mAh battery.
ModdingApos Gizmo Engineering GK6
  • •The Apos GK6 is sold as a DIY kit, designed for customization.
  • •It features a hot-swappable PCB, a choice of steel or aluminum plates, and an optional silicone sound dampener.
  • •It uses a unibody machined aluminum case with a Cerakote finish.
Content CreationTie
  • •The 8BitDo's numpad is useful for numerical input in editing software.
  • •The Apos GK6's QMK programmability allows for macro keys to streamline workflows.
  • •Both are compatible with major operating systems like Windows and macOS.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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