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Compare 8BitDo Retro S Edition vs Ajazz QS87 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers deciding between two feature-rich, tri-mode aluminum 80% keyboards. The 8BitDo Retro S Edition is a limited-run collectible with a distinct tactile typing experience, while the Ajazz QS87 focuses on a modern gasket mount design with a TFT screen. The decision hinges on whether you value unique extras and a clicky feel or prefer a softer typing experience with visual customization.

65
8BitDo Retro S Edition Tri-mode Mechanical Keyboard
71
Ajazz QS87 Tri-mode Aluminum Mechanical Keyboard

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  • Has Clicky, Tactile switch options
  • Comes with a knob
  • Includes a No display
  • Uses a Top Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 2000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1050 g
  • Sized at 47 x 170 x 377 mm
  • Features PBT keycaps
  • Offers No RGB lighting
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Includes a Yes, TFT display
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 2450 g
  • Sized at 66 x 178 x 410 mm
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 66
  • Build Quality: 65.6
  • Productivity: 73.6
  • Customizability: 58.2
  • Portability: 76.9
Scores
  • Performance: 75.6
  • Build Quality: 73.1
  • Productivity: 66.7
  • Customizability: 69.2
  • Portability: 73.6
Name
8BitDo Retro S Edition
Name
Ajazz QS87
Release year
2024
Release year
2024
Switch Options
Clicky, Tactile
Switch Options
Linear
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
80%
Layout Size
80%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
TFT
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
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
2000 mAh
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
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
Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum
Case Material
Aluminum
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
47 x 170 x 377 mm
Dimensions
66 x 178 x 410 mm
Weight
1050g
Weight
2450g
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your priority should guide your choice. If you value a unique, collectible item with immediate macro controls, a lighter build, and a tactile typing experience, the 8BitDo Retro S Edition is the compelling option. If you prefer a deeper, customizable typing feel from a gasket mount, want a screen for information or GIFs, and prioritize a larger battery, the Ajazz QS87 is the better keyboard, despite its substantial weight.

8BitDo Retro S Edition

  • +Limited edition collectible with unique serial number and certificate.
  • +Includes exclusive accessories like a wrist rest, Dual Super Buttons, and extra colored keycaps.
  • +Features a control knob for easy volume and settings adjustment.
  • +Uses dye-sublimation PBT keycaps for durability.
  • +Offers tactile Kailh BOX White V2 switches for a clicky typing feel.
  • −Smaller 2000mAh battery capacity.
  • −Top mount design may feel less flexible than a gasket mount.
  • −No RGB backlighting.
  • −Switch options are limited to tactile and clicky types.

Ajazz QS87

  • +Gasket mount structure for a potentially softer, more cushioned typing experience.
  • +Features a 0.85-inch TFT color screen for displaying time, battery, and custom GIFs.
  • +Larger 4000mAh battery (with 8000mAh options on other models).
  • +Offers multiple linear switch options (Sea Salt, TTC Flaming Red, Merrard).
  • +Includes RGB backlighting.
  • −Very heavy at 2450g, reducing portability.
  • −Larger physical dimensions than the 8BitDo.
  • −The vendor description does not mention included accessories like a wrist rest or extra keycaps.
  • −Keycap material is not specified in the provided metadata.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The 8BitDo Retro S takes the lead for gaming and content creation due to its dedicated macro buttons and control knob, and it's the clear choice for travel thanks to its lighter weight. The Ajazz QS87 is better suited for programming and modding, offering a gasket mount and a customizable screen. For office use, both are capable, trading off between the Ajazz's larger battery and the 8BitDo's included wrist rest.

Gaming8BitDo Retro S Edition
  • •Includes programmable Dual Super Buttons for macro mapping without software.
  • •Top mount structure may provide a more consistent, rigid feel for rapid key presses.
  • •The vendor description highlights it as a 'game-changer' with features aimed at gaming.
OfficeTie
  • •Both offer tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4G, wired) for flexible device pairing.
  • •Both list Mac and Windows support.
  • •The Ajazz QS87 has a larger 4000mAh battery for longer wireless use, while the 8BitDo includes a wrist rest for comfort.
ProgrammingAjazz QS87
  • •Gasket mount structure on the Ajazz QS87 may offer a softer, more comfortable typing feel for long sessions.
  • •Includes a customizable function layer with one-key shortcuts like return to desktop.
  • •The TFT screen can display time and battery level, useful for tracking work sessions.
Travel8BitDo Retro S Edition
  • •The 8BitDo Retro S is significantly lighter at 1050g compared to the Ajazz QS87's 2450g.
  • •It has a slightly smaller footprint (377 x 170 mm vs 410 x 178 mm).
  • •Its 2000mAh battery, while smaller, may still be sufficient given the lower weight for portability.
ModdingAjazz QS87
  • •The Ajazz QS87 uses a gasket mount, which is often preferred for its sound and feel customization.
  • •Vendor description confirms it is hot-swappable and lists multiple linear switch options (Sea Salt, TTC Flaming Red, Merrard).
  • •The TFT screen supports custom GIF animations for personalized visuals.
Content Creation8BitDo Retro S Edition
  • •The dedicated control knob on the 8BitDo allows for easy volume adjustment and other parameter controls.
  • •Dual Super Buttons can be mapped to common editing shortcuts or macros.
  • •The limited edition includes vibrant colored keycaps which may appeal to creators focused on aesthetics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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