The aesthetics of modern and futuristic technologies often revolve around hard metallic surfaces, straight lines and edges, and an almost inorganic characteristic, as if all the opposite qualities are considered antiquated or even medieval. Of course, design trends come and go and sometimes even come back, as proven by the retro craze that has gripped many industries, especially consumer electronics. Duality has always existed in many facets of human existence, but that doesn’t mean those seemingly contrary elements cannot work together. In fact, contrast is an important factor in creating a beautiful composition, and this combination of a desktop computer and natural wood offers one such expression that creates a unique atmosphere around what would normally be a nondescript machine, combining past and present, natural and artificial in a harmonious blend.

Designer: Keegan McNamara

They may be called “personal computers,” but the desktops and laptops of today sometimes feel more impersonal than paper notebooks and stationery. Part of it is due to the very design of these products, adhering to a language often considered sharp, harsh, cold, and distant. There is no shortage of attempts to soften that image, either with customization options or skins that give the semblance of more natural and organic materials like wood.

The Limited Edition Apollo Collection, however, is no faux wood. Utilizing genuine Walnut, Cherry, or Maple, these bespoke computers enclose three important parts of the device to create a striking visual that beautifully contrasts the straight-edged aesthetic of modern technology with the more organic shapes found in nature. It makes the PC not only truly personal but also personable, making it an art object as much as it is an electrical appliance.

The Apollo Collection computers come in three parts, with the keyboard housing the computer itself. A portable screen connects to the keyboard via a cable, while the third part, a magnetic screen stand, completes the configuration for a more typical desktop computer. If typical desktop computers came housed in wood, that is. Each part is made to order by hand, and it utilizes custom circuitry and a bespoke operating system to truly give the computer a unique feel.

Beyond the wooden materials, the design also adds details that not only enhance the computing experience but also add a bit of humanity to the use of the computer via more tactile feedback. Unsurprisingly, the keyboard utilizes mechanical switches, but there are also physical dials for adjusting the volume and brightness of the computer. The exact specs of the computer are, at the moment, not completely known, but the limited edition bespoke design’s true appeal won’t be in its computing power but in its ability to create a new kind of relationship between man and machine.

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One of the world’s biggest computer-centric tech expos has just ended and, unsurprisingly, a lot of the rhetoric revolved around AI. But if you walk around the showroom floor, another theme quickly becomes evident in the midst of new products as well as some not-so-new wares. Consumer tastes have evolved once again, even among those who would embrace the label of being a gamer. Design is no longer just a feature for the few but an important part of a product’s DNA. We’ve seen quite a wide range of designs across an equally wide range of products, from the eccentric to the elegant. Here are some of the most notable designs to grace our paths at Computex 2024 in Taiwan, showcasing not just the trends but also the innovations in the computing industry.

Cool Computing: PC Case Designs

Desktop computers have evolved from uninspiring towers to smoldering workstations with over-the-top lighting to a smorgasbord of designs that cater to a variety of tastes and interests. Computex 2024 is a glowing testament to not only the changes in design trends but also to the extent that some manufacturers will go to in order to appeal to their loyal fans.

ADATA XPG Invader X

Designer: ADATA

Winner of an iF Design Award, the ADATA XPG Invader X values transparency in more ways than one. Its clear front and side panels let you marvel at the neatly arranged components that power this gaming beast, including the tubes and RGB-lit fans that keep the box operating at maximum efficiency. Equally interesting, however, is the chassis’s ESG-compliant design, utilizing post-consumer recycled plastics and upgrade-friendly components. It’s a stylish, eco-friendly computer that tries to offset the carbon emissions of your gaming lifestyle.

Cooler Master Mecha Cases

Designer: Cooler Master

Who said computers needed to come in the form of boxes? Cooler Master definitely didn’t. With designs that come in the form of a robotic shark and a giant mechanical sneaker, these PC cases shatter expectations and misconceptions about how our computers should look like. And as hardware becomes smaller even as they become more powerful, it’s only a matter of time before these become the standard rather than the outlier.

PNY Aftershock Bubble Tea PC

Designer: PNY x AftershockPC

Electronics and liquids don’t mix but it becomes a mind-blowing mystery when you see the two together. And now, we don’t mean liquid cooling. From the makers of ramen-themed desktop towers, this Bubble Tea PC will have you not only scratching your head but also craving a cup of boba. Instead of a sugary and milky drink, however, it’s a luscious-colored coolant that has faux tapioca balls swirling around as it keeps your cool-looking PC thermally cool. This collab between PC maker PNY and case designer Aftershock isn’t a joke either but a fully functional gaming PC that’s ready to put a new spin on your cravings.

Power In Your Hands: Handheld Gaming PCs

While there are plenty of AI-toting laptops scattered around Computex this year, they are hardly the only computers vying for attention. Gaming handheld PCs are pushing the envelope not only in performance in a small form factor but also in terms of design. There’s definitely plenty of room for experimentation, and there are a few that have caught our attention and fancy.

ADATA XPG Nia

Designer: ADATA

An unexpected contender from a brand better known for its memory and data storage hardware, the XPG Nia focuses on the aspects often left out in the wake of specs and benchmarks. A tilting screen, for example, can drastically improve the comfort of staring at a handheld computer for long periods of time, while upgradable RAM in addition to upgradable storage gives the device a longer life than even some of the smartphones we have today.

ASUS ROG Ally X

Designer: ASUS ROG

The ASUS ROG Ally X is a fine example of refinement over sensational changes. The base design remains the same, but the subtle and sometimes invisible improvements deliver an almost totally different experience that’s a step above in terms of usability. Best of all, however, ASUS isn’t removing the OG ROG Ally from the market just yet, leaving consumers with the choice between affordability and power.

MSI Claw 8 AI+

Designer: MSI

The MSI Claw A1M was an odd one when it came out, but the Claw 8 AI+ cements the manufacturer’s position in the young handheld gaming PC segment. With newer, AI-friendlier hardware comes significant improvements that are necessary for such a small gaming device. It’s still rather unique in its use of Intel silicon, and it will live or die by that commitment. Its design, however, is also enough to make it a noteworthy contender in this fast-growing arena.

ZOTAC ZONE

Designer: ZOTAC

ZOTAC is another new contender, one that has its sights set on the name that started it all: the Steam Deck. While it resembles this progenitor in some aspects, the ZOTAC ZONE tries to take the design where Valve seems reluctant to go. Better hardware and configurable controls will sing to the hearts of many gamers, but the steep price tag could be a major deterrent as well.

Material Matters: Aesthetic and Sustainable Designs

Design innovation doesn’t just have to come from wild new forms or combinations of ideas. Even the materials used for products can have a notable positive effect on the user experience, especially when they delight not just the eyes but also other senses like touch. Bonus points if they also benefit the environment, ensuring there will still be a planet for consumers to live on.

ASUS Ceraluminum

Designer: ASUS

Laptop users are becoming more and more design-conscious. Even those who don’t tend to personalize the backs of their laptops want it to be something that will leave a lasting positive impression on bystanders, not to mention on themselves. Combining the durability of metal with the luxury of ceramic, ASUS’s new Ceraluminum material subtly elevates the laptop from a technological product to an art object. First used on the new ASUS Zenbook S 16, this material exudes beauty that you not only see but also feel every time you touch the laptop or lift its lid.

TECNO CAMON 30 Series LOEWE Design Edition

Designer: TECNO

Paying homage to both coffee lovers and environment-conscious consumers, TECNO and LOEWE designed a back cover material that gives waste coffee grounds new life. Using an equally eco-friendly process, this more sustainable material gives the TECNO CAMON 30 Series LOEWE Design Edition a distinctive appearance and texture that easily sets itself apart from the crowd. Plus, the use of color blocking also marks the phone with a modern style to fit the discerning tastes of modern consumers.

Creative License: Tools for Designers

All these wonderful designs don’t just pop out from thin air. Someone has to make them, from initial ideation to prototyping to manufacturing. Designers and creators naturally need tools that can meet the growing complexities of their work, and Computex definitely has quite a few in store for them.

Acer SpatialLabs Eye 3D Camera

Designer: Acer

Spatial computing, mixed reality, and the metaverse require a special kind of content, one that breaks free from the confines of flat, 2D space. Even in video meetings and live selling streams, 3D objects are becoming more in demand, offering not just viewers but also presenters new ways to connect and communicate. Acer’s new SpatialLabs Eye 3D camera tries to democratize that process, effectively giving anyone the ability to capture, record, and stream any real-world 3D object as a digital copy.

ASUS ProArt PZ13 Detachable Laptop

Designer: ASUS

As computers become more powerful and geographical boundaries become shorter, content creation can no longer be confined to a desk in an office or room. The ASUS ProArt PZ13 gives designers, artists, engineers, and everyone in between that kind of flexibility with its portable and detachable design. What makes this 2-in-1 computer different is that it’s part of the new breed of Windows computers running on the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon X chip, promising improved performance and, of course, on-device AI capabilities.

Power to the User: Empowering Gamers and Creators

One thing that gamers, creators, and power users have in common is their need for power, both literally and figuratively. The ability to customize not only their experience but also the appearance of their equipment goes a long way in giving them the confidence to get their job done, and these designs definitely deliver that with a touch of pizzazz!

ASUS Project DALI E Ink Cover Laptop

Designer: ASUS

E Ink is no longer just for eBook readers. Now that it has color and is being used in signage, the eye-friendly and power-efficient display technology is finding its way to the most unexpected places, like the back of this laptop concept. Project DALI turns the laptop cover into a canvas for users of all walks of life to express themselves or simply have a different design every day if they want. All without draining the battery even when the laptop isn’t running.

ASUS ROG Mjolnir Portable UPS

Designer: ASUS ROG

Nothing scares a gamer or designer more than losing power in the middle of an intense playing or working session. Uninterruptible power supplies are a staple for these people, but if you’ll be getting one, why settle for a boring box when you can have one of the most powerful weapons in the universe? Shaped after the mythological hammer of Thor, the ROG Mjolnir is a power station with an attitude and, more importantly, the power and features to actually match.

Cooler Master MasterHUB Modular Stream Kit

Designer: Cooler Master

A typical computer keyboard has 87 to 101 keys or more, but sometimes even those aren’t enough for content creators, streamers, gamers, and advanced computer users. When you have to remember a bunch of keyboard shortcuts that differ from program to program, you’re putting a heavy burden on your mind that could be used for actual creative thinking instead. This modular MasterHUB stream kit and control center not only offers the power of programmable buttons but also lets you decide how you want those controls to be arranged and look.

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With its retropunk fishtank design and a few design awards under its belt, the ADATA XPG Invader X immediately grabbed our fancy at Computex 2024. A cool-looking gaming PC chassis no doubt, the Invader X also scored major points for its ESG-compliant design that uses post-consumer recycled plastic to be cutting-edge yet sustainable. Crafted with eco-friendly materials, The XPG Invader X’s design minimizes waste by allowing for easy upgrades. Pre-installed, eco-friendly fans utilize innovative reverse spinning technology to prevent heat buildup, maximizing airflow and maintaining optimal system temperature.

Designer: ADATA

Beyond aesthetics, the Invader X boasts features to keep your high-performance system cool. It comes pre-installed with five ARGB fans, with three in the front for intake and two reverse-flow fans in the back for exhaust. This airflow configuration helps maintain optimal temperatures, making the Invader X suitable for overclocking enthusiasts.

The case supports radiators up to 360mm in both the side and top positions, which means it can accommodate even the most powerful liquid cooling setups. Additionally, it boasts ample space for graphics cards up to 400mm in length.

A unique feature of the Invader X is its compatibility with the new BTF motherboard standard. This standard positions motherboard connectors on the underside, contributing to the clean, uncluttered look and keeping cables hidden from view. For those using traditional motherboards, the Invader X offers ample space for cable management with pre-installed straps and strategically placed cutouts.

For those who prefer a vertical GPU presentation, the XPG Invader X includes a dedicated GPU holder and a high-quality 180mm PCIe Gen 4 riser cable.

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No that isn’t the latest prop or collectible from the obscure film franchise Mega Shark vs. Mecha Shark. It is, in fact, a high-end PC from the folks at Cooler Master. With a mission of wanting to build some of the world’s literally and slangily coolest PCs ever, Cooler Master’s latest showcases at Computex 2024 has us wondering if anything can be a PC (no, sometimes things are also cakes). The company brought out the Shark X and their sneaker-shaped PC designs, which should be available later this year. Standing at anywhere up to 3 feet tall, these PCs aren’t for making spreadsheets, they’re the sportscars of the PC world, designed to dominate both visually as well as in performance. Oh, and they cost upwards of $7000 as per sources, so maybe we’re better off relegated to more budget-friendly PCs, even though they may look boring.

Designer: Cooler Master

The Shark X is advertised as a “fully upgradeable” gaming PC. While the final specifications might change slightly, the current iteration boasts a powerful core: an Intel Core i9-14900KF processor and an MSI Gaming GeForce RTX 4070 Ti graphics card. That’s paired with 32GB of DDR5-5600 memory and a 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 SSD for speedy storage. Cooling is handled by a Cooler Master MasterLiquid 120 ATMOS liquid cooler, ensuring the system stays frosty during intense gaming sessions. The power supply is a Cooler Master SFX 850W Gold PSU, providing ample wattage for the hardware.

The price tag? Brace yourself – the Shark X is expected to cost upwards of $7,000. Let’s be honest, at that price point, raw performance upgrades become secondary. The Shark X is for those who prioritize an unforgettable conversation starter and a unique centerpiece for their battle station.

The Shark X was also accompanied by the Sneaker X, a more footwear-enthusiast-focused PC that comes with unique panels, stickers, and even a suspension spring giving the PC an over-the-top futuristic look. Both the Shark X and Sneaker X made appearances at CES in 2023, although it seems like Cooler Master’s refining them to a point of an eventual sale.

Cooler Master debuted the Sneaker X in a red variant last year, but this year sees the addition of newer colors. Word on the CPU is vague (the pamphlet says “latest high-end CPU”), but the PC also packs ITX motherboards, and supports Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090 GPUs. Cooling comes courtesy the Cooler Master PL360 FLUX 360mm AIO liquid CPU cooler. The Sneaker X also has a much more manageable price tag that starts at $3,500 as compared to the Shark X which is double the price. I can understand the appeal, though. A dynamic mecha shark leaping in mid-air does have more eye-catching appeal than a sneaker with suspension springs and a fan. You can’t deny that they’re both pretty gorgeous though…

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It may not have the mechanical joy that the Lofree EDGE offered as the world’s slimmest mechanical keyboard, but the Keychron B1 Pro does offer an incredibly slim design that’s portable enough to slide right into your backpack. Boasting a minimal aesthetic bundled within a portable design, the B1 Pro is an ultra-slim wireless keyboard that comes with a whopping 1200 battery life and a rather commendable $39.99 price tag.

Designer: Keychron

The B1 Pro deviates from Keychron’s usual mechanical keyboards by opting for scissor-switch keys, similar to those found on laptops. This design keeps the profile incredibly thin, measuring just 5.2mm at the front and reaching a maximum height of 14.5mm. It’s incredibly lightweight too, at only 425g, making it a perfect companion for tossing in your bag and working from anywhere.

Despite its slim profile, the B1 Pro doesn’t compromise on performance. With a 1000Hz polling rate on the 2.4GHz wireless connection, you can expect smooth and responsive typing. It also offers Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity, allowing you to seamlessly pair it with multiple devices. This is also accompanied by a battery life of a staggering 1200 hours on a single charge. Translated to real-world use, that translates to roughly 8 months of typing for 5 hours a day – a near elimination of charging woes.

The keyboard has a Mac layout while remaining functional with Windows and Linux. It even features the same multimedia and function key functions as Apple keyboards, providing a familiar experience for Mac users with the added benefit of a more comfortable typing experience thanks to the scissor-switch keys. For added comfort during extended typing sessions, the B1 Pro features a 3.2-degree tilt angle and concave keycaps designed to improve accuracy. It even comes with a dedicated emoji shortcut key and a protective silicone keycap cover for increased durability.

The B1 Pro supports ZMK firmware, allowing users to program keys, macros, and shortcuts directly through a web interface. This eliminates the need for complex software installations and provides a user-friendly way to tailor the keyboard to your specific needs.

At an affordable price point of $39.99, the Keychron B1 Pro offers a compelling combination of portability, functionality, and battery life. Whether you’re a minimalist on the go, a student juggling classes, or someone who simply prefers a low-profile keyboard, the B1 Pro is definitely worth considering.

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After numerous leaks and rumors, the cat is finally out of the bag. The next ASUS Republic of Gamers handheld PC isn’t the Ally 2 but the ROG Ally X as expected. While some might see it as simply splitting hairs, the naming does make a difference. It still has the beating heart of the first ROG Ally, but with a few extras that respond to the criticisms and requests of the gaming community who embraced this more portable form factor right off the bat. From some perspectives, those extras are really small and subtle, especially if looking at it from the outside. But with enough of those changes working together, the ROG Ally X is positioning itself to be a more powerful companion that will let you play more games longer.

Designer: ASUS ROG

Just from a glance, you might not be able to tell that this is in any way different from the OG ROG Ally, at least except for its new all-black motif. It still boggles the mind why ASUS chose white for its first iteration, a color that’s almost alien to gamers’ palettes, though it did help the ROG Ally stand out from its rivals. If you look more closely, however, and hold the device in your hands, you might notice how things are somewhat different, hopefully for the better.

The handles, for example, are rounder now, which helps improve the grip that’s critical to a handheld device. The back triggers now come at an angle for better ergonomics, while the joystick and D-pad have been improved to be more durable and more precise. The biggest changes, however, are on the inside, where every little thing counts if it’s meant to improve the gaming experience.

It’s still the same AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme as the original ROG Ally, but that mobile gaming processor is now paired with 24GB of DDR-7500 RAM, up from 16GB in the first iteration. The storage capacity has been doubled to up to 1TB, but the bigger surprise is that ASUS is making it easier to upgrade it. The battery has also been doubled to 80Wh, which means you’ll have more time playing before you need to plug the little monster in. To compensate for this newfound power, ASUS ROG promises an improved thermal cooling solution so you won’t burn your hand while you play.

There is at least one change that some might consider a downgrade, depending on how attached they’ve become to ASUS’ proprietary XG external graphics port. In its place, the ROG Ally X uses a more standard Thunderbolt-compatible USB-C port that could still work with external GPUs but also with a lot more devices as well. Given all these changes, it’s no surprise that the ASUS ROG Ally X will cost more than its predecessor at $799.99. Then again, this version is squarely aimed at power gamers, and those who can live with the bare minimum can still get the older model, at least for now.

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Having powerful desk setups can be exciting but all the wire clutter and visual chaos can overshadow the buzz. Matthew Perks is one DIYer who is keen enough to design unique rigs that are highly functional and instantly pique the interest of a geek like me. The respected YouTuber has created some impressive projects in the past including his first attempt at an invisible desk PC.

Now, he’s more mature and experienced to create an endgame PC desk that will blow you away, just as it did to me. The final result is a functional and visually calming setup that goes perfectly with any home décor or geeky theme. This project makes technology disappear in your living space and only shows up when it’s time to get productive or go a gaming marathon.

Designer: Matthew Perks

The invisible PC setup looks minimalistic, as Matthew tactfully integrates high-end PC hardware into the frame of a desk. Barely noticeable to the unassuming eye, the OLED display, water-cooled PC and peripherals hide inside a secret hatch in the tabletop when not in use. Call it the ingenuity of the man, or level of creative patience – everything about this PC desk is done so immaculately that you’ll barely realize how difficult it actually is to make one. This is a true example of what future home computing applications could be like while harmoniously integrating with the existing interior setup.

The most difficult part of the whole DIY is to mount a 45-inch Corsair Xeneon Flex ultrawide bendable OLED display on the custom-built aluminum frame that opens and closes as smooth as butter, courtesy of the hinge mechanism pneumatic struts and tension springs. The high-performance Intel Core i9-13900K processor and Zotac GeForce RTX 4090 GPU of the PC require optimum cooling, therefore, Matthew went ahead with installing custom water blocks, but to make it even better, he then upgraded the rig with bigger heatsinks and 140mm Corsair fans.

Once everything technical got sorted, the final phase of the DIY involved aesthetics and function. For this, he added wood panels to the motorized standing desk to go with the home décor. The last little detail includes adding magnetic assists for lifting the monitor with the least effort while maintaining the sleek look of the tabletop that can take a total weight of 440 lbs without breaking a sweat.

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In an exciting announcement today, Logitech expanded its “Designed for Mac” lineup with the introduction of the Wave Keys for Mac, an ergonomic keyboard crafted to provide comfort and enhance productivity for Mac users. This launch, set to coincide with the release of other Mac-centric peripherals in Logitech’s portfolio, underscores the company’s commitment to creating seamless, user-friendly experiences within the Apple ecosystem.

Designer: Logitech

Ergonomics Meets Mac-Specific Design

The Wave Keys for Mac stands out as Logitech’s first ergonomic keyboard specifically designed for the Mac, adapted from the Wave Keys that launched at the end of last year. Emphasizing comfort and usability, it features a signature wave shape that ensures a natural typing posture. This wavy design positions the hands, wrists, and forearms in an optimal manner, reducing strain and promoting comfortable typing throughout the day.

A key highlight of the Wave Keys for Mac is its cushioned palm rest, which comprises three layers: memory foam, high-density foam, and a knitted fabric covering. This thoughtful design offers 57% more wrist support compared to traditional Logitech keyboards without palm rests, making it an ideal choice for prolonged use.

Compact and Versatile

The compact layout of the Wave Keys for Mac is not only space-saving but also strategically designed to promote a more natural shoulder position while using a mouse. This makes it a practical addition to any desk setup, particularly for those who prioritize ergonomics without compromising on functionality.

Further enhancing its appeal, the keyboard includes easy-to-use +4° tilt legs, allowing users to adjust the keyboard’s angle to their preference for maximum comfort.

Seamless Integration and Personalization

Logitech’s commitment to enhancing user experience is evident in the Wave Keys for Mac’s seamless integration with macOS, iPadOS, and iOS devices. Users can connect up to three Apple devices simultaneously and switch between them effortlessly with the tap of a button. This multi-device capability is complemented by the Logi Options+ app, which enables users to personalize their keyboard shortcuts and optimize their workflow.

The Wave Keys for Mac also boasts an impressive battery life, capable of lasting up to three years on the included AAA batteries, reducing the need for frequent replacements and ensuring consistent performance.

Sustainable Design

In line with Logitech’s dedication to sustainability, the Wave Keys for Mac is made with 48% post-consumer recycled plastic, excluding the plastic in the printed wiring assembly, receiver, and packaging. This eco-friendly approach aligns with Logitech’s broader initiative to reduce the carbon footprint of its products and promote environmentally conscious manufacturing practices.

This launch is part of a broader initiative by Logitech to cater to the needs of Mac users. Alongside the Wave Keys for Mac, Logitech is also introducing other products such as the MX Keys S for Mac, MX Keys S Combo for Mac, MX Anywhere 3S for Mac, and MX Keys Mini for Mac. These additions are designed to enhance productivity, streamline workflows, and ensure ergonomic comfort for Mac users.

Delphine Donné, Vice President and General Manager of Personal Workspace Solutions at Logitech, highlighted the company’s focus on integrating user-centric solutions with the Apple ecosystem while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability. “With a focus on optimizing workflow, productivity, and comfort, our Designed for Mac portfolio empowers Apple users to unleash their creative potential and enjoy day-long comfort at the desk without sacrificing Mac compatibility and look,” said Donné.

The Wave Keys for Mac will be available for purchase in May 2024 at a price of $59.99.

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Following the release of last year’s Retro Mechanical Keyboard, 8bitdo decided to give the keyboard the one good thing it was missing – a gorgeous numpad. Inspired by the retro aesthetic of tech from the 80s and 90s, the Retro 18 Mechanical Numpad exists as an independent peripheral device that can either pair up with its companion keyboard, or be used independently like an old-school calculator. A red and black seven-segment display on the top feels like retro-perfection to the eyes, and those clacky keys are sure to get your fingers crunching numbers every day because of how wonderfully tactile they are.

Designer: 8bitdo

Click Here to Pre-Order

The Numpad comes in four delightful flavors, ahem colors, each inspired by iconic gaming systems: the M edition, the Famicom edition, the C64 model, and the N edition reminiscent of the NES. These draw inspiration from the design language of those classic consoles, offering a delightful dose of retro charm for your desk setup. The M Edition is the only one to sport a black and white display, while all the others have a black-red screen that is literal eye-candy.

Beyond aesthetics, the Numpad boasts functionality in the form of two modes: a standard calculator mode with an integrated display and a PC numpad mode for entering numbers on your computer. This versatility allows it to seamlessly switch between basic calculations and data entry tasks. Buttons on the top let you alternate between modes and even explore connectivity options.

For connectivity, the Numpad offers a variety of options. It includes a USB cable, Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless freedom, and a 2.4GHz USB adapter for a lag-free connection. The rechargeable 1000mAh Li-on battery offers a solid 160 hours of use on a single charge, ensuring it can keep up with your workflow.

The Numpad’s quality matches 8bitdo’s high standards, featuring dye-PBT or double-shot ABS keycaps (depending on the edition) for a comfortable typing experience. It utilizes Kalih Box White V2 switches, known for their satisfying tactility and durability. Additionally, the hot-swappable PCB allows for easy switch customization to personalize your typing feel.

A dongle at the bottom allows easy 2.4Ghz pairing with any laptop or desktop

Priced at $44.99 and available for pre-order now, the 8BitDo Retro 18 Mechanical Numpad is a niche product, but one that caters to a specific audience. It injects a shot of retro charm into your workspace while offering a functional and well-built numpad experience. Besides, if you’ve got a keyboard with a layout that’s either 80% or smaller, chances are you’ll need a numpad to match – this one’s perfect to complement your mechanical setup or your retro sensibilities. I also appreciate the fact that you’ll never have to open your phone’s calculator app again.

Click Here to Pre-Order

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The Raspberry Pi, lovingly called RPi by fans, did for electronics what 3D printing did for design. It allowed almost anyone to come up with interesting, innovative, and sometimes just amusing projects that need a very small and cheap computer to function. The size of a credit card and less than $100 (going as low as $35 even!), the Raspberry Pi is a barebones and naked single-board computer (SBC) that you can insert almost anywhere and add to any design. That said, there are some use cases for the RPi that require a proper enclosure and those are a dime a dozen these days. This one case, in particular, goes over the top and puts the small pocket-sized computer inside a box that, for all intents and purposes, looks like a miniaturized gaming desktop, complete with multiple fans and RGB lighting.

Designer: Sunfounder

Truth be told, this Raspberry Pi 5 case really goes overboard considering the limitations of the computer in terms of performance. You’ll only ever be able to play very light computer games on it, so associating it with a gaming desktop seems out of character, but it definitely gives it some style. Then again, we did see an even more exaggerated liquid cooling system for the Raspberry Pi that makes this case actually look reasonable.

The Pironman 5, as the case is called, is also unlike the majority of Raspberry Pi cases in that it’s actually made of aluminum instead of plastic, just like a typical desktop tower. And like many gaming PCs these days, one side and a part of its back it made of transparent acrylic that lets you take a peek into the computer’s innards, not that there’s that much to see anyway. The RPi, after all, is just a single board that has everything soldered into it, but the case does have a few interesting bits that will make it worth looking into.

There are three fans, which is again overkill, and two of them have RGB lighting. Equally interesting is how the case exposes all the RPi’s ports on the case’s back, just like what you’d expect from a desktop computer, despite the board having those ports on different sides. There’s even a way to access the GPIO pins without opening up the case, making expansion and modification super easy. You can add an NVMe SSD or control the computer with an IR remote control, all of which are not available in the base Raspberry Pi.

The Pironman 5 is cute and eccentric, and few will probably be using the case aside from a few niche situations. It makes the single-board computer look more interesting and more usable as a desktop computer, but you pay the price in terms of space, power consumption, and the literal $80 cost. Then again, that’s the beauty of the culture that the RPi started, allowing anyone and everyone to come up with interesting designs, even if they turn out to be impractical in the end.

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