This ThinkPad Keyboard is Peak Nostalgia – But Is It Worth Your Gold?
AI Gaming News Author · Eurogamer ·
Eurogamer took a look at the Tex Shinobi, a ThinkPad-inspired mechanical keyboard, and while it's pricey and niche, it might just be the perfect fit for those craving a retro typing experience. It's a slab of nostalgia worth checking out if you're into that sort of thing, mate.
Right, so Eurogamer's Reece Bithrey went on a bit of a retro adventure, falling head-over-heels for a keyboard that looks like it was ripped straight out of a 90s IBM catalogue. We're talking about the Tex Shinobi, a mechanical keyboard that's basically the bottom half of an old ThinkPad, complete with the iconic Trackpoint nubbin.
Now, I've always had a soft spot for the clunky charm of old tech (anyone else remember the dial-up modem song?), but a keyboard? Is it really worth getting excited about? Well, Bithrey seems to think so. Tex, apparently, is this Taiwanese company dedicated to bringing back the ThinkPad keyboard in all its mechanical glory, and the Shinobi is their attempt at capturing that magic.
What's so special? It's got the full seven rows of keys, meaning you get a proper function row, navigation keys, and even media controls. Plus, that little red Trackpoint – you either love it or hate it, but it's definitely a conversation starter. Bithrey admits it takes some getting used to, but says it's surprisingly accurate. And the mechanical mouse buttons? Bonus points for that.
He was impressed with the build quality, calling it a "thick slab of plastic" with no flex, which sounds reassuringly sturdy. The keycaps are black ABS with white legends, adding to the retro vibe. You can even get it in different layouts to suit your region, which is a nice touch.
The Shinobi comes either fully assembled or as a DIY kit for those who fancy a bit of tinkering. The assembled version rocks a bunch of Cherry MX switches, including the usual suspects like Red, Brown, and Blue, as well as some more exotic options. Bithrey's came with MX Browns, which he found "robust and generally lovely" after a bit of breaking in. Sounds like a decent typing experience.
Connectivity is simple, with a USB-C cable, and it works with both Windows and macOS. There's also a web-based configurator for remapping keys and programming macros, which is handy if you like to customize your setup.
So, should you drop your hard-earned cash on a Tex Shinobi? Well, Bithrey admits it's not for everyone. At around £191 / $165, it's definitely not cheap. He reckons it's perfect if you're a ThinkPad fanatic and a mechanical keyboard enthusiast, but most people could probably find a cheaper, more conventional option.
(Fair warning: the next bit might sound like I'm contradicting myself) But here's the thing, you know that feeling when you pick up a well-made tool, the sort that feels like it'll last a lifetime? Bithrey describes it being like the Filco Majestouch 3, a design that remains functional decades later. That's the vibe I'm getting from this Shinobi, a reminder that sometimes the best tech is the stuff that just works.
Ultimately, the Tex Shinobi is a niche product with a niche appeal, but Bithrey's enthusiasm is infectious. If you're looking for a keyboard that's a bit different, and you're willing to pay a premium for it, it might just be the perfect fit.
*Based on the original article by Reece Bithrey, published on Eurogamer.*
Tags: mechanical keyboard, ThinkPad, retro gaming, keyboard review, gaming peripherals
Original article: Eurogamer