REVIEW – I love Lofree keyboards. I’ve reviewed no less than four of them. My favorite is the Lofree Flow. I understand that for some $160 might be a hard pill to swallow for a keyboard especially if you’ve never used a low-profile keyboard. Or, let’s say, you don’t care for the looks of the original Flow and want something a little more office-environment friendly. Well, Lofree has released a new, less expensive version, the Flow Lite. It has the same footprint and still has hot-swappable, low-profile switches. If this sounds like something you want, then read on to find out more.
What is it?
The Lofree Flow Lite is a low-profile, mechanical keyboard with hot-swappable switches and three modes of connectivity.
What’s included?
- Lofree Flow Lite
- 90-degree USB-C to USB-A cable
- User Guide
Tech specs
Click to expand
Design and features
The Lofree Flow Lite comes in 2 configurations. There’s an 84-key version and a 100-key version, both of which are still available on their Kickstarter as Late Pledges. Whereas the original Flow comes in a $159 and only one configuration, The Flow Lite 84-key can still be gotten for $89, regularly $129, and the 100-key can be picked up for $99, regularly $139.
Next, the Flow Lite has three modes of connectivity, which is a step up from the original. There’s wired via USB, a multi-device connection via Bluetooth, and a 2.4GHz dongle. So, you can really connect your way.
Let’s talk about switches, Lofree has partnered with Kailh to produce 2 different low-profile, full POM switches. They are the Specter and Hades switches. Both have similar characteristics, but different operating and reset points.
The Lofree Flow lite is gasket mounted. Yep, even in this thin profile, you’ve got silicon gaskets and pads, an IXPE pad, and PU foam.
One of my favorite features is a simple one. Instead of a knob, there’s a volume roller on the top right edge. Of course, rolling it up raises the volume and down, lowers it, but pressing it mutes your PC. It’s a small thing, but I like it.
Construction of the Flow Lite is ABS plastic. Not as fancy as the original Flow, but it helps to lower the cost to you. And ABS is rugged, so it should take bumps fine. It also has feet on the underside to adjust the height where the original did not.
Assembly, Installation, Setup
No setup is required on a Windows PC. It was plug-and-play. I can’t speak to a Mac but it is compatible. That being said there is a software configurator so you can customize the Flow Lite how you’d like.
Performance
The performance of the LoFree Flow Lite keyboard has been wonderful, like the other Lofree keyboards I’ve tested. The materials feel good. All of the gaskets and foam make it very comfortable and quiet to use. Mine came with the Specter switches which have a great creamy sound. The version I received was the 84-key version which equates to a 75% layout, my favorite. The smaller size and low profile make it a lot easier to travel with.
What I like about Lofree Flow Lite mechanical keyboard
- The addition of 2.4 GHz connectivity
- Lower price
- The switches
- The feel
- The sound
What needs to be improved?
- Nothing
Final thoughts
I really like the Lofree Flow Lite keyboard. It’s a great, lower-priced alternative to my favorite, the Flow. It’s also available in 3 different colors, so more choices for everyone. Currently, it’s still available for a reduced price on their Kickstarter, so if you’re in the market, hurry on over and snag one up.
Price: $89 for the 84-key, $99 for the 100-key
Where to buy: Kickstarter
Source: The sample of this product was provided for free by Lofree. Lofree did not have a final say on the review and did not preview the review before it was published.
