Tuesday, November 7th 2023

Lofree Launches the BLOCK 98 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

Lofree, the renowned designer keyboard manufacturer known for its commitment to minimalist design, proudly unveils the Lofree Block 98 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard. Inspired by the timeless design philosophy of 'Less is More' and the iconic Braun elements, this keyboard seamlessly combines classic aesthetics with cutting-edge technology. The LOFREE BLOCK 98 keyboard is available on the LOFREE website now for £138.94/$169.00.

Embracing the design principle of "Less is More, Less is Better," Lofree Block reimagines the essence of simplicity and elegance. The keyboard's design draws inspiration from the legendary Braun design ethos, featuring smooth volume control knobs, an easily readable status panel, self-lubricated switches, and a remarkably quiet typing experience. The keyboard's founder, DIETER RAMS, succinctly captures the essence of this design philosophy, stating, "Calm, sober, and intelligent surprise should always be possible by design."
The Lofree Block 98 is a testament to the brand's pursuit of minimalism, blending the minimalist geometric "Block" design with useful features. The inclusion of two round knobs, adorned with Hermès orange accents, not only enhances the keyboard's aesthetics but also harks back to the nostalgic operation of retro radios, providing a tactile experience for adjusting volume and connection methods.

In terms of practicality, Lofree places a premium on user experience. The minimal status panel not only displays the lock status of the numpad area and caps but also provides a clear indication of the connected device and remaining power. Users can effortlessly switch between 14 white backlit effects to create a harmonious and unified minimalist ambiance.

The keyboard's sound foundation is meticulously crafted, featuring self-designed stabilizers, IPXE, foam padding, and a POM switch customized by TTC. These components work in harmony to deliver a crisp and quiet typing experience. Additionally, the Lofree Block 98 is hot-swappable, allowing users to replace or upgrade switches without soldering.

Lofree Block is compatible with Mac/iOS, Android, and Windows 8/10, offering a seamless connection to multiple devices in Bluetooth mode. With a substantial battery life, users can enjoy continuous typing for up to 10 hours with backlighting on and up to 80 hours with backlighting off, making it ideal for both work and leisure.

The Lofree Block 98 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard effortlessly combines the convenience of wireless technology with the timeless charm of retro aesthetics. Founder Retro Design, Gasket Structure, Multi-Function Knobs, Visual Status Panel, PBT Keycaps, Full Keys Hot-Swappable, LED Monochrome Backlight, Quadruple Sound-Absorbing Structure, LOFREE Self-Developed Satellite Switch, and the Scientific Layout of Innovative Design are among the exceptional features that make the Lofree Block 98 a keyboard unlike any other.

Moreover, the keyboard offers triple-mode connectivity, supporting Bluetooth 5.0, Wireless 2.4G, and Wired USB Type-C, making it compatible with a wide range of operating systems.

The Lofree Block 98 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard encapsulates the timelessness of retro design and the sophistication of modern technology. With its thoughtful features and minimalist aesthetics, it promises to become an indispensable tool for those who appreciate a harmonious blend of form and function.
For more information, visit the product page.
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10 Comments on Lofree Launches the BLOCK 98 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

#1
Luke357
I want to like this form factor but it's missing the all important home and end keys.
Posted on Reply
#2
_JP_
Disappointed with there being only an ANSI-US layout.
Posted on Reply
#3
Double-Click
I can't tell if I love or hate that mouse.
It looks cool, but I'd probably toss it like a toddler's Cheerios once I tried it.

Posted on Reply
#4
lemonadesoda
I like the colours and the volume knob. But what's that black bar to the right of RETURN and what's going on around the cursor keys? And missing keys and making odd graphics on the CTRL and ALT keys. No. Just no.
Posted on Reply
#5
LabRat 891
lemonadesodaI like the colours and the volume knob. But what's that black bar to the right of RETURN and what's going on around the cursor keys? And missing keys and making odd graphics on the CTRL and ALT keys. No. Just no.
Agreed.
1st impression was 'good retro aesthetic' but, the longer I looked the more EVERYTHING seemed 'off'.

If you're going for retro-utilitarian, don't stop mid-way and inject the 2020s into it...
Posted on Reply
#6
EatingDirt
Luke357I want to like this form factor but it's missing the all important home and end keys.
The key labels for this form factor change, depending on the brand. My Keychron V5 for example, has delete, home, end & a knob(vol up, vol down, click=mute). But I can change those to whatever I'd like in the software. Technically all the keys can be reprogrammed.

Ever since I first got my hands on the CM Storm Quickfire TK 8 years ago this has been my preferred form factor. Tried a 65%, missed the function keys in a few games and I also like having the enter key right on the bottom right corner for browsing, I often extend my thumb from my mouse and hit the enter key while browsing the internet. I didn't realize how much I use it until I didn't have it there.
Posted on Reply
#7
Chomiq
lemonadesodaI like the colours and the volume knob. But what's that black bar to the right of RETURN and what's going on around the cursor keys? And missing keys and making odd graphics on the CTRL and ALT keys. No. Just no.
"Odd" graphics are for Mac layout.
Posted on Reply
#8
Luke357
EatingDirtThe key labels for this form factor change, depending on the brand. My Keychron V5 for example, has delete, home, end & a knob(vol up, vol down, click=mute). But I can change those to whatever I'd like in the software. Technically all the keys can be reprogrammed.

Ever since I first got my hands on the CM Storm Quickfire TK 8 years ago this has been my preferred form factor. Tried a 65%, missed the function keys in a few games and I also like having the enter key right on the bottom right corner for browsing, I often extend my thumb from my mouse and hit the enter key while browsing the internet. I didn't realize how much I use it until I didn't have it there.
This is the first I've seen this keyboard and it looks amazing! If my truck didn't need repairs I'd get the barebones and do it up with some speed silvers. I'm definitely going to bookmark this for later. I like my G413 Carbon but a little less width would be nice (and no, I NEED a numpad).
Posted on Reply
#9
JAB Creations
Shit-dinky right Shift keys are the worst! Any one who does any productivity should avoid any keyboard or laptop that comes with one if possible. Additionally WiFi is something I avoid like the plague for health reasons that aren't allowed to be mentioned on here. :rolleyes:
Posted on Reply
May 21st, 2024 05:15 EDT change timezone

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