Lofree Flow84 Low-profile: The Ultimate Low-Profile Gasket Keyboard
In the world of mechanical keyboards, low-profile switches are quite niche. They significantly reduce keyboard height, offering portability and a laptop-like typing feel. However, with limited models and often outdated specs, few low-profile options stand out—until now.
Lofree’s new release, Flow84 Low-profile, is a rare low-profile keyboard featuring a Gasket mount structure. From design to performance, it impressed me far beyond expectations.
Design & Build
The Flow84 Low-profile uses a compact 84-key layout that retains all essential keys while minimizing footprint. Combined with a height of just 12mm at the front and 23.8mm at the rear, and weighing under 600g, it’s perfect for EDC users. The tradeoff is a steeper learning curve and more key overlap.
Aluminum Elegance
The all-aluminum case is finely sandblasted and feels premium. A champagne gold metal badge with the Lofree logo on the right bezel adds charm. Ingeniously, the battery housing underneath also acts as a kickstand using a matching gold connector—smart and stylish.
Keycaps & Layout
White PBT keycaps with black legends and orange function labels keep it minimalist yet eye-catching. With over 80% PBT content and dye-sublimated legends, durability is top-notch.
Ghost Low-Profile Switches
Co-developed with Kailh, the Ghost switch is full POM (stem, top, and bottom housing) and boasts 40gf initial, 50gf actuation force with 1.2mm pre-travel and 2.8mm total travel. The 15mm spring ensures solid rebound and minimal wobble—smooth and satisfying typing.
Rare Gasket Structure
Gasket mounting in a low-profile keyboard is a rarity. Flow84 Low-profile uses silicone tabs and poron foam, giving a slightly firm but cushioned feel. Even hidden silicone pads are branded—Lofree’s attention to detail is commendable.
Sound Dampening
Poron foam, IXPE bottom padding, and silicone layers contribute to clean, focused “Hi-Fi” acoustics. This is hands-down the best sounding low-profile keyboard I’ve tested.
Connectivity & RGB
Supports wired and Bluetooth modes with 3-device pairing. The mode toggle and USB-C port are top-mounted—very practical. White backlight is included, but white keycaps suffer from “lantern effect” (light bleed); this isn't an issue on the black version. The rear RGB strips are a first for Lofree and add a nice desktop vibe.
Accessories
Only a black USB-C cable is included, which feels mismatched. A matching-colored cable and optional carry pouch would enhance the premium experience.
Final Verdict
Pros:
• Compact layout, ultra-portable
• Aluminum body with refined touches
• High-quality PBT keycaps
• Ghost switches provide a top-tier low-profile typing experience
• Gasket mount + sound fill = Hi-Fi acoustics
Cons:
• “Lantern effect” on white keycaps
• Mismatched black cable
Lofree successfully brings the best elements of modern full-height keyboards—POM switches, Gasket mount, noise dampening—to the low-profile format. Flow84 Low-profile may very well be the best low-profile mechanical keyboard available today.
Flow Lite84 vs Flow84 Low Profile
🧠 Typing Feel & Switches
Flow84 Low Profile uses Kailh full‑POM (Polyoxymethylene) switches offering a refined and springy typing feel.
Flow Lite84 also uses low‑profile POM switches (Specter linear, ~40gf), but many reviews say the typing feel has improved compared to the original Flow84, making the Lite version now more satisfying for casual typists.
🛠 Build & Materials
Flow84 Low Profile features a solid aluminum frame, gasket mount with IXPE/Poron foam, and textured PBT keycaps for premium sound and durability.
Flow Lite84 uses an ABS plastic case (soft-touch finish), lightweight construction, flip-out feet, volume knob, and tri‑mode connectivity (2.4GHz + Bluetooth + USB-C).
🔌 Connectivity & Features
Flow84 Low Profile supports Bluetooth and wired USB-C, but has no 2.4GHz option or software customization.
Flow Lite84 adds 2.4GHz wireless, flip-out adjustable angle stands, media roller, and Lofree Key Mapper software (Windows only), though feature support is still limited.
🔋 Battery & Portability
Flow84 Low Profile has solid Bluetooth performance and good battery life, but lacks customization and wireless modes like 2.4GHz.
Flow Lite84 offers superior portability with long battery life, 2.4GHz mode for lower latency, and compact foldable feet—ideal as a secondary travel keyboard.
✅ Summary Comparison
Feature | Flow84 Low Profile | Flow Lite84 |
---|---|---|
Case Material | Aluminum | ABS plastic (soft-touch finish) |
Switch Type | Kailh Full‑POM (linear/tactile) | Specter linear low-profile |
Typing Feel | Solid and springy | Smooth and improved over Flow84 |
Connectivity | Bluetooth, Wired (USB‑C) | Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, USB‑C |
Software / Customization | None | Lofree Key Mapper (Windows only) |
Portability | Moderate | Higher: Lightweight, foldable feet, knob |
Price Tier | Higher-end | More affordable entry into low-profile range |
Best For | Premium feel, build quality aesthetic | Wireless flexibility, travel, casual use |
🧩 Which to Choose?
- Choose Flow84 Low Profile if you prefer a heavier, more premium aluminum build with premium acoustics and classic gasket feel.
- Opt for Flow Lite84 if you want wireless flexibility, travel-friendliness, and a more affordable price with decent low-profile typing feel.