We’ll never find another keyboard that we love as much. Wait, scratch that! There are plenty of fantastic keyboards out there, and personally, I’ll likely keep collecting them forever. However, if you prefer sticking to just one keyboard, the Lofree 1% Transparent might be the perfect choice for you.
This mechanical keyboard from Lofree is appropriately named and captures your heart right away. It’s incredibly attractive, boasting a sleek and sophisticated transparent design. The experience gets even better when you start using it, thanks to its pre-lubed Kailh Jellyfish switches, dual connectivity, and decent battery life.
Admittedly, it’s on the pricey side – much more expensive than most other keyboards we’ve tried or owned. But trust me, it’s worth every cent. The Lofree 1% Transparent is a stunning mechanical keyboard that provides an exceptional typing experience. Honestly, we actually look forward to starting our day just because we get to type on it. Seriously!
Specifications Lofree 1% Transparent keyboard
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Layout | 65% Compact |
| Switch | Kailh Jellyfish switches, pre-lubed |
| Programmable keys | Absent |
| Interface | Bluetooth 5.1, USB-C |
| Dimensions | 306 x 144 x 30.6 mm |
| RGB or backlighting | 7 distinct white LED backlit effects |
Pros And Cons Lofree 1% Transparent keyboard
| Advantages | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Elegant and impressive design | Price may be prohibitive for some users |
| Robust and high-quality construction | Lack of hot-swappable feature |
| Exceptional typing performance | |
| Comfortable and gratifying user experience | |
| Long-lasting battery life |
Price
There aren’t many keyboards at the same price as the Lofree 1% Transparent, which costs $219 / £181 (around AU$320). It falls into the expensive category, but we believe it’s worth the cost because of its sturdy construction, thoughtful and beautiful design, and the excellent typing experience it offers.
If that price is too high for you, there are other fantastic keyboards that provide a satisfying linear-switch experience for a lower cost. The KiiBOOM Phantom 81 is a good alternative and shares the transparent look if you like that style.
However, we strongly suggest seriously considering the Lofree 1% Transparent, even though it’s pricier than most keyboards on the market.
Design
Lofree has carefully considered the design of the Lofree 1% Transparent mechanical keyboard, paying attention to details such as the stylish keycaps and the use of durable, factory-lubed switches to provide an overall refined experience.
Let’s start with the basics. This keyboard is relatively compact, featuring a 68-key layout, dimensions of 306 x 144 x 30.6mm, and a reasonably light weight. While it may not be the most travel-friendly, it is portable enough to be carried in your backpack if you wish to take it to work.
Constructed with premium materials, the keyboard is well-made and should endure transportation. However, it’s advisable to purchase a travel pouch separately for protection against scratches, as it doesn’t come with one, unlike Lofree’s Wanderfree mechanical keyboard, which includes its own suitcase (a review of that keyboard will be provided soon).
White Solid Plate
Lofree claims the 1% Transparent is entirely see-through, but only the keycaps, top case, and switches are clear, while the plate is solid white. The switch pad, PCB board, foam, and other components are assumed not to be transparent. Unfortunately, the clear top and chrome bottom cases tend to attract fingerprints, requiring regular cleaning. Nevertheless, the keycaps are coated to resist fingerprints.
The keycaps are a notable feature of the Lofree 1% Transparent. They are pad-printed to prevent fading and are hollow, allowing for customization. The mount shaft is lowered, and a press-and-fit lid attaches it to the keycaps, resulting in a cleaner look. While removing the lid for customization requires patience, it offers an opportunity to personalize the keyboard with sequins, beads, or glitter.
The keycaps are smooth with a dip to enhance finger grip. Due to their coating, fingers somewhat stick to the keycaps, but not unpleasantly so. Unlike keyboards with colorful RGB lighting, this keyboard features white LED backlighting with seven lighting effects. You can adjust the brightness or turn off the backlighting entirely.
Offering both wired and wireless connectivity, as well as multi-platform compatibility, the Lofree 1% Transparent includes switches on the underside for power and Bluetooth activation, as well as platform switching for seamless use with Windows/Android or Mac/iOS systems.
Lighting and Performance
The Lofree 1% comes with N-key rollover support through USB, successfully tested with Aqua’s test. In Bluetooth mode, it defaults to 6-key rollover, which isn’t a big issue. Switch Hitter confirmed no key chatter, and there are dedicated keys on the base layer. There are a total of 68 keys, with two Fn keys not shown in Switch Hitter, making it a 68-key, 65% keyboard.
The two Fn keys, one red and one blue, initiate different Fn key layers with additional legends. The red and blue colors help distinguish between the two. There are pre-programmed functions, including bringing back missing functions from a TKL keyboard and adding convenience like volume control, media playback, and lighting configuration. It takes a bit to get used to the layout, but I adapted within a couple of days.
The Lofree 1% is chosen for its aesthetics, with a unique transparent build enhancing the lighting. It uses white LEDs instead of per-key RGB, but the lit-up keyboard looks appealing. There are seven lighting effects with brightness control. Bluetooth connectivity is solid with BT 5.1 supporting up to three clients simultaneously for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices.
Bettry Life
Battery life is a bit of a downside, with LEDs not turning off until 20–30 seconds of inactivity. Lofree claims up to 60 days on a single charge, but real-world usage may vary. Charging takes around 3–3.5 hours.
The keyboard comes with a single switch option, the Kailh Clione Limacina linear switch. It’s a low-force linear switch with a smooth feel but benefits from lubing. The stabilizers may also benefit from lubing. Typing experience is good, but there are keyboards with a lower cost providing better experiences.
Sound-wise, the keyboard has a deeper sound due to constant bottoming out. The keycaps and PC/ABS material contribute to a solid, filled sound. Here’s a sound clip of typing on the Lofree 1% with Kailh Clione Limacina linear switches at ~90 WPM out of the box.
The Lofree 1% Transparent Keyboard is a head-turner
Not everyone may fancy a keyboard that’s entirely see-through, but for those seeking something genuinely one-of-a-kind, the Lofree 1% Transparent Keyboard will surely grab some eyes.
Our main worry is the steep price, particularly when compared to well-liked options among AppleInsider staff, such as the Keychron K2 or the Keychron K2V2.
Nevertheless, it appears to be a reliable choice. If you’re not into assembling your own mechanical keyboards, which can become quite pricey, but still want a keyboard that stands out, this is a fantastic option to explore.
Conclusion
There’s hardly anything in today’s market that focuses on one thing as much as the Lofree 1%. Its commitment to transparency deserves respect, even though the cost is higher than the average. Lofree probably doesn’t aim to sell a ton of units, given the premium materials and design contributing to the price.
Imagine a keyboard with a polycarbonate case and keycaps, a high-gloss plating on the ABS bottom case panel, and unique transparent Kailh mechanical switches. Add hybrid wireless connectivity and extensive onboard controls, and you’ve got a 65% layout keyboard that’s a unique light show. I can’t help but wonder how it would be if Lofree had opted for bottom-facing RGB LEDs on the PCB underside!
I’d have liked Lofree to match the basics of other premium keyboards, like hot-swappable switches for those keen on experimenting with different clear switches or even smoother stabilizers and tighter tolerances on the custom-made keycaps.
Then there are the two Fn switches, each with a distinct position and color, identified only by the manual for the pre-programmed controls. Unfortunately, there’s no software control or key mapping. The Lofree 1% caters to a specific aesthetic and feature set, appealing to many. While it might not be my preference, I can understand why others would love it for obvious reasons.
The Lofree 1% impresses with its unparalleled transparency, premium build, and unique features. While the cost is on the higher side, its distinctive design and functionality make it a standout choice for those seeking a blend of style and innovation.
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