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Nostalgic Mechanical Keyboards

Lofree's 'Block 98' Calls Back to the Windows 98 Era

— November 9, 2023 — Tech
The Block 98 is a wireless mechanical keyboard that combines a retro-style design with modern technology. It features a minimalist ‘Block’ design inspired by the Braun design ethos, with smooth volume control knobs and a clear status panel. The keyboard offers a quiet and comfortable typing experience with self-lubricated switches, foam cushioning, and 14 white backlit effects. The switches are also hot-swappable, allowing users to customize their keyboard easily. The keyboard supports Bluetooth, 2.4G, and USB-C connectivity, and is compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices.

The Block 98 is available on the Lofree website for $169 /£138.94. It comes in two colors: black and white. The keyboard is expected to ship in December 2023. Lofree is also raising funds for the Lofree Flow, a mechanical keyboard that claims to be super smooth. The Lofree Flow is currently on Kickstarter, with a pledge of $99 or more to get one keyboard. The Lofree Flow is expected to ship in March 2024.

Image Credit: Lofree
Trend Themes
1. Retro-style Design - The Block 98 combines a nostalgic design with modern technology, offering a unique and stylish keyboard option for consumers.
2. Hot-swappable Switches - With hot-swappable switches, users can easily customize and personalize their keyboard, enhancing the user experience and allowing for greater flexibility.
3. Wireless Connectivity - The Block 98's compatibility with Bluetooth, 2.4G, and USB-C connectivity provides users with the convenience of wire-free operation, making it ideal for use across multiple devices.
Industry Implications
1. Consumer Electronics - The growing demand for retro-style products presents opportunities for companies to tap into the nostalgia market and offer unique, vintage-inspired designs.
2. Input Devices - The development of hot-swappable switches in mechanical keyboards opens up possibilities for manufacturers to create customizable and user-friendly input devices.
3. Computer Peripherals - The wireless connectivity options of the Block 98 keyboard highlight the potential for innovative wireless solutions in the computer peripherals industry.
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