# Nostalgic Mechanical Keyboards Lofree's 'Block 98' Calls Back to the Windows 98 Era By Colin Smith | Published 2023-11-09 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/block-98 References: [kitguru.net](https://www.kitguru.net/peripherals/keyboards/joao-silva/lofree-taps-into-pc-nostalgia-with-new-block-98-mechanical-keyboard-with-ttc-pom-switches/) & [lofree.co](https://www.lofree.co/products/lofree-block-wireless-mechanical-keyboard-1)  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](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/braun-nevo-15000c) 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](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lofree-flow), a mechanical keyboard that claims to be super smooth. The Lofree Flow is currently on [Kickstarter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lofree-edge), 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 Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 6.7/10 - Popularity: 85% | Activity: 96% | Freshness: 19% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Retro-style Design:** The Block 98 combines a nostalgic design with modern technology, offering a unique and stylish keyboard option for consumers. - **Hot-swappable Switches:** With hot-swappable switches, users can easily customize and personalize their keyboard, enhancing the user experience and allowing for greater flexibility. - **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. ### Sectors Adopting This - **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. - **Input Devices:** The development of hot-swappable switches in mechanical keyboards opens up possibilities for manufacturers to create customizable and user-friendly input devices. - **Computer Peripherals:** The wireless connectivity options of the Block 98 keyboard highlight the potential for innovative wireless solutions in the computer peripherals industry. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Full-Size Retro Mechanical Keyboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/8bitdo-retro-108.md) - [Early Computer-Inspired Keyboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mechanical-keyboard-m-edition.md) - [Chic Sandblasted Aluminum Keyboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lofree-flow-2-keyboard.md) - [Ultra-Smooth Low-Profile Keyboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lofree-flow.md) - [Retro-Themed Mechanical Keyboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/8bitdo-mechanical-keyboard.md) - [Ultra-Compact Keyboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lofree.md) - [Ultra Slim Carbon Keyboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lofree-edge.md) - [Crystal Clear Mechanical Keyboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/1-lost-in-desire.md) - [Two-Piece Mechanical Keyboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nocfree-lite-1.md)