Over the past couple of years, I’ve reviewed and tested a lot of keyboards but the most unusual mechanical keyboard has just pitched up on my desk in the form of the Misty version of Lofree’s 1% series of keyboards. This mechanical 68-key layout has a full row of function keys that can double as multimedia keys. There are modifier keys for Windows and macOS.
Housed in an alluring frosted and semi-transparent casing, the Misty features fully frosted keycaps which are superb for allowing the white RGB backlighting of this keyboard to shine through completely. What’s more, the legends on the keycaps are the largest I think I’ve ever seen and, for that reason, I think the Misty would make a great keyboard for older people who may have visual impairments.
Along with its smart frosted finish, the Lofree Misty features hot-swappable mechanical switches and a layer of Poron that makes the keyboard silent and solid. The white LED backlights add to the keyboard’s attraction. It isn’t a keyboard that will appeal to everyone but it does grow on you and is a dream to type on.
The hot-swappable switches enable the Misty keyboard to be further customized with switches that have a different travel distance, sound and tactile feedback. The switches can be changed without the need for soldering or desoldering.
A Poron Silencing layer under the switches is very effective at absorbing the energy from the keystrokes, ensuring the typing experience is soft, smooth and accurate. The Misty is one of the best keyboards I’ve come across for keycap pitch and accuracy. It just works.
The switches that are installed by Lofree at the factory are pre-lubed Kailh Jellyfish switches which deliver an ultra-smooth action that’s exceptionally quiet. The low noise level is ideal if you’re working in a quiet office or a reception area where the clack of keys could get on people’s nerves. The switches have a transparent stem and gold-plated spring which ensures the low noise and maximum rebound.
The keycaps supplied with Misty have been pad printed before being given a UV coating for longevity. The protective coat also resists oil from fingerprints and should resist fading, even if the keyboard is subjected to sunlight.
There are two ways of connecting the Lofree Misty keyboard. There’s Bluetooth connectivity or a USB Type-C cable. The keyboard can be paired with up to three Bluetooth devices or switched over to wired use for the lowest latency levels when gaming. Support for N-Key Rollover ensures that no matter how many keys you press, they will always be recorded for fast typists and accurate results.
Verdict: The Lofree Misty 1% is a beautiful keyboard with an ethereal transparent quality that comes to life when the three levels of white LED backlights are turned on. There’s a full row of function/multimedia keys and the Misty works with a wide range of operating systems including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android and Chrome. As I said, besides looking cool, the Misty would make an excellent keyboard for older folk who may struggle with their eyesight. The combination of large keycap legends and the transparency with LED backlights makes it easy and accurate to type on. Recommended.
Pricing & Availability: The Lofree Misty 1% is available from the Lofree website and is priced at $239 / £187.65.
More info: lofree.co
Tech Specs:
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.1 / USB Type-C.
- Dimensions: 306 x 144 x 30.6mm.
- Weight: 812g.
- Layout: 68 keys.
- Switches: Kailh MX Jellyfish pre-lubed.
- LED backlight: Singular White LED.
- Battery capacity: 2000mAh.
- Charge time: 3 hours.
- Work time: 60 hours (LED on).
- Support: Windows, MacOS/iOS and Android.
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