Summary
A keyboardcan easily make or break your gaming experience. Gaming keyboards have improved dramatically in terms of aesthetics and performance over the last couple of years. Despite all this change, there is still quite a lot of hate for low-profile keyboards in the gaming world. Gamers have every right to be wary of low-profile keyboards of the past, but now, withmechanical optionsfrom brands like huge gaming brands likeLogitechand lesser-known brands likeLofree, just because the keyboard is low profile doesn’t mean it will be a mushy mess to use.
If you have never had an excellent low-profile mechanical keyboard before, this might sound a bit wild, but with the suitable model and switches, some of these low-profile keyboards can be just as nice to use as full-height gaming keyboards.
Put Less Strain on Your Wrists
One reason low-profile keyboards have become mainstream, especially in the mechanical keyboard space, is their ergonomic benefits. Pronation and supination are the two main things that cause injury or RSI while using a keyboard; basically, we want our hands to sit in the most neutral position possible while using a keyboard.
Low-profile keyboards cannot put your hands in the same ergonomic position as dedicated ergonomic keyboards, but they offer a nice middle ground between the two that has way less of a learning curve. The lower switches take some getting used to, especially if you switch to something like the Lofree Edge 84, which is just 5.4mm thick. However, it is nowhere near the learning curve that comes with a split or true ergonomic keyboard.
Make Your Desk Look Sleek
Aesthetics aren’t everything, but we all want our gaming setups to look fairly presentable. This is not to say full-height keyboards cannot look sleek or aesthetic, but low-profile keyboards seem to do it so much more effortlessly.
If you are looking for a minimalist gaming setup that isn’t hard to maintain, a low-profile keyboard is definitely the way to go. Whether you go with a more gaming-styled one like the Logitech G915 TKL or something with a bit more utilitarian of a look like the Lofree Flow, your desk will look amazing with a low-profile keyboard on it.
Shorter Travel Distance
One of the biggest performance advantages of low-profile keyboards is the shorter travel distance across the board. Because some of these keyboards are not much thicker than a phone, the travel distance has got to be very short to accommodate the size restrictions.
While this was seen as a disadvantage for some time, now, thanks to better low-profile mechanical switches, it is really hard to complain about the short travel distance, whether you are gaming or typing. Every keystroke can still feel responsive and tactile, even if you are just moving a couple of millimeters to do so. Full-height keyboardsthat feature magnetic switchescan accomplish this short travel distance with the use of customizable actuation points, but sometimes, they don’t feel as tactile as a low-profile keyboard.
Portability
Laptop gamers know the struggle of having to use your laptop keyboard for gaming on the go. It’s not the worst thing in the world, depending on what laptop you have, but even with the best laptop keyboard, a standalone mechanical keyboard offers a way better gaming experience. If you have ever tried to take a full-height keyboard on the go on your back with all your gaming gear, you know how hard it is to transport safely.
A low-profile keyboard, on the other hand, makes it incredibly easy; some of them even come with their own carrying case, so you don’t have to worry about the odd bump or scratch.
Should You Add A Low-Profile Keyboard To Your Gaming Setup?
While we accept that low-profile keyboards are not for every gamer, we think that more people should at least give them a try. At this point, it is hard to deny the excellent style, comfort, and portability they offer without really missing out on any performance compared to their much thicker counterparts.
Keyboards To Check Out
Logitech G915 TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The Logitech G915 TKL Lightspeed is a professional-grade gaming keyboard. It supports Lightspeed wireless connectivity, which delivers a fast connection that is reliable enough for even the most demanding esports gamer. A single charge on the keyboard can last for up to 40 hours
Lofree Flow Mechanical Keyboard
The Lofree Flow is one of the thinnest mechanical keyboards on the market, and the only one that uses full POM Kailh switches. These switches self-lubricate, making them smooth and a joy to type on. The gasket design provides enhanced cushioning, even pressure distribution, and some noise dampening for a thocky typing experience.
Lofree Edge 84
The Lofree Edge 84 is easily one of the thinnest mechanical keyboards on the market, measuring just 5.4mm. This keyboard is about the same thickness as a MacBook Pro, and it feels incredible to type on. The Kalih POM 2.0 linear switches feel even better than the previous lowest-profile keyboard from Lofree, the Flow.
Nuphy Air75 V2
The Nuphy Air75 V2 is a compact wireless 75% keyboard that saves valuable desktop space and excels in productivity tasks, coding, and gaming. This keyboard’s low-profile switches allow for quick and accurate typing and are compatible with various alternative hot-swappable mechanical switches.
Razer DeathStalker V2
The Razer DeathStalker V2 is the wired low-profile high-performance gaming keyboard entry in the Razer lineup. Optical mechanical switches are available on this compact keyboard that provides low actuation quick typing, and a satisfying response to key presses. Laser-etched keycaps are made from an extremely durable blend of plastic that will resist wear and fading over time.
FAQ
Q: Is Lofree worth it?
Lofree has proven to be a worthwhile brand if you are looking for mechanical keyboards. From their low-profile options like the Flow and Edge 84 to their more traditional keyboards like the Gem 80, Lofree makes outstanding keyboards that deliver excellent performance and durable build quality.
Q: Can I use normal keycaps on a low profile keyboard?
While every switch is a bit different, you cannot use standard keycaps on low-profile switches for the most part. Besides not fitting, this will also ruin the advantages the low-profile keyboards provide.
