The EDGE is an ultra-slim wireless mechanical keyboard from manufacturer Lofree. A company that has built its brand on unique and innovative design, Lofree has pulled out all the stops with the introduction of the EDGE. With a beautifully thin profile, Kailh POM mechanical switches, customizable keymapping and multiplatform support, the EDGE aims to offer a streamlined, high-quality option for professionals.
The EDGE features a beautiful and unique top plate with a beautifully patterned finish. Measuring only 5.4mm thick at its thinnest point and weighing only 485g, the EDGE feels exceptionally solid thanks to the MG alloy (a mixture of magnesium and typically aluminum) backplate. The underside of the EDGE features two kick-stand feet that offer two resting positions for the keyboard. Rubber pads keep the keyboard firmly in place while typing.
The top edge houses the USB Type C charging port and the mode switch. The only other marking present is an imprinted Lofree Logo nestled in the top right corner of the EDGE. The design is intentionally minimalistic while still offering a sleek, professional appeal.
As for the internal construction, Lofree has designed the EDGE to achieve two goals. Thanks to the Kailh POM mechanical switches, the EDGE aims to provide a mechanical keyboard experience. However, thanks to the low profile design of the Kailh switches and a three-layer inner structure designed to reduce the noise produced from typing dramatically, the EDGE is also incredibly quiet.
“…the EDGE’s switches have a reduced thickness of only 9.8mm which is impressively thin when compared to standard mechanical switches which average a thickness of 18.5mm.”
The three-layer structure is comprised of a positioning plate, a silicon pad and an IPXE foam plate. The idea is to dampen the noise through these three layers aiming to reduce the overall audible sound produced from keystrokes. Thanks especially to the silicon pad and IPXE foam (used for acoustic dampening in multiple applications) the result is an exceptionally quiet typing experience, especially considering the mechanical switches.
Speaking of switches, Lofree has opted for Kailh POM Switch 2.0 with a shortened keystroke travel distance of only 2.4mm. This translates to quicker response times on keystroke. Additionally, the EDGE’s switches have a reduced thickness of only 9.8mm which is impressively thin when compared to standard mechanical switches which average a thickness of 18.5mm. It’s an impressive feat, to say the least.
The keycaps are comprised of PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) which is an exceptionally durable polymer. When applied to keycaps, the result is a more durable and longer-lasting cap. Additionally, PBT offers a nice, slightly rougher texture when typing which, at least as a personal preference feels nice to type on for long periods.
As for the typing experience, the EDGE once again shines. The EDGE manages to maintain a balance of a smooth, quiet typing experience while still offering the tactile feedback of a mechanical switch. While in Bluetooth mode there were never any missed keystrokes. The EDGE performed exceptionally well in speed typing tests with no notable latency. For those looking to leverage this low-profile board for gaming, the EDGE supports a 1000Hz polling rate in wired more making it a viable option for both work and play.
Speaking of modes, the EDGE officially supports both Bluetooth and wired mode thanks to the included USB Type C to Type A cable. While in Bluetooth mode the EDGE can be synced to three distinct devices allowing for multiplatform support between Windows and Mac. Thanks to pre-programmed key combos it’s easy to swap active profiles allowing for easy connection between paired systems.
This is perhaps one of the best design elements of the EDGE. It’s built from the ground up to be exceptionally adaptable to whatever situation it is in. From device swapping to pairing to programming keys and macros, the EDGE is designed to handle each with ease. It makes this board exceptionally flexible for a wide variety of uses.
The EDGE is further supported by a 2000mAh battery. This allows for around 40 hours of usage on paper. While I’ve not quite reached 40 hours of use in testing, as of the time of writing the EDGE still has lots of battery life left after a week of daily use. Considering its lightweight and slim design it’s impressive that a 2000mAh battery fits so nicely into the low-profile form factor.
“Priced at 249.99, the EDGE does offer a premium typing experience with an exceptionally thin and lightweight design.”
While everything about the EDGE up to this point has been amazing, there is one area that could still use some refinement. While the EDGE does have backlight support, it is unfortunately not well implemented. For starters, while the keycaps are comprised of PBT, they are not double-shot keycaps, which means that no light can pass through the lettering on each key. This makes it difficult to see the keys in a dimly lit room. It can be a frustrating experience when working at night under lamplight if the light is not near the keyboard.
Additionally, while the backlight is present, even at its brightest setting, it is still quite dim. More than once I had to double-check that the light was turned on because unless looking directly at the EDGE it’s difficult to see. This is a bit of a disappointment considering how many things the EDGE does well.
The EDGE wireless mechanical keyboard from Lofree is a sleek, ultra-thin keyboard that offers all of the functions and tactile experience of a mechanical board while also providing a smooth, quiet typing experience. From design to build the EDGE does a lot of things right. With multiplatform support, keymapping and multiple connection modes there is a lot to love here. Poor backlighting holds the EDGE back from being perfect but despite this small critique the EDGE from Lofree is an impressive keyboard worth considering.
Having just completed a successful Kickstarter Campaign, the EDGE will be available for purchase in July 2024. Priced at 249.99, the EDGE does offer a premium typing experience with an exceptionally thin and lightweight design. Head over to the official site for more information.
