Compare Keychron Q12 vs Lofree Block 98 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for users deciding between a high-end, wired custom keyboard and a more accessible wireless model. The Keychron Q12 offers a unique southpaw layout and full metal construction aimed at enthusiasts, while the Lofree Block 98 provides triple-mode connectivity and a retro design. The decision hinges on prioritizing build materials and programmability versus wireless freedom and style.

Model
	95	63	Select a keyboard to compare
Rating	4.5 stars (18 reviews)	0.0 stars (0 reviews)
Purchase Options
Main differences	Has Linear, Tactile, Clicky switch options Available in a 96% layout Built with the ANSI, ISO layout standard Offers Southpaw ergonomics Provides dedicated media keys Supports QMK firmware Supports VIA configuration Includes screw-in stabilizers Supports Wired, Wired only connectivity Runs at a 1000 Hz polling rate Weighs about 2491 g Sized at 20 x 145 x 409 mm Made with a Aluminum case Offers Yes, Rgb, South-face, Rgb South-face RGB lighting	Has Linear switch options Available in a 98% layout Built with the ANSI layout standard Offers Normal ergonomics Features N-key rollover Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless connectivity Equipped with a 2000 mAh battery Weighs about 1090 g Sized at 41 x 387 x 165 mm Made with a ABS, Plastic, PBT case Offers Yes, White RGB lighting
Score	Scores Performance: 73.1 Build Quality: 89.5 Productivity: 97.8 Customizability: 100 Portability: 46.3	Scores Performance: 54.3 Build Quality: 51.6 Productivity: 84 Customizability: 61 Portability: 56.5
Name	Name Keychron Q12	Name Lofree Block 98
Release year	Release year 2023	Release year 2023
Switch Options	Switch Options Linear, Tactile, Clicky	Switch Options Linear
Profile	Profile Normal Profile	Profile Normal Profile
Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable	Hot Swappable
Layout Size	Layout Size 96%	Layout Size 98%
Layout Standard	Layout Standard ANSI, ISO	Layout Standard ANSI
Layout Ergonomics	Layout Ergonomics Southpaw	Layout Ergonomics Normal
Knob Support	Knob Support	Knob Support
Display Support	Display Support	Display Support
Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support	Mac/Win Support
Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys	Multi-Media Keys
USB-C	USB-C	USB-C
USB passthrough	USB passthrough	USB passthrough
Connection	Connection Wired, Wired only	Connection Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless
Polling Rate	Polling Rate 1000 Hz	Polling Rate -
Battery capacity	Battery capacity -	Battery capacity 2000 mAh
Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support	Hall Effect Support
QMK Support	QMK Support	QMK Support
VIA Support	VIA Support	VIA Support
VIAL Support	VIAL Support	VIAL Support
N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover	N-Key Rollover
Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger	Rapid Trigger
Mount Style	Mount Style Gasket Mount	Mount Style Gasket Mount
Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers	Screw in Stabilizers
Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening	Sound Dampening
Backlight	Backlight Rgb, South-face	Backlight White
Case Colors	Case Colors	Case Colors
Case Material	Case Material Aluminum	Case Material ABS, Plastic, PBT
Keycaps Material	Keycaps Material PBT	Keycaps Material PBT
Dimensions	Dimensions 20 x 145 x 409 mm	Dimensions 41 x 387 x 165 mm
Weight	Weight 2491g	Weight 1090g

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Pros and Trade-offs

Select the Keychron Q12 if you want a durable, heirloom-quality keyboard for a stationary setup and value deep customization, unique ergonomics, and a metal build. Opt for the Lofree Block 98 if wireless operation, a lighter weight, and a specific retro style are your primary concerns for a more portable, plug-and-play experience.

Keychron Q12

+Full CNC-machined aluminum case for a premium, solid feel.
+Unique southpaw (left-side) numpad layout improves mouse ergonomics.
+Extensive customization via QMK/VIA firmware and hot-swap sockets.
+Includes sound-dampening features like a double gasket design and silicone pads.
+Offers both ANSI and ISO layout variants.

−Wired-only connectivity limits placement and cable management.
−Very heavy at 2.5kg, making it difficult to move.
−Southpaw layout requires an adjustment period for most users.

Lofree Block 98

+Triple-mode connectivity with Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz, and wired USB-C.
+Distinctive retro aesthetic with a beige colorway and visual status panel.
+Lighter weight and includes a built-in 2000mAh battery.
+Features a quadruple sound-absorbing structure with Poron foam and silicone pads.
+Pre-built and ready to use out of the box.

−Case is made of ABS plastic, not metal.
−Limited to linear switch options and white LED backlighting only.
−Lacks advanced programmability like QMK or VIA support.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Keychron Q12 is the clear choice for gaming, programming, and modding due to its performance specs, programmability, and enthusiast-focused construction. The Lofree Block 98 wins for office use and travel, leveraging its wireless connectivity and lighter weight. For content creation, both offer useful knobs, making it a tie dependent on whether you value macros or wireless flexibility more.

GamingKeychron Q12

•The Keychron Q12 has a specified 1000 Hz polling rate for lower latency.
•Its southpaw layout frees up desk space on the right for mouse movement.
•The vendor description states its latency is 'hardly noticeable even in competitive games'.

OfficeLofree Block 98

•The Lofree Block 98 offers Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity for a cleaner desk.
•Its 98% layout retains a numpad and navigation keys in a standard right-side position.
•The manufacturer lists compatibility with macOS, Windows, iOS, and Android.

ProgrammingKeychron Q12

•The Keychron Q12 supports QMK and VIA for deep key remapping and macro programming.
•Its southpaw numpad can be used for macros while keeping the mouse hand free.
•It offers both ANSI and ISO layout options for international users.

TravelLofree Block 98

•The Lofree Block 98 is significantly lighter at 1090g compared to the Q12's 2491g.
•Its wireless functionality removes the need to carry or connect a cable.
•It has a built-in 2000mAh battery.

ModdingKeychron Q12

•The Keychron Q12 has a hot-swappable PCB, screw-in stabilizers, and a steel plate.
•Its vendor description details a double gasket design, silicone pads, and foam for sound tuning.
•It is available as a DIY barebones kit without switches or keycaps.

Content CreationTie

•Both keyboards feature a programmable knob for controlling volume or brush size.
•The Q12's QMK support allows for extensive workflow macros.
•The Block 98's wireless design offers flexibility for use with tablets or secondary devices.