What is the difference between "low profile" and "low profile ready" in expansion cards?

Solution 1:

Low Profile cards are usually half the height of regular cards and come with a small bracket that doesn't fit into a standard slot, you need a specific slot.

Low Profile ready cards come with a smaller bracket as well, so you can choose to install it on a regular or low-profile system.

The latter is best if you are unsure and want flexibility in the future.

Solution 2:

Never heard of this distinction but I would read it as follow:

• "Low profile" is a card small enough to fit a low-profile case, including the bracket at the back.

• "Low profile ready" is a card small enough to fit a low-profile case, but the bracket at the back has a regular size (for ATX cases) but it can be swapped for a low-profile bracket.