'low-tech' originates from the combination of 'low' and 'technology', where 'low' meant 'not high or advanced' and 'technology' referred to 'the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes'.

'low-tech' evolved from the phrase 'low technology', which was used to describe simpler forms of technology in contrast to 'high technology'.

Initially, it meant 'simple or traditional technology', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.