1. Introduction
The SKYLOONG GK61 is an advanced 60% QMK/VIA programmable wired mechanical keyboard designed for both gaming and office use. It features a hot-swappable PCB, vibrant 16.8 million color RGB backlighting, and durable PBT double-shot keycaps. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, customizing, and maintaining your GK61 keyboard.
2. Package Contents
Please check the box for the following items:
- 1 x SKYLOONG GK61 60% QMK/VIA Keyboard
- 1 x 2-in-1 Keycap & Switch Puller
- 1 x USB-C Cable (1.5m)
- 1 x User Manual
- Spare Keycaps (if included with your specific model)
- Spare Switches (if included with your specific model)
- Satellite Switch (if included with your specific model)
3. Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Model | GK61 |
| Item Type | Wired Mechanical Keyboard |
| Material | ABS/PBT |
| Keys | 61 keys |
| Keyboard Standard | 61 Keys |
| Operation Style | Mechanical |
| Backlight Type | 16.8 Million RGB (Multicolor) |
| Interface Type | USB-C |
| USB-C Cable Length | 1.5m |
| Hot Swap | Yes |
| Keycup Material | PBT plastic |
| Keycup Printing | Doublshot |
| Switches Manufacturer | skyloong |
| Application | Desktop |
| Language | English |
| Origin | Mainland China |
| Certification | CE, FCC |
| Full Size Keyboard | No |
| Wrist Support | No |
| Battery Included | No |
Switch Specifications (Example: Rose Silver)
| Characteristic | Value |
|---|---|
| Switch Type | Linear switch |
| Operating Force | 45 ± 5gf |
| Pre-Travel | 1.2 ± 0.4mm |
| Total Stroke | 3.5 ± 0.3mm |
| Keystroke Lifespan | 50 million |
4. Setup
4.1 Connecting the Keyboard
- Unpack the GK61 keyboard and the USB-C cable from the box.
- Connect one end of the USB-C cable to the USB-C port on the keyboard.
- Connect the other end of the USB-C cable to an available USB port on your computer (PC or Mac).
- The keyboard will automatically be recognized by your operating system.
4.2 Initial Power On
Upon successful connection, the keyboard's RGB backlighting will illuminate, indicating it is powered on and ready for use.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Basic Key Functions
The GK61 is a 60% keyboard, meaning some functions are accessed via the 'FN' key combination. The keycap characters are for reference only; the FN additional functions are triggered by combining the FN key with other keys.
5.2 Backlight Settings
Adjust the keyboard's RGB backlighting using the following FN key combinations:
- FN + <: Decrease Backlight Brightness
- FN + >: Increase Backlight Brightness
- FN + \ |: Toggle Backlight ON/OFF
- FN + [{: Previous Backlight Effect (Monochrome versions)
- FN + ]}: Next Backlight Effect (Monochrome versions)
- FN + ;:: Decrease Backlight Effect Speed
- FN + '": Increase Backlight Effect Speed
Video 5.1: RGB Lighting Demonstration
5.3 Mode Function Settings (Win/Mac)
The keyboard supports both Windows and Mac operating systems. Use the following combinations to switch modes and access specific functions:
Windows Mode Functions:
- FN + 1 to FN + 12: F1 to F12 functions
- FN + Esc: Alt
- FN + Shift + Esc: Delete
- FN + Backspace: Delete
- FN + W: Switch to Windows mode
- FN + E: Switch to Mac mode
Mac Mode Functions:
- FN + 1: Screen brightness - for Mac
- FN + 2: Screen brightness + for Mac
- FN + 3: Mission Control for Mac
- FN + 4: Launchpad for Mac
- FN + 5: One-click call Siri
- FN + 6: Hibernate
- FN + 7: Previous Track
- FN + 8: Play/Pause
- FN + 9: Next Track
- FN + 0: Mute
- FN + -: Volume -
- FN + =: Volume +
5.4 Tap-Hold Function
The GK61 features a customizable Tap-Hold function, particularly useful for arrow keys on a 60% layout:
- Short Press: Functions as Arrow Keys (Up, Down, Left, Right).
- Long Press: Functions as Shift, FN, Menu, or Ctrl, depending on the key.
These Tap-Hold keys can be arbitrarily set to your most commonly used key or key combination function via VIA software.
5.5 QMK/VIA Programming
The GK61 keyboard is fully programmable with QMK/VIA firmware, offering extensive customization options for key remapping, macros, and lighting effects.
- Access VIA Software: Visit http://www.usevia.app/ to use the web-based VIA configurator.
- Download JSON File: If VIA cannot recognize your keyboard, you may need to download the corresponding keyboard JSON file. You can find it at: https://github.com/JZ-Skyloong/VIA_keyboards/tree/gk61_pro_ds/v3/skyloong/gk61/pro_ds. Load this JSON file into the VIA software.
- Customize: Intuitively remap your favorite keys, create macros, and define custom backlighting effects across different layers for both Windows and Mac operating systems.
5.6 Hot-Swappable Switches
The GK61 features a hot-swappable PCB, allowing you to easily change mechanical switches without soldering. This provides flexibility to customize your typing experience.
- Compatibility: The hot-swappable sockets are compatible with almost all MX style 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches on the market.
- Switch Replacement: Use the provided 2-in-1 switch puller to carefully remove existing switches and insert new ones. Ensure the pins of the new switch are aligned correctly before pressing it into the socket.
5.7 PBT Double-Shot Keycaps
The GK61 comes with PBT double-shot keycaps, known for their durability and resistance to shine. The double-shot molding process ensures that legends will not fade over time and allows RGB backlighting to shine through clearly.
6. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your GK61 keyboard, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Cleaning Keycaps: Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe down the keycaps. For deeper cleaning, remove the keycaps using the provided puller and wash them with mild soap and water. Ensure they are completely dry before reattaching.
- Cleaning the Case: Wipe the keyboard case with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
- Dust Removal: Use compressed air to remove dust and debris from between the keycaps and switches.
- Cable Care: Avoid sharp bends or kinks in the USB-C cable to prevent damage.
7. Troubleshooting
7.1 Factory Reset
If you experience unexpected behavior or wish to revert all settings to default, perform a factory reset:
- Unplug the USB-C cable from the keyboard.
- Press and hold the ESC key.
- While holding the ESC key, plug the USB-C cable back into the keyboard.
- Hold the ESC key for approximately 5 seconds. The keyboard will reset to factory mode.
- Re-insert the USB cable to enter normal working mode.
7.2 Firmware Update
To update the keyboard's firmware:
- Hold down the ESC key while inserting the USB cable, or press the RESET button on the keyboard (located on the PCB, refer to Figure 5.6 for general location).
- The keyboard will enter BOOT mode, indicated by a flashing indicator light.
- Open
qmk_toolbox.exeon your computer. - Select the corresponding firmware file.
- Click 'Flash' to update the firmware.
7.3 VIA Software Not Recognizing Keyboard
If the VIA software (http://www.usevia.app/) does not recognize your GK61 keyboard:
- Ensure your keyboard is connected and in the correct mode (Windows or Mac).
- Download the specific keyboard JSON file for your GK61 model from the official GitHub repository: https://github.com/JZ-Skyloong/VIA_keyboards/tree/gk61_pro_ds/v3/skyloong/gk61/pro_ds.
- Load this JSON file into the VIA software.
8. User Tips
- Experiment with Customization: The QMK/VIA compatibility offers immense flexibility. Don't hesitate to experiment with different key mappings and macros to optimize your workflow or gaming experience.
- Try Different Switches: Since the keyboard is hot-swappable, consider trying different switch types (linear, tactile, clicky) to find your preferred typing feel.
- Layer Management: Utilize the multiple programmable layers in VIA to create distinct layouts for different applications or games.
9. Warranty & Support
For detailed warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official user manual PDF or contact the seller directly. The user manual (PDF) can be found at: https://manuals.plus/m/d818277cf9fc5f04f0e858c7da390ad6d9fa5722174f7e86976b5799c8a48fa0.
