Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Keychron K4 Wireless Bluetooth/USB Wired Gaming Mechanical Keyboard. Designed for peak productivity and a tactile typing experience, the K4 features a compact 96% layout with 100 keys, RGB LED backlighting, and Gateron Brown switches. It offers versatile connectivity options for Mac and Windows users.
Figure 1: Top-down view of the Keychron K4 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard.
Key Features
- Compact 96% Layout (100-key): Includes a number pad in a compact design for enhanced productivity.
- Dual Connectivity: Seamlessly switch between Bluetooth (up to 3 devices) and USB Type-C wired modes.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Designed for Mac layout with all necessary function keys, also fully compatible with Windows. Extra keycaps for both OS are included.
- Long-lasting Battery: Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery, offering up to 72 hours of typing or 7 days of normal use.
- RGB LED Backlighting: Features enchanting RGB backlight with modern keycap legends and 15+ types of flashing light modes.
- Durable Gateron Mechanical Switches: Gateron Brown switches provide tactile responsiveness with a 50 million keystroke lifespan.
- N-Key Rollover (NKRO): Full NKRO in wired mode and 6KRO in wireless mode for precise input.
Figure 2: Overview of Keychron K4 Version 2 features including 96% layout, wireless/wired, aluminum body, Gateron switches, Mac & Windows compatibility, RGB backlight, and multi-device connection.
Setup Guide
Package Contents
- Keychron K4 Mechanical Keyboard
- USB Cable
- Keycap Puller
- Extra Keycaps for Windows/Mac
Initial Setup & Charging
Before first use, it is recommended to fully charge the keyboard using the provided USB Type-C cable. Connect the cable to the keyboard's USB-C port and to a power source (e.g., computer USB port, USB wall adapter).
Figure 3: Side view of the keyboard highlighting the USB-C port and mode switches.
Connectivity
The Keychron K4 offers both wireless (Bluetooth) and wired (USB-C) connectivity options.
Switching Modes (Bluetooth/Off/Cable)
On the side of the keyboard, locate the mode switch. Slide it to your desired mode:
- Bluetooth: For wireless connection.
- OFF: To power off the keyboard.
- Cable: For wired USB-C connection.
Bluetooth Pairing
- Ensure the mode switch is set to "Bluetooth".
- On your device (computer, smartphone, tablet), enable Bluetooth and search for available devices.
- On the Keychron K4, press and hold the Fn key along with either 1, 2, or 3 for 4 seconds to enter pairing mode. The corresponding key's backlight will flash rapidly.
- Select "Keychron K4" from your device's Bluetooth list to complete pairing. The backlight will stop flashing once connected.
- To switch between paired devices, simply press Fn + 1, 2, or 3.
Figure 4: The Keychron K4 supports connecting to up to 3 devices simultaneously via Bluetooth.
Operating System Mode (Win/Android/Mac/iOS)
On the side of the keyboard, there is another switch to select the operating system mode:
- Win/Android: For Windows and Android devices.
- Mac/iOS: For macOS and iOS devices.
Ensure this switch matches your device's operating system for correct key functionality.
Operating Instructions
Key Layout and Functions
The Keychron K4 features a 96% layout, providing a compact form factor while retaining essential keys including a numeric keypad.
Function Keys (F1-F12)
The top row of keys (F1-F12) serve dual purposes. By default, they act as multimedia and system control keys. To use them as standard F1-F12 keys, press Fn + F1, F2, etc.
Gateron G Pro Switch Features
The Keychron K4 comes with Gateron Brown mechanical switches, offering a tactile typing experience. Below is a table detailing the characteristics of different Gateron G Pro switches:
| Operating force | Pre-travel | Travel distance | Behavior | Pre-lubed | Sound level | Suitable for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red | 45 ±15gf | 2 ±0.6mm | 4 ±0.4mm | Linear | Yes | Quiet | Office/gaming |
| Blue | 60 ±15gf | 2.3 ±0.6mm | 4 ±0.4mm | Clicky | - | Clicky | Typist |
| Brown | 55 ±15gf | 2 ±0.6mm | 4 ±0.4mm | Tactile | Yes | Gentle | Midway Office/gaming |
Figure 5: Gateron G Pro Mechanical Switch Features.
Backlight Control
The K4 offers over 15 types of RGB backlight effects. To cycle through the different lighting modes, press the dedicated light bulb key located in the top right corner of the keyboard.
Figure 6: Close-up view of the RGB LED backlighting on the Keychron K4 keyboard.
Ergonomic Design
The keyboard features an inclined bottom frame and adjustable feet (6° and 9°) to provide a comfortable typing angle, reducing strain during long typing sessions.
Figure 7: Adjustable feet on the Keychron K4 keyboard for ergonomic typing.
Official Product Video: Keychron K4 V2 Review
This video provides a comprehensive review of the Keychron K4 V2, covering its features, connectivity options, switch types, and overall user experience. It demonstrates the keyboard's layout, function keys, and various lighting effects.
Maintenance
Cleaning
To clean your keyboard, power it off and disconnect it from any power source. Use a soft, lint-free cloth slightly dampened with water or a mild cleaning solution. Avoid spraying liquids directly onto the keyboard. For keycaps, you can use the included keycap puller to remove them for deeper cleaning.
Switch Replacement (Hot-Swappable)
The Keychron K4 features hot-swappable Gateron switches, allowing you to change switches without soldering. Use a switch puller (not included) to carefully remove existing switches and insert new compatible 3-pin or 5-pin mechanical switches.
Troubleshooting
Connectivity Issues
- Bluetooth not connecting: Ensure the keyboard is in Bluetooth mode and fully charged. Try re-pairing the device by holding Fn + 1/2/3 for 4 seconds. Ensure your device's Bluetooth is on and discoverable.
- Wired connection not working: Check if the USB-C cable is securely connected to both the keyboard and your computer. Ensure the keyboard is set to "Cable" mode.
- Delay in waking up from sleep: Some users may experience a slight delay when the keyboard wakes up from sleep mode before reconnecting to the computer. This is generally normal behavior.
Backlight Issues
- Backlight not turning on: Ensure the keyboard is powered on and charged. Press the light bulb key to cycle through modes or adjust brightness.
- Inconsistent lighting: This could be due to low battery. Charge the keyboard fully.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 14.8"L x 5.08"W x 1.5"H |
| Item Weight | 2.07 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Keychron |
| ASIN | B08LYMDYV9 |
| Item Model Number | K4C3 |
| Batteries | 1 Lithium Polymer batteries required (included) |
| Compatible Devices | Laptop, Smartphone |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired, Wireless (Bluetooth) |
| Keyboard Description | Mechanical |
| Special Feature | Wireless, Bluetooth, Lighting |
| Color | Gateron Brown Switch (RGB) |
| Number of Keys | 99 (100-key layout) |
| Keyboard Backlighting Color Support | RGB |
| Style | Modern |
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and detailed support, please refer to the official Keychron website or contact Keychron customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.
