Manuals+

Keychron K8P-G1

Keychron K8 Pro Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard User Manual

Model: K8P-G1

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the Keychron K8 Pro Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard. The K8 Pro is a QMK/VIA enabled, hot-swappable, tenkeyless mechanical keyboard designed for compatibility with Mac, Windows, and Linux operating systems. It supports both wireless (Bluetooth 5.1) and wired (USB Type-C) connectivity, offering a versatile and customizable typing experience.

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your Keychron K8 Pro package:

  • 1x Fully Assembled Keyboard (including PCB, Steel Plate, Sound Absorbing Foam)
  • 1x Silicone Bottom Pad
  • 5 Sets of Stabilizers (PCB Screw-In)
  • 1 set x Keycaps (Double-Shot PBT)
  • 1 set x Switches (Gateron G Pro Red)
  • 1x Type-A to Type-C Cable
  • 1x Switch Puller
  • 1x Keycap Puller
  • 1x Screwdriver
  • Keycaps for both Windows and macOS layouts
Diagram showing the Keychron K8 Pro keyboard and its included accessories: USB-C cable, switch puller, keycap puller, and screwdriver.
Image: Keychron K8 Pro Package Contents. This image displays the keyboard along with the USB-C cable, switch puller, keycap puller, screwdriver, and additional keycaps for different operating systems.

3. Setup

3.1 Initial Charging

Before first use, connect the keyboard to a power source using the provided USB Type-C cable to ensure it is fully charged. The battery indicator will show charging status.

3.2 Connectivity Modes

The K8 Pro supports both wireless Bluetooth and wired USB-C connections.

Keychron K8 Pro keyboard connected wirelessly to a desktop monitor, a tablet, and a smartphone, illustrating multi-device support.
Image: Supports Wireless and Wired Modes. The keyboard is shown connected to multiple devices, highlighting its versatile connectivity options.

3.2.1 Bluetooth Connection

  1. Locate the mode switch on the side of the keyboard.
  2. Slide the switch to the 'Bluetooth' position.
  3. On your device (laptop, phone, tablet), enable Bluetooth and search for available devices.
  4. Select 'Keychron K8 Pro' from the list to pair.
  5. The keyboard can connect to up to 3 devices. Use Fn + 1, Fn + 2, or Fn + 3 to switch between paired devices.

3.2.2 Wired USB-C Connection

  1. Locate the mode switch on the side of the keyboard.
  2. Slide the switch to the 'Cable' position.
  3. Connect the provided USB Type-C cable from the keyboard to your computer's USB port.

3.3 Operating System Layout Switch

The K8 Pro features a switch to toggle between Mac and Windows layouts, ensuring full compatibility with your operating system.

Side view of the Keychron K8 Pro keyboard showing the physical switch for Mac/Windows layout and the USB-C port.
Image: Switch Layouts Between Mac & Windows. This image shows the physical switch on the side of the keyboard used to select the operating system layout.
  1. Locate the OS switch on the side of the keyboard.
  2. Slide the switch to the appropriate position for your operating system (Mac or Windows).

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Basic Key Functions

The K8 Pro is a tenkeyless keyboard with standard alphanumeric keys, function row (F1-F12), and navigation keys. Specific multimedia and function keys can be accessed using the 'Fn' key in combination with other keys.

4.2 Backlight Control

The K8 Pro features a white backlight. Use the dedicated backlight key (often located near the top right) or Fn + specific keys to cycle through backlight effects and adjust brightness levels.

4.3 Ergonomic Angle Adjustment

The keyboard includes adjustable feet to set your preferred typing angle.

Close-up of the adjustable feet on the Keychron K8 Pro keyboard, showing them extended to create an ergonomic angle.
Image: Ergonomic Angle Design. This image highlights the adjustable feet that allow users to customize the keyboard's tilt for comfort.

5. Customization

5.1 QMK/VIA Programmability

The Keychron K8 Pro supports QMK/VIA, allowing users to remap keys, create macros, and customize keyboard layers. This functionality is accessible via the VIA software.

Screenshot of the VIA software interface showing the Keychron K8 Pro keyboard layout and options for remapping keys and creating macros.
Image: Fully Customizable Keyboard. The VIA software interface is displayed, demonstrating the ability to remap keys and create macro commands.

To use VIA:

  1. Download the VIA software from the official Keychron website.
  2. Connect the K8 Pro to your device using the USB-C cable. Key remapping is performed in wired mode.
  3. Launch the VIA software. The keyboard should be automatically detected.
  4. Drag and drop desired keys or macro commands to remap any key. Changes are saved to the keyboard's firmware and will function in both wired and wireless modes.

5.2 Hot-swappable Switches

The K8 Pro features hot-swappable switch sockets, allowing you to change mechanical switches without soldering. It is compatible with most 3-pin and 5-pin MX mechanical switches.

Close-up of the Keychron K8 Pro keyboard with several keycaps and switches removed, revealing the hot-swappable sockets and different colored switches.
Image: Hot-swappable Switches. This image shows the keyboard's PCB with switches removed and different switch types ready for installation.
An isolated image of a Gateron G Pro Red mechanical switch, showing its transparent housing and red stem.
Image: Gateron G Pro Red Switch. A detailed view of the pre-lubed Gateron G Pro Red mechanical switch, which provides a linear typing experience.

To replace switches:

  1. Use the provided keycap puller to carefully remove the desired keycap.
  2. Use the provided switch puller to gently grasp and pull the switch upwards from its socket.
  3. Align the pins of the new switch with the holes on the PCB and press down firmly until it clicks into place. Ensure pins are not bent.
  4. Reattach the keycap.

5.3 Double-Shot PBT Keycaps

The K8 Pro comes with durable double-shot PBT keycaps, designed for enhanced feel and oil resistance.

Close-up view of the Keychron K8 Pro's double-shot PBT keycaps, highlighting their texture and legend clarity.
Image: Double-Shot PBT Keycaps. A close-up shot of the keyboard's keycaps, emphasizing their durable construction and clear legends.

6. Maintenance

6.1 Cleaning

To clean the keyboard, power it off and disconnect it from any devices. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the keycaps and chassis. For deeper cleaning, keycaps can be removed using the provided keycap puller and cleaned with a mild solution. Ensure all parts are completely dry before reassembly and use.

6.2 Battery Care

The K8 Pro is equipped with a 4000 mAh lithium-ion battery. To prolong battery life, avoid fully discharging the keyboard frequently and store it in a cool, dry place when not in use for extended periods.

7. Troubleshooting

7.1 Connectivity Issues

  • Bluetooth not connecting: Ensure the keyboard is in Bluetooth mode and discoverable. Remove previous pairings from your device and try pairing again. Ensure the keyboard battery is charged.
  • Wired connection not working: Verify the USB-C cable is securely connected to both the keyboard and the computer. Ensure the keyboard is switched to 'Cable' mode. Try a different USB port or cable.

7.2 Key Programming Issues (VIA)

  • VIA software not detecting keyboard: Ensure the keyboard is connected via USB-C cable and the OS switch is set correctly. Restart the VIA software and/or your computer.
  • Remapped keys not working: Confirm that the changes were successfully saved in VIA. Remember that key remapping must be done in wired mode.

7.3 Backlight Visibility

The K8 Pro features south-facing LEDs. While this design offers compatibility with a wider range of custom keycaps, it may result in less illumination of keycap legends compared to keyboards with north-facing LEDs, especially in low-light conditions. This is a design characteristic and not a defect.

7.4 Physical Fit/Feel

Some users may experience the keyboard's frame being slightly higher than the keycaps, potentially affecting the feel of certain keys like the spacebar. This is part of the keyboard's design and construction.

8. Specifications

Product Dimensions13.98 x 4.84 x 1.55 inches
Item Weight3.41 pounds
ManufacturerKeychron
Item Model NumberK8P-G1
Batteries1 Lithium Ion battery required (4000 mAh)
Compatible DevicesLaptop, PC, Smartphone, Tablet
Connectivity TechnologyBluetooth 5.1, USB-C
Keyboard DescriptionMechanical, Tenkeyless
Recommended UsesGaming, Office
Special FeaturesWireless, Bluetooth, Wired, White Backlighting, QMK/VIA, Hot-swappable
Switch TypeGateron G Pro Red Switch

9. Warranty and Support

Keychron products are covered by a manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty terms, duration, and to access technical support, please visit the official Keychron website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

For further assistance, please refer to the official Keychron support resources:

  • Keychron Official Website: www.keychron.com
  • Support Page: Consult the support section on the Keychron website for FAQs, firmware updates, and contact information.

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