Keychron K1 Pro QMK/VIA Ultra-Slim Wireless Mechanical Keyboard User Manual

1. Setup

1.1 Package Contents

Before you begin, please ensure all items are present in the package:

• 1x Fully Assembled Keychron K1 Pro Keyboard
• 1x USB Type-A to Type-C Cable
• 1x Keycap Puller
• Additional Keycaps for Windows/macOS (LSA profile, Double-Shot PBT)

Image: Keychron K1 Pro keyboard with its accessories, including the USB-C cable, keycap puller, and alternative keycaps.

1.2 Initial Connection and Charging

The Keychron K1 Pro supports both wired and wireless connectivity.

1. Wired Connection: Connect the provided USB Type-A to Type-C cable from your computer to the keyboard's USB-C port. The keyboard will automatically switch to wired mode and begin charging.
2. Wireless (Bluetooth) Connection:
   • Locate the toggle switches on the side of the keyboard.
   • Set the connection mode switch to 'Bluetooth'.
   • On your device (computer, tablet, phone), enable Bluetooth and search for new devices.
   • Select 'Keychron K1 Pro' from the list of available devices to pair. The keyboard can connect to up to 3 devices wirelessly.

Image: Side view of the Keychron K1 Pro, highlighting the physical switches for connection mode (Bluetooth, Off, Cable) and operating system layout (Windows/Android, Mac/iOS).

1.3 Operating System Mode Selection

The K1 Pro is compatible with Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS devices. Use the OS mode switch located on the side of the keyboard to select the appropriate layout for your operating system.

• Mac/iOS Mode: For Apple devices.
• Win/Android Mode: For Windows, Linux, and Android devices.

This switch adjusts the key mapping to match the standard layout of your chosen operating system.

2. Operating Instructions

2.1 Basic Typing and Ergonomics

The K1 Pro features an 80% TKL layout with low-profile Gateron Red switches and LSA profile double-shot PBT keycaps. The ultra-slim design and three levels of adjustable typing angle provide ergonomic support for comfortable long-term use.

Image: Side profile of the Keychron K1 Pro keyboard, illustrating its ultra-slim form factor and the adjustable feet for varying typing angles.

2.2 Backlight Control

The keyboard features a White LED backlight with over 14 types of settings. You can adjust the saturation, brightness, and effect speed directly from the keyboard.

• Refer to the keyboard's function keys for specific backlight control shortcuts (e.g., Fn + Light key for changing effects, Fn + Arrow keys for brightness/speed).

Image: Close-up view of the Keychron K1 Pro keyboard, showing the white LED backlight illuminating the keys.

2.3 Multi-Device Switching

The K1 Pro can connect to up to 3 devices wirelessly via Bluetooth 5.1. Switch between paired devices seamlessly:

• Use the designated function key combinations (e.g., Fn + 1, Fn + 2, Fn + 3) to switch between your paired Bluetooth devices.

Image: The Keychron K1 Pro keyboard positioned on a desk, wirelessly connected and interacting with a laptop, a tablet, and a smartphone, demonstrating its multi-device capability.

2.4 QMK/VIA Customization

The Keychron K1 Pro is QMK/VIA enabled, allowing for extensive customization of key mappings, macros, and lighting effects. This feature provides flexibility to tailor the keyboard to your specific workflow.

1. Download VIA Software: Obtain the VIA software from the official Keychron website or the VIA project website.
2. Connect Keyboard: Connect your K1 Pro to your computer using the USB Type-C cable.
3. Customize: Use the VIA software to remap keys, create macros, and adjust lighting settings across different layers. Changes are applied in real-time.

Image: A screenshot of the VIA software interface, displaying the graphical layout of the Keychron K1 Pro keyboard and options for remapping keys and configuring layers.

3. Maintenance

3.1 Cleaning the Keyboard

Regular cleaning helps maintain the keyboard's performance and appearance.

• Dust and Debris: Use a can of compressed air to remove dust and small debris from between the keycaps.
• Keycap Cleaning: The double-shot PBT keycaps are oil-resistant. For deeper cleaning, gently remove keycaps using the provided keycap puller and wipe them with a damp cloth and mild soap solution. Ensure keycaps are completely dry before reattaching.
• Surface Cleaning: Wipe the keyboard's aluminum body with a soft, dry, or slightly damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals.

3.2 Keycap and Switch Replacement

The K1 Pro features hot-swappable Gateron low-profile switches, allowing for easy replacement without soldering.

• Keycap Removal: Use the keycap puller to carefully remove keycaps by pulling straight up.
• Switch Removal: Use a switch puller (not included, but commonly available) to gently pry out the switch. Ensure the switch is pulled straight to avoid bending the pins.
• Switch Installation: Align the new low-profile Gateron switch with the holes on the PCB and press down firmly until it clicks into place. Ensure the pins are straight before insertion.
• Keycap Installation: Align the keycap with the switch stem and press down gently until it is secure.

Image: A detailed close-up of the redesigned stabilizers on a large key (like the Shift key) of the Keychron K1 Pro, illustrating their mechanism for enhanced stability and reduced wobble.

3.3 Battery Care

The keyboard is equipped with a Lithium Polymer battery.

• Avoid fully discharging the battery frequently to prolong its lifespan.
• Charge the keyboard using the provided USB-C cable connected to a standard USB port or charger.
• Store the keyboard in a cool, dry place if not in use for extended periods.

4. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Keychron K1 Pro, refer to the following common solutions:

• Keyboard Not Responding (Wired):
  • Ensure the USB-C cable is securely connected to both the keyboard and the computer.
  • Verify the connection mode switch on the keyboard is set to 'Cable'.
  • Try a different USB port on your computer or a different USB-C cable.
• Keyboard Not Responding (Bluetooth):
  • Ensure the connection mode switch is set to 'Bluetooth'.
  • Check if Bluetooth is enabled on your device and the keyboard is paired.
  • Try unpairing and re-pairing the keyboard with your device.
  • Ensure the keyboard battery is charged.
• Keys Not Working or Double Input:
  • Clean around and under the affected keycap to remove any debris.
  • If the issue persists, the switch may be faulty. As the switches are hot-swappable, consider replacing the affected switch.
  • For advanced issues, connect the keyboard via USB and use the VIA software to check key functionality and reconfigure if necessary.
• OS Mode Switch Not Functioning as Expected:
  • Ensure the physical switch on the side of the keyboard is set to the correct operating system (Mac/iOS or Win/Android).
  • If specific key combinations (e.g., Fn + X + L) are not working, it may be due to a custom VIA configuration. Use the VIA software to verify and adjust key mappings.
• Backlight Issues:
  • Ensure the backlight is enabled and brightness is not set to minimum.
  • Cycle through different backlight effects using the designated function keys.
  • If using VIA, check the lighting settings within the software.

5. Specifications

6. Warranty and Support

6.1 Product Warranty

Keychron products typically come with a limited warranty against manufacturing defects. Please refer to the official Keychron website or your purchase documentation for specific warranty terms and conditions, as these may vary by region and retailer.

6.2 Customer Support

For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or warranty claims, please contact Keychron customer support through their official website:

• Keychron Official Website: www.keychron.com

When contacting support, please have your product model (K1 Pro) and purchase information readily available.