1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the Keychron K12 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard. It covers initial setup, operational guidance, maintenance procedures, troubleshooting tips, and product specifications to ensure optimal use of your keyboard.
2. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in your Keychron K12 Pro package:
- 1x Fully Assembled Keyboard (including 1x PCB, 1x Steel Plate, 1x Sound Absorbing Foam, 1x Silicone Bottom Pad, 5 Sets of Stabilizers (PCB Screw-In), 1 Set of Keycaps (Double-Shot PBT), 1 Set of Switches (Keychron K Pro))
- 1x Type-A to Type-C Cable
- 1x Switch Puller
- 1x Keycap Puller
- 1x Screwdriver (located on the bottom of the box)
Image: Included Mac and Windows keycaps for system compatibility.
3. Setup
3.1 Initial Setup and Connectivity
The Keychron K12 Pro supports both wireless (Bluetooth 5.1) and wired (USB Type-C) connections. It is compatible with macOS, Windows, and Linux operating systems.
- System Switch: Locate the system switch on the side of the keyboard to select between Mac and Windows/Linux modes.
- Wired Connection: Connect the keyboard to your computer using the provided USB Type-C cable.
- Bluetooth Connection:
- Ensure the system switch is set to the correct operating system.
- Toggle the keyboard to Bluetooth mode.
- On your device, search for Bluetooth devices and select 'Keychron K12 Pro'.
- The keyboard can connect to up to three devices. Switch between them using the designated key combinations (refer to Section 4.1).
Image: The K12 Pro offers seamless wireless connectivity across multiple devices, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
Image: The K12 Pro is fully compatible with Linux, macOS, and Windows operating systems.
3.2 QMK/VIA Software Setup
The K12 Pro is fully programmable with QMK/VIA firmware, allowing you to remap keys, create macros, and customize lighting effects.
- Download VIA Software: Visit the official Keychron website to download the latest VIA software for your operating system.
- Connect Keyboard: Connect the K12 Pro to your computer via the USB Type-C cable. Key remapping can only be performed in wired mode.
- Load Keymap: Open the VIA software. If prompted, load the appropriate JSON keymap file for the K12 Pro, which can also be found on the Keychron website.
- Customize: Drag and drop keys or macro commands to remap any key. Once changes are applied, they will function in both wired and wireless modes.
Image: The QMK/VIA software provides a graphical interface for customizing key functions and macros on your K12 Pro keyboard.
4. Operation
4.1 Key Combinations
The K12 Pro utilizes an 'Fn' key for various secondary functions and media controls. Below is a list of common key combinations:
| Combination | Function | Combination | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fn + Esc | Function | Fn + E | Hue Increase |
| Fn + 1 | Screen Brightness Down | Fn + D | Hue Decrease |
| Fn + 2 | Screen Brightness Up | Fn + R | Saturation Increase |
| Fn + 3 | Mission Control (Mac) / Task View (Windows) | Fn + F | Saturation Decrease |
| Fn + 4 | Launchpad (Mac) / File Explorer (Windows) | Fn + G | RGB Speed Increase |
| Fn + 5 | Keyboard Backlight Down | Fn + H | RGB Speed Decrease |
| Fn + 6 | Keyboard Backlight Up | Fn + I | Insert |
| Fn + 7 | Rewind | Fn + [ | Screen Shot |
| Fn + 8 | Play / Pause | Fn + ] | Page Up |
| Fn + 9 | Fast Forward | Fn + \ | Page Down |
| Fn + 0 | Sound Volume Mute | Fn + ; | Home |
| Fn + - | Sound Volume Down | Fn + ' | End |
| Fn + = | Sound Volume Up | Fn + K | Arrow Up |
| Fn + Backspace | RGB Mode Next | Fn + , | Arrow Down |
| Fn + Tab | Turn On / Off the Backlight | Fn + M | Arrow Left |
| Fn + Q | RGB Mode Next | Fn + . | Arrow Right |
| Fn + A | RGB Mode Previous | Fn + / | Delete |
| Fn + W | Keyboard Backlight Up | Fn + T | Menu (Windows mode) |
| Fn + S | Keyboard Backlight Down | Fn + O | Scrolllock (Windows mode) |
| Fn + J + Z (long press for 3s) | Reset The Keyboard |
4.2 RGB Backlighting
The K12 Pro features 22 types of RGB backlight effects. You can cycle through these effects and adjust their brightness, hue, and saturation using the Fn key combinations listed above.
Image: Close-up view of the K12 Pro's switches showcasing the vibrant RGB backlighting.
4.3 Adjustable Typing Angle
The keyboard is designed with adjustable feet, allowing you to choose from three different typing angles for improved ergonomics and comfort: 3.5°, 8.4°, and 12°.
Image: Side view of the K12 Pro demonstrating the adjustable feet for customized typing angles.
5. Maintenance
5.1 Hot-Swappable Switches
The K12 Pro features hot-swappable switch sockets, allowing you to easily change switches without soldering. This enables customization of your typing feel.
- Remove Keycap: Use the provided keycap puller to gently remove the desired keycap.
- Remove Switch: Use the provided switch puller to carefully grip the top and bottom clips of the switch and pull it straight up.
- Insert New Switch: Align the pins of the new switch with the holes on the PCB. Ensure the pins are straight. Gently push the switch down until it clicks into place. Do not force it.
- Replace Keycap: Place the keycap back onto the new switch.
Image: Demonstrating the process of removing a hot-swappable switch from the K12 Pro keyboard using the included tool.
5.2 Cleaning
Regular cleaning helps maintain the performance and appearance of your keyboard.
- Dust Removal: Use compressed air to remove dust and debris from between the keycaps.
- Keycap Cleaning: For deeper cleaning, remove keycaps using the keycap puller and wash them with mild soap and water. Ensure they are completely dry before reattaching.
- Surface Cleaning: Wipe the keyboard surface with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals.
6. Troubleshooting
6.1 Connectivity Issues
- Bluetooth Not Connecting: Ensure the keyboard is in Bluetooth mode and discoverable. Check your device's Bluetooth settings. Try forgetting the device and re-pairing. Ensure the keyboard is charged.
- Wired Connection Not Detected: Verify the USB-C cable is securely connected to both the keyboard and your computer. Try a different USB port or cable.
6.2 Key Remapping Issues
- VIA Not Recognizing Keyboard: Ensure the keyboard is connected via USB-C. Download the correct JSON keymap file from the Keychron website and load it into VIA. Make sure VIA's 'Design' mode is enabled if necessary.
- Remapped Key Not Working: After remapping in VIA, ensure the changes are saved and applied. Disconnect and reconnect the keyboard if changes do not take effect immediately.
6.3 Key Not Responding
- Check Switch: Due to the hot-swappable design, a switch might be improperly seated or faulty. Try removing and reinserting the switch, or swap it with a known working switch.
- Clean Under Keycap: Debris under the keycap or switch can prevent proper actuation.
6.4 Battery Life
- Short Battery Life: Ensure the keyboard is fully charged. High RGB brightness settings can significantly reduce battery life. Consider lowering brightness or turning off RGB when not needed.
- Charging: Connect the keyboard via USB-C to charge. The charging indicator will show its status.
7. Specifications
Detailed technical specifications for the Keychron K12 Pro QMK/VIA Wireless Mechanical Keyboard:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 11.8 x 4.5 x 1.5 inches (11.8"L x 4.5"W x 1.5"H) |
| Item Weight | 2.66 pounds |
| Model Number | K12P-G3 |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth 5.1, USB Type-C |
| Keyboard Description | Customizable Mechanical Wireless Keyboard |
| Switches | Hot-Swappable Keychron K Pro Brown Switch (variant) |
| Keyboard Backlighting | RGB |
| Compatible Devices | Laptop (Mac, Windows, Linux) |
| Special Feature | Fully customizable, Remap every key and create macro with QMK/VIA |
| Battery | 1 Lithium Polymer battery (included) |
| Manufacturer | Keychron |
7.1 Keychron K Pro Switch Features
The K12 Pro is equipped with Keychron K Pro switches. The following table outlines the characteristics of the available switch types:
Image: Comparison of Keychron K Pro Red and Brown switch specifications.
8. Warranty and Support
Keychron products are designed for durability and performance. For warranty information, please refer to the official Keychron website or contact their customer support directly.
Optional protection plans are available for extended coverage:
- 3-Year Protection Plan
- 4-Year Protection Plan
- Complete Protect (monthly plan covering eligible purchases)
For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or warranty claims, please visit the Keychron support page or contact their customer service team.
