FREEWOLF K8

FREEWOLF K8 Tri-Mode Mechanical Gaming Keyboard User Manual

Model: K8

Introduction

Thank you for choosing the FREEWOLF K8 Tri-Mode Mechanical Gaming Keyboard. This keyboard offers versatile connectivity options including Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless, and USB-C wired modes, along with a hot-swappable design for personalized switch customization. With its vibrant RGB backlighting and long-lasting battery, the K8 is designed to enhance your gaming, programming, and general computing experience across both Mac and Windows systems. Please read this manual carefully to ensure proper setup and operation.

Package Contents

Upon opening your FREEWOLF K8 keyboard package, please verify that all the following items are included:

  • FREEWOLF K8 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
  • USB-C to USB-A Cable
  • 2.4 GHz USB Wireless Receiver
  • Keycap Puller Tool
  • Switch Puller Tool
  • Two (2) Spare Mechanical Switches
  • User Manual (this document)
FREEWOLF K8 Keyboard and accessories in packaging
Image: The FREEWOLF K8 keyboard along with its included accessories, such as the USB-C cable, 2.4 GHz receiver, keycap puller, switch puller, and two spare switches. The image also shows the keyboard's dimensions: 395mm (15.55 inches) in length and 142mm (5.59 inches) in width.

Setup and Connection

Initial Charging

Before first use, it is recommended to fully charge the keyboard. Connect the provided USB-C cable to the keyboard's USB-C port and the other end to a USB power source (e.g., computer USB port, wall adapter). The indicator light will show charging status and turn off when fully charged. The keyboard features a 4000mAh battery for extended use.

FREEWOLF K8 keyboard showing battery capacity
Image: A close-up view of the FREEWOLF K8 keyboard highlighting its large 4000mAh rechargeable battery. Text indicates approximately 15 days of use with backlight on and 35 days with backlight off. The image also shows the USB receiver stored in the keyboard's base.

Connectivity Modes

The K8 keyboard supports three connection modes: USB-C Wired, 2.4 GHz Wireless, and Bluetooth.

FREEWOLF K8 keyboard showing multi-device connectivity
Image: The FREEWOLF K8 keyboard demonstrating its ability to connect to up to five devices simultaneously. It shows connections via Bluetooth (BT1, BT2, BT3), 2.4G wireless, and USB-C wired, with corresponding function key combinations (FN+Q, FN+W, FN+E for Bluetooth).

1. USB-C Wired Mode

  1. Ensure the mode switch on the keyboard (usually on the back or side) is set to 'USB' or 'Wired'.
  2. Connect the USB-C cable to the keyboard and the USB-A end to your computer's USB port.
  3. The keyboard will be automatically recognized and ready for use.

2. 2.4 GHz Wireless Mode

  1. Locate the 2.4 GHz USB receiver, typically stored in a slot on the keyboard's underside or side.
  2. Plug the USB receiver into an available USB port on your computer.
  3. Set the mode switch on the keyboard to '2.4G'.
  4. The keyboard should connect automatically. If not, press FN + R to initiate pairing.
FREEWOLF K8 keyboard showing USB receiver and adjustable angle
Image: A four-panel image detailing product features. Top-left shows the USB receiver plugged into the keyboard. Top-right shows the adjustable kickstand. Bottom-left shows four indicator lights (for Caps Lock, Scroll Lock, Win Lock, and Battery). Bottom-right shows the full-key punchless feature, indicating anti-ghosting.

3. Bluetooth Mode

The K8 keyboard supports up to three Bluetooth devices.

  1. Set the mode switch on the keyboard to 'BT'.
  2. To enter pairing mode for a specific Bluetooth channel, press and hold FN + Q (for BT1), FN + W (for BT2), or FN + E (for BT3) for 3-5 seconds until the corresponding indicator light flashes rapidly.
  3. On your device (computer, tablet, smartphone), enable Bluetooth and search for new devices.
  4. Select 'FREEWOLF K8' from the list of available devices to pair.
  5. Once paired, the indicator light will stop flashing and remain solid.
  6. To switch between paired Bluetooth devices, simply press FN + Q, FN + W, or FN + E.

System Compatibility (Win/Mac)

The K8 keyboard is compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems. To switch between layouts, press FN + A for Windows mode or FN + S for Mac mode.

Operating Instructions

Adjusting Keyboard Angle

The keyboard features adjustable kickstands on the underside. Flip them out to achieve a more ergonomic typing angle, or fold them in for a flatter profile.

RGB Backlight Control

The K8 keyboard offers over 20 RGB backlight effects and customizable gaming backlights.

FREEWOLF K8 keyboard showing RGB backlight modes
Image: The FREEWOLF K8 keyboard illuminated with its RGB backlighting. The image highlights 19 backlit modes (FN + |), 3 customized backlit modes (FN + 1!, 2@, 3#), and backlit recording (FN + ~).
  • Change Backlight Mode: Press FN + | to cycle through 19 different RGB lighting effects.
  • Customized Gaming Backlights: The keyboard has three pre-set gaming backlight modes that can be customized:
    • FN + 1! (FPS Mode): Lights up W/A/S/D and arrow keys.
    • FN + 2@ (LOL Mode): Lights up Q/W/E/R/D/F/G/V/B/Tab/Space/1-6/Esc keys.
    • FN + 3# (Office Mode): Lights up A-Z/[/]/;/'/,/.// and arrow keys.
  • Record Custom Backlight: To record your own custom backlight for FN+1!, FN+2@, or FN+3#, first select the desired mode (e.g., FN+1!), then press FN + ~. The indicator light will flash. Press the keys you wish to light up. Press FN + ~ again to save.
  • Adjust Brightness: Press FN + ↑ to increase brightness and FN + ↓ to decrease brightness.
  • Adjust Speed: Press FN + ← to decrease effect speed and FN + → to increase effect speed.

Power Saving Features

To conserve battery life, the K8 keyboard implements the following power-saving measures:

  • The backlight will turn off after 5 minutes of inactivity.
  • After 30 minutes of no operation, the keyboard will enter deep sleep (hibernation) mode.
  • To wake the keyboard from sleep, press any key twice.

Maintenance

Cleaning the Keyboard

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

  • Disconnect the keyboard from all power sources before cleaning.
  • Use a soft, lint-free cloth slightly dampened with water or a mild cleaning solution to wipe the keycaps and chassis.
  • For dust and debris between keycaps, use compressed air or a small brush.
  • Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.

Hot-Swapping Switches

The FREEWOLF K8 is a hot-swappable keyboard, allowing you to change mechanical switches without soldering. It supports most 3-pin switches.

FREEWOLF K8 keyboard showing hot-swap feature
Image: A close-up of the FREEWOLF K8 keyboard demonstrating its hot-swappable feature. It shows a keycap and switch being removed, revealing the PCB socket. The included keycap puller, switch puller, and two spare switches are also visible.
  1. Remove Keycap: Use the included keycap puller tool to gently pull up the desired keycap.
  2. Remove Switch: Use the included switch puller tool to grasp the top and bottom clips of the switch. Gently pull the switch straight up to remove it from the PCB.
  3. Install New Switch: Align the pins of the new 3-pin mechanical switch with the holes on the PCB. Gently push the switch straight down until it clicks into place. Ensure the pins are not bent.
  4. Reinstall Keycap: Place the keycap back onto the new switch and press down firmly.

Troubleshooting

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
Keyboard not responding (Wired)Loose cable connection, incorrect mode.Ensure USB-C cable is securely connected. Verify mode switch is set to 'USB' or 'Wired'. Try a different USB port or cable.
Keyboard not responding (2.4 GHz)Receiver not plugged in, incorrect mode, pairing issue.Ensure 2.4 GHz receiver is plugged into a USB port. Verify mode switch is set to '2.4G'. Press FN + R to re-pair. Move keyboard closer to receiver.
Keyboard not responding (Bluetooth)Incorrect mode, not paired, out of range, device Bluetooth off.Verify mode switch is set to 'BT'. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your device. Re-enter pairing mode (FN + Q/W/E) and re-pair. Move keyboard closer to device.
Backlight not working or dimBacklight off, brightness too low, low battery.Press FN + | to cycle modes. Increase brightness with FN + ↑. Charge the keyboard.
Specific keys not respondingLoose or faulty switch, debris under keycap.Remove keycap and switch. Clean any debris. Reinstall switch firmly. If issue persists, replace the switch with a spare or new one.
Keyboard frequently disconnectsInterference, low battery, too far from receiver/device.Charge the keyboard. Reduce distance to receiver/device. Avoid strong electromagnetic interference.

Specifications

FeatureDescription
ModelK8
BrandFREEWOLF
ConnectivityUSB-C Wired, 2.4 GHz Wireless, Bluetooth (BT1, BT2, BT3)
Keyboard Layout80% (100 keys)
Switch TypeMechanical (Hot-swappable, supports 3-pin switches)
BacklightRGB (19 effects, 3 customizable gaming modes)
Battery Capacity4000 mAh
Compatible SystemsWindows, macOS
KeycapsPBT Double Injection
Special FeaturesHot-swappable, Adjustable Angle, Full-key Punchless (N-key rollover)
ColorGrey/Orange - Blue Switch (variant specific)

Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the FREEWOLF official website or contact your point of purchase. This manual does not contain specific warranty details or support contact information.