1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the Keychron K1 Version 6 Low-Profile Mechanical Keyboard. It covers setup, operation, customization, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal use of your device. The K1 Version 6 is a Tenkeyless (TKL) layout keyboard featuring QMK firmware, Bluetooth 5.2, and wired connectivity, compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux operating systems.
Image 1.1: The Keychron K1 Version 6 Low-Profile Mechanical Keyboard, showcasing its TKL layout and keycap design.
2. Setup
2.1 Package Contents
Before proceeding, ensure all items are present in the package:
- Keychron K1 Version 6 Low-Profile Mechanical Keyboard
- Type-A to Type-C Cable
- Keycap Puller
- Additional Keycaps (for Mac/Windows layout customization)
2.2 Charging the Keyboard
The keyboard includes a built-in 2000 mAh rechargeable battery. For initial use, it is recommended to fully charge the keyboard.
- Connect the provided Type-A to Type-C cable to the keyboard's USB-C port.
- Connect the other end of the cable to a USB power source (e.g., computer USB port, USB wall adapter).
- The charging indicator light will illuminate. It will change or turn off once charging is complete.
2.3 Connectivity Modes
The K1 Version 6 supports both Bluetooth 5.2 wireless and USB Type-C wired connections.
Image 2.1: The keyboard connected wirelessly via Bluetooth to a monitor and wired via USB-C to a laptop, demonstrating versatile connectivity options.
2.3.1 Bluetooth Connection
The keyboard can pair with up to three Bluetooth devices.
- Locate the mode switch on the side of the keyboard. Slide it to the 'BT' position.
- To enter pairing mode, press and hold the Fn + 1 (or Fn + 2, Fn + 3) key combination for 4 seconds until the '1' (or '2', '3') key flashes rapidly.
- On your device (computer, tablet, smartphone), enable Bluetooth and search for 'Keychron K1 V6'.
- Select the keyboard to pair. The corresponding number key will stop flashing once successfully paired.
- To switch between paired devices, press Fn + 1, Fn + 2, or Fn + 3 briefly.
2.3.2 Wired Connection
For a direct and stable connection, use the provided USB Type-C cable.
- Locate the mode switch on the side of the keyboard. Slide it to the 'USB' position.
- Connect the Type-C cable to the keyboard's USB-C port and the other end to your computer's USB port.
- The keyboard will be recognized automatically by your operating system.
Image 2.2: Close-up of the keyboard's side switches, indicating options for connectivity mode (BT/OFF/USB) and operating system layout (Win/Android/Mac/iOS).
2.4 Operating System Layout Switch
The K1 Version 6 is compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux. Use the OS switch on the side of the keyboard to select the appropriate layout.
- Slide the switch to 'Mac/iOS' for Apple devices.
- Slide the switch to 'Win/Android' for Windows and Android devices.
Image 2.3: The Keychron K1 V6 keyboard positioned with a laptop, tablet, and smartphone, illustrating its compatibility across various operating systems.
3. Operating Instructions
3.1 Basic Typing
The K1 Version 6 functions as a standard TKL keyboard. Simply begin typing after successful connection.
3.2 Backlight Control
The keyboard features a white backlight with multiple patterns.
- Fn + Light Key (F5): Cycle through different backlight patterns.
- Fn + Up Arrow: Increase backlight brightness.
- Fn + Down Arrow: Decrease backlight brightness.
- Fn + Left Arrow: Decrease backlight speed.
- Fn + Right Arrow: Increase backlight speed.
3.3 Multimedia and Function Keys
The top row keys (F1-F12) serve dual functions. By default, they act as multimedia keys. To access the standard F1-F12 functions, press Fn along with the desired F-key.
- Fn + F1/F2: Decrease/Increase screen brightness (Mac).
- Fn + F3: Mission Control (Mac).
- Fn + F4: Launchpad (Mac).
- Fn + F7/F8/F9: Previous/Play-Pause/Next track.
- Fn + F10/F11/F12: Mute/Volume Down/Volume Up.
3.4 Battery Status Check
To check the approximate battery level, press Fn + B. The number row (1-9) will light up to indicate the percentage (e.g., 1-5 lit means 10-50% battery).
4. Customization
The Keychron K1 Version 6 is QMK programmable, allowing for extensive customization of key assignments, macros, and lighting effects.
Image 4.1: The Keychron Launcher application interface, demonstrating options for key remapping, macro creation, and lighting adjustments.
4.1 Keychron Launcher Software
Utilize the Keychron Launcher application for advanced customization:
- Download the Keychron Launcher software from the official Keychron website.
- Connect your keyboard via USB-C cable to your computer.
- Open the Keychron Launcher. You can remap keys, create macros, adjust lighting, and update firmware through the intuitive interface.
4.2 Keycap Replacement
The included keycap puller allows for easy replacement of keycaps, such as switching between Mac and Windows specific keys.
- Gently attach the keycap puller to the keycap you wish to remove.
- Pull upwards with steady force until the keycap detaches from the switch.
- Align the new keycap with the switch stem and press down firmly until it clicks into place.
5. Maintenance
5.1 Cleaning the Keyboard
Regular cleaning helps maintain the keyboard's performance and appearance.
- Disconnect the keyboard from all devices before cleaning.
- Use a can of compressed air to remove dust and debris from between the keycaps.
- Wipe the keycaps and keyboard surface with a soft, slightly damp, lint-free cloth. Avoid excessive moisture.
- For stubborn grime, a small amount of isopropyl alcohol on a cloth can be used, but avoid direct application to switches.
5.2 Battery Care
To prolong battery life:
- Avoid fully discharging the battery frequently.
- Store the keyboard in a cool, dry place if not used for extended periods.
- If storing for a long time, charge the battery to about 50% before storage.
6. Troubleshooting
6.1 Connectivity Issues
- Keyboard not connecting via Bluetooth: Ensure the mode switch is set to 'BT'. Try re-pairing the keyboard by holding Fn + 1/2/3 for 4 seconds. Ensure your device's Bluetooth is enabled and discoverable.
- Keyboard not connecting via wired: Ensure the mode switch is set to 'USB'. Try a different USB-C cable or USB port on your computer.
- Intermittent connection: Ensure the keyboard is within range of your Bluetooth device. Avoid sources of interference (e.g., other wireless devices, large metal objects).
6.2 Keys Not Responding
- Specific keys not working: Check if any debris is lodged under the keycap. Carefully remove the keycap with the provided puller and clean the switch area.
- All keys not working: Ensure the keyboard is powered on and properly connected (either via Bluetooth or USB-C). Check battery level by pressing Fn + B.
6.3 Backlight Issues
- Backlight not turning on: Ensure the keyboard is powered on. Try increasing brightness with Fn + Up Arrow.
- Backlight flickering: This may indicate low battery. Charge the keyboard fully.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | Keychron K1 Version 6 |
| Layout | Tenkeyless (TKL) |
| Switch Type | Low-Profile Mechanical (Banana Switch variant) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.2, USB Type-C (Wired) |
| Bluetooth Channels | 3 |
| Battery | 2000 mAh Rechargeable Lithium-ion |
| Backlight | White LED, Single Color |
| Keycaps | Shine-Through |
| Compatibility | Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Material | Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, Aluminum |
| Dimensions | Approximately 14 x 4.69 x 0.99 inches (35.56 x 11.91 x 2.51 cm) |
| Weight | Approximately 2 pounds (0.91 kg) |
Image 7.1: Diagram illustrating the ultra-slim profile and dimensions of the Keychron K1 Version 6 keyboard.
Image 7.2: Visual comparison highlighting the reduced height of the Keychron Low-Profile 2.0 Mechanical Switch compared to a conventional mechanical switch.
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, please refer to the official Keychron website or your purchase documentation. Keychron provides support for its products.
8.1 Official Resources
- User Guide (PDF): Download User Guide
- User Manual (PDF): Download User Manual
- Keychron Store: Visit the Keychron Store on Amazon
