1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the DAREU EK98pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your new keyboard. Please read it thoroughly to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your device.
Image 1.1: DAREU EK98pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard (Mystic Violet)
2. Package Contents
Ensure all items are present in the package:
- Keyboard Body (1)
- Connection Cable (USB-C to USB-A) (1)
- 2.4GHz Wireless Receiver (1)
- Keycap/Switch Puller (1)
- User Manual (1)
Image 2.1: Package Contents
3. Product Features
3.1 Gasket Mount Structure
The EK98pro features a gasket-mounted design with a 6-layer padding system, including an extended integrated silicone pad and PCB single key slotting. This construction optimizes resilience and stability, providing a softer, more elastic feel and effectively reducing cavity noise for a solid typing experience.
Image 3.1: Gasket Structure Exploded View
3.2 HIFI Dream Linear Switches
Equipped with creamy pre-lubed HIFI Dream linear switches, offering a lighter and cleaner sound profile similar to linear red switches. The keyboard also features pre-lubed steel stabilizers for enhanced consistency on larger keys.
Image 3.2: HIFI Dream Switches and Stabilizers
3.3 Hot-Swappable PCB
The keyboard features a hot-swappable PCB, supporting both 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches. This allows for easy customization and replacement of switches without soldering.
Image 3.3: Hot-Swappable PCB Socket
3.4 PBT Keycaps
All keycaps are made of durable, non-greasy PBT material, ensuring longevity and resistance to wear without fading.
3.5 RGB Backlighting
The keyboard features south-facing RGB LEDs, providing optimal visibility of up to 16 RGB backlit modes and 16.8 million colors. Brightness and speed are adjustable. All RGB macros and keys can be customized via the driver software.
Image 3.4: 16.8 Million RGB Lighting
3.6 4000mAh Battery
A built-in 4000mAh high-capacity battery provides extended usage. Expect approximately 45 days of playtime with backlighting off, and about 7 days with backlighting on (based on continuous 4 hours of playtime/day).
Image 3.5: High-Capacity Battery
3.7 98% Layout
The compact 98% layout (97 keys) saves desktop space while retaining essential arrow keys and a number pad, suitable for both gaming and work.
3.8 Adjustable Feet
The keyboard includes 2-stage adjustable feet, allowing you to set the typing angle for ergonomic comfort.
Image 3.6: 2-Stage Adjustable Feet
4. Setup and Connectivity
The DAREU EK98pro supports three connection modes: Wired (USB-C), 2.4GHz Wireless, and Bluetooth 5.0.
Image 4.1: Tri-Mode Connection Overview
4.1 Mode Switch
A physical switch located on the left side of the keyboard allows you to select the desired connection mode: Wireless (2.4G), Wired (A), or Bluetooth (BT).
4.2 Wired Connection
- Set the mode switch to 'A' (Wired).
- Connect the provided USB-C cable to the keyboard's USB-C port and the other end to your computer's USB-A port.
- The keyboard will be automatically recognized and ready for use.
4.3 2.4GHz Wireless Connection
- Set the mode switch to 'Wireless' (2.4G).
- Insert the 2.4GHz wireless receiver into an available USB-A port on your computer.
- The keyboard will automatically connect to the receiver.
4.4 Bluetooth Connection
The keyboard can connect to up to three different Bluetooth devices simultaneously.
- Set the mode switch to 'BT' (Bluetooth).
- On your device (computer, tablet, smartphone), turn on Bluetooth and search for 'EK98 Pro'.
- To connect to the first Bluetooth device, press and hold Fn + 1! for 3 seconds until the indicator light flashes. Select 'EK98 Pro' on your device to pair.
- To connect to a second Bluetooth device, press and hold Fn + 2@ for 3 seconds.
- To connect to a third Bluetooth device, press and hold Fn + 3# for 3 seconds.
- Once paired, the indicator light will stop flashing.
Video 4.1: DAREU EK98pro Purple Wireless Mechanical Keyboard in action, demonstrating typing and RGB effects.
Video 4.2: DAREU EK98pro Purple Creamy Wireless Mechanical Keyboard showcasing its features and typing sound.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Function Keys (Fn Combinations)
- Fn + F1: My Computer
- Fn + F2: Home Page
- Fn + F3: Email
- Fn + F4: Calculator
- Fn + F5: Stop
- Fn + F6: Previous Track
- Fn + F7: Play/Pause
- Fn + F8: Next Track
- Fn + F9: Volume Down
- Fn + F10: Volume Up
- Fn + F11: Mute
- Fn + F12 (3 seconds): Switch for Win/Mac system
- Fn + Esc (3 seconds): Reset
- Fn + Win (3 seconds): Win lock/unlock
5.2 Backlight Control
- Fn + [ { : Switch backlight effects (16 modes)
- Fn + ] } : Switch backlight colors
- Fn + ↑: LED Brightness +
- Fn + ↓: LED Brightness -
- Fn + ←: Speed -
- Fn + →: Speed +
5.3 Driver Customization
Download the official DAREU driver from their website to unlock advanced customization options:
- Home page settings
- Function settings
- LED effect settings
- Macro edit page
- Text template edit page
Image 5.1: Driver Macro Customization Interface
6. Maintenance
6.1 Cleaning
Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the keyboard. For deeper cleaning, use the provided keycap puller to remove keycaps and clean underneath with compressed air or a small brush.
6.2 Hot-Swapping Switches
To replace a switch:
- Carefully remove the keycap using the keycap puller.
- Use the switch puller to gently grip the switch from the top and bottom, then pull upwards to remove it.
- Align the pins of the new 3-pin or 5-pin switch with the holes on the PCB and press down firmly until it clicks into place.
- Reattach the keycap.
7. Troubleshooting
7.1 Keyboard Not Responding
- Ensure the keyboard is charged. Connect the USB-C cable to charge.
- Check the mode switch on the left side of the keyboard to ensure it's set to the correct connection mode (Wired, 2.4GHz, or Bluetooth).
- For 2.4GHz wireless, ensure the receiver is properly inserted into a USB port.
- For Bluetooth, ensure your device's Bluetooth is on and the keyboard is paired. Try re-pairing if necessary (Fn + 1/2/3 for 3 seconds).
- Try connecting the keyboard via USB-C cable directly to rule out wireless issues.
7.2 RGB Backlight Issues
- Ensure the keyboard is powered on.
- Adjust brightness using Fn + ↑ or Fn + ↓.
- Cycle through effects using Fn + [ { and colors using Fn + ] }.
- If issues persist, perform a factory reset by holding Fn + Esc for 3 seconds.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Keyboard Type | Mechanical Keyboard (97 keys) |
| Connection | Wired (USB-C), 2.4GHz Wireless, Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Keycaps | PBT Double Injection |
| Switches | HIFI Dream Linear (Pre-lubed, Hot-swappable 3/5 pin) |
| Switch Lifespan | 50 million clicks |
| Backlight | RGB (16.8 Million Colors, 16 Modes, South-facing LED) |
| Battery | 4000mAh |
| Charging Time | Approx. 7.5 hours |
| Working Time (Wireless) | Backlight Off: Approx. 96 hours (45 days) Backlight Max: Approx. 32 hours (7 days) |
| Compatibility | Windows XP/7/8/10/11, MacOS |
| Product Dimensions | 15.43"L x 5.9"W x 1.57"H (392 x 150 x 40 mm) |
| Item Weight | 2.04 pounds (925g) |
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the DAREU official website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.
