1. Introduction and Overview
Welcome to the ZORNHER ZH980 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard user manual. This guide provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your new keyboard. The ZH980 features a 95% layout, hot-swappable switches, triple-mode connectivity, and vibrant RGB backlighting, designed for an enhanced typing and gaming experience.
The ZORNHER ZH980 is equipped with IMD PC Keycaps that feature shine-through legends, ensuring durability and clear illumination. Its compact 95% layout retains full functionality, including a number pad, while saving desk space. Enjoy crisp typing sounds from factory-lubed creamy linear switches and customize your experience with 22 preset RGB lighting modes and full hot-swappable switch support.

Image: ZORNHER ZH980 Custom Mechanical Keyboard banner highlighting hot-swappable, 2.4GHz, USB-C, and BT5.0 features.
2. Package Contents
Please verify that all items listed below are included in your package:
- 1 x Fully Assembled Mechanical Keyboard Body
- 1 x 2.4GHz Receiver
- 1 x USB Type-C Cable
- 1 x Keycap & Switch Puller
- 3 x Replacement Switches

Image: Diagram showing the contents included in the ZORNHER ZH980 keyboard package, including the keyboard, receiver, cable, puller, and extra switches.
3. Setup and Connectivity
3.1 Triple-Mode Connection
The ZORNHER ZH980 keyboard supports three connection modes: Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and USB-C wired. You can seamlessly switch between up to 5 devices.

Image: The ZORNHER ZH980 keyboard shown with its 2.4GHz wireless receiver and USB-C cable, illustrating its versatile connectivity options.
3.1.1 2.4GHz Wireless Connection
- Locate the 2.4GHz USB receiver.
- Plug the receiver into an available USB port on your computer.
- Switch the keyboard to 2.4GHz mode (refer to keyboard's physical switch or function key combination). The keyboard should automatically connect.
3.1.2 Bluetooth 5.0 Connection
- Switch the keyboard to Bluetooth mode.
- On your device (PC, tablet, smartphone), enable Bluetooth and search for new devices.
- Select "ZORNHER ZH980" from the list of available devices to pair.
3.1.3 USB-C Wired Connection
- Connect one end of the included USB-C cable to the keyboard's USB-C port.
- Connect the other end of the cable to an available USB port on your computer.
- The keyboard will automatically switch to wired mode and begin charging.
3.2 Charging the Keyboard
The keyboard is equipped with a 6000mAh battery for long-lasting performance. To charge, simply connect the keyboard via the USB-C cable to a power source (e.g., computer USB port, USB wall adapter). The charging indicator will show the charging status.

Image: A graphic displaying a lightning bolt icon within a circle, indicating a 6000mAh battery capacity, symbolizing power and endurance.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Hot-Swappable Switches
The ZORNHER ZH980 features a hot-swappable PCB, allowing you to easily change switches without soldering. It supports both 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches. This enables full customization of your typing feel.
- Removing a Keycap: Use the included keycap puller to gently pull the keycap straight up.
- Removing a Switch: Use the switch puller (often integrated with the keycap puller) to grasp the top and bottom clips of the switch. Gently rock and pull the switch straight up.
- Installing a Switch: Align the pins of the new switch with the holes on the PCB. Press down firmly until the switch clicks into place. Ensure pins are not bent.
- Installing a Keycap: Align the keycap with the switch stem and press down firmly until it is seated.

Image: A close-up view of a mechanical switch being carefully removed from the keyboard's PCB using a switch puller, demonstrating the hot-swappable feature.
4.2 RGB Lighting Modes
The ZH980 offers vibrant RGB lighting with 22 preset modes, including south-facing LEDs and edge glow. You can cycle through these modes and adjust brightness/speed using specific function key combinations. For advanced customization, including remapping keys and creating macros, please download the dedicated driver software from the ZORNHER official website.
Video: This video demonstrates the various RGB lighting effects and the typing sound of the ZORNHER ZH980 mechanical keyboard, showcasing its visual appeal and tactile feedback.
4.3 Function Keys
The keyboard features a full F-row and navigation keys. Specific function key combinations (often involving the 'Fn' key) allow you to control multimedia, adjust lighting effects, and access system functions. Refer to the keycap legends for specific shortcuts.
5. Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your ZORNHER ZH980 keyboard.
- Cleaning Keycaps: Use the included keycap puller to remove keycaps. Clean them with a mild soap solution and a soft cloth, then dry thoroughly before reattaching.
- Cleaning Chassis: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the keyboard chassis. For stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth can be used, ensuring no liquid enters the keyboard.
- Dust Removal: Use compressed air to remove dust and debris from between the keycaps and switches.
- Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the keyboard in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight.

Image: An exploded diagram illustrating the internal layers of the ZORNHER ZH980 keyboard, including the plastic cover, PC positioning board, sound-absorbing cotton, IXPE shaft pad, PET voice actor pad, hot-swap PCB, 6000mAh battery, silicone soundproofing pad, and dual-stage feet adjust.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your ZORNHER ZH980 keyboard, please refer to the following common solutions:
- Keyboard Not Responding: Ensure the keyboard is charged. Check the connection mode (2.4GHz, Bluetooth, or wired) and ensure it matches your device's connection. For 2.4GHz, try re-plugging the receiver. For Bluetooth, try re-pairing.
- Keys Not Registering: Ensure the switches are fully seated. If a specific key is not working, try replacing its switch with one of the included spare switches.
- RGB Lighting Issues: Cycle through lighting modes using function keys. Ensure the keyboard is not in a low-power state. If using software, ensure it's updated and correctly configured.
- Connectivity Drops: Ensure the keyboard is within range of the receiver/Bluetooth device. Minimize interference from other wireless devices.
- Charging Issues: Ensure the USB-C cable is securely connected to both the keyboard and the power source. Try a different USB port or cable.
If problems persist, please contact ZORNHER customer support for further assistance.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 14.96 x 7.99 x 2.75 inches |
| Item Weight | 4.18 pounds |
| Manufacturer | ZORNHER |
| Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required (included) |
| Brand | ZORNHER |
| Compatible Devices | Laptop, PC, Tablet, Smartphone |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi (2.4GHz), USB-C |
| Keyboard Description | Mechanical |
| Recommended Uses | Everyday Use, Personal, Gaming |
| Special Feature | Ergonomic, Backlit, Rechargeable, Hot-Swappable |
| Color | White Spider Web |
| Number of Keys | 98 |
| Keyboard Backlighting | RGB |
| Style | Contemporary |

Image: A detailed graphic outlining the key specifications of the ZORNHER ZH980 keyboard, including dimensions, weight, keycap type, switch type, battery, and connectivity.
8. Warranty and Support
The ZORNHER ZH980 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is covered by a 2-year warranty from the date of purchase, ensuring peace of mind regarding manufacturing defects and performance issues.
For product support, troubleshooting assistance, or warranty claims, please visit the official ZORNHER store or contact their customer service directly. You can find more information and contact details by visiting the ZORNHER Store on Amazon.


