Designed to control DAPs and smartphones, as well as Windows and macOS multimedia controllers, the FiiO KB1K three-key mini keyboard is much more than just a small accessory for controlling music. Discreet and elegant, it can be highly customized and offers a host of possibilities on a computer thanks to its programming interface. Is it just a gadget, or a handy little accessory for €19?
Presentation
FiiO is renowned for its range of audiophile equipment, which has built up an excellent reputation over the years. Whether it’s headphone amplifiers, DAPs or network players, the Chinese manufacturer always offers excellent build quality, while remaining highly competitive in terms of price. The FiiO KB1K mini keyboard is no exception to this rule, and the feeling of reliability is felt from the very first interaction with the accessory.
For €19, the FiiO KB1K three-key mini keyboard has an attractive metallic chassis, adding to its durable character. The keys are composed of standard switches and keycaps that can be replaced, according to your preferences. By default, the switches are pleasant and click when pressed. A detail that should please mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. It is powered thanks to a USB-C port, while a second port lets you power a DAC, charge a smartphone or connect any compatible device.
Also worth noting is the presence of a non-slip foam pad, which makes it extremely stable on a large mouse pad like the Steelseries Heavy QcK XXL, for example.
Add a potentiometer for PC volume control
A notched potentiometer lets you adjust the volume very precisely. It is particularly pleasant to use, especially given the price of the macropad. We weren’t expecting such attention to detail, which makes all the difference.
This knob lets you control the volume from your desktop. A good option if your keyboard doesn’t have multimedia functions. Its metal finish is reminiscent of vintage amplifiers and will appeal to those who love beautiful hi-fi devices. Also clickable, it lets you mute the sound. This macropad quickly becomes an everyday essential.
A mini keyboard for music control
By default, the FiiO KB1K keyboard offers simple music control. The three keys are used to start or pause playback, and to change tracks (next or previous). The knob controls volume, and can be clicked to mute and unmute the sound.
This is the FiiO KB1K’s main function, and it should be enough for the majority of users, notably thanks to its great versatility as it not only works on computers, but also many smartphones, network players and DAPs. The ideal desktop accessory to intuitively navigate through your playlists and adjust the volume.
In this configuration, no drivers or software are required. The FiiO KB1K is immediately recognized by Macs and Windows PCs and works immediately, whatever device it’s connected to. An asset that will appeal to those looking for an accessory with intuitive, easy-to-understand operation: Plug and Play.
A programming interface to go even further
The FiiO KB1K mini-keyboard is fully customizable, from the keys and knob to the LED backlighting. The Sayo Device web interface offers a wide range of options and lets you save up to five different profiles for multiple uses. In this case, you need to dedicate one of the keys to switching from one profile to another.
Multimedia applications are also numerous. You can launch a browser, file explorer or apps such as your e-mail or calculator. The FiiO KB1K macropad can be used to complement a conventional PC or Mac keyboard. It quickly becomes indispensable as you master its interface, which can be used in a browser like Google Chrome.
One of the most interesting features is the programming of key combinations. You can define CTRL+C and CTRL+V on two keys, for example, to copy and paste. These combinations also allow you to use your software’s keyboard shortcuts. A minor drawback on macOS is that it doesn’t support the “Command” key, which is essential on Apple devices. However, if you regularly use the same shortcuts, it’s still very useful for boosting productivity. Two successive operations can also be programmed, enabling you to perform two tasks with a single keystroke.
Another interesting option is the ability to store passwords directly in the FiiO KB1K’s memory. In this case, it acts as a “key”, enabling you, for example, to unlock a computer or connect to a website. Of course, for this use, you’ll need to remember to disconnect and take the macropad with you when you’re away from your machine.
The “One-click write poetry” feature stores phrases that can be written with a single keystroke. The applications are numerous, but email sign offs uch as “Kind regards” or “Have a nice day” can be written with just one keystroke, for example. When it comes to repetitive tasks, the FiiO KB1K mini-keyboard can be a real advantage on a day-to-day basis.
Key specifications
- Music control
- Two USB-C ports
- Programmable keys
- Customizable LEDs
- Mechanical switches
- Dimensions: 14.8 × 6.1 × 3.7 mm
- Weight: 84g
Setting up the FiiO KB1K macropad
By default, the FiiO KB1K macropad supports music playback control. Whether you use Windows, macOS or Linux, it is immediately recognized. No additional configuration is required. Connected to a smartphone or tablet using a USB-C to USB-C cable, like the FiiO LT TC3, it’s also immediately functional. In addition, it supports network players, DAPs and smartphones. This is its main purpose.
While there’s an app for Windows, the FiiO KB1K keyboard is programmed via a web interface. You’ll need to use Google Chrome for this. During our test, the macropad wasn’t recognized by Mozilla Firefox. This solution enables it to be configured on most desktop operating systems, but requires an Internet connection. The Sayo Device interface remains accessible, but takes a little bit of getting used to. Once you’ve got the hang of it, you can configure a computer’s multimedia functions and program keyboard shortcuts to perform actions in most software apps.
Testing the FiiO KB1K
On a day-to-day basis, video editing involves relatively repetitive tasks, particularly when it comes to cutting shots. This can be tedious work with the mouse, especially if you need to be precise to make a cut in the right place. In this case, the FiiO KB1K mini-keyboard’s potentiometer is incredibly precise, advancing the timeline by 0.01 seconds at a time. By also programming a key to perform the cut and delete everything before it, this offers greater ease of use, avoiding the need for multiple key combinations.
Although it’s no substitute for the AVerMedia deck, the FiiO KB1K mini-keyboard lets you control some of the OBS software’s options for streaming on Twitch. During livestreams, it’s often necessary to change scene, for example, from facecam to the game window. In the OBS options, keyboard shortcuts can be defined for each scene, and these can be programmed on the FiiO KB1K. This way, each key on the mini-keyboard can be switched from one to the other simply by pressing them.
For gaming, the FiiO KB1K mini-keyboard proves to be a pretty useful accessory, especially in games like World of Warcraft, where it has a few advantages, like the ability to launch your favorite attacks. The Sayo Device interface can also be used to simulate joystick actions. In this case, it can be a great help to disabled people who want to play video games. In a rhythm game like osu! it’s a formidable weapon, allowing you to perform combos very quickly. The multiple key combinations and possibilities offered by this mini-keyboard are a great help to gamers.
Who is the FiiO KB1K macropad designed for?
If you want quick access to music controls on your desktop, this little FiiO KB1K keyboard is ideal and easy to use. Whether you’re using it to control a computer, a network player, a DAP or a smartphone, it is plug and play and no special knowledge is required to use it. It is therefore suitable for everyone, and offers added convenience for browsing playlists and controlling volume with a real potentiometer.
For gaming, it can be used to improve your score, particularly in rhythm games. In RPG (role-playing game) titles where attacks and spells can be numerous, the FiiO KB1K macropad is useful for performing your favorite actions. Its multiple programming possibilities also allow you to adapt it to your own gaming techniques. It proves highly effective for gamers looking to improve their performance.
Its interface takes things a step further, offering a wealth of possibilities for controlling most software with keyboard shortcuts. Whether for photo editing, video editing or music creation, it’s even more ergonomic. Its five profiles let you add more actions to boost productivity. As a result, it’s also suitable for creative professionals.
Useful resources
- Official web interface
- Sayo Device web interface
- Interface source code
- Firmware and updates
- App for Windows
Conclusion
The purchase of a FiiO KB1K mini-keyboard is primarily motivated by its music control features, but as you discover its possibilities, it will take up more and more space in your daily life. It can be particularly useful in most applications that offer keyboard shortcuts, but also in games. Note that the manufacturer offers it in black and white, so that it blends in perfectly with your setup.
We liked:
- The build quality
- The replaceable keycaps and switches
- The programming options
- The precision of the volume knob
- The attractive price
We would have liked:
- More information on programming options
- Native macOS and Linux apps
