Using VIA to Adjust Keyboard Backlight Effects and Colors (QMK Firmware)
Learn how to change keyboard backlight colors and effects using VIA.
In this tutorial, I demonstrate the process using a Keychron Q2 Max, but the same workflow applies to any keyboard that supports open-source QMK firmware. Many popular boards ship with QMK preinstalled, including Keychron, NuPhy, and KBDFans.
Using VIA is far faster than reflashing firmware every time you want to tweak lighting. You can adjust colors, effects, and brightness live — with no rebuilds or flashing required.
📋 Table of Contents
Intro: 00:00
What is QMK?: 00:17
What is VIA?: 00:27
Compatibility: 01:00
Connecting to VIA: 01:12
JSON definitions: 01:38
Adjusting backlights: 02:15
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🔗 Links Mentioned
▶ VIA (keyboard configurator)
https://usevia.app/
▶ QMK Firmware
https://qmk.fm/
▶ Keychron firmware downloads
https://www.keychron.com/pages/firmware
▶ Keychron Q2 backlight shortcuts
https://www.keychron.com/blogs/news/q...
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🔗 Optional: Get More Value From Your Keyboard
▶ Touch Typing Hub (technique + accuracy training)
Better lighting + good technique = less fatigue
https://ansonalex.com/typing/
▶ TypeDrift (accuracy-first typing practice)
Great for dialing in muscle memory after layout or lighting changes
https://typedrift.app/
💡 Tip:
If you change lighting brightness or effects, your perceived key feel can change slightly. A short accuracy-focused typing session helps recalibrate quickly.
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💻 More tips and tutorials
http://AnsonAlex.com
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☎️ Get in contact with me
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🎥 Behind the scenes
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#QMKFirmware #KeyboardCustomization #VIAConfigurator