Laptop Keyboard Not Working. Causes, Solutions, Alternatives

Would you like to learn why? The laptop keyboard does not work and how to fix it? The keyboard is probably the part of your laptop that you interact with the most, and it can be incredibly frustrating when it isn't working properly.

 If your keyboard responds very slowly, if it is stuck or one or more keys have stopped working, here you will find the solutions and alternatives. We invite you to stay with us

Method to fix a keyboard that doesn't work

Follow these step-by-step methods to fix your laptop keyboard not working anymore:

Method 1: Identify the source of the problem if the laptop keyboard does not work

To find a solution, it is essential to determine whether it is the hardware or your computer's software that is causing the problem. The best way to do this is to enter the BIOS (or UEFI) of your device. Most computers with Windows provide a keyboard shortcut to access it, often using the keys Delete and Esc.

You may be interested in reading about: Lenovo Keyboard Not Working. Causes and Solutions

The exact combination varies by manufacturer, so take There to find this information, unless you are willing to experiment and make mistakes.

If you can access the BIOS without any problems, it is probably a software problem, and the following tips might help. In fact, the BIOS is separate from the rest of the operating system and therefore will not be subject to the same difficulties that Windows 10 encounters.

Just make sure to exit without saving before continuing with the next steps.

If you need to enter BIOS, but you can't use the keyboard, follow this tip:

• Step 1:: go to Settings → Update y security → Recovery
• Step 2:: Then click Restart now, in the section Advanced start.

NOTE: : When your device restarts, a different menu is displayed than what you normally see.

• Step 3:: So click on the option Solve problems→ Advanced Options → Change UEFI Firmware Settings, ends with Restart.

Method 2: Restart your PC if your laptop keyboard is not working

Yes, the perennial classic of “turn the computer off and on again» may be effective for software-based keyboards. If you followed method 1, you've already done this, but there's no harm in trying a standard reset separately.

• A satisfactory solution: To do this, open the Start menu, then click on the power icon (above the Windows logo) and choose the option Restart.

Method 3: Update or reinstall drivers if laptop keyboard is not working

Drivers are software programs that allow specific hardware to communicate properly with your computer. Assuming you're using the keyboard built into your laptop, they're usually updated automatically, but difficulties can arise from time to time. Here's how to update or uninstall drivers.

• Step 1:: Open the Device administrator, looking in the taskbar. You should now see a list of all the devices connected to your laptop.
• Step 2:: Expand the Keyboards section, select the PIH keyboard device. Right-click on it and in the drop-down menu, click Update Driver.

• Step 3:: In the same menu, you can also uninstall the device. Don't worry, just restart your laptop after confirmation and the drivers will be reinstalled automatically.

Method 4: Change settings if laptop keyboard is not working

Some of your keyboard settings are useful most of the time, but they can cause problems if they don't work properly. Here's how to disable them:

• Step 1:: In the search bar, enter the Control panel.
• Step 2:: In the window that opens, type keyboard in the top right corner (search box) and press Enter.
• Step 3:: Click Keyboard, then in the new window you can adjust the frequency of character repetition and blinking.

Also, keep in mind that filter keys can be problematic as well:

• Step 4:: To open Settings → Ease of Access, in the menu on the left select Keyboard. Scroll down to Use filter keys and disable the option if it is enabled.

Please note that your keyboard layout can also be the cause, so make sure it is configured correctly.

• Step 5:: Opens Settings → Time and language, in the menu on the left, select Language. In the section Preferred languages, Click on Spanish and then on Options.
• Step 6:: Make sure the keyboard is set to your preferred language and the QUERTY setting is selected.

Method 5: Clean the device thoroughly if the laptop keyboard is not working

Most users eat while using a laptop at home, crumbs and other food debris can easily get lodged between the keys. Here's how to effectively clean your keyboard:

• Step 1:: Make sure your laptop is completely turned off.
• Step 2:: Turn the unit upside down and shake it, which may be enough to dislodge some debris.
• Step 3:: Use a can of compressed air to clean between the keys on your keyboard.
• Step 4:: If a key appears stuck, you should be able to remove it without too much difficulty and clean more thoroughly.

Method 6: Wrong letters appear when you type! if your laptop keyboard is not working

First, let's start by considering the following questions:

• Has your laptop taken a hit lately?
• Have you just replaced your laptop keyboard?

If the answer to any of these questions is yes, the problem may simply be due to the connection cable being moved and simply reconnecting it.

On the other hand, if liquid has fallen on your keyboard, we recommend removing the corresponding keys to clean the keyboard with a cotton swab moistened with alcohol, this may restore the contacts.

From experience, this type of key reversal is usually typical of a keyboard at the end of its life where there is not much to do. In any case, we recommend that you try to clean the keys.

 Method 7: Laptop keyboard not working because it suddenly changed to QWERTY!

Unlike the previous case, don't worry! Your keyboard is not broken. By mistake, you had just performed the famous key combination that allows you to change your keyboard to QWERTY. As a reminder, on PC, we switch to QWERTY via a shortcut that varies depending on the version of Windows:

• Maj + Alt Gr
• Maj + Alt
• Alt + Shift

This order will be tried if the first one does not work on your version of Windows.

Method 8: The laptop keyboard is not working because one or more keys no longer respond

As with point 1), the first thing to try is to clean the contact cones with a cotton swab moistened with alcohol. Don't wait too long, though, because one or more keys that no longer respond are often also the sign of a keyboard at the end of its life. The only way to fix this is to change your laptop's keyboard.

Method 9: The laptop keyboard is not working because the numeric section is not responding

Once again, don't panic! Some computer keyboards have a key SEE. NO. which enables or disables the numeric keypad. Depending on your operating system, this numeric keypad will not necessarily be activated when the PC starts up and require you to press the (famous) key.

Here's a nice touch, VER. NUM on an HP keyboard. Remember to enable it for the numeric keypad to work. Some manufacturers, like Toshiba, have added an LED to show when the numeric keypad is active or not.

Method 10: Laptop keyboard not working because some keys seem broken

Above all, don't rush into buying a keyboard because only one key has just broken. Whether it's the key, the fixing or even the cone (under certain conditions), it is possible to save the keyboard without buying a new one. Replacing only the defective key will save you a complete disassembly of the keyboard, saving you time and money!

BONUS: Can we completely exclude a keyboard defect resulting from a virus infection or other problem?

In fact, it's possible that viruses can make your keyboard adopt particular behaviors that might make you think it's HS (points 1 and 3). The rest of the machine's behavior should also give you clues as to what to do next.

• Please note that an end-of-life motherboard can also cause keyboard issues.

In this case, we always remind you to order a replacement keyboard without any worries. If the problem persists after installation, you have 14 days (after receiving it) to return the keyboard for a refund.

In case of viruses on your computer or other software problems, we recommend that you contact remote computer troubleshooting experts who will know how to take care of your software.

Alternatives you can use if your laptop keyboard does not work

Ergonomics, functionality, comfort… having a good computer keyboard for work is important. Here is our comparison dedicated to office automation. An essential peripheral, the keyboard is not just an alignment of keys. There are technologies, ergonomic options and designs that really make a difference in the long term that you can use if your laptop keyboard does not work.

Whether you're venting on Twitter, typing code, writing a love letter or a complaint, the keyboard is the obligatory gateway to written communication. It takes up space on your desk and its quality will influence both comfort and efficiency. Follow this part of the article to make sure you choose the right keyboard for you.

1. Logitech Mx Keys: The best thing you can do if your laptop keyboard doesn't work

Logitech MX Keys This is the new high-end keyboard from the Swiss manufacturer, the Logitech Craft, which is at the end of its life. It is designed to accompany the best office mouse, the MX Master 3 from the same manufacturer.

The MX Keys It is a very elegant keyboard, with a clean design, associated with very attractive metal keys. Medium in size (43,2 x 13,2 cm), is particularly thin at 0,7 cm thick, rising to 2,1 cm towards the top, thus offering a slight incline.

The keys are perfectly aligned, with comfortable space between them. This chiclet style keyboard offers a short typing stroke and each key has a slight concave recess for more secure and efficient typing, even at high speeds.

Each of the “F” keys has a dual purpose, activating volume control, computer brightness or keyboard backlight intensity. The next three numbered keys are used to switch from one device to another, with the MX keys being able to connect to three different products (computer, tablet, smartphone). The travel is short, safe and noise pollution is really minimal.

Thanks to its delicacy, it avoids significant twisting of the wrists. The keyboard is wireless, using Bluetooth technology or 2,4 GHz wireless with the module USB Logitech Unify. Finally, if The keys are backlit, we don't understand the absence of an LED to indicate when the numeric keypad is activated, a little annoying in use. .

2. Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard – The most ergonomic one you can use if your laptop keyboard doesn’t work

While most keyboard manufacturers have abandoned the format "ergonomic", Microsoft continues to promote this type of product. Generally expensive, the American company here offers one for less than 70 euros.

It displays fluid lines, benefits from excellent build quality and exudes elegance. On the other hand, this is paid for with a given size: 48,77 x 26,24 x 6 cm which makes it poorly suited for a small office. The keys are grouped into two very distinct areas, with only the space bar being common.

The key spacing is average, as is the size of the keys, except for the “Enter” key, which is a bit off-putting. It is very small and it is not unusual to make a mistake when using it.

Just above the Function keys F, Microsoft offers a series of pre-programmed keys. We have the classic ones dedicated to volume management or music control… but who says Microsoft, says productivity.

So, we have buttons that are used to launch the calculator, a screenshot, a search, or viewing current tasks. As a bonus, you have three numbered buttons available to create your own shortcuts.

The keys are operated with a scissor mechanism, which offers quiet and fast typing. It is a bit soft, which may frustrate fans of dry and clear typing. The positioning of the keys requires a fairly long time to adapt.

But once you get into good habits, you can only notice how comfortable the beast is to use. Over time, your wrists and forearms become perfectly aligned, limiting the feeling of fatigue. Note that the wrist rest is very comfortable, but the keyboard does not tilt.

 The 1,5 meter USB cable is enough. If you like this product, Microsoft has another more premium Alcantara covered product, the Microsoft Surface Keyboard. Same quality, for 35 euros more. On the other hand, it gets dirty very very quickly.

3. Logitech illuminated keyboard k740

If this K740 means something to you, that’s fine. In fact, it’s been in Logitech’s catalog since 2008 and still stands out as one of the best keyboards available today. That said, it’s slowly starting to show its age in certain spots.

The design in particular is starting to look a little dated, though we appreciate its finesse. Once you start typing, you can only appreciate the excellent feel of the scissor switches used here. They are smooth, responsive, and above all, extremely quiet; a point that will delight your companions in the open space.

Only the space key sometimes lets out a small spring noise. As the name suggests, the keyboard is backlit, unlike newer keyboards. The lighting, on the other hand, is only adjustable in intensity. There is no RGB in the menu.

On the connectivity side, we are here in the presence of a wired model. There is a wireless version, but for a similar price we prefer to choose the MX Keys.

4. Logitech mk470: the cheapest alternative you can use if your laptop keyboard doesn't work

Here we are looking at a lightweight version of the MX keys. The Logitech MK470 takes the design of its predecessor, very similar dimensions (37,35 x 14,39 x 2,3 cm), except for its thickness. We find many other qualities such as its solidity – obtained thanks to the metal plate that serves as the base of the keyboard – and its stability on all surfaces.

It's true that there's a lot more plastic, but the build quality doesn't suffer and the assembly is of a very good standard. The key spacing is well balanced, but the keys are flat, without the concave look of the MX keys. We lose a bit of security when typing, but we're still well above average for keyboards.

The writing stroke is too short for our taste, which can be a bit uncomfortable when writing text very quickly. It's quite thick and has no wrist rest., not even as an option. This can be uncomfortable if you have very small hands, so your wrist has to flex significantly.

This is not a keyboard designed for writing a novel. Wireless, it connects to your computer via a USB receiver. Bluetooth is completely absent. Note that this keyboard is not sold alone, but as a package with a mouse. For the sum of 49,99 euros, We have a good keyboard and a Logitech Pebble m350 mouse (sold for only 24,99 euros).

5. Corsair K68

You might be wondering what a “gamer” keyboard is doing in this selection. But in practice the distinction is more aesthetic than anything else and some models shine for their versatility. This is the case with this one. Corsair K68 which yours has actually been using for about ten years to write his articles.

Relatively sober and incredibly strong with its aluminium construction, this model is spacious. By the way, it is splash-proof. We also appreciate the large multimedia keys which are always practical.

The keys themselves are built around the MX Red switches from Cherry. In practice, this results in linear (no “click”) typing that is comfortable and relatively quiet (for a mechanical keyboard).

As an added bonus, we have a fixed backlight (in red), but the intensity of which can be adjusted or cut off entirely if you are allergic to this sort of thing. A removable wrist rest completes the picture.

If not the most original on the market, the Corsair K68 is a good entry into the world of mechanical keyboards thanks to its excellent user comfort and almost indestructible design.

6. Razer BlackWidow Lite: The most compact one you can use if your laptop keyboard doesn't work

Razer is primarily known for its gaming peripherals. Here it stands out for its mechanical switches «Orange» supposedly the quietest in their catalog. The keyboard has a gamer design, but without excesses. It is offered in black, white and there is even a version of Star Wars Stormtroopers.

The build quality is excellent, the combination of metal and plastic provides aesthetics and above all resistance. Its Limited size (13,3 x 36,1 x 3,6 cm)) is explained by its TKL format and hence the lack of a numeric keypad. This may be unsettling for those who use it regularly, but makes it ideal for small workspaces.

Note a customizable backlight through its configuration software. The mechanical keys are comfortable, with a dry and secure typing. Which will suit those who have a sustained typing pace.

There are no dedicated shortcut keys, but there is the ability to create your own and assign them to keys of your choice. If the keyboard is quite thick, its wrist rest prevents your joints from becoming too strained for comfortable use over time. The cable length is 1,6m, sufficient for most users.

7. Cherry kc6000 slim:

El CherryBoard KC6000 is signed by the leading supplier of switches for gaming keyboard manufacturers. It brings its expertise to a keyboard, this time using a scissor mechanism. Aesthetically, we have a very clean, almost basic product.

It exists in black and especially in silver to seduce the owners of Mac. Be careful, despite appearances, the brushed metal effect is just an effect, not an ounce of noble material is seen on it. Its dimensions are quite generous (45,3 x 12 cm) and shows some delicacy at 1,5 cm.

The scissor mechanism is very efficient, yet comfortable with a short and above all clear stroke. Noise pollution is very controlled, unless you are used to typing hard on the keyboard. The most brutal should appreciate its metal structure as strong as it is stable.

It offers 6 shortcut keys distributed throughout the keyboard, to open the Internet browser for example. We have the possibility to create our own keyboard shortcuts.

Its thickness remains reasonable, so it offers appreciable comfort if it remains flat. If you decide to recline it, as we do, you will regret the lack of a wrist rest. The USB cable is 1,8 m long, a little longer than average, which is always appreciated. Count on a little less than 50 euros to get your fingers on it.

8. Logitech keyboard k120

If you're on a budget or just looking for a replacement keyboard, look no further than the Logitech K120. So, of course, for the price we're entitled to the bare minimum: a membrane mechanism and a standard layout, but the whole thing is reliable and comfortable for occasional use. You won't be writing a novel with it, but if you work remotely it's a good way to improve your comfort at a low cost.

 

What makes a keyboard comfortable?

When you use a keyboard, not only your fingers are used, but also all the muscles and joints of your upper body. Therefore, a keyboard should be wide enough so that your forearms are perpendicular to your bust and thus limit unnecessary movements. It should be as flat as possible to protect the wrist joints.

However, depending on the height of your desk or your seat, a keyboard with an adjustable tilt system is recommended. In this case, a wrist rest is a real plus to ensure proper alignment of the hands and forearms.

On the keys themselves, avoid keyboards where they are too tightly packed, as this increases the risk of typos. Some manufacturers also offer slightly concave keys to provide better finger grip and more secure typing.

Finally, quick access buttons are very frequently present, as well as for managing the sound volume as well as reading a playlist or the brightness of the screen. Finally, a backlit keyboard is a little more after dark.

What is an ergonomic keyboard?

So-called ergonomic keyboards have a very different key layout than conventional keyboards. If they are still arranged in AZERTY, they are separated into two distinct groups, one for each hand. If they have proven their worth, they are not very successful, because they require a long adaptation phase. You also have reflexes that you will have to give up as soon as you return to a classic keyboard.

Which design and format should you choose for your keyboard?

Using a beautiful keyboard is always a pleasure. However, the more neat its aesthetics, the more its price will increase. It is above all a question of taste and budget. Keyboards have relatively similar dimensions. If your workspace is small, it may be interesting to switch to a TKL (Tenkeyless) format keyboard, which does not have a numeric keypad. Remember that on your desk, you will need to have space for your mouse, your coffee cup or your speakers or printer.

What are the advantages of a wireless keyboard?

Getting rid of wires always brings more convenience and allows you to adapt to your uses and your workspace. In addition, many models offer multiple connections.

So the same keyboard can be switched from one PC to another, or a Mac or even a Tablet by pressing a single key. Some keyboards are battery operated and others are recharged via USB.

If you work with sensitive data or are just paranoid, choose a wireless model with AES encryption. So, every keystroke is encrypted between the keyboard and the computer to prevent any data interception.

What are the different key technologies?

When you press a key on a keyboard, three different technologies can be hiding behind you.

Here you can read about: Logitech Wireless Keyboard Not Working. Causes, Solutions and Alternatives

• Membrane keys: Here a flexible rubber coating is placed under the keys. It ensures that the pressed key returns to its original position and to be taken into account, the stroke must be complete. They are the quietest, but not the most efficient for those who type a lot of text and have a shorter lifespan.
• Scissor or chiclet keys: We find the rubber coating at the end of the stroke and under each key there is a scissor mechanism. As a result, we have a drier and faster typing than with a membrane keyboard, while we are less precise and faster than a mechanical keyboard. Chiclet keyboards also have a much shorter stroke. This is what they are used for on computers. portable.
• mechanical keys: Each key is accompanied by a complete mechanical key that is more precise and faster than a membrane keyboard. It is not necessary to fully press the key to validate your typing, a light pressure is enough for the character to appear on the screen. These are the keyboards best suited to fast typing, offering the best lifespan, but this comes at the cost of much higher noise pollution than that of a membrane keyboard.