Mac Keyboard Not Working. Causes, Solutions, Alternatives

Your keyboard Mac it does not work correctly? Would you like to know what causes it to fail? Apple makes some fantastic keyboards: they work great, they look great, and their design fits your Mac perfectly. But it can happen that they suddenly stop working properly.

You may have connected your keyboard, but it's not working. It's also possible that your Bluetooth can't detect the signal from your keyboard. It could also be that nothing appears when you press a key on your keyboard. So, here's what you can do when your Mac keyboard isn't working with your MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, or iMac.

What to do when your Mac keyboard is not working?

So let's start with wireless keyboards, which tend to have a lot more issues compared to wired keyboards. No matter what happened to your keyboard, you can try the steps below:

Make sure Bluetooth is enabled and turned on when your Mac keyboard is not working

Don’t ignore the most obvious solutions when trying to troubleshoot. Head to “System Preferences” > “Bluetooth” and make sure your Bluetooth is turned on.

The System Preferences panel will show you if any devices are connected, if they have a low battery level, or if they have encountered errors.

Here you can learn about: 7 Solutions to Slow Boot Error on Mac 

If the preferences pane or menu bar shows a Bluetooth icon with a zigzag line over it (see image below), it means that Bluetooth is disabled. Then restart your Mac and see if that might help. Otherwise, disconnect all devices USB and reboot again.

Make sure your device is on when your Mac keyboard is not working

If your wireless keyboard or Magic Keyboard is not connected, you should check whether it is turned on or not. To check, do the following:

• Solution 1: On the latest model of Magic Keyboard, slide the toggle button to "WE", so you can see the green part of the button.
• Solution 2: On older models of Apple wireless keyboards, press the power button on on the right edge of the keyboard until you see the indicator light at the top of the keyboard.

Once your device is on, go back to Bluetooth preferences and see if it is finally connected or not.

• Solution 3: If your keyboard is searching for your computer but it is not connected yet, right-click on your keyboard icon, which is in the list displayed on the screen, then select the “Connect«.

Check the battery level if your Mac keyboard is not working

If your keyboard battery is low, it's normal to experience performance issues. Follow these steps to troubleshoot when your Mac keyboard is not working due to low battery:

• Step 1:: go to «System preferences">"Bluetooth» to view the battery level of your connected keyboard, as shown below.

• Step 2:: By clicking on the icon Bluetooth In the menu bar, you can see the battery level of any Bluetooth-connected device on your Mac. If the battery is low, it's time to change the batteries in your keyboard.

Make sure Mouse Keys and Slow Keys are disabled if you find your Mac keyboard not working

Some menu functions such as the “Accessibility» can interfere with the normal operation of your keyboard. To check this, follow these steps:

• Step 1:: go to «System preferences">"Accessibility»And select«Mouse & Trackpad» in the left sidebar menu.

NOTE: : Make sure the option «Enable Mouse Keys» is not checked. This option allows you to have mouse control through keyboard keys, which sometimes causes the inability to use several keyboard keys correctly.

• Step 2:: Then go to the section «Keyboard» from the left side menu.
• Step 3:: Next you must verify that the option «Enable slow keys» is not checked. When this option is enabled, key presses take longer to be detected.

Re-pair the keyboard with the computer

When you are in the Bluetooth preferences panel, make sure that Bluetooth is turned on. To resolve the issue if your Mac keyboard is not working due to lack of pairing, you should do the following:

• Step 1:: Select your keyboard from the list of devices.
• Step 2:: then click on the button "X" to the right of the device name.

NOTE: : A warning message will appear on the screen telling you that you need to pair your device again if you want to use it later.

• Step 3:: Then click on the button «Delete«.
• Step 4:: Turn the keyboard off and then back on.

NOTE: : You will see the light indicator appear when your keyboard is on.

• Step 5:: Then go to the keyboard options, located in «System preferences">"Bluetooth«.

Therefore, follow the on-screen instructions to be able to pair your device with the computer.

What to do if your Mac keyboard trackpad isn't working?

Is your MacBook trackpad not working? You can try these troubleshooting tips to resolve the issue. So let’s start with the easiest method.

Check for macOS updates if your Mac keyboard isn't working

It may seem pretty obvious, but many people are still not using the latest version of the operating system, the latest firmware, and the latest drivers from Apple.

To see if there are any updates available for your trackpad, open the App Store and click the “Updates” tab at the top of the window.

You should install all available updates. But to fix the trackpad issue, you need to check for a trackpad firmware update (or something similar). If you see something similar, click the “Update” button and follow the instructions on the screen.

Double-click on your Mac keyboard is not working

If your trackpad works fine except for double-clicking, then there may be some lag with gesture recognition on your system, it's possible that the settings have been adjusted to work slowly.

If you are using a new trackpad (instead of using the traditional mouse) or if your fingers are not very flexible, then this could be the cause of your problem. Follow these steps to resolve it:

• Step 1:: To access the settings of Double click, click the icon Apple in the upper left corner of the screen.
• Step 2:: Then go to «System preferences…">"Accessibility«
• Step 3:: then select the section «Mouse & Trackpad» in the menu on the left side.

You will see many options available there, but the one you need to pay attention to here is the “Double click speed«. Change the slider for this position option, moving it to a more suitable location, feel free to go as fast as needed.

Tips: Solutions for MacBook Touchpad Problems

If none of the above solutions worked, you probably need to take your computer to a repair shop. There are many repair options available, but the method you use will depend on whether you have AppleCare or not. Even if you don't need a repair, there are other solutions you can try in the meantime.

Disable the trackpad

A fairly obvious workaround would be to turn off the trackpad completely and then use a standard mouse instead. To do this, you'll simply need to act in the opposite direction to the previous method.

• Step 1:: go to «System preferences">"Accessibility">"Mouse and trackpad«.
• Step 2:: then check the box next to the option “Bypass the built-in trackpad when mouse or wireless trackpad is present«.

Use an external trackpad

Apple's Magic Trackpad 2 works exactly like your computer's trackpad, the only difference is that it appears as an external device placed on your desk.

It's the perfect tool for those who are used to using a trackpad or for those who really don't like using Apple's Magic Mouse, which is also a wireless device. Unfortunately, an external trackpad isn't cheap, but it's the only external touchpad solution compatible with a Mac, and it's much better than using the Magic Mouse.

Repair MacBook trackpad

We have already discussed Apple's customer service support options. You can also opt for Use Genius Bar at an Apple Store, take it to an authorized reseller, or go to an independent retailer not affiliated with Apple.

The only alternative would be to try to fix the Mac yourself. There are plenty of video tutorials for this on YouTube.

WARNING: Do not attempt this method if you are not confident in your abilities. This action will void your warranty. If your computer is still under Apple's warranty, let Apple do the work.

Clean your Mac

Sometimes it may happen that software conflicts arise and create persistent and quite annoying problems on your computer. You can use various cleaning software when your Mac keyboard is not working.

CleanMyMac It is the best Mac cleaning app that offers a wide variety of tools, allowing you to accomplish many things including full system cleaning, professional uninstallation, virus scanning, malware, complete file removal and optimization of constantly improving mods.

With this program, you can remove malware from your Mac, delete caches from your Mac, completely uninstall unnecessary applications on your Mac, fix system defects when your Mac keyboard is not working, etc. With CleanMyMac, your computer will stay clean, fast, and safe.

If your Mac's USB keyboard doesn't work

If your Mac keyboard is not working while connected via USB to your computer, try the steps below to resolve the issue.

Try another USB port if your Mac keyboard doesn't work

Unplug your keyboard from the current USB port and try a different port. If that works, you can try again with the original USB port. If the connection only works with a certain USB port, you'll need to repair the USB ports on your computer.

Check the system report if your Mac keyboard is not working

• Step 1:: you need to click on the menu icon «Apple » in the upper left corner of the screen.
• Step 2:: after that, click on the option “About this Mac«.
• Step 3:: Then, go to the button «System report... ".
• Step 4:: When the System Report window appears on the screen, head over to the “Hardware» from the left side menu, then select the option «USB«.

NOTE: : From there, you will be able to see the devices detected by your USB ports.

If your computer was able to detect the keyboard, you may see “Apple Keyboard» under one of your USB ports. If you don't see it listed, restart your computer and reset the SMC and PRAM.

Turn off Bluetooth if your Mac keyboard is not working

• Step 1:: Go to «System Preferences » > «Bluetooth» and make sure Bluetooth is turned off.

If this can solve your problem, then your computer may have recognized a Bluetooth keyboard around it, giving it priority for use.

• Step 2:: If you need to keep Bluetooth enabled, go to «System Preferences » > «Bluetooth» to remove the keyboard from the list by clicking the button "X"

Make sure Mouse Keys and Slow Keys are disabled

Some functions of the menu «Accessibility", including those we have already mentioned, could affect wireless keyboards.

• Step 1:: Go to «System Preferences» > «Accessibility».
• Step 2: then click on the menu «Mouse & Trackpad» on the left. Make sure the box next to the option «Enable Mouse Keys» is not checked.
• Step 3: Now click on «Keyboard» in the left side menu and make sure the box for the option «Enable slow keys» is also unchecked.
• Step 4: Connect your keyboard with an extension cord or USB power strip.

Apple USB keyboards come with a USB extension cable that allows you to extend the length of the USB cable. So try connecting your keyboard to your computer using this extension cable. If you don't have an extension cable, you can try a USB power strip.

NOTE: :Nobody knows why this solution is so effective, but at least it works!

Is your Mac keyboard still not working?

As with all troubleshooting attempts, there is always a point where you might end up declaring defeat. If you have tried all the solutions mentioned in this article and none of them could work, then it is probably time to head to the professional staff at an Apple store (you should do this especially if your device is still under warranty).

Alternatives to the official Apple keyboard

Here is the list of 9 best alternative keyboards compared to Apple Magic Keyboard.

• Das Keyboard Professional for Mac (Model S).
• Das Keyboard 4 the professional.
• Keychron K2 RGB wireless keyboard.
• Mac Velocifire M87 Keyboard.
• Logitech K750 wireless keyboard for Mac.
• Macally Ultra-Slim USB Wired Keyboard.
• Macally ultra-slim USB cable for a mini computer.
• Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard.
• Anker Ultra-Compact Wireless Keyboard.

Das Keyboard S model for Mac:

Mechanical keyboards provide an encounter tactile that many touch typists love. The The Keyboard Model S It is a smooth mechanical model that uses Cherry blue switches MX with gold contacts.

These give the greatest "click" in a touch of capturing the set Cherry Line MX. While some mechanical keyboards are generally compromises basic, this is not.

In spite of standard keys, which use the Mac keyboard format, this one has multimedia keys, including volume and playback control. Having a USB hub installed means you don't have to travel far to connect your phone or various accessories.

Das Keyboard 4 Professional for Mac:

The Keyboard is a great name when it comes to Mac keyboards in the mechanical assortment, so it should come as no surprise to see them pop up twice on this topic tired out.

While the Model S uses Cherry MX Blue switches, the Das Keyboard 4 Professional uses Cherry MX Brown, which is smoother and quieter while still providing a tactile click to let you know you've pressed the key.

Like the Model S, this version has media keys and a full number option. It also has a locally available USB hub. While the Model S only has a midpoint USB 2.0, this model incorporates a middle point USB 3.

The product of the top panel of aluminum makes the keyboard extremely smooth, making it perhaps the best keyboard for Mac that you will find.

Keychron K2 RGB Wireless Keyboard:

If you need a mechanical keyboard for Mac with the RGB lighting you'll find on many PC keyboards, your options are limited. All things considered, the Keychron K2 RGB Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard has plenty of perks to call its own.

First off, you don't get to learn the regular stuff on remote mechanical keyboards. You also get your pick of switches. While this uses Gateron switches rather than the more familiar Cherry MX switches, you do get the option of Blue, Earth, or Red switches.

These are generally proportional to Cherry MX inputs, with Blue being the most clicky, Red being the calmest, and Earthy being somewhere in the middle.

Velocifire M87 Mechanical Keyboard:

Mechanical keyboards are generally expensive, however, there are moderate options as well. The Velocifire M87 is a mechanical model that is a bit more stripped down than some of the various picks we looked at.

It doesn't include Cherry MX or even Gateron switches, however, if you have to try a mechanical keyboard for Mac, this is a good place to start.

This uses the standard Mac keyboard layout, which doesn't yet have a digital keypad. If you don't work with numbers, this can be a plus, as it involves less physical typing. The switches are natural style, meaning it's not so shocking that it will disturb anyone around you.

Logitech K750 Wireless Solar Keyboard:

As if not judging Apple's own models, the Logitech K750 Solar Wireless Keyboard is often mentioned as one of the other remote keyboards for Mac clients.

It has a Mac-style form factor, plus it's a super-slim, modern extension to your workspace. Far superior is its controlled solar orientation, so you don't need to stress about plugging it in or updating batteries.

This model uses key curves, which is nice for contact typists. It also has a dedicated Launchpad key, a top-mounted on/off switch, and a handy indicator light to show you if there's enough natural light.

Macally Ultra Slim USB Wired Keyboard:

If you need the look and feel of the Apple Magic Keyboard without Apple Charge, the Macally Ultra-Slim USB Wired Keyboard takes you almost all the way.

In particular, it's like the model with the digital pad. It's plastic and feels a bit lighter, but the styling is similar. This model uses standard scissor-style keys, not at all like Apple's butterfly keyboard that has caused so many problems on MacBooks.

The keys are actually responsive, however, they don't feel exactly like the Magic Keyboard. All in all, it's pretty close.

Macally Slim Compact Wired USB for Mini PC:

The Macally Slim USB Compact and Small Wired Computer Keyboard is just like the previous model, just without the digital pad. As stated above, some people will find this constructive, as this model takes up less space on a work area, leaving more room for a mouse or even an espresso.

Similarly, with the other Macally model, it looks more like an Apple Magic Keyboard from a distance. Walk around and you'll see its plastic, not aluminum, however, it looks really comparable.

Bluetooth keyboard for vaseveral Logitech K380 devices

If you need a keyboard that can work with multiple devices, the Logitech Bluetooth Keyboard is worth considering. Multi-Device K380. The small round keys will take a while to Get used, but the benefits may be justified, despite all the problems. Whatever your Mac, this keyboard can work with it. iPhone, iPad and even with devices Android.

It doesn't end there either. If you need a simpler time to mark on your AppleTV, You can also use this keyboard with that. For simple swapping, you can connect up to three devices one after the other. This means that it could be the best keyboard for your MacBook Pro if you also need to control your other Apple equipment.

You can also read about: 10 Best Music Mixing Software | Windows and Mac

Anker Ultra-Compact Wireless Keyboard:

Similarly, if you need a Bluetooth keyboard that coordinates your Apple top of the line equipment with the Logitech keyboard, consider the keyboard Bluetooth wireless Anker Ultra Compact Profile.

This battery-powered keyboard will work with your Mac, as well as devices IOS, Android and even from Windows. However, try not to stress, this still has a Mac keyboard layout, so you don't have to worry about pressing a key inappropriate.