How to fix keyboard not typing on Mac

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for keyboard issues on Mac.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

If your keyboard is not typing on a Mac, you can troubleshoot the issue by checking the keyboard settings, resetting the SMC, or ensuring that the keyboard is properly connected. This guide provides detailed steps to resolve the problem effectively.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you begin troubleshooting your keyboard issue, ensure you meet the following requirements.
  • •A Mac computer running macOS (check version compatibility).
  • •Access to keyboard settings in System Preferences.
  • •If using an external keyboard, ensure it is connected via USB or Bluetooth.
  • •Backup important data to avoid loss during troubleshooting.

Method 1: Check Keyboard Settings

This method is useful when the keyboard settings may have been inadvertently changed, leading to typing issues.
  • •Step 1: Click on the Apple menu in the top-left corner of the screen.
  • •Step 2: Select 'System Preferences' from the dropdown menu.
  • •Step 3: Click on 'Keyboard' to open the keyboard settings.
  • •Step 4: Ensure that 'Key Repeat' and 'Delay Until Repeat' settings are appropriately set. Adjust them if necessary.
  • •Step 5: Verify that the 'Use F1, F2, etc. keys as standard function keys' option is checked or unchecked based on your preference.
  • •Step 6: Test the keyboard by typing in a text editor like TextEdit to see if it works.
  • •Step 7: If it doesn't work, try restarting your Mac.

For macOS Ventura (13) and later

In macOS Ventura, the System Preferences has been renamed to System Settings.
  • •Step 1: Click on the Apple menu and select 'System Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and click on 'Keyboard'.

For macOS Monterey (12) and earlier

The steps are similar but may have slight variations in layout.
  • •Step 1: Click on the Apple menu and select 'System Preferences'.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'Keyboard' to access settings.

Method 2: Reset the SMC (System Management Controller)

Resetting the SMC can resolve hardware-related issues, including keyboard problems.
  • •Step 1: Shut down your Mac.
  • •Step 2: For MacBooks with a T2 chip, press and hold the Control + Option + Shift keys on the left side of the built-in keyboard, then press and hold the power button for 10 seconds.
  • •Step 3: Release all keys and turn on your Mac.
  • •Step 4: For MacBooks without a T2 chip, press Shift + Control + Option + power button simultaneously for 10 seconds.
  • •Step 5: Release all keys and turn on your Mac.
  • •Step 6: For iMacs and Mac Minis, unplug the power cord, wait 15 seconds, plug it back in, and wait another 5 seconds before turning it on.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the keyboard still does not work after trying the above methods, consider the following troubleshooting steps.
  • •Error: 'No input from keyboard' - Solution: Check if the keyboard is connected properly or try a different USB port.
  • •Issue: Keyboard keys are unresponsive - Fix: Clean the keyboard with compressed air to remove debris.
  • •Problem: Bluetooth keyboard not connecting - Workaround: Ensure Bluetooth is enabled in System Preferences > Bluetooth and try re-pairing the device.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some advanced tips to enhance your keyboard experience.
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Command + Space - Opens Spotlight for quick searches.
  • •Command line: `defaults write -g ApplePressAndHoldEnabled -bool false` - Disables the press-and-hold feature for keys.
  • •Hidden feature: Text Replacement - Access in System Preferences > Keyboard > Text to create shortcuts for frequently used phrases.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Regular maintenance and awareness of keyboard settings can prevent many issues.