Written By:
Table of Contents_
Apple users seem to love their new Magic Keyboards. The minimalist and comfortable design is widely praised among students, workers, and recreational computer users as some of the best keyboards available. But unfortunately, Apple keyboards still are subject to malfunction and damage. However, there are some standard methods for how to fix a MacBook keyboard (fixes that apply to any MacBook keyboard model). And below, we’ll be running through the most common ones.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Suppose you happen only to need to fix the spacebar key. In that case, you can switch to our article that specifically covers how to fix the spacebar on a keyboard.
Getting to the bottom of the question, why isn’t my keyboard working, can be an annoying predicament to face on your own. Some solutions might require knowing how to clean underneath your MacBook keyboard. And this process requires knowing how to remove your Mac’s keyboard keys. And all of these tasks are why we’re laying out a few of the most common paths to fixing your Mac keyboard.
Insider Tip
You can further customize your keyboard by going to “System Preferences” and then into “Keyboard Preferences.”
And if your keyboard isn’t working, you might be interested in our article explaining how to connect a keyboard to a Mac. This way, you have something to use while your built-in keyboard is shut down.
STEP 1
Take a can of compressed air and blow in a zig-zag pattern across the entire keyboard. Then, tilt the keyboard at a 75-degree angle several times and repeat the pattern to perform a complete cleaning. Do this until all loose debris is removed.
STEP 2
If your need to clean it further, you’ll have to remove the keycaps and wipe them with rubbing alcohol. (You can see our linked articles above for more information on this.)
STEP 3
Check the switches for any damage. If there is damage, you’ll need to take it to the Apple store for repair.
If your keyboard is malfunctioning or not working, connect an external keyboard through one of the USB ports, or pair a wireless keyboard.
Click on the Apple icon in the upper left corner and go into “System Preferences.”
Find the “software update” section. Check for updates to see if the keyboard driver or operating system needs an update.
Warning
Apple’s butterfly switch keyboards produced in 2015 and 2016 were notorious for malfunctions. Beware of this before purchasing an older model Macbook.
STEP 4
You can also try removing any apps that you’ve recently downloaded. Sometimes, certain apps can create glitches in the keyboard.
STAT: Apple’s Magic Keyboard is 10.98″ wide. (source)
