How to Fix a Broken Keyboard Key
If you've identified a dead key using our tool, don't panic. First, try cleaning the key switch. Dust and crumbs are the most common culprits for unresponsive keys. Use a keycap puller to gently remove the cap and spray compressed air into the switch mechanism. If you are using a mechanical keyboard, the switch itself might be hot-swappable, allowing you to replace just the broken unit rather than the whole board. For membrane keyboards, usually found on laptops, ensure the ribbon cable is properly seated if you are comfortable opening the device.
What is Keyboard Ghosting?
"Ghosting" happens when a keyboard cannot register multiple key presses simultaneously. For example, if you press W, A, and Space at the same time while gaming, a cheap keyboard might fail to register the Space input. This limitation is due to the internal wiring grid of the hardware. Higher-end gaming keyboards feature "N-Key Rollover" (NKRO), which allows every single key to be pressed and registered individually at the same time. Use our tester to check your rollover—try pressing 6+ keys at once!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I test my F-keys?
Simply press the F1 through F12 keys on your keyboard. Note that on some laptops, you may need to hold the 'Fn' (Function) key simultaneously if the F-keys are mapped to media controls by default.
Why is my spacebar not working?
The spacebar is the most used key and often collects the most debris. It relies on a stabilizer bar which can get stuck. Try removing the keycap carefully and cleaning the metal stabilizer bars underneath.
Does this work on Mac?
Yes! Our tool is fully compatible with macOS. The "Command" key will register as "Win" or "Meta" on our visualizer, and "Option" will register as "Alt". All other standard keys work exactly the same.