How to test a MacBook keyboard
The MacBook layout is selected for you. Press every key once. Keys turn green when they work and stay grey if nothing arrives. Switch to Mac full if you use a Magic Keyboard with a number pad.
Two keys cannot be checked by any website: fn (the globe key) is handled inside the keyboard, and the Touch ID button does not send a key press. The top row sends F1 to F12 only when you hold fn, or when you set it to act as standard function keys under System Settings, Keyboard.
MacBook keys not working? Try these fixes
- Restart the Mac. It clears most software glitches that stop keys from responding.
- Check Keyboard settings. Open System Settings, Keyboard, and make sure the right input source is active. Turn off Slow Keys and Sticky Keys under Accessibility, Keyboard.
- Clean the keys. Hold the MacBook at a 75 degree angle and spray compressed air across the keys in a zigzag, then turn it and repeat. Apple recommends this for butterfly keyboards (MacBook models from 2015 to 2019).
- Reset the SMC on Intel Macs, or shut down fully for 30 seconds on Apple silicon Macs.
- Test in another account. Create a new user. If keys work there, an app or setting in your own account is the cause.
Some butterfly keyboards qualified for Apple's free keyboard service program. Apple has since ended it for most models, but an Apple Store or authorised repair shop can still tell you your options.
Why the labels might differ from your keys
Chrome and Edge read your keyboard language and show your own letters, so a Danish or German Mac keyboard displays æ, ø, å or ü in the right places. Safari and Firefox do not share this, so they show US labels. The keys still test correctly.
Frequently asked questions
Short answers to the questions people ask most about this test.
How do I test my MacBook keyboard?
Open this page in Safari, Chrome or Firefox and press every key. Each key that works turns green. Keys that stay grey after you press them need attention.
Why can I not test the fn key on my Mac?
The fn or globe key is processed by the keyboard and macOS before any app or website sees it. No browser test can detect it alone, but you can test it together with the top row: fn plus F1 should light up F1.
Does this work with a Magic Keyboard?
Yes. Pick Mac full for the Magic Keyboard with number pad, or MacBook for the compact version.
Is anything I type saved?
No. The tester runs in your browser and does not send or store your key presses.