HP Laptop Keyboard Not Working

Before undertaking significant repairs on your device, try these basic troubleshooting steps:

• Restart your computer. Restarting your laptop finalizes any pending repairs and restarts all systems services. Use the restart option in the Start Menu.
• Check for software updates. If you're running Windows, right-click the Start Menu and select Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Click the Check for Update button.
• Investigate which keys are affected. This can tell you a lot about the nature of the problem. Use an online Keyboard Tester App for easy visual reference. If you have a USB keyboard, connect it to see if problems persist, indicating a software issue.
  • Are only specific keys not registering presses? If so, you'll want to try cleaning the affected switch(es).
    • If the USB keyboard exhibits the same symptoms, it's most likely a Keyboard Layout Issue.
  • Are you getting double inputs for key presses on multiple keys? This could indicate a potential issue with the application you are running.
  • Is the keyboard working at all? A non-functional keyboard could indicate an issue with your device's physical connection to the keyboard.
    • If the USB keyboard exhibits the same symptoms, you're likely looking at a software issue. Accessibility Settings are a good place to check first.
  • Are malfunctioning keys close together? If a cluster, column, or row of keys isn't working, this is typically an issue with the keyboard. Those keys may be on the same electrical line within the keyboard's circuity.
    • If the USB keyboard exhibits the same symptoms, it's most likely a Keyboard Layout Issue.

Windows is developed for many languages and regional keyboard layouts. If your keys are not outputting the characters you expect, check these settings first.

• Check the toolbar in the bottom right corner of your screen for a language switcher (or Language Bar). Opening it allows you to select from installed languages or regional keyboards. Verify that your set layout matches that of your physical keyboard.
• If the language bar is not showing, but this seems to be your issue, check Windows language settings and set them appropriately. They can be found in the Settings menu under Time & Language.
  • You may also be able to get to these settings by right clicking on the time in the bottom right corner.

In addition to multiple language support, Microsoft built features to improve accessibility for people who experience typing difficulties. Enabling some of these settings inadvertently could make you think your keyboard isn't responding.

• Try typing by long pressing keys instead of typing rapidly as usual. A good test is to hold the CAPS lock key for a few seconds to see if the LED will light.
  • If you can type with long presses, you must disable Filter Keys, a setting intended for those who might accidentally nudge other keys while typing.
• Check your settings in the Ease of Access menu within the Settings app or Control Panel. Scroll to the Keyboard section and verify that all settings are correct.

If you are running a particularly demanding application on your computer, it may be interfering with your keyboard input. To test this, perform the following steps.

• Close all open programs, then open a single one. Is it any better? Reopen any other programs you had open to attempt to recreate the issue.
  • Programs that utilize keyboard shortcuts or are particularly resource intensive will be the first ones to cause issue and should be looked at first.
• Uninstall any programs that could be interfering with your keyboard.
• Run a virus scan to ensure no malware is impacting keyboard function. It is unusual but not unheard of.

Dirt or debris can find its way under your keyboard keys and affect the switches, especially if you are prone to spills. You can check out our article on fixing sticky laptop keys or a guide demonstrating the process using a MacBook (but with advice applicable to all laptops). For convenience, we've also included a brief guide on cleaning your keyboard below:

• Start by shutting the computer down. This will prevent key presses from making accidental changes during the cleaning.
• Turn the keyboard upside down and use a soft-bristled brush (a new "soft" toothbrush should work fine) to wipe any hard debris from under the keys. Be sure to pay special attention to particularly sticky or problematic areas.
• Wipe the keyboard with a cotton swab or cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher is recommended in most cases).
  • If things are especially sticky or crunchy, a lower concentration (~70%) isopropyl alcohol will dissolve grime more effectively. To avoid risk of corrosion in this case, you should remove the back cover and disconnect the battery before introducing any liquids to the keyboard. Give the laptop extra time to dry (~1 hour, less if there's good airflow).
• If any stickiness/grittiness/crunchiness persists, remove the keycaps to check for debris. The switches are easy to damage, so be as gentle as possible.
• Allow the keyboard to dry, then turn on your laptop to check if functionality has returned.

Even if your keyboard would work perfectly otherwise, without a way to get signals to the motherboard, it won't function at all. This is more common after a repair but can occur regardless.

• Inspection is likely to reveal signs of a bad cable. Open the laptop and look closely at corners and connectors. Punctures, creases, or tears can impede cable function. If you find any damage, replace the cable.
• Be sure the cable is inserted correctly. The location and width of the motherboard connector may make it challenging to get the connection right.
• Not all models will have a keyboard cable that is a separate part from the keyboard itself. Check that the keyboard uses a cable that can be disconnected from both ends. If the cable is integrated into the keyboard, you'll need to replace the entire keyboard, not just the faulty cable.

Ultimately, it may come down to an issue with the keyboard itself. This is typically a result of liquid damage but can occur regardless. Keyboards often come as part of an assembly but are independently replaceable in some models.

• If columns or rows of keys are not functioning without liquid damage, or you have been unsuccessful at getting responses from some keys, replacing the keyboard is the likeliest solution.

If all the above tips have failed, there is likely an issue with your laptop's motherboard.

• Inspect both sides of the motherboard for any signs of physical damage, such as burnt components, liquid damage, corrosion, or other visible issues. If you find any spots of corrosion, try cleaning them off with high concentration isopropyl alcohol and a soft-bristled brush. It might just bring things back to life.
• If your motherboard's components aren't functioning correctly, you will likely need to source a replacement board.
• Circuit boards can often be repaired by a knowledgeable technician with soldering (or microsoldering) experience. If you don't think you could do this yourself, ask your local repair shops.