5 Ways to fix ‘MacBook keyboard is not working’ issue

A malfunctioning Mac keyboard can be very frustrating. And even if you have an external keyboard handy, your usual workflow can be thrown off-kilter.

But don’t worry, if your MacBook Pro or MacBook Air keyboard is not working, you’ve come to the right place. Here are some of the best possible solutions.

Why is my MacBook keyboard not working?

Macs are usually smooth-running machines. However, software and hardware-related issues can definitely arise during use. There are chances that a bug is causing the issue or some setting has been mistakenly altered.

And if you’re using a MacBook with a Butterfly keyboard, it might be that dust or dirt particles are hampering the keys’ travel path. We’ve gathered the most common root causes of the issue and their possible solutions, so let’s get to it.

What to do if your Macbook keyboard is not working

1. Reboot the MacBook
2. Clean the keyboard
3. Check for macOS Updates
4. Reset PRAM and SMC on your MacBook
5. Delete recent apps from your MacBook

1. Reboot the MacBook

It might sound too basic, but we often undermine the importance of a fresh start. The culprit might be some software settings or over-heating, especially if the device has been running non-stop for a while.

Restarting your Macbook will reset several settings and resolve the issue at hand without much hassle.

2. Clean the Keyboard

As mentioned earlier, dust particles in the keyboard may cause such problems with your MacBook Air or MacBook Pro. Apple suggests cleaning your keyboard with compressed air.

1. Tilt your Mac at a 75-degree angle, so it’s not vertical.
2. Now, use a compressed air spray over half the keyboard or the affected keys in a left-to-right motion.
3. Rotate the Mac and repeat the process on the remaining half maintaining the left-to-right motion.

Repeat the process for a more thorough cleaning, but remember to use compressed air along with a straw to limit the airflow.

Note: This is a slightly risky procedure as excess airflow can further damage the keyboard. So, employ this method if you’re sure about your cleaning skills or get it done by a professional.

3. Check for macOS Updates

Whether the Macbook’s keyboard or trackpad isn’t working, updating macOS is amongst the oldest and most common troubleshooting tips. But it works like a charm, so go ahead and give it a try.

To update your macOS, head over to System Preferences, and navigate to the Software Update section.

If an update is available, click on Upgrade Now to initiate the OS update.

4. Reset PRAM and SMC on your MacBook

PRAM (Parameter Random Access Memory) stores core values and SMC (System Management Controller) takes care of your CPU fan and lighting. Resetting them could resolve the issue

Remember to reset both as just resetting SMC alone won’t work. If you’re not sure how to do so, check out our detailed step-by-step guide for help and check out why it’s important to reset SMC on your Mac.

Note: Before you reset the PRAM and SMC, make sure to take proper backup. Also, no other external device should be connected to the Mac while you perform the process.

5. Delete recent apps from your MacBook

While not often, a recently installed or updated app could be causing the glitch. This may happen if the latest version is unstable, so you’ll have to remove the app to bring back the keyboards’ functionality.

Check which apps have been installed or updated recently

1. Select the Apple icon from Menu Bar and click About This Mac.
   
2. In the Overview tab, click System Report.
   
3. From the sidebar, find and go to Installations under Software.
   

Here, you will find the entire list of all software installed on your MacBook with their respective installation/update date. Now that you may have found your culprit, let’s get to the next step.

Remove the App from your Mac

1. Launch Finder and click on the Applications options from the Side Bar.
2. Find the app and drag it to the Bin.
   
3. Now, Empty Bin to permanently delete the application from your Mac.
   

MacBook Keyboard Fixed!

If the keyboard of your Macbook Air or Pro still isn’t working or the problem recurs, get it checked by a professional or Apple Support. I hope the issue is resolved ASAP and your Mac is back to its former glory as soon as possible.

Here are some more tricks to make the most of your MacBook:

• How to Fix Blinking Apple Keyboard Light on a Mac
• How to turn on or off keyboard light on Mac
• Delete key not working on Mac? Easy ways to fix it!
• How to fix Escape key not working on Mac

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