Keys are read by position
The tester listens for the physical key, not for the character it types. A key marked here works, even if your layout types a different letter with it.
Tool
Keyboard tester
Press any key — it lights up on the board
The board takes every key while it is active, Tab included. Press Esc to let go of the keyboard.
- Types
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- Physical key
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- Times pressed
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This tool is for a physical keyboard. On a phone or tablet, connect one first.
Press the keys on your keyboard one at a time. Every key that reaches the browser lights up on the board and stays marked, so whatever is still unmarked at the end is the key to look at. The board is drawn with the English layout, but what it tests is the physical key — it works whichever layout your computer is set to.
How the tester works
A marked key stays marked
A key is solid while you hold it down and stays tinted after you let go. Work through the board row by row; what is left plain has not sent a signal.
Other keys are listed by name
The arrows, the function row and the number pad are not drawn. Press one and it is added to a list under the board, so those can be checked too.
Frequently asked questions
A key does not light up. Is it broken?
Check first that the board is active — its outline is coloured while it is listening; click it if not — and press the key again. A few keys are taken by the system before any web page sees them: Fn, the media keys, and the Windows or Command key in some shortcuts. If an ordinary letter never lights up here or in any other program, the switch under it is worn or dirty.
How do I find a key that types twice?
Press the key once and read "Times pressed" under the board. One press that is counted as two is key chatter: the switch is bouncing. Holding a key down does not add to the count, so only real presses show.
How many keys can my keyboard register at once?
Hold several keys down together; each one the keyboard reports stays solid while it is held. Many keyboards stop after a few letters at a time, modifiers aside. If a third or fourth letter will not light up while the others are held, that is the keyboard's rollover limit, not a broken key.
Why does Tab not move to the next link here?
While the board is active it keeps every key for itself, so that each one can be tested. Press Esc to release the keyboard, and Tab moves through the page as usual. Press any other key, or click the board, to continue testing.
Does it work with a Mongolian or Korean layout?
Yes. Keys are tested by position, so the layout your computer is set to makes no difference. Open the Mongolian or Korean version of this page to see those letters drawn on the keys.
Is what I type sent anywhere?
No. The keys are read in your browser to draw the board. Nothing you press here is stored or sent.
Keyboard works? Put it to use
Learn where each key sits with the key-location lessons, or find out how fast you type right now.