Mac Keyboard Tester
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What Is a Mac Keyboard Tester?
A Mac Keyboard Tester is a tool that checks whether all the keys on your keyboard are functioning correctly. It helps detect:
Unresponsive keys
Sticky or stuck keys
Ghosting issues (when multiple key presses aren’t registered)
Hardware vs. software problems
You can use built-in macOS tools, online keyboard testers, or third-party software to diagnose issues.
How to use our Mac Keyboard Tester?
To make sure every key on your Mac full keyboard is functioning properly, you can test it. You can simultaneously press several keys. The following are the steps to test your keyboard:
How to Test Your Mac Keyboard
1. Using macOS Built-In Keyboard Viewer
Apple provides a Keyboard Viewer that displays an on-screen keyboard and highlights pressed keys. Here’s how to enable it:
Go to
System Settings>Keyboard>Keyboard Shortcuts.Enable “Show Keyboard and Character Viewers in menu bar.”
Click the Input menu in the menu bar and select Show Keyboard Viewer.
Press keys on your physical keyboard—if they light up on the virtual keyboard, they’re working.
🔹 Best for: Checking key responsiveness and modifier keys (Shift, Option, Command).
2. Online Mac Keyboard Testers
If you prefer a web-based solution, several online keyboard testers provide instant feedback:
A. KeyboardChecker.com
Press any key—if it turns green, it’s working.
Tests ghosting (multiple key presses).
Useful for gaming keyboards and external Mac keyboards .
B. KeyboardTester.info
Displays a virtual Mac keyboard that lights up when keys are pressed.
Helps detect unresponsive keys and stuck buttons.
🔹 Best for: Quick diagnostics without installing software.
3. Using Apple Diagnostics for Hardware Issues
If your keyboard isn’t responding at all, Apple Diagnostics (or Apple Hardware Test on older Macs) can detect hardware failures:
Shut down your Mac.
Turn it on and immediately hold ⌘ + D (Intel Macs) or just hold the power button (Apple Silicon Macs).
Follow the on-screen instructions—if errors appear (e.g., “Keyboard Error”), contact Apple Support.
🔹 Best for: Severe keyboard malfunctions (no keys working).
4. Third-Party Testing Tools
For advanced users, these tools offer deeper diagnostics:
Karabiner-Elements – Remaps keys and tests input.
Keyboard Maestro – Checks macro functionality and key responses.
Common Mac Keyboard Problems & Fixes
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
| Keys not working | Dirt/debris, software glitch | Clean with compressed air, restart Mac 10 |
| Sticky keys | Spills, dust accumulation | Use isopropyl alcohol & a soft cloth 13 |
| Ghosting (missed key presses) | Low-quality keyboard | Use an anti-ghosting keyboard tester 1 |
| Caps Lock/Media keys unresponsive | System delay | Hold the key longer (up to 3 seconds) 5 |
| External keyboard not detected | Bluetooth/connection issue | Re-pair or try a different USB port 5 |
When Should You Replace Your Mac Keyboard?
Consider a replacement if:
Multiple keys fail even after cleaning.
Liquid damage has occurred.
Apple Diagnostics reports hardware failure.
For MacBook users, keyboard replacements can be costly—check if you qualify for Apple’s Keyboard Service Program (for older butterfly keyboards).
FAQ: Mac Keyboard Tester
1. How can I test my Mac keyboard?
To check your keyboard and determine which keys are functioning properly and which keys are causing issues, try our online Mac keyboard checker.
2. How do I know if my Mac Key is broken?
By testing your keyboard using our online testing tool, you will get to know which key on the mac keyboard is working and which one is broken as the broken key will not show any response.
3. Why do I need to test my Keyboard?
Your keyboard’s some keys might be troubling you. Maybe you can’t tell whether the issue is with the hardware or software you’re using. This is where our online Keyboard Tester can be of use. You can use this tool to find out whether each of your keys is functional.
4. How do you reset an external MacBook Pro keyboard?
Ensure that the USB connector is inserted into the USB port when you reconnect the keyboard by unplugging it and plugging it back in. Alternatively, you might try connecting the keyboard to a separate USB port.
5. How do I fix a stuck key on my MacBook?
Gently clean around the key with isopropyl alcohol or use compressed air. If it persists, the key mechanism may need replacement.
6. Does Apple have a keyboard diagnostic tool?
Yes—Apple Diagnostics (or Apple Hardware Test) checks for hardware issues.
- Select the key or keys you wish to test.
- If the key functions properly, our tool will show whether or not the key was clicked.
- The key that was clicked on the virtual keyboard will likewise be illuminated.
- If it doesn’t illuminate or show the message, your key could not be operating properly.