Apple manufactures exceptional keyboards, known for their functionality, aesthetic appeal, and seamless compatibility with Macs. However, occasional issues can arise.
Whether your keyboard fails to respond, isn’t detected via Bluetooth, or doesn’t register keystrokes, here are steps to rectify the situation.
If Your Magic or Wireless Keyboard Isn’t Working
Wireless keyboards, often used with iMacs, Mac minis, or Mac Studios, can encounter unique challenges compared to wired keyboards. No matter the issue, start with the following steps:
1. Ensure Bluetooth is Enabled and Operational
Begin with the simplest fixes. Navigate to System Settings > Bluetooth to confirm Bluetooth is active. The System Settings panel displays device connectivity status, battery levels, and any errors.
If you notice a Bluetooth icon with a jagged line in the preferences panel or menu bar, Bluetooth is offline. Restart your Mac to resolve this. If it persists, disconnect all USB devices and reboot once more.
2. Verify Your Keyboard is On
If your iMac’s Wireless or Magic Keyboard isn’t connecting, check it’s powered on:
- For the latest Magic Keyboards, slide the switch on the back edge to reveal the green color.
- For older Apple Wireless Keyboards, press the Power button on the right edge to illuminate the green LED on top.
Once the device is on, return to the Bluetooth preferences and check if it’s connected. If your keyboard is searching but not connecting, select it from the device list and click Connect. If it’s not listed, proceed to step five below.
3. Check Keyboard Battery Level
Low battery levels can cause performance issues or prevent connection. Go to System Settings > Bluetooth to see a battery indicator beneath connected keyboards. Alternatively, click the Bluetooth icon in the menu bar for battery status. Replace or recharge if the battery is low.
4. Disable Mouse Keys and Slow Keys
Certain macOS accessibility features can disrupt normal keyboard functions. Go to System Settings > Accessibility and select Pointer Control. Under Alternative Control Methods, ensure Mouse Keys is off, as it allows mouse control via keyboard keys, potentially disabling some keys.
Next, go to Accessibility > Keyboard and ensure Slow Keys is off, as it requires longer key presses to register a press.
5. Re-Pair Your Keyboard with Your Computer
If issues persist, try re-pairing your Apple wireless keyboard with your Mac. In Bluetooth preferences, ensure Bluetooth is enabled, mouse over your keyboard in the device list, and click Disconnect.
Right-click (or command-click) the keyboard and select Forget. Confirm by clicking Forget Device. Now, turn your keyboard off and on. The indicator light should blink, and the keyboard should appear under Nearby Devices. Hover over it, click Connect, and follow on-screen instructions to complete pairing.
If Your Mac USB Keyboard is Not Working
If your wired keyboard connected via USB fails, try the following steps:
1. Test a Different USB Port
Unplug the keyboard from its current port and try another one. If it works, reconnect to the original port. If it only functions in one port, your computer’s USB ports might require repair.
2. Inspect the System Report
Go to the Apple menu (top-left of the screen), click About This Mac, select More Info, then System Report. In the System Report window, select USB under the Hardware section on the left sidebar to see what your computer detects.
If Apple Keyboard is listed under a port, it’s detected. If not, try restarting your Mac and resetting the SMC and PRAM on Intel Macs (unnecessary for Apple Silicon Macs).
3. Disable Bluetooth
Navigate to System Settings > Bluetooth and turn it off. If this resolves the issue, your computer may have been prioritizing a Bluetooth keyboard over the USB one. If Bluetooth is needed, disconnect the Bluetooth keyboard from the list.
4. Turn Off Mouse Keys and Slow Keys
These accessibility features can affect wired keyboards too. Go to System Settings > Accessibility, select Pointer Control, and ensure Mouse Keys is off. Also, ensure Slow Keys is off under Accessibility > Keyboard.
5. Use an Extension Cord or USB Hub
Apple’s USB keyboards come with an extension cord for longer reach. Connect the keyboard to one end of the cord and the other to your computer. Alternatively, use a USB hub. This often resolves the issue despite its unclear efficacy.
In any troubleshooting scenario, it’s essential to know when to seek professional help. If none of these solutions work, consider visiting an Apple Store, especially if the device is under warranty. You can also search for specific issues online for potential solutions from others.
Apple hardware is reliable but not infallible. Stay vigilant for early problem signs to address them promptly.