A keyboard backlight makes typing in dim or dark environments much easier and more comfortable. When your keyboard backlight stops working, it can be frustrating and slow you down, especially if you rely on it regularly.
Whether you have a laptop, external keyboard, or a tablet with a keyboard case, understanding why the backlight is not working and how to fix it can save you time and hassle.
Keep reading to learn practical solutions and helpful tips to get your keyboard lighting back on.
📌 If you want to learn how to turn on your keyboard backlight quickly and easily, check out the article How to Turn On Keyboard Backlight: Step-by-Step Guide for All Devices. It offers clear steps that might be just what you need.
Why Is My Keyboard Backlight Not Working? Common Causes
When your keyboard backlight is not working, it could be due to several reasons. Understanding these causes will help you find the right fix faster.
Here are some common reasons keyboard backlight problems happen:
- Backlight turned off by mistake: Sometimes the backlight is simply switched off through a keyboard shortcut or system setting.
- Keyboard backlight locked or disabled: Some keyboards have a lock mode or backlight toggle that disables lighting to save power. This feature is common on many Lenovo and HP laptops but may not be available on all keyboards.
- Driver or software issues: Outdated or corrupted keyboard drivers or missing manufacturer software can stop the backlight from functioning.
- Power settings: Your device may turn off the backlight to save battery, especially when running on battery power.
- Hardware problems: A broken backlight bulb or faulty keyboard hardware can cause the lights to stop working.
📌 If you want to explore more about fixing keyboards and mice that suddenly stop working, browse the article Keyboard and Mouse Not Working? Try This Fix. It covers useful troubleshooting tips you might find helpful.
How to Fix Keyboard Backlight Not Working: Easy Steps You Can Try
If your keyboard backlight is not working, there are several simple fixes you can try before calling for help or replacing hardware. These steps are designed to be easy to follow and do not require technical expertise.
Use Keyboard Shortcuts to Turn On the Backlight
Many laptops and keyboards have special keys to control the backlight brightness or turn it on and off. These keys usually have a light icon and are often combined with the Fn key. The exact key varies by manufacturer and model, so look for a key with a keyboard light symbol. Common combinations include:
- Press Fn + F3 or Fn + F4
- Press Fn + F7
- Other function keys with a light icon
Try pressing these keys to see if the backlight turns on.
Check Keyboard Lock Mode
Sometimes the keyboard backlight stops working because the keyboard is in a locked state or the backlight is disabled.
On some laptops, especially Lenovo and HP models, pressing Fn + Esc or a dedicated lock key can toggle this mode.
Unlocking the keyboard can restore the backlight. If your keyboard does not have this feature, you can skip this step.
Adjust Power Settings
Your device may turn off the keyboard backlight to save battery power. Check your power settings and make sure the keyboard lighting is allowed to stay on when running on battery or plugged in.
On Windows, this is usually found in Power Options. On Mac, check Energy Saver preferences.
Restart Your Device
A quick restart can fix many temporary glitches, including keyboard backlight issues. Save your work and restart your laptop or tablet.
Update or Reinstall Keyboard Drivers
Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause the backlight to stop working. Go to your device’s settings or manufacturer website to update keyboard drivers.
Be sure to download drivers only from official manufacturer sites to avoid compatibility or security issues. If updating does not help, try uninstalling and reinstalling the driver.
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📌 If you use an iPad with a keyboard and your keyboard backlight is not working, discover more fixes in the article Is Your iPad Keyboard Not Working? 10 Fixes to Try Today. It offers practical tips for tablet users.
Keyboard Backlight Not Working on Windows, Mac, or Tablets? Device-Specific Tips
Different devices have their own ways of handling keyboard backlights. Here are some tips for the most common platforms.
Windows Laptops
- Use the function keys to toggle the backlight.
- Check keyboard lighting options in Windows Mobility Center or manufacturer software.
- Update Windows and keyboard drivers regularly.
MacBooks
- Adjust keyboard brightness in System Preferences under Keyboard.
- Make sure “Adjust keyboard brightness in low light” is enabled.
- Reset the SMC (System Management Controller) if backlight issues persist.
Tablets with Keyboard Cases
- Many tablet keyboards, including Apple’s Smart Keyboard, do not have built-in backlighting. However, some third-party protective keyboard cases offer wireless backlit keys.
- Make sure your keyboard case is properly connected and charged.
- If you have a protective case with a built-in wireless backlit keyboard, keep it updated and clean for best performance.
For high-quality protective cases with built-in wireless backlit keyboards for iPad and Samsung tablets, Chesona offers great options that combine protection and functionality.
When Basic Keyboard Backlight Fixes Do Not Work: Advanced Troubleshooting
If the backlight is still not working after trying the easy fixes, there are some advanced steps you can take.
Check BIOS or UEFI Settings
Some laptops let you control keyboard backlight settings in BIOS or UEFI. Restart your computer and enter BIOS setup (usually by pressing F2, Del, or Esc during boot). Look for keyboard backlight options and make sure they are enabled.
Use Manufacturer Software
Many laptop brands provide software to customize keyboard lighting. Open the software and check if the backlight is turned on or if any settings need adjustment.
Perform a Firmware Update
Updating your device’s firmware can fix bugs related to keyboard lighting. Check the manufacturer’s website for firmware updates and follow the instructions carefully.
Test for Hardware Problems
If none of the software fixes work, the backlight hardware might be damaged. You can test this by connecting an external backlit keyboard or consulting a professional technician.
How to Keep Your Keyboard Backlight Working Longer
Taking care of your keyboard backlight can help avoid future problems. Here are some tips to keep it working smoothly:
- Avoid spilling liquids on your keyboard.
- Keep your keyboard clean and dust-free.
- Use power settings that balance battery life and backlight usage.
- Choose a keyboard or case with a durable backlight feature, like those from Chesona’s collection.
Remember, backlit keyboards generally last a long time, but proper care can extend their lifespan even further.
Conclusion
If your keyboard backlight is not working, there are many easy and advanced fixes you can try to get it back on. From keyboard shortcuts to driver updates and BIOS settings, most issues can be resolved without professional help.
For tablet users, especially those with iPads or Samsung tablets, choosing a high-quality protective case with a built-in wireless backlit keyboard can make a big difference in usability and protection.
For more helpful guides and tips about keyboard backlights, iPads, and other tablets, be sure to visit Chesona. They also offer a great selection of protective cases and keyboard cases designed to keep your devices safe while enhancing your typing experience.
FAQ About Keyboard Backlight Not Working
How do I fix my keyboard keys not lighting up?
First, check if the backlight is turned on using keyboard shortcuts. Make sure your device’s power settings allow keyboard lighting. If those don’t work, update or reinstall your keyboard drivers.
How do I turn on the backlight on my keyboard?
Look for the key with a light icon on your keyboard, usually combined with the Fn key. Pressing this key or key combination should toggle the backlight on or off. You can also check your device’s settings for keyboard lighting options.
How to reset keyboard lights?
You can reset keyboard lights by restarting your device or toggling the backlight using keyboard shortcuts. Some devices also allow resetting through BIOS or manufacturer software.
Why did my RGB lights stop working on my keyboard?
RGB lighting can stop working due to software conflicts, driver issues, or hardware problems. Check your lighting control software and drivers. If the problem persists, hardware damage might be the cause.
How do I get my keyboard out of lock mode?
Look for a key or key combination that toggles keyboard lock, such as Fn + Esc. Pressing this should unlock the keyboard and restore backlight functionality.
