Verify Your Keyboard Works
Bought a new keyboard? Spilled something on your old one? Notice a key that seems unresponsive? Before troubleshooting drivers or returning hardware, confirm the actual problem with a simple test.
This keyboard tester displays a virtual keyboard that lights up as you press physical keys. If a key lights up, it's registering correctly. If it doesn't, you've identified the culprit. Simple, visual, definitive.
Key Features
Visual Layout
Full keyboard displayed on screen. Keys highlight when pressed, showing exactly what your computer receives.
All Keys Supported
Letters, numbers, function keys, modifiers, numpad, special keys — everything gets tested.
Key Code Display
See the exact key code sent to the browser. Useful for developers and debugging custom key bindings.
Multi-Key Detection
Test key rollover by pressing multiple keys simultaneously. See how many register at once.
When to Test Your Keyboard
New Keyboard Setup
Before settling into a new keyboard, run through every key to confirm there are no defects. Catching a dead key early means an easy return; catching it months later means frustration.
After Spills or Drops
Liquid damage doesn't always kill a keyboard immediately. Test every key after an accident to identify which (if any) stopped working.
Intermittent Issues
A key that sometimes works is maddening. Rapid repeated testing can help identify whether the problem is consistent or truly intermittent.
Gaming Setup
Gamers need to know their keyboard supports n-key rollover. Test by pressing multiple movement and action keys simultaneously to confirm they all register.
Second-Hand Purchases
Buying a used keyboard? Test it immediately. Sellers might not have noticed a broken key they rarely use.
Understanding Key Rollover
2-key rollover (2KRO) means only 2 keys can register simultaneously. Basic keyboards often have this limitation.
6-key rollover (6KRO) allows 6 simultaneous keys. Sufficient for most typing and gaming scenarios.
N-key rollover (NKRO) means every key registers no matter how many you press at once. Essential for competitive gaming and heavy modifier use.
Test by pressing multiple keys at once. If some don't light up while others are held, you've hit your keyboard's rollover limit.
What the Tester Detects
Key presses — The moment a key goes down, it lights up on the virtual keyboard.
Key releases — When you release a key, the highlight disappears.
Modifier states — Shift, Ctrl, Alt, and Command show their current state (pressed or not).
Special keys — Function keys, Print Screen, Scroll Lock, Pause, Insert, Home, End, Page Up/Down, and arrow keys all work.
Note: Some keys (like F-Lock or certain media keys) may be intercepted by the operating system before reaching the browser.
FAQ
A key doesn't light up — is it broken?
Probably, but first check if the key is intercepted by your OS (like volume keys) or if browser focus was lost. Try clicking the page first, then testing again.
Does this work with any keyboard layout?
Yes. The tester detects key codes, not characters. QWERTY, AZERTY, Dvorak — all work. The visual display shows standard US layout, but detection works regardless.
Can I test on a laptop keyboard?
Absolutely. Laptop keyboards work the same way. The visual layout might not match your physical layout exactly, but key detection functions identically.
Why don't some special keys work?
Keys like Power, Sleep, and some media keys are often captured by the operating system before the browser sees them. This is normal.