How to Make Your Keyboard Light Up
Are you tired of typing in the dark? Do you need to work at night and find it difficult to see the keys on your keyboard? The solution is simple: enable keyboard backlighting. In this guide, we will show you how to make your keyboard light up, so you can type in any lighting condition.
Keyboard backlighting is a feature that allows you to illuminate the keys of your keyboard. This feature is especially useful when working in low-light environments, such as at night or in a dimly lit room. Backlit keyboards are now a standard feature on many laptops and desktops, and are available in a variety of colors and brightness levels.
In this article, we will explain how to enable keyboard backlighting on Windows 10 and Mac computers. We will also provide instructions on how to activate the feature on specific laptop models and troubleshoot common issues. Additionally, we will cover external keyboard lamps and how to assign macros for increased productivity.
How to Enable Keyboard Backlighting on Windows 10
Windows 10 comes with two ways to enable keyboard backlighting: using the Windows Mobility Center or the native app. Here’s how to do it:
Using the Windows Mobility Center
- Press the Windows key + X to open the Quick Link menu.
- Select Mobility Center.
- Under the Keyboard Brightness section, use the slider to adjust the brightness of the keyboard backlighting.
- Click Apply to save your changes.
Using the Native App
According to Techjunkie, you can also enable keyboard backlighting on Windows 10 by following these steps:
- Click on the Start menu and select Settings.
- Click on Devices.
- Click on the Typing tab.
- Scroll down to the Keyboard section and toggle the switch under “Backlight” to On.
- Use the slider to adjust the brightness of the keyboard backlighting.
Troubleshooting Backlighting Issues
If the keyboard backlighting is not working, try the following solutions:
- Check if the keyboard backlighting is supported on your laptop model. Some budget laptops may not have a backlit keyboard.
- Update the keyboard drivers. Go to the manufacturer’s website and download the latest drivers for your keyboard.
- Check the keyboard backlighting settings in the BIOS. Restart your computer and enter the BIOS settings. Look for the keyboard backlighting settings and make sure they are enabled.
- Contact support. If you have tried all of the above solutions and the keyboard backlighting is still not working, contact the manufacturer’s support team for further assistance.
How to Turn on Keyboard Backlighting on Mac
Mac computers also come with two ways to enable keyboard backlighting: using the keyboard brightness keys or system settings. Here’s how to do it:
Using the Keyboard Brightness Keys
According to Lifewire, you can turn on your Mac’s keyboard backlight by pressing one of the following keys, depending on your Mac model:
- MacBook Pro models from 2018 and later: Press the Increase Brightness key (F6) or the Decrease Brightness key (F5) on the keyboard.
- MacBook Air models from 2018 and later: Press the Increase Brightness key (F6) or the Decrease Brightness key (F5) on the keyboard.
- MacBook models with a butterfly keyboard: Press the Increase Brightness key (F6) or the Decrease Brightness key (F5) on the keyboard.
Using System Settings
- Click on the Apple menu and select System Preferences.
- Click on Keyboard.
- Click on the Keyboard tab.
- Check the box next to “Adjust keyboard brightness in low light.”
- Use the slider to adjust the brightness of the keyboard backlighting.
If the keyboard backlighting is not working, try the following solutions:
- Check if the keyboard backlighting is supported on your Mac model. Some older Mac models may not have a backlit keyboard.
- Update your Mac’s software. Go to the Apple menu and select System Preferences. Click on Software Update and install any available updates.
- Contact Apple support. If you have tried all of the above solutions and the keyboard backlighting is still not working, contact Apple support for further assistance.
External Options for Keyboard Backlighting
If your laptop doesn’t have a backlit keyboard, or if you prefer a more customizable option, there are external solutions you can consider. Here are some options:
Keyboard Lamps
According to Howtogeek, you can use a keyboard lamp to illuminate your keyboard in low-light conditions. These small lamps clip onto the top of your laptop screen and shine a light onto your keyboard. They are portable and easy to use, but they may not be ideal for use in bright environments.
External Keyboards
If you use your laptop at a desk or work area, you may prefer to use an external keyboard with backlighting. According to HP, some of the best HP laptops come with backlit keyboards, but if your laptop doesn’t have this feature, you can purchase an external keyboard with backlighting. Some popular options include:
- Logitech K810: This Bluetooth keyboard is compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices and features adjustable backlighting.
- Razer Ornata Chroma: This gaming keyboard features customizable RGB backlighting and a wrist rest for added comfort.
- Corsair K95 RGB Platinum: This mechanical keyboard features per-key RGB backlighting and programmable macros for increased productivity.
Assigning Macros for Increased Productivity
According to Howtogeek, assigning macros to your keyboard can help you work more efficiently and effectively. Macros are shortcuts that automate repetitive tasks, such as copying and pasting text or opening frequently used programs. You can assign macros to specific keys on your keyboard for quick access. Some keyboards come with pre-programmed macros, while others allow you to customize them to fit your needs.
Best Laptops with Keyboard Backlighting
If you’re in the market for a new laptop and want a backlit keyboard, here are some of the best options available:
Dell XPS 13
The Dell XPS 13 is a popular ultrabook that comes with a backlit keyboard. According to Techradar, the keyboard is comfortable to type on and features adjustable backlighting. The laptop also has a vibrant display and long battery life, making it a great option for both work and play.
HP Spectre x360
The HP Spectre x360 is a versatile 2-in-1 laptop that comes with a backlit keyboard. According to Laptopmag, the keyboard is comfortable to type on and features adjustable backlighting. The laptop also has a long battery life and a vibrant display, making it a great option for both work and entertainment.
Apple MacBook Pro
The Apple MacBook Pro is a popular choice among creatives and professionals, and it comes with a backlit keyboard. According to Macworld, the keyboard is comfortable to type on and features adjustable backlighting. The laptop also has a bright and colorful display, making it a great option for photo and video editing.
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon is a business-oriented laptop that comes with a backlit keyboard. According to Laptopmag, the keyboard is comfortable to type on and features adjustable backlighting. The laptop also has a durable and lightweight design, making it a great option for professionals who are always on the go.
ASUS ZenBook UX425
The ASUS ZenBook UX425 is a sleek and lightweight laptop that comes with a backlit keyboard. According to Techradar, the keyboard is comfortable to type on and features adjustable backlighting. The laptop also has a vibrant display and long battery life, making it a great option for both work and entertainment.
Troubleshooting Keyboard Backlighting Issues
If your keyboard backlighting is not working properly, there are a few things you can try to troubleshoot the issue. Here are some common solutions:
Check the Keyboard Brightness Settings
According to Techjunkie, if your keyboard backlighting is not working, the first thing you should check is the brightness settings. On Windows laptops, you can adjust the brightness of the backlit keyboard using the Windows Mobility Center or the native app. On Mac laptops, you can adjust the brightness using the keyboard brightness keys or system settings.
Restart Your Laptop
Sometimes, restarting your laptop can fix issues with the keyboard backlighting. According to Lifewire, restarting your laptop can refresh the system and fix any temporary glitches.
Update Your Laptop’s Software
Updating your laptop’s software can also fix issues with the keyboard backlighting. According to HP, you should check for any available software updates and install them if they are available. On Windows laptops, you can do this by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. On Mac laptops, you can do this by going to the Apple menu > System Preferences > Software Update.
Contact Customer Support
If none of the above solutions work, you may need to contact customer support for further assistance. According to Techjunkie, if your laptop is still under warranty, the manufacturer may be able to repair or replace the keyboard for you.
Wrapping Up
Keyboard backlighting is a useful feature that can make typing in low-light conditions much easier. Whether you’re a gamer, a writer, or a professional, having a backlit keyboard can improve your productivity and comfort.
In this article, we’ve discussed several methods for enabling keyboard backlighting on Windows and Mac laptops, including adjusting brightness settings, using external solutions, and assigning macros for increased productivity. We’ve also highlighted some of the best laptops with built-in keyboard backlighting and provided troubleshooting tips for when your keyboard backlighting isn’t working properly.
If you found this article helpful, be sure to check out our other great content on Techslax.
Questions & Answers
Who can enable keyboard backlighting on their laptop?
Anyone with a laptop that supports keyboard backlighting can enable it.
What should I do if my keyboard backlighting isn’t working?
Try adjusting the brightness settings, restarting your laptop, or updating the software.
How do I turn on keyboard backlighting on a Windows laptop?
You can adjust the brightness settings using the Windows Mobility Center or the native app.
How do I turn on keyboard backlighting on a Mac laptop?
You can adjust the brightness using the keyboard brightness keys or system settings.
What are the best laptops with keyboard backlighting?
The Dell XPS 13, HP Spectre x360, Apple MacBook Pro, Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon, and ASUS ZenBook UX425 are all great options.
How can I type in low-light conditions without keyboard backlighting?
You can use an external keyboard lamp or assign macros to frequently used keys for easier typing.
What if my budget laptop doesn’t have a backlit keyboard?
You can use an external keyboard lamp or consider upgrading to a laptop with built-in keyboard backlighting.