Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the primary purpose of this tool?

This is a free diagnostic tool for testing keyboard hardware directly in your browser. It helps you verify the functionality of every key, test for advanced issues like ghosting and chattering, and check N-Key Rollover (NKRO). It's essential for gamers, programmers, typists checking a new mechanical keyboard, or anyone diagnosing a potential hardware fault without needing to install software.

Is this keyboard test private and secure?

Yes, absolutely. The entire key test application runs on your computer (client-side). We do not log, store, or transmit your keystrokes across the internet. Your privacy is 100% guaranteed during your keyboard testing session. What you type is your business only.

How can I properly test for keyboard ghosting?

To test for ghosting, press and hold common multi-key combinations used in gaming or productivity (e.g., `Shift + W + Space`). Then, while holding them, try pressing a third or fourth key (like `R` or `G`). Our virtual keyboard will light up every key that the computer successfully registers. If a key you are holding down does not light up, your keyboard is ghosting on that specific combination.

What is N-Key Rollover (NKRO) and how do I test for it?

N-Key Rollover means the keyboard can correctly register every single key being pressed simultaneously. This is a premium feature found mostly on gaming keyboards. To test for it, simply press and hold as many keys as you can at the same time. If all of them light up on our tester, your keyboard has true NKRO.

What's the difference between anti-ghosting and N-Key Rollover?

They are related but different. "Anti-ghosting" is a broader term where a keyboard is designed to prevent incorrect key presses from being registered when multiple keys are held down. "N-Key Rollover (NKRO)" is the most advanced form of anti-ghosting, guaranteeing every key can be pressed at once. Many non-NKRO keyboards have "6-Key Rollover," which is a limited form of anti-ghosting that allows up to 6 keys to be pressed simultaneously.

Does this tool perform a keyboard polling rate test?

No. This tool tests key functionality, not communication speed. Polling rate (measured in Hz) is how often your keyboard sends signals to the computer. While our tool provides instant visual feedback, you need specialized software to get a precise polling rate measurement.

Can I test media keys, function (FN) keys, or macros?

You can test standard media keys (like Volume Up/Down) if they send a standard keyboard signal. However, special function (FN) keys and custom macros are often handled by the keyboard's internal firmware or specific drivers and may not register as standard keystrokes in a browser. It is best to test these within an application that uses them.

My wireless keyboard isn't responding. What should I do?

First, ensure your keyboard is properly paired and connected to your computer via Bluetooth or its USB dongle. Check the battery level. If it's connected to the OS and can type in another application but not here, try refreshing the page. If it cannot type anywhere, the issue is with the keyboard's connection to your computer, not our tool.

Can this website fix my keyboard?

No, this is a diagnostic tool, not a repair tool. It cannot fix hardware problems. However, by accurately identifying the issue (e.g., a dead key vs. key chatter), it gives you the crucial information you need to follow our troubleshooting guide and successfully fix the problem yourself.

Why is my keyboard typing the wrong letters?

This is usually a software issue, not hardware. The most common cause is having the wrong keyboard language or layout selected in your operating system (e.g., your OS is set to a UK layout while you have a US keyboard). Check your system's language and region settings first.