Surface Pro keyboard not working? Simple ways to fix it

You're typing on your Microsoft Surface® Pro when it happens. You enter the "R" key, but "e" pops up on the screen. Trying again, you get the same result. The Surface keyboard is not working, and you need a solution pronto.

Asurion Experts know how to keep all of your favorite devices working properly. Whether you have questions about a flickering Surface Pro screen or can't get your device to turn on, we have a solution. Here's what to do when dealing with a Surface keyboard that's stopped working.

5 things to try when your Surface Pro keyboard stops working

Troubleshoot a Surface laptop keyboard that's not responding with these quick fixes. 

Check the physical connection

Surface Pros connect to a Type Cover to facilitate keyboard activities. Detach the Type Cover from your device and examine it for damage and debris. Use a gentle cloth to wipe the connection magnets before reattaching it to the Surface Pro. 

Restart your Surface Pro

Apps and system software can interfere with keyboard operations. Erase temporary conflicts by restarting the Surface Pro.

1. Click Start > Power > Shut down.
2. Wait for the device to power down.
3. Press and hold the Power button for 20 seconds. 
4. Continue to hold the Power button even when the logo screen appears. When it appears a second time, release the button. 

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Update Windows and drivers

Microsoft releases Windows™ and driver updates frequently. The updates introduce new features, address security flaws, and fix bugs in existing software. Downloading the latest updates can resolve conflicts between the Type Cover and your device.

1. Verify the Surface Pro is securely attached to the Type Cover and Dock. 
2. Click Start. Open Settings.
3. Click Windows Update > Check for Windows updates.
4. Click Install Now for any available updates.

Optional updates aren't a system requirement but can resolve issues. To check if there are optional updates for your device, follow these steps.

1. Type View optional updates in the Windows taskbar.
2. Click the View optional updates tab.
3. Click the updates you want to install. 
4. Click Install Now.

Reset your Surface's keyboard settings

If the keys on your Type Cover don't respond how you expect them to, try rolling back to a newer version of Windows. A recent update installed on your device may interfere with the keyboard.

1. Click Start. Open Settings.
2. Click System > Recovery.
3. Click Go back.

The option to restore your Surface to a previous Windows version is only available for 10 days following an update. If you installed the update earlier, an option to go back won't appear. 

Consider using an external keyboard

Do you have a spare keyboard you're not using? Connect it to the Surface Pro and use it in place of the Type Cover. 

FAQ

Why is my Surface Pro keyboard suddenly not working?

A Surface Pro keyboard may stop working because of a loose connection, software conflict, or hardware failure. Check device connections and restart the Surface before moving on to more advanced fixes.

How do I reset my Surface keyboard?

Uninstalling and reinstalling the Surface keyboard can restore its functionality.

1. Right-click the Start menu.
2. Click Device Manager > Keyboards.
3. Right-click the keyboard driver. 
4. Click Uninstall.
5. Restart your device. Windows will automatically install the keyboard driver for your Surface keyboard.

Can I use Surface Pro without a keyboard?

The Surface Pro has a touchscreen with an on-screen keyboard, similar to a smartphone. You can use the on-screen keyboard if the Type Cover isn't working or if you prefer a more relaxed computing experience. 

Do Surface keyboards wear out?

Surface keyboards are susceptible to wear and tear from spills, consistent use, and damage. To extend keyboard longevity, keep liquids and food away from your device. Remove dust and debris using a can of compressed air. 

How do I know if it's a hardware or software issue?

Run a connectivity test on the Surface keyboard to test its functionality. Press the Caps and Fn keys several times and wait for the LED lights to brighten. If no lights appear, the keyboard has a hardware issue. 

If the lights come on but the keyboard continues to malfunction, run a Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) test.

1. Turn off the Surface. Wait 10 seconds. 
2. Press and hold the Volume Up button. While pressing the Volume Up button, press and release the Power button.
3. Hold the Volume Up button until the UEFI screen appears.
4. Use the arrow keys on the keyboard to select Devices and disable the Type Cover Port.
5. Repeat steps 1-4 and re-enable the Type Cover Port.
6. Test the keyboard functionality after restarting the device.

If the keyboard works fine in UEFI but continues to have problems in Windows, it's likely a software issue.