Likely fix
Fix: Keyboard works only sometimes
An intermittent keyboard usually points to low battery, wireless interference, a loose cable, USB receiver problems, liquid damage, or a failing keyboard.
Quick answer
Check batteries or cable first, move wireless receivers closer, restart the computer, and test the keyboard on another device.
Important warning
Random keyboard failures after a liquid spill can get worse over time.
Try this
- 1 If wireless, replace or charge the batteries.
- 2 If USB, unplug and reconnect the keyboard.
- 3 Try another USB port.
- 4 Move wireless receivers closer to the keyboard.
- 5 Restart the computer.
- 6 Test the keyboard in another app.
- 7 Test the keyboard on another device if possible.
- 8 If it fails randomly on multiple devices, replace the keyboard.
Common causes
Low battery.
Wireless interference.
Loose USB cable or receiver.
USB hub problem.
Liquid damage.
Failing keyboard hardware.
What to check next
- Check whether the keyboard fails more when far away.
- Check whether fresh batteries help.
- Check whether another USB port helps.
- Check whether it happens on another computer.
- Check whether the keyboard was recently dropped or spilled on.