Wireless keyboards usually connect in one of two ways: Bluetooth or a USB receiver. The correct setup depends on which type you have, so begin by checking the keyboard, its packaging, or the included instructions. Once you know the connection method, setup typically takes only a few minutes.
Identify your keyboard’s connection method
Bluetooth keyboards connect directly to a device’s built-in Bluetooth function. They do not need a separate dongle. USB receiver keyboards, sometimes called RF keyboards, include a small receiver that plugs into a USB port. Many of these connect automatically after the receiver is inserted.
Look for a Bluetooth symbol, a pairing button, or a device-selection key on the keyboard. If the keyboard came with a small USB receiver, keep that receiver with the keyboard; some models are designed to work only with the receiver supplied for them.
Connect a Bluetooth keyboard to Windows
- Install or charge the batteries, then switch on the keyboard.
- Put the keyboard into pairing mode. This may require pressing a Bluetooth or pairing button, or holding a designated key for several seconds.
- Open Windows Settings and select the Bluetooth section. Depending on the Windows version, it may appear under Devices or Bluetooth & devices.
- Turn Bluetooth on and choose the option to add a device.
- Select Bluetooth, then choose your keyboard when its name appears.
Some keyboards display a code on the screen and ask you to type that code on the new keyboard before pressing Enter. This confirms the pairing.
Connect a Bluetooth keyboard to a Mac
- Turn on the keyboard and place it in pairing mode.
- Open System Settings or System Preferences, depending on the macOS version.
- Open Bluetooth and make sure it is enabled.
- Find the keyboard in the list of available devices and select Connect.
Keep the keyboard close to the Mac during setup. If the keyboard was previously paired with another computer or tablet, disconnect or remove it from that device first if it does not appear.
Pair a wireless keyboard with an iPad, iPhone, or Android device
For an iPad or iPhone, open Settings > Bluetooth, turn Bluetooth on, and tap the keyboard when it appears. On an Android phone or tablet, open the Bluetooth area under Settings. The menu may be labelled Connected devices or use similar wording. Choose the option to pair a new device, then select the keyboard.
A keyboard may ask you to enter a pairing code. Type the code using the keyboard being connected, then press Enter. Bluetooth keyboards work best when they are nearby and have sufficient battery power.
Connect a keyboard using its USB receiver
- Insert the keyboard’s USB receiver into an available USB port on the computer.
- Turn on the keyboard.
- Wait briefly for the computer and keyboard to establish a connection.
Most receiver-based keyboards are ready to use without Bluetooth settings. Some models require the manufacturer’s pairing software, particularly when one receiver supports multiple devices. If the keyboard does not connect automatically, check the instructions for the specific model and use the manufacturer’s official utility if one is required.
If the computer has trouble detecting the receiver, try another USB port. Avoid placing the receiver behind equipment that could obstruct its signal; a short USB extension can sometimes provide a clearer connection.
What to do if the keyboard will not connect
- Check power: Replace or recharge the batteries and confirm that the power switch is on.
- Move the keyboard closer: Keep it near the computer or mobile device while pairing.
- Check pairing mode: A keyboard that is switched on is not always discoverable. Activate its pairing mode again.
- Remove old connections: If the keyboard is already paired with another device, disconnect it or remove it from that device’s Bluetooth list.
- Restart the connection: Turn Bluetooth off and on, restart the computer, or remove the keyboard from saved devices and pair it again.
- Reseat the receiver: Unplug and reconnect the USB dongle, then test another port.
- Check compatibility: Older computers may need Bluetooth support, a suitable driver, or the keyboard manufacturer’s software.
Using one keyboard with multiple devices
Some wireless keyboards can be paired with several devices and include keys for switching between them. This can be useful when moving between a laptop, tablet, and phone. Follow the keyboard’s instructions to assign each device to a separate channel, then select the required channel when switching.
After connection, test ordinary typing as well as function, media, and shortcut keys. Basic typing may work without extra software, while specialised keys or lighting controls may require a driver or configuration utility from the keyboard manufacturer.
