How To Turn On Keyboard Light Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide

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5 min. read

Published on October 22, 2025

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Many modern laptops come equipped with backlit keyboards, making it easier to type in low-light conditions. However, knowing how to turn on keyboard light in Windows 10 isn’t always intuitive. This guide will walk you through the various methods to illuminate your keyboard and enhance your typing experience, covering everything from keyboard shortcuts to system settings.

Whether you’re struggling to see the keys in a dimly lit room or simply want to add a touch of style to your laptop, this comprehensive guide will provide you with the knowledge you need to control your keyboard backlighting effectively. Let’s dive in and explore the different ways to turn on your keyboard light in Windows 10.

How Do I Turn On My Keyboard Light in Windows 10?

Check Your Keyboard for a Backlight Key

Many laptops have a dedicated key to control the keyboard backlight. This is usually a function key (F1-F12) with a backlight symbol (often resembling a sun or light).

Locate the backlight key on your keyboard.
Press the “Fn” key (if necessary) and the backlight key simultaneously.
Continue pressing the backlight key to cycle through different brightness levels or turn the backlight off completely.

Use Windows Mobility Center

The Windows Mobility Center provides a centralized location for adjusting various laptop settings, including keyboard backlighting.

Search for “Mobility Center” in the Windows search bar.
Click on “Windows Mobility Center” to open the application.
Look for a “Keyboard Backlighting” option. If available, use the slider to adjust the brightness or turn the backlight on/off.

Adjust Settings in the BIOS/UEFI

In some cases, keyboard backlighting settings can be configured within your computer’s BIOS/UEFI.

Restart your computer.
Press the designated key to enter the BIOS/UEFI setup (usually Del, F2, F12, or Esc – check your manufacturer’s documentation).
Navigate to the “Advanced” or “Configuration” settings.
Look for options related to “Keyboard Backlight” or “Keyboard Illumination.”
Adjust the settings as desired and save the changes before exiting the BIOS/UEFI.

Update Your Keyboard Drivers

Outdated or corrupted keyboard drivers can sometimes cause issues with keyboard backlighting.

Right-click on the Start button and select “Device Manager.”
Expand the “Keyboards” category.
Right-click on your keyboard device and select “Update driver.”
Choose “Search automatically for drivers” and follow the on-screen instructions.
Restart your computer after the driver update is complete.

Examine the Power Settings

Power settings can sometimes affect keyboard backlighting, especially on laptops to conserve battery.

Open the Control Panel and go to “Hardware and Sound.”
Click on “Power Options.”
Select “Change plan settings” next to your current power plan.
Click on “Change advanced power settings.”
Expand “Display” and then “Enable adaptive brightness.”
Ensure that “On battery” and “Plugged in” are set to “Off.”

Tips for Managing Your Keyboard Light

Battery Life: Keep in mind that using the keyboard backlight can drain your laptop’s battery faster. Consider turning it off or lowering the brightness when not needed to conserve power.
Ambient Light: Adjust the brightness of your keyboard backlight according to the ambient light in your environment. A brighter backlight may be necessary in dark rooms, while a dimmer setting may suffice in well-lit areas.
Driver Compatibility: Make sure your keyboard drivers are compatible with your version of Windows 10. Check the manufacturer’s website for the latest drivers.

Keyboard Light Troubleshooting

Issue	Possible Solution
Keyboard light not working	Check keyboard backlight key, Mobility Center, BIOS settings, update drivers, examine power settings.
Light is too dim or too bright	Adjust brightness settings via keyboard shortcut, Mobility Center, or BIOS.
Light turns off automatically	Check power settings to ensure adaptive brightness is disabled; adjust timeout settings in BIOS if available.

Mastering Keyboard Backlight on Windows 10

Turning on and managing your keyboard light in Windows 10 can significantly enhance your typing experience, especially in low-light conditions. Whether through keyboard shortcuts, system settings, or driver updates, you now have the tools to control your keyboard backlight effectively.

FAQ

Why isn’t my keyboard light turning on? There could be several reasons, including disabled settings, outdated drivers, or hardware issues. Follow the steps outlined in this guide to troubleshoot the problem.

How do I adjust the brightness of my keyboard light? Most laptops allow you to adjust the brightness using a function key combination. Check your laptop’s manual for the specific key combination.

Does keyboard backlighting drain battery life? Yes, using the keyboard backlight consumes power and can reduce battery life. Consider turning it off or lowering the brightness when not needed.

Can I control the keyboard light through Windows settings? Yes, the Windows Mobility Center provides a centralized location for managing keyboard backlighting settings.

What if I don’t have a keyboard backlight option in Windows Mobility Center? Your laptop may not support keyboard backlighting, or the necessary drivers may not be installed correctly. Check your laptop’s specifications and update your drivers.