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Change Keyboard Layout in Ubuntu Linux: A Quick Guide

Richard
Written by
Richard
Sep 1, 2022 Updated Sep 15, 2026 2 min read
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Changing the keyboard layout in Ubuntu Linux lets you type in different languages or add special symbols by switching the software map that tells your computer which character to show on screen when you press a key. Ubuntu 22.04 LTS and newer versions support over 100 different layouts so you can match your physical keyboard.

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You can switch between your saved layouts in seconds by pressing the Super + Space shortcut.

⚡ Quick Answer

Access System Settings, then navigate to Keyboard and click the ‘+’ button under Input Sources to add a new layout. Press Super+Space to cycle through your installed keyboard layouts.

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How to switch keyboard layout in Ubuntu Linux

You can change keyboard layout Ubuntu by holding down the Super key (the Win on your keyboard) and pressing the Spacebar at the same time. This action instantly cycles through all the different keyboard layouts you have set up on your computer, letting you switch between languages without opening any menus.

Shortcuts and steps for changing the keyboard layout in Ubuntu Linux appear below.

By default, pressing Super+Space cycles to the next keyboard layout, and Shift+Super+Space cycles through all installed keyboards.

Install alternative keyboard layouts:

You can change keyboard layout Ubuntu by adding new language options through the main Settings app on your desktop. Open the Activities overview at the top-left of your screen, type Settings into the search bar, and go to the Keyboard section to add and remove different typing layouts.

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Ubuntu Linux activities overview screen
ubuntu linux activities overview

On the System menu, select Settings, as highlighted below.

Ubuntu Linux system menu with settings options
ubuntu linux system menu top bar settings

In the Settings app, click on the Keyboard tile.

Keyboard settings tile in Ubuntu Linux
ubuntu linux keyboard tile
💡TipIn the System Settings -> Keyboard settings pane, click the + button in the Input Sources section.

In the System Settings -> Keyboard settings pane, click the + button in the Input Sources section.

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Adding additional keyboard layouts in Ubuntu
ubuntu add additional keyboard layouts

Select the language associated with the layout, then select a layout and press Add.

Options to add keyboard layouts in Ubuntu
ubuntu linux add keyboard layouts

Missing layouts on the provided list require clicking the vertical ellipses highlighted below.

More options for adding keyboard layouts in Ubuntu
ubuntu linux add keyboard layout more

Choose the keyboard layout intended for use.

Various additional keyboard layouts for Ubuntu
additional ubuntu linux keyboard layouts

Switching between input language layouts works using the language bar on the top of the screen.

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Keyboard layout selection on Ubuntu top bar
keyboard layout on the top bar

Press the Super+Space keys to go to the following keyboard layout and Shift+Super+Space to cycle through all installed keyboards.

Switching between keyboard layouts in Ubuntu
switch between keyboards

Configuration is complete.

Conclusion: Switching your keyboard layout allows for efficient multi-language input and accommodates diverse language preferences.

  • Switching the keyboard layout in Ubuntu Linux is a simple process allowing efficient multi-language input.
  • Users can effortlessly add, select, and cycle through different keyboard layouts to accommodate diverse language preferences.
  • The centralized System Settings in Ubuntu Linux provides easy access to configuring and adding keyboard layouts, enhancing user experience.
  • Switching between input language layouts using the language bar on the top of the screen ensures convenient and flexible keyboard usage.

How do you switch keyboard layouts in Linux?

Keyboard shortcuts providing a menu for choosing the input source offer the quickest method for switching keyboard layouts in Linux. Default shortcuts allow cycling forward with Super + Space and backward with Shift + Super + Space.

How do I swap my keyboard layout?

Selecting the input language icon in the taskbar's system tray area displays a pop-up menu with available keyboard layouts. Choosing the desired keyboard layout updates the input language icon accordingly.

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Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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