How to Open and Use the On-Screen Keyboard in Windows 11

You open the On-Screen Keyboard in Windows 11 by using a keyboard shortcut or by accessing it through the Ease of Access settings.

The On-Screen Keyboard is a virtual keyboard on your screen. This virtual keyboard lets you type using your mouse, trackpad, or touch input, if your device supports touch. For example, pressing the Win, Ctrl, and O keys together quickly launches the On-Screen Keyboard. This shortcut is useful even if your physical keyboard has problems.

This built-in Windows 11 utility is incredibly helpful when your physical keyboard malfunctions, a key gets stuck, or you just need a temporary way to type.

Option 1Use a Keyboard Shortcut

Windows 11's On-Screen Keyboard offers a quick access method via a keyboard shortcut. Pressing the Windows key and Control key together, followed by the letter O, opens the touch-friendly keyboard, which is useful for devices without physical keyboards or for users who prefer typing with a mouse.

⊞ Win+Ctrl+O

Option 2Open from the Sign-In Screen

Windows 11’s on-screen keyboard is handy if your physical keyboard stops working, and you can even open it before you sign in.

• Click the Accessibility button.
• A menu will appear. Select “On-Screen Keyboard” from the menu.

The On-Screen Keyboard remains open until a user explicitly closes the keyboard. If a user opens the On-Screen Keyboard from the Windows 11 sign-in screen and then logs into the system, the On-Screen Keyboard will likely still be visible.

Option 3Find and Open the On-Screen Keyboard in Settings

The Windows 11 on-screen keyboard, accessed through ⚙️ the Settings app, provides typing access on the device. This on-screen keyboard functions as an alternative to a physical keyboard, benefiting touch screens or situations where a physical keyboard is absent.

1. Go to the ⊞ Start Menu. Click the Windows icon in the bottom-left corner of your screen.
2. ⚙️ Go to Settings. Click the gear icon in the ⊞ Start menu. This opens the Settings window.

   💡Tip

   You can also press the Windows key + I keys on your keyboard to ⚙️ open Settings directly, if they are working.
3. Choose Accessibility. In ⚙️ the Settings window, look for “Accessibility” in the left sidebar and click it.
4. Find Keyboard options. Scroll down on the right side until you see “Keyboard.” Click on it.
5. Turn it On! You will see a switch labeled “On-Screen Keyboard.” Click the switch to turn it “On.” The On-Screen Keyboard should appear on your screen.

The on-screen keyboard appears on your screen and remains visible until you close the keyboard window. Users can click keys on the on-screen keyboard to type text.

Why Use the On-Screen Keyboard?

You might use the On-Screen Keyboard if your physical keyboard is broken or not working correctly. It’s also helpful if you have a disability that makes typing on a physical keyboard difficult. It’s a great way to make sure you can still use your computer.

Summary

The Windows 11 on-screen keyboard is handy when your physical keyboard isn’t working, and you can open it using the shortcut Windows key + Control key + O.