Several users have been reporting that Esc key not working on Mac. This issue might occur with several reasons. But not worry, here in this article we have lined up the all the working solution to fix the Esc key problem in a Mac keyboard. So no further ado let’s begin.
Several users have reported that the ESC (Escape) key on their Mac does not work as expected. This guide will assist you. If your Mac exhibits any of the following symptoms:
- When you press the ESC key, nothing happens.
- Sometimes the ESC key works, and sometimes it doesn’t.
One of the most important keys on any computer is the Escape key. I also use it frequently. Close, cancel, or abort an operation by pressing the Escape key. While most Mac models and Apple’s standalone keyboards have a physical ESC key, some Mac models lack one and instead use the Touch Bar to provide a virtual Escape key.
Macbook Air M1 esc key not registering
A hardware issue is usually the cause of the Escape key not working properly. If this is the case, the issue can most likely be resolved by replacing the entire keyboard or the ESC key. However, a software issue could be the cause, and by following the steps below, you can restore functionality to your Mac’s ESC key.
Simply restart your Mac before proceeding. It’s simple and could solve your problem, so it’s worth a shot.
Use the Keyboard for Accessibility.
If the ESC isn’t working at all, try turning on the Accessibility Keyboard and using its ESC key until the problem is resolved. We’ve narrowed down your issue. This will help us figure out if the issue is hardware-related. If the Accessibility Keyboard’s ESC key is also not working, you can rule out a hardware problem. If this is the case, proceed to the next step. By going to System Preferences > Accessibility > Keyboard > Viewer, then selecting Enable Accessibility Keyboard, you can enable the Accessibility Keyboard.
If the problem is hardware-related, your Mac may need to be repaired. You have several choices:
You can schedule an appointment with a Genius Bar and bring your device to an Apple Store.
You can visit an Apple Authorized Service Provider with your device.
Please keep in mind that Apple offers a free Keyboard Service program for eligible MacBook, MacBook Air, and MacBook Pro keyboards. You can learn more about this issue and see if your computer qualifies by clicking here.
Update Mac
Make sure your Mac is running the most recent version of macOS. Go to System Preferences > Software Update to keep your Mac up to date. If an update or upgrade is available, select Update Now or Upgrade Now. Then follow the instructions on the screen.
Turn off Siri
Siri appears to be the source of the escape key problem. This problem is more likely to occur when Siri freezes. Force-quit Siri to fix this, and ESC will start working again. Here’s how it’s done:
- Open Activity Monitor (Applications > Utilities) on your Mac.
- Look for Siri.
- Select Force Quit from the Stop (X) menu.
Secure Mode
To resolve this issue, boot into Safe Mode. This problem can be resolved by restarting your Mac in Safe Mode. Here’s how it’s done:
Determine whether you’re using an Intel-based Mac or an Apple-based Mac if you don’t already know. Go to the Apple menu > About This Mac > Overview tab on your Mac. Then take the following steps:
Intel Macs: Turn off your Mac, then turn it back on while pressing and holding the Shift key until the login screen appears.
Apple silicon Macs: Shut down your computer. Hold down the power button until you see the startup options screen. Choose a startup disk. While clicking “Continue in Safe Mode,” press and hold the Shift key.
- Log in to your Mac computer.
- Is your ESC key now functional?
- Restart your computer.
- Recheck your keyboard.