Hardware or software? Troubleshooting a non-working escape key on Mac

Have you ever found yourself tapping the escape key on your Mac®, only to realize it's unresponsive? It can be a frustrating experience, especially if you’re trying to close an app or exiting full-screen mode. You don’t have to let that key be a problem longer than it should—we’ve got you covered.

uBreakiFix® by Asurion has your back when it comes to tech care. From protection to repair, we help keep your devices connected. Whether it’s a hardware issue or a software problem, this guide will help you fix an escape key that isn’t working on a Mac.

What to check before troubleshooting an escape key on Mac

Determining whether the issue with your escape key is related to hardware or software is crucial for finding the right fix.

Test with the onscreen keyboard

To test whether the escape key functions digitally, use the on-screen keyboard in the Accessibility settings. Click the Apple menu > System Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard on the right, then turn on the Accessibility Keyboard. Try selecting the escape key to see if it responds on the virtual keyboard when pressed.

Check for physical damage

Thoroughly examine your keyboard for any signs of damage or debris that might obstruct the escape key. If you notice your keyboard needs cleaning, give it some TLC.

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How to fix a Mac escape key that’s not working

If your escape key stops responding, here are several troubleshooting steps you can take to fix the issue.

Restart your Mac

Sometimes, restarting your computer can resolve minor glitches affecting the keyboard. Click the Apple menu and select Restart from the menu.

Check for software updates

Outdated software can sometimes cause hardware like keyboards to malfunction. Click the Apple menu > System Settings (or System Preferences) > Software Update to check for updates.

Reset your keyboard shortcuts

Incorrect settings could be the reason your Mac Esc key does not work. To fix this, click the Apple menu > System Preferences > Keyboard > Keyboard Shortcuts and then click Restore Defaults at the bottom-left corner. This step will reset all of your keyboard’s shortcuts without removing any of your computer’s data.

Try your Mac in Safe Mode

Booting your Mac in Safe Mode can help you determine if third-party software is causing your keyboard issues by limiting the programs and files it can connect to.