To connect a Bluetooth keyboard, turn on the keyboard, enable Bluetooth on your device, and select the keyboard from the list of discovered devices. The universal pairing process is that simple, regardless of whether you're using Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android. Below are the device-specific steps to wirelessly pair your keyboard, plus basic fixes if it won't connect.
How to connect a Bluetooth keyboard: the short version
Turn on your keyboard and put it into pairing mode (usually by holding a dedicated button). On your computer, tablet, or phone, open the Bluetooth settings and toggle Bluetooth on. Select your keyboard from the list of available devices, enter a passcode if prompted, and you're done.
Before you start
Check that your Bluetooth keyboard has sufficient battery power, either charged internally or with fresh AA/AAA batteries. Make sure the keyboard is turned on. Bluetooth keyboards connect wirelessly without needing a USB receiver, so you don't need to plug anything in. Have your user manual handy to locate the exact pairing button or key combination for your model.
Put your keyboard in pairing mode
To make your keyboard discoverable, press and hold the dedicated Bluetooth button or a specific key combination (e.g., Fn + C or an Easy-Switch key) until an LED indicator starts flashing. The exact method varies by model, so consult your user guide if the LED doesn't flash within a few seconds.
Connect on Windows
- Open Start > Settings > Bluetooth & devices and ensure Bluetooth is toggled On.
- Click Add device (or Add Bluetooth or other device), then select Bluetooth.
- Select your keyboard from the list of available devices. If a notification appears for a Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard, select Connect; otherwise, manually add it via Start > Bluetooth & devices > Add a device > Bluetooth.
- If prompted, enter the pairing code displayed on your screen using the keyboard and press Enter.
After pairing, you can quickly reconnect by opening the Bluetooth quick settings and clicking the keyboard's name.
Connect on Mac
- Choose Apple menu > System Settings (or System Preferences), then click Bluetooth in the sidebar and confirm Bluetooth is On.
- When your keyboard appears in the Nearby Devices list, click Connect.
- If a passcode is requested, type it on the keyboard you are setting up and press Return.
For Apple Magic Keyboards, you can also pair initially by connecting them to your Mac with a USB-C or Lightning cable, then unplugging for wireless use.
Connect on iPhone or iPad
- Go to Settings > Bluetooth and turn Bluetooth On.
- Select your keyboard from the Other Devices list when it appears.
Connect on Android
- Open Settings > Bluetooth (or Connections > Bluetooth, or Connected devices > Pair new device) and toggle Bluetooth On.
- Look for your keyboard under Available Devices or Other Devices in the Bluetooth menu.
- Tap the keyboard's name to connect.
If your keyboard doesn't appear, make sure it's still in pairing mode and within range.
What to do if your keyboard won't connect
First, ensure you're within Bluetooth range, typically about 33 feet (10 meters) from the device. Restart both the keyboard and the device, then try again. Remove any existing paired connections from the keyboard's previous device and attempt pairing anew. Check the battery level; low power can cause connection failures. If the issue persists, consult your keyboard's user manual for model-specific troubleshooting.
For deeper issues, see our guides on how to connect a keyboard to specific brands, or explore lost wireless keyboard USB solutions if you've misplaced the receiver. If you're using a Logitech model, learn how to connect a Logitech wireless keyboard to a different receiver or specifically how to connect Logitech wireless keyboard k270 without receiver. For HP users, we cover how to connect an hp wireless keyboard. Microsoft users can find steps to connect a Microsoft wireless keyboard, and Dell owners can learn how to pair a Dell wireless keyboard.
If none of these steps work, check for firmware updates on your device, reset Bluetooth settings, or contact the keyboard manufacturer's support for tailored guidance. The connection process is usually straightforward, once paired, your keyboard will reconnect automatically whenever it's within range and turned on.
For the wider topic, see connect keyboard.
