How To Know If Your Laptop Has A Backlit Keyboard

By Marlo Strydom

Struggling to see your keyboard keys in dimly lit rooms? A backlit keyboard can be a game-changer for productivity and comfort, but many laptop users don't even know if their device has this feature. The good news is there are several quick ways to find out without diving into technical manuals.

Most laptops with backlit keyboards have obvious telltale signs - special function key icons, translucent key lettering, or keyboard lighting controls in your system settings. We'll walk you through the fastest methods to check, starting with the simplest visual inspection.

Quick Check: Look for a keyboard icon with light rays on your F5-F10 keys, then try pressing Fn + that key. If nothing happens, check in a dark room or look up your laptop model online.

1. Check Your Laptop Specifications Online

The fastest way to get a definitive answer is checking your laptop's official specifications. Manufacturers always list backlit keyboards as a feature when available.

  • Find Your Model Number: Check the bottom of your laptop or search "system information" in Windows to get your exact model.
  • Search Manufacturer Website: Go to Dell, HP, Lenovo, or your laptop brand's website and search for your model's product page.
  • Look for "Backlit Keyboard" in Features: Scroll through the specifications or features list - it's usually listed clearly.
  • Check Original Packaging: If you still have the box, backlit keyboards are often mentioned on the specifications sticker.

2. Look for Backlight Icons on Function Keys

The quickest visual check is scanning your F1-F12 keys for a keyboard backlight symbol. This usually looks like a keyboard with light rays, sun symbol, or lightbulb icon.

  • Common Locations: Most brands place the backlight control on F5, F6, F9, or F10 keys.
  • Try the Key Combo: Press and hold Fn + the key with the backlight icon. If your keyboard lights up, you have backlighting.
  • Multiple Presses: Keep pressing the combo to cycle through brightness levels (dim, medium, bright, off).
  • No Icon Found?: Some laptops use space bar + Fn or have backlight controls in other locations.

Brand-Specific Keys: Dell often uses F10, HP uses F5, Lenovo uses Fn+Space, and ASUS typically uses F3 or F4.

3. Check Windows and macOS Settings

If keyboard shortcuts don't work, your laptop might have backlight controls in the system settings. These are usually found in mobility or keyboard preference panels.

Windows Methods:

  • Windows Mobility Center: Press Windows key + X, select "Mobility Center", look for keyboard backlight controls.
  • Settings App: Go to Settings > System > Display, some laptops have lighting controls here.
  • Control Panel: Search "keyboard" in Control Panel for additional lighting options.

macOS Methods:

  • System Preferences: Apple menu > System Preferences > Keyboard, look for brightness slider.
  • Touch Bar Controls: MacBooks with Touch Bar have brightness controls built-in.
  • Automatic Adjustment: Enable "Adjust keyboard brightness in low light" in Keyboard preferences.

4. Test in a Dark Room

One of the most reliable tests is simply using your laptop in a dark environment. Many laptops automatically activate keyboard backlighting when ambient light is low.

  • Turn Off Room Lights: Dim the lights completely or work in a dark room.
  • Wait a Few Seconds: Some laptops have light sensors that automatically trigger backlighting.
  • Type or Move the Mouse: Activity often triggers automatic backlight activation.
  • Look for Any Glow: Even faint lighting around the keys indicates backlight capability.

5. Check BIOS Settings

Some laptops have keyboard backlighting disabled in BIOS by default. This is more common on business laptops where power saving is prioritized.

  • Access BIOS: Restart your laptop and press F2, F12, Del, or Esc during startup (varies by brand).
  • Find Keyboard Settings: Look for "Advanced", "System Configuration", or "Keyboard" sections.
  • Enable Backlight: Look for options like "Keyboard Illumination" or "Backlight" and set to "Enabled".
  • Save and Exit: Press F10 to save changes and restart.

Caution: Only change settings you understand in BIOS. Incorrect settings can cause startup issues.

6. Check Manufacturer Control Software

Most laptop brands include their own utility software for controlling hardware features, including keyboard backlighting. These programs often offer more customization options than basic system settings.

  • Dell: Dell Power Manager or Dell QuickSet - check for keyboard lighting controls.
  • HP: HP Command Center or HP System Event Utility - look in display or keyboard sections.
  • Lenovo: Lenovo Vantage - hardware settings include keyboard backlight options.
  • ASUS: Armoury Crate or ASUS Keyboard Hotkeys - advanced lighting controls available.
  • Acer: Acer Care Center - system settings may include backlight controls.
  • MSI: MSI Center or SteelSeries Engine - gaming laptops often have RGB controls.

Where to Find: Check your Start menu for brand-specific software, or download the latest version from your manufacturer's support website.

7. Physical Keyboard Inspection

As a final check, examine your keyboard closely for visual clues that indicate backlight capability. Backlit keyboards have specific design characteristics you can spot.

  • Translucent Key Letters: Look closely at the letters and symbols - backlit keyboards have semi-transparent characters.
  • Light Gaps Around Keys: Check for small gaps around key edges where light might shine through.
  • Key Material: Backlit keys often feel slightly different and may have a more translucent appearance.
  • LED Indicators: Some keyboards have small LED indicator lights that suggest backlighting capability.

What If Your Laptop Doesn't Have Backlighting?

If none of these methods reveal keyboard backlighting, your laptop likely doesn't have this feature. Don't worry - you have alternatives that can provide similar functionality.

  • External Backlit Keyboards: USB or wireless keyboards with backlighting work great with any laptop.
  • USB LED Lights: Small USB-powered lights can illuminate your keyboard area.
  • Desk Lamps: Adjustable desk lighting provides good keyboard visibility without strain.
  • Keyboard Stickers: Glow-in-the-dark key stickers are an inexpensive temporary solution.