What Is a Backlit Laptop Keyboard?

On this page (8 sections)

1. What does a backlit keyboard on a laptop do?
2. How can you tell if a laptop keyboard has a backlight?
3. Can you add a backlit keyboard to a laptop?
4. Which external backlit keyboard connection should you choose?
5. What should you check before buying an external backlit keyboard?
6. Does a backlit keyboard work on every laptop?
7. Does keyboard backlighting affect battery life?
8. Is a backlit laptop keyboard worth it?

A backlit laptop keyboard has lighting beneath or around the keys, making their labels easier to see in dim conditions. Some laptops have this feature built in, while others need an external illuminated keyboard.

Backlighting helps you find keys; it doesn't brighten the screen or light the room. Laptop models vary, so check the specifications for your exact model before assuming it has a keyboard light.

What does a backlit keyboard on a laptop do?

A backlit keyboard shines light through or around the key labels so you can see them more easily in low light. The light comes from beneath the keys, and its color and brightness controls depend on the keyboard.

Some models offer a single light color, while others let you select from several colors. The lighting may turn off after a period of inactivity or let you adjust brightness.

A backlit keyboard can be useful when you type in a dim room, on a late flight, or in a shared space where you don't want a bright lamp. It won't make the keyboard easier to use if the key legends are worn or your screen is too dim.

How can you tell if a laptop keyboard has a backlight?

Check the manual and specifications for your exact laptop model. A keyboard light symbol on a function key can be a clue, but it doesn't prove that every configuration of that laptop includes backlighting.

Look for a symbol resembling a keyboard with rays or a small glow. If you find one, press it alone or with the laptop's Fn key only if the manual says to do so; key combinations differ by brand and model.

You can also search the manufacturer's support site using the full model name or number. If you're checking an HP laptop, our guide to the backlit keyboard on an HP laptop explains how to find and use its light control.

Don't rely on the laptop's appearance alone. Two configurations in the same product family may have different keyboards.

What if you can't find a backlit keyboard symbol?

If there is no keyboard-light key, check the manual or support page before deciding the laptop lacks backlighting. Some models use a different function key or a software control.

If the exact model's specifications don't mention a backlit keyboard, assume it may not be included. An external backlit keyboard is an option when you want illuminated keys without replacing the laptop.

Can you add a backlit keyboard to a laptop?

Yes, you can connect an external backlit keyboard to a laptop, as long as the laptop supports its connection method. A wired keyboard needs a compatible port or adapter; a Bluetooth keyboard needs Bluetooth support.

An external keyboard also gives you choices about layout, key size, and where you sit. If desk comfort is a concern, compare keyboard wrist rests.

If you want to compare more general layouts and connection types, see our computer keyboard buying guide.

The Macally Backlit Mac Keyboard has 107 keys, a number pad, and a single-color backlight with 3 brightness levels. For more Mac-focused choices, see backlit keyboards for Mac.

It's designed for Macs with a USB-A port or a USB-C adapter, and it also works with Windows PCs and iPads.

Choose it if you want a full-size wired keyboard for a compatible desk setup. It isn't a built-in laptop keyboard, and its USB-A cable may require an adapter on a laptop without that port.

Which external backlit keyboard connection should you choose?

Choose USB for a direct wired connection or Bluetooth if you want to use the keyboard without a cable. Before choosing wireless, confirm that your laptop has built-in Bluetooth and check whether the keyboard needs a separate receiver.

Our comparison of Bluetooth versus wireless keyboard and mouse connections explains the difference between Bluetooth and keyboards that use a USB receiver. For a wireless illuminated option, compare features in our guide to the best wireless backlit keyboard.

The Arteck Universal Backlit 7-Colors Bluetooth Touch TV keyboard has a built-in touchpad and media hotkeys. Its backlight offers 7 colors and 2 brightness levels, and the keyboard is designed for devices with built-in Bluetooth.

Consider it when you want wireless control from a couch or desk and can use its touchpad. It doesn't come with a USB dongle, so check your laptop's Bluetooth support before choosing it.

What should you check before buying an external backlit keyboard?

Check connection, size, and lighting controls before you buy. A keyboard that fits your laptop's ports and your typing habits is more useful than one chosen for lighting alone.

• Connection: Confirm that your laptop has the required USB port or built-in Bluetooth.
• Size: Decide whether you want a full-size layout with a number pad or a smaller keyboard.
• Lighting: Check the light color, brightness settings, and whether you can turn it off.
• Power: A wired model draws power through its cable, while wireless models need their own power source.
• Placement: Allow enough desk space for the keyboard and a comfortable distance from the screen.

A mechanical keyboard may offer a different typing feel and a separate backlight from the laptop's built-in keys. Our guide to the best backlit mechanical keyboards covers that category.

The KOPJIPPOM Large Print Backlit Keyboard has 104 keys, a number pad, and adjustable white LED backlighting that can be turned on or off. Its large-print labels may suit readers who want more visible key legends at a desk.

It's a wired USB keyboard for PCs and laptops. Check your available port and desk space, especially if you prefer a compact layout or need to travel with your keyboard.

Does a backlit keyboard work on every laptop?

No, compatibility depends on the keyboard's connection and the laptop's support. A wired USB keyboard needs a compatible port, and a Bluetooth keyboard needs built-in Bluetooth.

Operating system support can also affect some keyboard functions, such as media keys. Check the keyboard's compatibility information against your laptop model and operating system before you buy.

If you use a Chromebook, compare options in our guide to the best backlit keyboard for Chromebook. For a desk setup with a keyboard and vertical mouse, see our keyboard and vertical mouse combo guide.

Does keyboard backlighting affect battery life?

Yes, a keyboard light uses power, so keeping it on can reduce battery life on a laptop or wireless keyboard. The effect varies with the device, brightness setting, and how long the backlight stays on.

Use a lower brightness when it is enough to see the keys, or turn the light off in a bright room. Some keyboards shut off their lights after idle time to conserve power.

Is a backlit laptop keyboard worth it?

A backlit keyboard is useful if you often type where room lighting is low and you want to see key labels more clearly. First confirm that your laptop model includes the feature, since a similar laptop in the same product line may use a different keyboard.

If your laptop doesn't have a backlight, choose an external keyboard by connection, layout, and power needs. Pick the Macally for a wired Mac desk setup, the Arteck for Bluetooth use with a touchpad, or the KOPJIPPOM for large print and white lighting.

For a laptop-specific light control, start with its manual and model specifications. If you want a separate keyboard, review the computer keyboard buying guide before choosing a layout.

Frequently asked questions

What does a backlit keyboard mean on a laptop?

A backlit keyboard has lights beneath or around its keys, so the letters and symbols are easier to see in low light. The light may be white or offer color choices, depending on the keyboard.

Backlighting helps you see the keys, but it doesn't light the whole room.

How do I know if my laptop keyboard is backlit?

Look for a keyboard light symbol on a function key, then check the laptop maker's specifications or manual for your exact model. If the symbol is present, the manual can explain how to turn the light on.

A keyboard without the feature may still have a similar-looking function key.

Can I add a backlit keyboard to a laptop?

Yes. You can connect an external backlit keyboard to a laptop if it supports the keyboard's connection type, such as USB or Bluetooth.

Check the computer's ports or Bluetooth support and consider cable reach, power, and whether you want a full-size layout or a compact one.

Does a laptop backlit keyboard use more battery?

Yes, lighting uses some power, so a laptop's backlight can affect battery life. The amount depends on the laptop, brightness, and how long the light stays on.

Lowering brightness or turning the light off when you don't need it can help conserve power.