How to Turn on a Keyboard Light for a Computer

As technology advances, computer manufactures are focusing more on innovation, leading to more backlit keyboards. Which enhances the comfort and usability, for those who derive pleasure in working at night or dim-light environments. Turning on the keyboard light is a very simple command, it's not a difficult task. Although the process varies by brand and model, this guide covers the general steps to turn on your keyboard light. 

What is Keyboard Light?

Keyboard light can also be referred to as "keyboard lit or illuminated keyboard". This is the light inside the keyboard, it helps to brighten up the keys, while working in a dark or low light environment. The light is made up of a mini-LED (Light-Emitting Diode), which helps to increase the brightness of the keyboard.

 Why Keyboard Lighting Matters

Before discussing how to turn on a keyboard light, let's consider why it is important.  

• Brightens up the keys especially working in a dark environment.
• Reduces the chances of straining the eyes.
• The light allows you to work efficiently, focus and reduce errors in typing.

Identifying if Your Computer Has a Backlit Keyboard

To know if your computer has a backlit keyboard, is to check and find out if the keyboard has some qualities that support backlit. Most modern laptops have keyboard lights, but many desktop keyboards don't. 

• Review the product specification: go back to the user manual to read and confirm if your computer keyboard can perform such a feature or check the manufacturers website.
• Inspect the keyboard: though there several ways manufacturers indicated the symbols of backlit keyboards. Some use a bulb or sun symbols, while some use the function keys.

 How to Turn on Keyboard Lighting on Windows PCs

For Windows users, the process of turning on the keyboard light is very easy and simple. Though the steps may vary depending on the laptop or keyboard producer. These are some common methods you use:

Using the Keyboard Function Keys involves using the ‘F’ keys.

• Locate the backlight function key: different manufacturers of laptops have dedicated different function keys (usually F5, F6, F9, or F10) which are used to control the keyboard backlight. This key often has a backlight icon, such as a light bulb or a sun, representing the lighting feature.
• Press the backlight key: when you are aware that your laptop or desktop has backlit features, press the light key to turn the light on. Moreover, in most cases, you will need to hold the ‘Fn’ key (located near the spacebar) and press the designated backlight key simultaneously.
• Adjust the brightness: Many keyboards have light adjustability features. A continuous press on the function key will usually cycle through low, medium, and high brightness levels. Some keyboards may also offer an “offsetting” too.

 Using Windows Mobility Center:

Windows Mobility Center offer another way to adjust keyboard lighting:

•  Press the Windows key + X and select Mobility Center.
• There in the Mobility Center window, search for a section labeled "Keyboard Brightness."
•  If your computer supports it, you can use this slider to adjust the brightness of your keyboard backlight.

Using Manufacturer Software

Some brands have different commands specifically for controlling hardware features, including keyboard lighting: 

• HP: Use the HP Command Center to personalize lighting.
• Dell: Open the Dell Quickset utility or go to the BIOS (Basic input/Output System) settings to enable keyboard backlighting.
• Lenovo: Use the “Lenovo Vantage” app to control hardware functions, including backlighting.
• Asus: Open “Asus Armory Crate” to configure lighting settings, particularly for gaming laptops.

How to Turn on Keyboard Lighting on MacBooks

For MacBook users, turning on the backlit keyboard has been simplified and made easier. The following steps are applicable for MacBook Pro or MacBook Air. 

 Using Function Keys

• Locate the backlight control keys: MacBooks come with dedicated keyboard lighting controls located on the F5 and F6 keys. The F5 key decreases the brightness, and the F6 key increases it.
• Adjust the brightness: Simply press F6 to turn the backlight on and increase its brightness.  Continuous presses will brighten the keyboard until you get the desired level.
• Turn off the backlight: If you wish to turn off the backlight, press the F5 key until the light goes out.

 Automatic Lighting Adjustment

Mac has a unique feature, one of these unique features is that Mac has the ability to automatically adjust light on its own. For instance, if you enter a dark room, the keyboard will turn itself.

You can disable this feature by going to “System Preferences > Keyboard”, and unchecking “Adjust keyboard brightness in low light.”

Turning on your computer's keyboard light is not a difficult task, it is easy. An illuminated keyboard can substantially enhance your productivity, especially in low-light environments. Whether it's a Windows PC or a Mac, some systems provide an easy way to control keyboard lighting. It is important to note that different brands and models may have varying steps, but the core principle remains the same. Follow the instructions outlined in this guide, you will be able to enjoy a fully illuminated keyboard, helping you work more comfortably and efficiently, no matter the lighting conditions.