Ways to Fix the Delete Key Not Working on Mac

Apple’s MacBook, with its exquisite design and powerful operating system, is one of the top choices for technology enthusiasts. However, like any other technological device, MacBook is not immune to its inherent technical errors. One of the common problems that users often encounter is the Delete key (also known as Backspace) not working or failing. This can be a big obstacle, because the Delete key plays an essential role in text editing and file management.

When the Delete key doesn’t work, it not only slows down your work, but it also causes a lot of inconvenience and even makes you stressed and frustrated. You can imagine the feeling of having to use the mouse to delete each character one by one or not being able to quickly erase small mistakes when editing an important document. This not only reduces work efficiency but also affects the flow of thoughts and creativity.

In this article, AppleGeek will guide you through how to fix the Delete key error on MacBook Pro, Air, and other Mac models. To do that, AppleGeek will dive into the root cause of the problem – from simple hardware problems to more complex issues related to software or malware. Then, AppleGeek will present 5 Ways to Fix the Delete Key on Mac Not Working Error, from the most basic operation like restarting the computer, to more technical solutions like using diagnostic tools and system recovery.

Understanding the Delete Key on Mac

Definition and function of the Delete key

In the Apple world, the Delete key on a MacBook is not the same as what we’re used to seeing on Windows keyboards. To avoid confusion, it’s important to understand that the Delete key on a MacBook is actually the backspace key. When you press this key, the cursor moves one character backward, and if there’s a character in that position, it deletes it. In contrast, the Delete key on Windows keyboards and some extended Mac keyboards deletes the character immediately before the cursor and drags the character behind it toward the cursor. This means that instead of deleting behind the cursor, it deletes in front.

Key location and symbol

The Delete (backspace) key on a MacBook is located just to the right of the ‘ + ‘ key and is shaped like a back arrow with an ‘x’ symbol inside. This recognition is important because it helps new users get used to the MacBook keyboard layout, especially when they switch from using a Windows computer to a Mac.

Causes and signs of trouble

Distinguish between hardware and software problems

When the Delete key on your MacBook isn’t working, the first thing to determine is whether the problem is hardware or software. The quickest way to do this is to try a different keyboard. If you’re using the built-in Mac keyboard, try connecting an external keyboard. Conversely, if you’re using an external keyboard, try using the built-in Mac keyboard. If the other keyboard works, it’s a hardware issue, and the only way to fix it is to take your Mac to an Authorized Service Center or Genius Bar if it’s a built-in keyboard, or contact the manufacturer if it’s an external keyboard.

How to use Keyboard Viewer to check

If you don’t have access to an external keyboard, you can use Keyboard Viewer. This tool is available under Input Sources in the menu bar. When you open Keyboard Viewer and press the Delete key, it should show a ‘click’ action. If this happens, your hardware is fine and the problem is software related. If not, it’s a hardware problem.

5 Ways to fix the delete key on mac not working.

Once you have determined that the delete key on your mac is not working, if the error is in the software, you can try 5 ways to fix the delete key on your mac not working error with detailed instructions as follows.

1. Restart your Mac

One of the simplest, yet often overlooked steps when experiencing hardware or software issues is to restart your device. For MacBooks, restarting can refresh system services and may resolve issues caused by paused or suspended background processes. To restart your MacBook:

• Tap the Apple menu () in the upper-left corner of the screen.
• Select ” Restart ” from the drop-down menu.
• Wait for the machine to reboot and check if the Delete key is working properly.

2. Use a different keyboard

If restarting your computer doesn’t solve the problem, the next step is to check if there’s a hardware issue with your keyboard by using a different keyboard. This can help determine if the problem is with the built-in keyboard or the external keyboard you’re using.

• Connect an external keyboard via USB or Bluetooth.
• Test to see if the Delete key on the new keyboard works.
• If the Delete key works, it means you need to repair or replace your old keyboard.

3. Bluetooth management for wireless keyboard

If you’re using a Bluetooth keyboard, the problem may be related to the wireless connection. Sometimes turning Bluetooth off and back on can fix the problem.

• Go to System Preferences Settings > Bluetooth.
• Turn Bluetooth off and wait a few seconds, then turn it back on.
• If it’s a Bluetooth keyboard, ‘ forget ‘ this device in Bluetooth settings by tapping the ‘ i’ icon next to the keyboard name and selecting ” Forget this Device “.
• Reconnect the keyboard according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

4. Delete keyboard installation file

Another possible cause is corrupted keyboard settings files. You can delete the keyboard settings files to reset the default settings.

• Open Finder and select ” Go ” from the menu bar, then select ” Go to Folder “.
• Enter the following path:~/Library/Preferences
• Find and delete files with names starting with com.apple.keyboardor similar to .
• Restart your computer for changes to take effect.

Prevent similar incidents in the future

Once you’ve fixed the issue, regular maintenance and software updates are key to preventing similar issues in the future. Make sure you stay up to date with the latest version of macOS and regularly check and clean your hardware to keep your MacBook running efficiently.

Conclude

Delete key not working error can cause a lot of inconvenience and hinder your work process on MacBook. When you face the Delete key not working issue on MacBook, it is important to understand that this may be a small problem but it can significantly affect your work performance and user experience. From basic checks to more complex troubleshooting steps, each method we have presented will not only help solve this specific problem but also provide you with the knowledge and skills to handle similar problems that may occur in the future.

The article on AppleGeek has guided you through 5 ways to fix the delete key error on Mac not working, these 5 ways do not stop at fixing the delete key error on Mac. You can apply the above 5 ways to all other computer devices. Also, don’t forget to follow AppleGeek to receive other useful information such as How to restore MacBook factory settings without a password or How to use Mac as a Wifi hotspot