The Basics
- Restart your Computer: It's troubleshooting 101. Restarting your device is one of the easiest ways to resolve any temporary issues that may be causing your problem.
- Test with Another Keyboard: You can rule out keyboard failure by connecting a different external keyboard to your device. If the issue does not repeat with the test keyboard, then the issue is with the original Keyboard.
- Determine if the issue is physical or digital: If your Keyboard repeatedly types the same key, it could be due to a physical issue or an issue with your computer’s keyboard settings.
- Physical: Test your keys for any odd physical behavior. This includes the keys being difficult to press, physically stuck, or not returning to their normal position.
- Software Issue (Settings): If the keys feel normal, it may be an issue with your keyboard settings. This may be accompanied by other issues, such as unexpected capital letters, symbols, or "Sticky Keys" being enabled.
- Perform a Basic Cleaning of Your Keyboard: Sometimes, a basic cleaning can restore your Keyboard's keys to working order. Use a can of compressed air or an alternative method to remove crumbs. Then, use a microfiber cloth and 90% isopropyl alcohol to wipe everything down.
Operating System Settings
Solution: Adjust your system settings and see if the issue repeats
Operating systems have settings that affect the way keystrokes are processed. If the Repeat Delay is set very short, even a normal tap can produce a double letter if the key is held just a split second.
You can modify this setting in Windows 11 by following the steps below...
- Open your system's Settings App and click on Accessibility from the left sidebar.
- Once in accessibility, choose Keyboard from the options, and look for the Repeat rate and Repeat delay options.
The Repeat rate controls how quickly a character repeats when a key is held down. The Repeat delay control determines how long you must hold down a key before it starts repeating. You may need to adjust both of these options to achieve your ideal repeat rate.
The same can be achieved in macOS by following these steps...
- Open the System Settings app and choose Keyboard from the left-hand menu.
- Once in the keyboard section, look for the Key repeat rate and Delay until repeat settings at the top of the menu.
The Key repeat rate controls how quickly a character repeats when a key is held down. The Delay until repeat control determines how long you must hold down a key before it starts repeating. You may need to adjust both of these options to achieve your ideal repeat rate.
Interference from Software
Solution: Test if the issue repeats with specific programs
Some background software can also cause double typing to occur. Macro programs, third-party clipboard managers, or remote desktop utilities can occasionally resend keys.
- If the issue started after installing a specific program, try disabling the program and see if the issue repeats.
- Macro-bound keys, or a KVM switch, might duplicate events from a keyboard.
- Malicious software is an unlikely cause of simple repeats, but keyloggers or automation scripts could, in theory, replicate input. Scan your system for malware and other malicious software.
The Keyboard is damaged.
Solution: Inspect each key for deformation or damage
If your Keyboard is heavily used or has been subjected to too many rage-inducing games, then there is a likelihood that its internal components have become worn or damaged.
- Inspect each keycap for damage: Damaged keys can prevent your Keyboard from functioning normally. If the key cap is damaged or the mechanism is damaged, then you'll need to replace it.
- Replace components if necessary: If damage is found, replace the damaged part. Typically, keycaps can be easily replaced with a keycap puller, and some keyboard manufacturers offer customization options. The switches themselves can be replaced, depending on your specific keyboard model, and will be specific to your Keyboard.
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