If you own a Surface Pro 3 and find that your keyboard is not responding, it can be frustrating. The keyboard is an essential part of your device, and troubleshooting it properly is important to get back to work quickly.
Many users experience keyboard issues after upgrading to Windows 11 or due to other common software or hardware glitches. Fortunately, most problems can be fixed with simple steps.
This guide will walk you through easy, step-by-step solutions to fix your Surface Pro 3 keyboard not working on Windows 11. Each step is explained in detail so you can follow along without confusion.
Whether you are a beginner or have some technical knowledge, these solutions will help you identify and solve the problem effectively.
Quick Note: Before You Begin
Before diving into troubleshooting, here are a few quick checks to save time:
- Make sure your keyboard is properly attached to the Surface Pro 3. The magnetic connectors should snap firmly into place.
- Check for dirt, dust, or debris on the keyboard connectors or the Surface’s port, as this can interfere with connection.
- Restart your Surface Pro 3 once. Sometimes a simple reboot fixes temporary glitches.
- Ensure your Windows 11 is up to date. Updates often include fixes for hardware compatibility.
Step 1: Detach and Reattach the Keyboard
Sometimes the keyboard may not connect properly due to a loose connection. To fix this:
- Carefully detach the keyboard from your Surface Pro 3 by pulling it away gently.
- Inspect the connectors on both the keyboard and the Surface for any visible dirt or damage.
- If needed, clean the connectors with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid liquids.
- Reattach the keyboard firmly, ensuring you hear or feel the magnetic connection snap into place.
- Test the keyboard by typing in any text field.
This step is important because the Surface Pro 3 uses magnetic connectors that must align correctly to work.
Step 2: Check Keyboard Settings in Windows 11
Windows 11 has several keyboard-related settings that might affect functionality. To verify:
- Click the Start button and select Settings.
- Navigate to Devices > Typing.
- Make sure that relevant keyboard options like “Show the touch keyboard when no keyboard attached” are set according to your preference.
- Also, go to Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard and check if any settings like “Sticky Keys” or “Filter Keys” are enabled. These can sometimes interfere with normal typing.
- Disable these options if you don’t need them and test your keyboard again.
Checking settings helps ensure Windows is not blocking or modifying keyboard input unintentionally.
Step 3: Update or Reinstall Keyboard Drivers
Device drivers control how Windows interacts with hardware like your keyboard. Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause the keyboard to stop working.
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand the Keyboards section.
- Right-click your Surface Type Cover keyboard device (it might be labeled as “HID Keyboard Device” or similar) and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for drivers so Windows looks for the latest version online.
- If no update is found or the keyboard still doesn’t work, right-click again and select Uninstall device. Confirm any prompts.
- Restart your Surface Pro 3. Windows will automatically reinstall the keyboard driver during startup.
- Test the keyboard after the restart.
This process ensures that your keyboard has the most up-to-date and clean driver installation, which is essential for proper function.
Step 4: Run the Windows Troubleshooter
Windows 11 includes built-in troubleshooters that can detect and fix hardware issues automatically.
- Open Settings and go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Find the Keyboard troubleshooter and click Run.
- Follow the on-screen instructions. The troubleshooter will check for common problems and try to fix them.
- After completion, test your keyboard again.
This is an easy way to let Windows diagnose and possibly resolve the issue without manual intervention.
Step 5: Check for Windows Updates
Microsoft regularly releases updates that improve device compatibility and fix bugs.
- Go to Settings > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- If updates are available, download and install them.
- Restart your Surface Pro 3 if prompted.
- Try the keyboard again after the update.
Keeping Windows updated helps ensure your Surface Pro 3 runs smoothly with all peripherals.
Step 6: Test with an External Keyboard
If your keyboard still does not work, try connecting an external USB or Bluetooth keyboard.
- This will help determine if the issue is with the built-in keyboard or with the Surface itself.
- If the external keyboard works fine, the problem is likely hardware related with your Type Cover.
- If the external keyboard also doesn’t work, the issue may be with Windows or the Surface hardware.
Advanced Option: Reset Surface Firmware
If the keyboard still fails, resetting the Surface firmware can help resolve deeper hardware communication issues.
Warning: Follow these steps carefully to avoid any data loss.
- Shut down your Surface Pro 3 completely.
- Press and hold the Volume Up button and the Power button simultaneously for about 15 seconds, then release both.
- The screen should stay black. Wait 10 seconds, then press the Power button again to turn on your Surface.
- This process resets the firmware and can resolve hardware detection problems.
- Test the keyboard after restart.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is my Surface Pro 3 keyboard working intermittently?
Intermittent issues can be caused by loose connections, dirty connectors, or driver glitches. Try detaching and reattaching the keyboard and updating drivers.
Can a Windows update cause keyboard problems?
Yes, sometimes an update may cause compatibility issues. Checking for new updates or rolling back recent updates might help.
How do I know if the keyboard is faulty?
If an external keyboard works fine but your Type Cover does not, it likely means the keyboard hardware is faulty and may need repair or replacement.
Is it safe to uninstall keyboard drivers?
Yes, uninstalling keyboard drivers is safe. Windows will reinstall the default driver automatically on reboot.
Can software conflicts cause the keyboard to stop working?
Yes, some third-party applications or accessibility settings can interfere with keyboard input. Check accessibility options and close unnecessary software.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the above steps and your Surface Pro 3 keyboard still does not work, here are some final options:
- Contact Microsoft Support for professional help: Microsoft Surface Support.
- Consider visiting a certified repair center to check for hardware faults.
- If your device is under warranty, explore repair or replacement options.
- In rare cases, restoring Windows 11 to factory settings may fix software-related issues, but be sure to back up your data first.
Conclusion
Surface Pro 3 keyboard issues on Windows 11 can often be fixed with simple troubleshooting steps. Starting with basic checks like reconnecting the keyboard and verifying settings can save time.
Updating or reinstalling drivers and running the Windows troubleshooter usually resolve most software-related problems. Testing with an external keyboard helps isolate the issue.
For persistent problems, resetting firmware or seeking professional support are good next steps. By following this guide, you can get your keyboard working smoothly again and continue using your Surface Pro 3 without interruption.