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How to Fix MacBook Brightness Keys Not Working

MacBook brightness keys not working

Are your MacBook’s brightness keys (F1 and F2) not working? This is a common issue many Mac users face, and it can be frustrating when you can’t adjust your screen’s brightness. In this guide, we’ll explore the causes and provide step-by-step solutions to fix brightness keys not working on your MacBook.

MacBook brightness keys not working

Why Are My Brightness Keys Not Working?

The problem with brightness keys usually arises due to:

  • Incorrect keyboard settings.
  • Outdated or buggy macOS updates.
  • A hardware issue with the keyboard or display.
  • Software conflicts caused by third-party apps.

Let’s dive into how to fix these issues.

Step-by-Step Solutions

1. Check Your Keyboard Settings

  • Open System Preferences > Keyboard.
  • Ensure that “Use F1, F2, etc. keys as standard function keys” is unchecked.
    • If this is checked, you’ll need to press the Fn key along with F1 or F2 to adjust brightness.

2. Update macOS

Outdated macOS versions may have bugs affecting your brightness controls.

  • Go to System Preferences > Software Update.
  • Install any available updates and restart your Mac.

3. Reset the System Management Controller (SMC)

The SMC controls various hardware functions, including brightness controls. Resetting it can resolve the issue.

For Intel-based Macs:

  1. Shut down your MacBook.
  2. Hold Shift + Control + Option and the Power button simultaneously for 10 seconds.
  3. Release the keys and turn your MacBook on.

For Macs with Apple silicon:

  • Simply restart your MacBook, as SMC resets automatically.

4. Reset NVRAM/PRAM

The NVRAM stores settings like display brightness.

  1. Shut down your MacBook.
  2. Turn it on while holding Option + Command + P + R.
  3. Hold the keys for about 20 seconds, then release.

5. Boot Into Safe Mode

Safe Mode disables third-party extensions that might interfere with brightness controls.

  1. Restart your MacBook and immediately hold the Shift key.
  2. Release the key when the login screen appears.
  3. Test the brightness keys in Safe Mode, then restart normally.

6. Check for Hardware Issues

If none of the above steps work, the issue might be hardware-related.

  • Test the keys using an external keyboard.
  • If the problem persists, contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store.

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MacBook brightness keys not working

Prevent Brightness Key Issues in the Future

  • Keep your macOS updated.
  • Avoid installing unnecessary third-party apps that modify keyboard behavior.
  • Regularly check hardware functionality.

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