Surface Pro 3 Keyboard Not Working? Here’s How to Fix It Fast!

Main points

This could be due to a loose connection, a faulty port, or a damaged cable.
A bug in the operating system or a conflicting application could interfere with keyboard input.
A damaged keyboard, such as a spill or a dropped device, can lead to keystrokes not registering.

The Surface Pro 3 is a fantastic device, but like any other piece of technology, it can experience its fair share of issues. One common problem that users encounter is a non-functional keyboard. This can be a major inconvenience, especially if you rely on your Surface Pro 3 for work or school. But don’t worry, there are several ways to troubleshoot and fix this issue. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore common causes and offer step-by-step solutions to help you get your Surface Pro 3 keyboard back up and running.

Understanding the Problem

Before we dive into solutions, it’s crucial to understand why your Surface Pro 3 keyboard might be malfunctioning. Here are some common culprits:

Connection Issues: The keyboard might not be properly connected to the Surface Pro 3. This could be due to a loose connection, a faulty port, or a damaged cable.
Driver Problems: Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause keyboard functionality issues.
Software Glitches: A bug in the operating system or a conflicting application could interfere with keyboard input.
Physical Damage: A damaged keyboard, such as a spill or a dropped device, can lead to keystrokes not registering.
Battery Issues: If you’re using a Type Cover keyboard, a low or dying battery could be the cause.

Troubleshooting Steps

Now that you have a better understanding of potential causes, let’s move on to troubleshooting steps. These steps should be attempted in the following order:

1. Check the Connection

Type Cover Keyboard: Ensure the Type Cover is securely attached to the Surface Pro 3. Try gently disconnecting and reconnecting the keyboard.
Surface Pro 3 Keyboard: Verify that the keyboard is properly connected to the Surface Pro 3’s port. If the port appears loose or damaged, you might need to replace it.

2. Restart Your Surface Pro 3

A simple restart can often resolve minor software glitches. To restart your device, follow these steps:

Go to the Start menu.
Select Power > Restart.

3. Update Your Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause keyboard issues. To update your drivers:

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
Click Check for updates.
If updates are available, install them and restart your device.

4. Run the Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in troubleshooter that can help identify and fix keyboard problems. To run the troubleshooter:

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
Select Keyboard and click Run the troubleshooter.
Follow the on-screen instructions.

5. Check for Conflicting Applications

Certain applications may interfere with keyboard input. Try closing any programs you don’t need and see if that resolves the issue. If you suspect a particular application is causing problems, try temporarily uninstalling it.

6. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and programs. This can help isolate the cause of the keyboard problem. To perform a clean boot:

Search for msconfig in the Start menu and press Enter.
Go to the Services tab and check the box next to Hide all Microsoft services.
Click Disable all.
Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
In Task Manager, disable all startup items.
Close Task Manager and click Apply and OK in the System Configuration window.
Restart your Surface Pro 3.

7. Reset Your Surface Pro 3

If none of the above solutions work, you can try resetting your Surface Pro 3. This will erase all data and settings, so make sure to back up your important files before proceeding.

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
Click Reset this PC.
Choose the option to Keep my files or Remove everything.
Follow the on-screen instructions.

Moving Forward: Recovering from Keyboard Woes

Once you’ve successfully fixed your Surface Pro 3 keyboard, it’s essential to take steps to prevent future issues. Here’s what you can do:

Keep Your Drivers Updated: Regularly check for driver updates to ensure you have the latest versions.
Be Careful with Liquids: Avoid spilling liquids on your Surface Pro 3 or Type Cover keyboard.
Handle with Care: Treat your Surface Pro 3 with care to prevent accidental drops or damage.
Clean Your Keyboard Regularly: Dust and debris can accumulate on your keyboard and cause problems. Use a soft brush or a can of compressed air to clean it regularly.
Use a Protective Case: A protective case can help shield your Surface Pro 3 from bumps and scratches.

Answers to Your Questions

Q: What if my Surface Pro 3 keyboard is still not working after trying all these steps?
A: If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your keyboard still isn’t working, it’s likely a hardware issue. You might need to replace the keyboard. Contact Microsoft support for assistance.
Q: Can I use an external keyboard with my Surface Pro 3?
A: Yes, you can connect an external keyboard to your Surface Pro 3 via USB or Bluetooth. This can be a temporary solution if your Surface Pro 3 keyboard is not working.
Q: How do I know if the problem is with my Type Cover or the Surface Pro 3 itself?
A: Try connecting your Type Cover to another Surface Pro 3 or using a different Type Cover with your Surface Pro 3. If the problem persists with different devices, the issue might be with your Surface Pro 3.
Q: Is it possible to repair a damaged Type Cover keyboard?
A: It might be possible to repair a damaged Type Cover keyboard, but it’s often more cost-effective to replace it. Contact Microsoft support or a reputable repair shop for a quote.
Q: Can I use my Surface Pro 3 without a keyboard?
A: Yes, you can use your Surface Pro 3 without a keyboard by using the on-screen keyboard. This may be inconvenient for extended use, but it can be a temporary solution if your keyboard is not working.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you should be able to troubleshoot and fix your Surface Pro 3 keyboard issue. Remember to take preventive measures to protect your device and prevent future problems.