In this article, we will show you how to disable the keyboard on Mac, from old to the most recent versions of macOS for all models.
1. Shutting Down Your MacBook
Turning off your MacBook is the simplest way to temporarily deactivate its keyboard to clean it or fix the keyboard. It also stands as the only method that works on every single MacBook and macOS version. Here’s how to do so:
2. Using Third-Party Apps
Third-party apps provide advanced keyboard customization and control, including the option to disable the keyboard on your Mac. Apart from shutting down your MacBook, this is the only other realistic option on newer macOS versions for disabling your keyboard. Karabiner Elements is a popular option for this, but we recommend KeyboardCleanTool as it’s much smaller, has a more straightforward installation process and doesn’t confuse you with options. As the name suggests, it’s made to disable your keyboard while cleaning it, but you can use it for any purpose:
3. Utilizing External Keyboard Preferences
With this method, you can elongate how long it takes for a key to register to the point where it’s essentially unresponsive, practically disabling your keyboard. By delaying the key’s response, you can get enough time to perform your task efficiently.
4. Using Terminal Script
Starting with macOS Big Sur, many system extensions were phased out in favor of added security so this method only works till macOS Catalina. To restore your keyboard’s working, enter the following command into the Terminal window:
5. With Keyboard Shortcuts
You’ll encounter the infamous Control F1 method all over the internet telling you that it disables your keyboard on, at least, older macOS versions. But this is simply untrue. This shortcut was always meant to disable the alternate functions of the function row (brightness, volume, Spotlight) and turn it into normal function keys, à la Windows. Regardless, if you’re looking to access the standard functions of these keys, here are the steps: On newer versions of macOS, this shortcut has been replaced with a proper accessibility feature that you can toggle on in Settings > Keyboard > Keyboard Shortcuts > Function Keys.
Conclusion
Knowing how to disable the keyboard on Mac can be a valuable skill. Your MacBook’s keyboard may need to be turned off for various reasons, including maintenance, troubleshooting, or just to prevent accidental input while repairing those faulty butterfly switches. The old methods of using keyboard shortcuts, mouse keys, and the script might not function on the most recent macOS versions. However, you can still disable your Mac’s keyboard by using external keyboard preferences or third-party applications. To return the keyboard to its usual functioning after finishing your activity, remember to enable it again.
