Highlights
Learn how to change keyboard language on Windows 10, Windows 11, Mac, Android, and iPhone with simple step-by-step instructions.
Find out how to change your keyboard language or switch between multiple keyboard layouts using built-in shortcuts.
Follow detailed guidance for how to change keyboard language Windows 11 and Windows 10 without changing your display language.
Troubleshoot common keyboard language issues, including incorrect layouts, language switching problems, and shortcut errors.
Wondering how to change keyboard language on your computer? This setting is essential if you type in multiple languages, installed Windows with a different regional setting, or notice that your keyboard is typing unexpected symbols. If your keyboard is also responding incorrectly or certain keys aren't working as expected, you may also want to check our guide on laptop keyboard stuck before changing the keyboard language.
The good news is that learning how to change keyboard language is quick and easy. Whether you're using Windows 10, Windows 11, macOS, or a mobile device, you can switch keyboard layouts in just a few steps.
Why Change the Keyboard Language?
There are many reasons to change your keyboard language. You may have purchased a keyboard with a different layout, moved to another country, or simply need to type in another language. If you're wondering how to change your keyboard language, Windows and other operating systems make the process straightforward.
A common example is switching the keyboard from English to Spanish so you can type the letter "ñ" and accented characters correctly. Likewise, if you're unable to type special characters such as @, our guide on how to type the at sign can help you identify whether the issue is caused by the keyboard layout.
How to Change Keyboard Language in Windows 10
If you're looking for how to change keyboard language windows, the following steps apply to Windows 10. We'll use changing the keyboard from English to Spanish as an example.
1. Open Windows Settings
2. Add a New Language
Under Preferred languages, click Add a language.
Search for Spanish (Spain, Mexico, or another regional variant).
Click Next, then select Install.
3. Change the Keyboard Language
After the language is installed, select it and open Keyboard options.
Choose the new keyboard layout and set it as your preferred input method.
4. Switch Between Keyboard Languages
You can quickly switch between installed keyboard languages by pressing:
Windows + Space
Alt + Shift
How to Change Keyboard Language on Other Operating Systems
Steps to Change Keyboard Language on Windows 11
If you're searching for how to change keyboard language Windows 11, the steps are almost identical to Windows 10, although the Settings interface looks slightly different.
Open Settings > Time & Language > Language & Region.
Click Add a language and install your preferred language.
Select the keyboard layout you want to use.
Press Windows + Space to switch between keyboard languages.
Steps to Change Keyboard Language on macOS
If you want to learn how to change keyboard language in Mac, follow these steps:
Open System Settings (or System Preferences on older versions).
Select Keyboard > Input Sources.
Click the + button.
Choose your preferred language and add it.
Press Command (⌘) + Space to switch between input languages.
These are the standard steps for how to change keyboard language in Mac, regardless of which language you want to use.
Steps to Change Keyboard Language on Android and iPhone
Open Settings > Language & Input (Android) or Settings > General > Keyboard (iPhone).
Add your preferred language.
Tap the globe icon on the keyboard to switch between languages while typing.
Solutions to Common Problems
1. The Keyboard Language Won't Change
If the problem persists after reinstalling the language pack, updating or reinstalling your keyboard driver may help. See our guide on how to install a device driver for more details.
Tip: If keyboard language settings still won't apply after you've tried the fixes above, it may indicate a broader Windows configuration issue. IObit Advanced SystemCare can help repair common system problems, optimize Windows settings, and improve overall system stability, making it easier to resolve unexpected keyboard or input-related issues.
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2. The Keyboard Layout Is Incorrect
Go to Settings > Time & Language > Language and verify that the correct keyboard layout is selected.
3. Keyboard Shortcuts Aren't Working
Go to Settings > Devices > Typing (or the appropriate keyboard settings on your Windows version) and check whether the language-switching shortcut is enabled.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to change keyboard language, switching between different keyboard layouts should be quick and easy. Whether you're using Windows 10, Windows 11, macOS, Android, or iPhone, these simple steps will help you type comfortably in multiple languages.
If you're still wondering how to change your keyboard language, double-check that the correct language pack and keyboard layout have been installed before switching between them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I add multiple keyboard languages?
Yes. You can install multiple keyboard languages and switch between them at any time using keyboard shortcuts.
2. Can I customize the keyboard layout?
Yes. On Windows, you can use tools such as Microsoft Keyboard Layout Creator to create or customize keyboard layouts.
3. What if my keyboard doesn't have the keys required for a language?
You can use the on-screen keyboard or a key remapping application to access additional characters.
4. Can I change the keyboard language while playing games?
It depends on the game. In most cases, you can switch keyboard languages using the standard Windows keyboard shortcuts.
5. Does changing the keyboard language affect the operating system?
No. Changing the keyboard language only affects the input method and keyboard layout. It does not change your Windows or system display language.
