To make Windows 11 use a particular keyboard layout by default, open Settings > Time & language > Typing > Advanced keyboard settings. Choose the layout under Override for default input method. The layout must already be installed to appear in the list.
Set the default keyboard layout
- Open Settings by pressing Windows key + I, or select Start > Settings.
- Go to Time & language > Typing > Advanced keyboard settings.
- Under Override for default input method, select the installed layout or input method you want Windows to use as the default. ASUS documents this control in its Windows keyboard-layout instructions; Microsoft Q&A answers also point to this setting.
This default setting is different from choosing the layout currently in use. The taskbar input indicator and Windows key + Space switch the active layout; the Advanced keyboard settings override sets the default input method.
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If the layout you want is missing
Add it before selecting it as the default. In Settings, open Time & language > Language & region. Select the three-dot menu next to the relevant language, choose Language options, then add the layout under Keyboards. Microsoft’s keyboard and language settings guide notes that the matching full language pack is not always required. If the layout is not listed for the language currently shown, check the language associated with that layout.
Switch layouts temporarily and check what is active
To change layouts for the current session, select the input-language indicator on the taskbar or press Windows key + Space to cycle through installed layouts. The taskbar indicator shows which one is active. If the shortcut does nothing, Microsoft says that only one keyboard layout may be installed.
#1 Best Overall
- KEYBOARD: The keyboard works for Windows with hot keys that enable easy access to Media, My Computer, Mute, Volume up/down, and Calculator
- EASY SETUP: Experience simple installation with the USB wired connection
- VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY: This keyboard is designed to work with multiple Windows versions, including Vista, 7, 8, 10 offering broad compatibility across devices.
- SLEEK DESIGN: The elegant black color of the wired keyboard complements your tech and decor, adding a stylish and cohesive look to any setup without sacrificing function.
- FULL-SIZED CONVENIENCE: The standard QWERTY layout of this keyboard set offers a familiar typing experience, ideal for both professional tasks and personal use.
Keyboard layout is not the display language
A keyboard layout determines which characters the keys produce; it does not change the language of Windows menus and other interface text. Microsoft puts it plainly: “Changing the keyboard layout only changes the layout and doesn’t change the Windows display language.” You can therefore use an English Windows interface with a different keyboard layout, for example.
Check the layout at the sign-in screen
Changing the Windows display language can also change the keyboard layout used at sign-in. Before entering your password, check the input-language icon on the sign-in screen. If you need to confirm what you typed, use the password reveal icon where available.
Rank #2
- Reliable Plug and Play: The USB receiver provides a reliable wireless connection up to 33 ft (1), so you can forget about drop-outs and delays and you can take it wherever you use your computer
- Type in Comfort: The design of this keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the low-profile, quiet keys and standard layout with full-size F-keys, number pad, and arrow keys
- Durable and Resilient: This full-size wireless keyboard features a spill-resistant design (2), durable keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height
- Long Battery Life: MK270 combo features a 36-month keyboard and 12-month mouse battery life (3), along with on/off switches allowing you to go months without the hassle of changing batteries
- Easy to Use: This wireless keyboard and mouse combo features 8 multimedia hotkeys for instant access to the Internet, email, play/pause, and volume so you can easily check out your favorite sites
If Windows shows an unexpected layout
- The taskbar input indicator is missing: Microsoft notes that enabling the legacy language bar can hide the icon. Check the taskbar system-icon settings and the legacy language bar setting.
- An unwanted layout remains installed: Check the Keyboards list under both the current language and the language associated with the layout. A layout can be installed under a language that is different from the Windows display language.
- The default dropdown does not offer your layout: Confirm it has been added under the relevant language’s Language options > Keyboards.
Settings labels can vary somewhat between Windows builds, and the choices in the default-input dropdown depend on which input methods are installed.
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Best Value
- All-day Comfort: This USB keyboard creates a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard full-size layout with all F-keys, number pad and arrow keys
- Built to Last: The spill-proof (2) design and durable print characters keep you on track for years to come despite any on-the-job mishaps; it’s a reliable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Long-lasting Battery Life: A 24-month battery life (4) means you can go for 2 years without the hassle of changing batteries of your wireless full-size keyboard
- Simply plug the USB receiver into a USB port on your desktop, laptop or netbook computer and start using the keyboard right away without any software installation
- Simply Wireless: Forget about drop-outs and delays thanks to a strong, reliable wireless connection with up to 33 ft range (5); K270 is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
Rank #4
- 【Dreamy Rainbow Gaming Keyboard】K521 Gaming Keyboard Adopts a Different LED Backlight Design, Upgraded on the Traditional LED Backlight Effect, Making the Light More Penetrating, Giving You a More Dazzling Visual Effect, Making Your Gaming Process More Enjoyable
- 【One Touch Opens & Visual Feast】The K521 Red Dragon Keyboard has a One-Touch on/off Lighting Button for Added Convenience. It also has a Three-Position Adjustable Breathing Mode and a Four-Position Adjustable Brightness Lighting Mode
- 【Mechanical Feeling & Fast Tapping】The PC Keyboard Keys are Designed for Mechanical Feeling, Giving You a Better Feel During Use and the Ability to Trigger Keys Quickly, Allowing You to Win All Your Games
- 【19 Keys Anti-Ghosting Keyboard】Anti-Ghosting Ensures Every Button Can Be Triggered. This Allows You to Trigger Key Combinations In The Game Accurately, And Each Skill Can Be Accurately Released to Increase Your Winning Rate. Redragon K521 Will Be Your Perfect Partner
- 【12 Multimedia Combination Keys】The K521 Wired Gaming Keyboard is Equipped with 12 Multimedia Keys That Can Greatly Enhance Your Gaming/Office Efficiency and Make It More Convenient to Use
Rank #3
- All-day Comfort: The design of this standard keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and full-size standard layout with F-keys and number pad
- Easy to Set-up and Use: Set-up couldn't be easier, you simply plug in this corded keyboard via USB on your desktop or laptop and start using right away without any software installation
- Compatibility: This full-size keyboard is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later, plus it's a reliable and durable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Spill-proof: This durable keyboard features a spill-resistant design (1), anti-fade keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height, meaning this keyboard is built to last
- Plastic parts in K120 include 51% certified post-consumer recycled plastic*
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