The basic steps to pair a wireless keyboard

Most wireless keyboards connect to tablets through Bluetooth, a short-range wireless standard built into nearly every tablet. The process is straightforward: turn on the keyboard's Bluetooth mode, open your tablet's settings, find the Bluetooth menu, and select the keyboard from the list of available devices. Once paired, the keyboard stays connected automatically the next time you turn it on—you won't have to repeat the pairing process.

The exact steps vary slightly depending on whether you have an iPad, Android tablet, or Windows tablet, but the underlying method is the same. Most keyboards take 30 seconds to a minute to pair, and you'll see a confirmation message on your tablet's screen when the connection is successful.

Key Takeaways

  • Wireless keyboards use Bluetooth to connect, and pairing happens through your tablet's Bluetooth settings menu, not through an app.
  • Before pairing, make sure the keyboard is powered on and in pairing mode—usually indicated by a blinking light or a dedicated pairing button.
  • Once paired, your keyboard will reconnect automatically when you turn it on, as long as Bluetooth remains enabled on your tablet.
  • If the keyboard doesn't appear in your Bluetooth list, restart both devices and try again, or check the keyboard's manual for a reset procedure.

How to pair on iPad

On iPad, go to Settings > Bluetooth and toggle Bluetooth on if it isn't already. Make sure your wireless keyboard is powered on and in pairing mode—most keyboards have a dedicated button labeled "Pair" or "Connect," or you may need to hold the power button for a few seconds until a light blinks. Your keyboard should appear in the list of available devices within 10 to 15 seconds.

Tap the keyboard's name in the list. Your iPad will display a pairing code on the screen; type this code on the keyboard and press Enter. Once you see "Connected" next to the keyboard's name, the pairing is complete. You can now use the keyboard to type in any app.

How to pair on Android tablets

On Android, open Settings and look for Bluetooth or Connected Devices—the exact name depends on your tablet's manufacturer and Android version. Toggle Bluetooth on, then tap Pair New Device or Add Device. Turn on your keyboard and put it in pairing mode using the method described in its manual.

Your keyboard will appear in the list of available devices. Tap it to pair. Some Android tablets will ask you to confirm a pairing code; if so, type the code on the keyboard and press Enter. Once the keyboard shows as "Connected" or "Paired," you're ready to use it.

How to pair on Windows tablets

On Windows tablets, open Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & Other Devices. Toggle Bluetooth on and click Add Bluetooth or Other Device. Select Bluetooth from the menu that appears. Turn on your keyboard and set up pairing mode.

Your keyboard will show up in the list of available devices. Click it to pair. Windows may ask you to confirm a pairing code; if so, type it on the keyboard and press Enter. Once the keyboard displays as "Connected," the pairing is done.

What to do if the keyboard won't appear or won't stay connected

If your keyboard doesn't show up in the Bluetooth list, first check that it's powered on and in pairing mode. Some keyboards automatically exit pairing mode after a minute or two, so you may need to set up it again. Restart both the keyboard and tablet, then try pairing once more.

If the keyboard appears but won't connect, or if it connects and then disconnects, try "forgetting" the device and pairing again from scratch. On iPad, go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the information icon next to the keyboard's name, and select Forget This Device. On Android, go to Settings > Bluetooth, long-press the keyboard's name, and choose Unpair or Forget. On Windows, go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & Other Devices, click the keyboard, and select Remove Device. Then pair it again from the beginning.

If the keyboard still won't connect, check the keyboard's manual for a factory reset procedure. Some keyboards have a small reset button you hold for several seconds, or a key combination that clears all previous pairings. After resetting, the keyboard should pair like a new device.

Battery and power considerations

Wireless keyboards run on batteries—usually AA or AAA—and will stop working if the battery is dead or very low. If your keyboard was working and suddenly stops responding, replace the batteries first. Some keyboards have a low-battery indicator light or will show a warning on your tablet when power is running out.

Keep the keyboard powered off when you're not using it to extend battery life. Most keyboards have an on/off switch; if yours doesn't, check whether there's a power-saving mode you can enable in the keyboard's settings or manual. Bluetooth itself uses very little power on your tablet, so leaving Bluetooth on won't significantly drain your device's battery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to install an app to use a wireless keyboard?

No. Wireless keyboards connect through Bluetooth, which is built into your tablet's operating system. You pair the keyboard through your tablet's settings, not through an app. Once paired, the keyboard works in any app that accepts text input.

Can I use the same keyboard with multiple tablets?

Yes. Most wireless keyboards can be paired with several devices. Pair the keyboard with each tablet following the steps for your device type. When you want to switch between tablets, straightforward turn the keyboard off and back on, and it will reconnect to whichever tablet it was last paired with. Some keyboards let you switch between paired devices using a dedicated button.

What if my keyboard has a USB receiver instead of Bluetooth?

Most tablets don't have USB ports, so a USB receiver won't work directly. If your keyboard came with a USB receiver, it's designed for computers, not tablets. You'll need a Bluetooth keyboard to use with a tablet. Check the keyboard's manual or packaging to confirm whether it uses Bluetooth or USB.

Why does my keyboard keep disconnecting?

Disconnections usually happen because the keyboard's battery is low, the tablet's Bluetooth is turned off, or the two devices have drifted out of range. Bluetooth typically works within 30 feet, though walls and other electronics can reduce that distance. Replace the keyboard's batteries, make sure Bluetooth is on, and try moving closer to the tablet. If the problem persists, forget the device and pair again.

Can I use a keyboard with a tablet case on?

Yes. The keyboard connects wirelessly, so a case on your tablet won't interfere. However, if your case has a built-in stand, make sure the stand doesn't block the tablet's Bluetooth antenna—usually located at the top or back of the device. If you notice weak signal or frequent disconnections after putting on a case, try removing the case to see if that improves the connection.