Fix a Keyboard That Types Twice
A keyboard that types double letters usually has a bouncing switch: one press makes the contacts touch twice. First confirm it with the double typing test. Then check the repeat delay and Bounce Keys settings, clean the key, and if the keyboard allows it, raise its debounce time or replace the switch.
1. Confirm the fault
Run the double typing test and press the suspect key slowly twenty times. Red gaps mean the keyboard sends extra presses. Try the keyboard on another computer: if the fault follows the keyboard, it is the keyboard.
2. Check the repeat delay
If you hold keys a little long and they repeat, the repeat delay is set too short. On Windows open Control Panel, Keyboard and move Repeat delay toward Long. On a Mac open System Settings, Keyboard and move Delay until repeat toward Long.
3. Use Bounce Keys on Windows
Windows Filter Keys includes Bounce Keys, which ignores a second press of the same key that comes too soon after the first. Open Settings, Accessibility, Keyboard, Filter keys. It hides the symptom rather than repairing the key, and it also affects deliberate fast double letters.
4. Clean the key
Switch off or unplug the keyboard. Blow compressed air around the key from several angles. On a mechanical keyboard, pull the keycap and blow into the switch while pressing it a few times.
5. Raise the debounce time
Some mechanical and gaming keyboards let you set a debounce time in their software or firmware. A slightly higher value tells the keyboard to ignore the bounce. Check the maker’s app for your model.
6. Replace the switch or use the warranty
On hot-swap mechanical keyboards the switch can be pulled and replaced without soldering. Other keyboards need soldering or a repair shop. If the keyboard is under warranty, save the checker report and contact the seller or maker.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my keyboard type letters twice?
Most often a worn or dirty switch bounces, so one press is read as two. Settings can cause similar symptoms: a short repeat delay, or a macro in the keyboard software. The double typing test shows whether the keyboard sends the extra press.
Can software fix a keyboard that types twice?
It can hide it. Bounce Keys on Windows or a higher debounce time in the keyboard’s own software ignore the extra press. A cleaned or replaced switch fixes the cause.
Is double typing covered by warranty?
Often, as it is a hardware fault. Check the warranty period, and include the result of the double typing test or the checker report when you contact support.
Last updated: November 2, 2026