Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Windows 11 can seem to switch your input method when a different installed keyboard layout is selected, or after a Windows display-language change also changes the layout. Check the active layout and the layouts installed first; if the issue is specific to Microsoft IME, use its separate troubleshooting option.
What can make Windows 11 appear to switch input methods?
“Input method” can refer to the keyboard layout or, in some contexts, an input method editor (IME). Several layouts may be installed, and Windows lets you select or cycle among them. Microsoft also notes that changing the Windows display language might change the keyboard layout to match. These are documented possibilities, not a universal explanation for every computer.
A keyboard layout and the Windows display language are separate settings: changing the layout alone does not change the language used by the Windows interface.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →How to check which keyboard layout is active
Look for the input-language indicator in the taskbar notification area. Select it to see the available layouts and choose the one you want. You can also press Windows key + Space to cycle through installed layouts. Microsoft says that if pressing this shortcut does nothing, only one keyboard layout is installed.
#1 Best Overall
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 14.1" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy ergonomic support with the integrated cushioned wrist rest.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a sleek black carbon color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.8 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
How to remove or add layouts you do not want
- Open Settings > Time & language > Language & region.
- Inspect the language entries and their keyboard options. Microsoft notes that a layout may appear under the current Windows display language or under the language that matches the layout, so check both where relevant.
- Remove layouts you do not use. To add a missing layout, open the relevant language’s options and add it there.
Keeping several layouts is useful if you type in multiple languages, but it gives you more layouts to cycle through. Removing unused ones simplifies the choices. Microsoft’s documentation does not promise that removing layouts will prevent every kind of automatic change.
What to check after changing the Windows display language
Microsoft says, “When the Windows display language is changed, it might also change the keyboard layout to match the language.” If the layout changed after you changed the display language, check the input indicator on the sign-in screen and select the expected layout. A layout change by itself does not change the Windows interface language.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
What if the taskbar input-language icon is missing?
Windows offers a legacy desktop language bar as an alternative to the taskbar input-language icon. To restore the taskbar icon, open Settings > Time & language > Typing > Advanced keyboard settings and uncheck Use the desktop language bar when it’s available. This disables the legacy language bar.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →What if the problem is specifically with Microsoft IME?
If the symptom involves the current Microsoft IME rather than a standard keyboard-layout selection, Microsoft documents a previous-version compatibility setting as a temporary workaround:
Rank #3
- Note: Not suitable for MacBooks released after 2023 or devices with a protruding front camera; Not applicable to full-screen or notch-style tempered glass screen protectors; Do not use on the rear camera of the phone.
- 💻 Why Do You Need a Webcam Cover Slide? — Safeguard your privacy by covering your webcam with our reliable webcam cover when not in use. Don't let anyone secretly watch you. Stay protected!
- ✅ Thin & Stylish — Enhance your laptop's functionality and aesthetics with our 0.027" ultra-thin webcam covers. Seamlessly close your laptop while adding a touch of sophistication.
- ✅ Fits Most Devices — Compatible with laptops, phones, tablets, desktops! Keep your privacy intact on Ap/ple, Mac/Book, iPh/one, iP/ad, H/P, L/novo, De/ll, Ac/er, As/us, Sa/msung devices.
- ✅ 365 Days Protection — Our upgraded 3.0 adhesive ensures a strong hold that won't damage your equipment. Experience reliable, long-term privacy protection day in and day out.
- Open Settings > Time & language > Language & region.
- Open the options for the relevant language, then select Microsoft IME > General.
- Under Compatibility, turn on Use previous version of Microsoft IME.
Microsoft does not recommend leaving this workaround enabled long term.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.If these checks do not explain the switching
The documented settings explain how to choose layouts, manage installed layouts, and address a Microsoft IME compatibility issue. They do not establish why a particular PC switches input automatically or whether a specific Windows 11 configuration changes input per app or window. To narrow down an unexplained case, note when the change occurs, which applications are involved, which layouts and IMEs are installed, and the Windows build.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 12" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy laptop support with the integrated device ledge.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a blush pink color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.14 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Rank #4
- Anti-Slip Surface - Transform your laptop into a mobile workstation with the AboveTEK portable laptop lap desk. The anti-slip surface provides a strong grip for laptops up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), while the double rubber strip on the bottom ensures a stable display or typing experience on your lap, couch, or bed.
- Retractable Mouse Pad - Retractable laptop mouse pad extends on both directions for the left/right handed with elevation along the edges for stopping mouse from falling off. The size of laptop tray is 14" X 9.7" and the size of mouse pad is 7.4" X 6.1".
- Effective Heat Shield - The effective heat shield made of sturdy and thick material protects your laptop from overheating. Prioritizes your comfort and safety, an ideal lap pad or board for working anywhere.
- EASY to Carry and Store - With an ergonomic and simplistic design, the lap desk is portable to store in a backpack. Only 15" in size, 2.2 lb of weight and with slim 0.6 inch thickness, it is ready to be easily carried around.
- Widely Applicable - The smooth platform accommodates laptops and tablets up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), making it a versatile accessory and one of the best gifts for mom, dad, students and professionals. Perfect for use as a laptop bed tray or tablet holder anywhere at home, library, or park.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
