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For an occasional accent or symbol, press Windows + . (period), open Symbols, and choose the character. If you need a specific glyph, use Character Map; if you type another language regularly, switch to its keyboard layout. Alt codes require a numeric keypad, while Unicode-plus-Alt+X works only in supported Office apps.
Choose the method that fits how you type
| Method | Best for | What you need to know |
|---|---|---|
| Symbols panel | Occasional accents and symbols | Browse or search; no code to memorize. |
| Character Map | A particular or uncommon character | Select, copy, and paste the glyph. |
| Alt codes | Characters whose codes you know | Requires a numeric keypad. |
| Unicode + Alt+X | Typing a Unicode value in a supported Office app | Not a general Windows shortcut. |
| Another keyboard layout | Frequent typing in another language | Changes what keys produce; check the active layout. |
Use the Windows symbols panel for occasional characters
- Place the cursor in the text field where you want the character.
- Press Windows + . (period) to open the emoji panel.
- Select Symbols, then browse or search for the character and select it.
The Symbols section includes punctuation and accented characters. This is usually the quickest choice when you need something like é only now and then. Microsoft’s Windows keyboard tips and tricks describes the panel and its symbol options.
Find and copy a character with Character Map
- Search Windows for Character Map and open the app.
- Select a font if the appearance of the glyph matters; available shapes can vary by font.
- Select the character in the grid, choose Select if needed, then choose Copy.
- Paste it into the destination app.
For a less familiar character, turn on Advanced view to search by name or description and inspect a Unicode value. Character Map is useful when you want to identify a glyph visually or the destination program does not support a direct code shortcut. See Microsoft’s instructions for inserting ASCII or Unicode characters and its guidance on navigating Windows text tools.
Enter Alt codes with a numeric keypad
Hold Alt, type the character’s documented code on the numeric keypad, then release Alt. Include a leading zero when the code specifies one. Microsoft explicitly says this method works with the numeric keypad, not the number row above the letters.
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- 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.
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| Character | Alt code |
|---|---|
| © | Alt+0169 |
| ® | Alt+0174 |
| ™ | Alt+0153 |
| § | Alt+0167 |
| – (en dash) | Alt+0150 |
| — (em dash) | Alt+0151 |
These examples and the keypad limitation are in Microsoft’s Windows keyboard guidance. Check Microsoft’s character table for the exact code and digits you need; do not assume codes for similar-looking characters are interchangeable.
If your laptop has no numeric keypad, its top number row is not a substitute for this documented Alt-code method. Use the symbols panel or Character Map instead. A USB numeric keypad is optional if you specifically want to use keypad-based codes.
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- 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
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Convert a Unicode value with Alt+X in supported Office apps
In supported Word or Outlook contexts, type the character’s hexadecimal Unicode value and press Alt+X. For example, type 20AC and press Alt+X to produce €. Microsoft documents this workflow for certain Office applications; it is not a universal Windows shortcut, and some Office programs cannot convert the code.
If the app converts adjacent text instead of the code, select the code first and press Alt+X. If conversion is unavailable or does not work in your app, use Character Map. See Microsoft’s ASCII and Unicode instructions and accent-mark shortcuts for Word and Outlook.
Rank #3
- 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
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Switch keyboard layouts for frequent language typing
If you regularly type in another language, using that language’s keyboard layout can be more convenient than inserting each accented character separately. Windows lets you add and manage languages and keyboard/input layouts in Settings. After setting up more than one layout, press Windows + Space to switch between them.
- Open Settings > Time & language > Language & region.
- Add the language or keyboard layout you need, or manage the options for a language already installed.
- Use Windows + Space to select the active layout while typing.
A layout changes which characters keys produce, so a key may not enter the character shown on the physical keycap. Check the active layout when typing produces unexpected characters. Microsoft’s language and keyboard/input settings guide explains layout management. Its international-character shortcut page also lists combinations for particular characters and applications.
Rank #4
- Durable and Reliable: This USB keyboard features a curved space bar, spill-resistant design (2), durable keys that can withstand 10 million keystrokes, and sturdy, adjustable tilt legs
- Comfortable, Familiar Typing: You’ll enjoy a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard layout with full-size F-keys and number pad
- Full-size Sculpted Mouse: The high-definition optical USB mouse puts comfort and control in your hands with smooth, accurate tracking and an ambidextrous shape that feels good hour after hour
- Simple Set-Up: Simply plug the keyboard and mouse into the USB ports on your desktop, laptop, or netbook and you're ready to work; compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
- Clear and Convenient: The bold, bright white and long-lasting characters make the keys on this PC or laptop keyboard easy to read and extra durable
Use an on-screen keyboard when you prefer on-screen input
The On-Screen Keyboard (OSK) is an accessibility keyboard you can operate with a mouse or another pointing device; it does not require a touchscreen. Open Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard and turn on On-Screen Keyboard. Microsoft explains its controls in Use the On-Screen Keyboard (OSK) to type.
The touch keyboard is a separate feature intended for touchscreen devices. Its availability and behavior depend on the device and Windows configuration; Microsoft’s touch keyboard instructions cover its settings.
Quick Recap
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Quick troubleshooting
- Windows + . does not show symbols: Select Symbols in the panel and browse there; the panel opens to its emoji interface.
- An Alt code does nothing: Use the numeric keypad, not the top number row, and follow the code’s exact digits.
- Alt+X changes nearby text: Select the hexadecimal code before pressing the shortcut, and confirm the app supports the conversion.
- A key produces the wrong character: Switch or verify the active keyboard layout with Windows + Space.
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