Replicating Logitech’s FN-Key shortcuts: volume controls, Print Screen & more

The Fn key, on its own, does nothing. However, in combination with another key it allows you to activate that key’s second function. For example, you can use the Fn key to play or pause media, take screenshots, and change your keyboard layout.

Functions assigned to the Fn key vary depending on the specific keyboard model, but common functions include:

• Adjusting or muting audio output
• Increasing or decreasing screen brightness or contrast
• Activating an external display
• Entering Standby, Hibernate, Sleep, or Wake modes
• Locking the keyboard
• Toggling keyboard backlighting
• Turning the built-in display on or off
• Enabling or disabling the touchpad
• Turning the built-in camera on or off
• Enabling or disabling Bluetooth®
• Enabling or disabling Wi-Fi
• Launching a character map or emoji keyboard
• Locking the device
• Taking a screenshot
• Opening default applications such as a web browser, email client, calculator, or media player
• Controlling media playback
• Opening the operating system’s search function
• Switching the input source

On Logitech keyboards, the Fn key is locked by default, so many of these listed commands can be used without needing to hold it down. Also, functions of these keys can be customized through Logitech’s programmable F-row functions.

On most keyboards, the Fn key is located on the bottom row of the keyboard near the spacebar, Alt key, or Ctrl key. Some keyboards also feature a key that acts as a dedicated keyboard Fn key lock, which is usually a padlock symbol.

On Logitech keyboards, the Fn key is mainly used to access secondary functions assigned to the F-keys, for instance adjusting the volume or using media controls. With Apple keyboards, on the other hand, the Fn/Globe key performs system-wide actions, such as activating Siri, changing input languages, and controlling other operating system features.

Note that on Logitech keyboards, the Fn key behaves differently compared to the Fn/Globe key found on Apple keyboards when used with macOS or iOS devices. Because Logitech keyboards don’t transmit the same Fn keycode recognized by Apple devices, certain macOS functions aren’t supported.

You can lock and unlock the Fn key on your keyboard to switch between the primary and secondary set of keyboard commands. Most keyboards allow you to lock the Fn key using a keyboard shortcut. Common keyboard shortcuts include:

• Fn + Esc
• Fn + Caps Lock
• Dedicated Fn Lock key (if available)

On Logitech keyboards  pressing Fn + Esc toggles between F-row functions and the standard F1–F12 keys.

Windows 11 users who can’t figure out which key is Fn on the keyboard may need to use the BIOS/UEFI settings or the keyboard software to lock or unlock the Fn key. To access the BIOS, you’ll need to restart your computer and hold a specific key during the startup sequence. Common keys include F2, F10, F12, and Delete, but will depend on the keyboard that you are using.

Why is my Fn key locked? Here’s how you can begin troubleshooting the Fn key lock on your keyboard:

1. Locate the Fn key and Esc key on your keyboard
2. Hold both keys for three seconds
3. Check LED status (if applicable)

If you’re still experiencing problems, your BIOS version or settings might be the issue. Check to make sure you have the latest BIOS version, and check the “Action Keys Mode” or “Function Key Behavior” setting in your BIOS.

Logitech keyboards feature a unique set of Fn key shortcuts, allowing you to get more out of your keyboard. Here are some of the Logitech-specific Fn key shortcuts you can try:

• FN + O – Switch PC to Mac keyboard layout
• FN + P – Switch Mac to PC keyboard layout
• FN + U – Swap special characters (#, >, etc.) (Mac only)
• FN + B – Pause Break
• FN + ESC – Toggle between F-row functions/F1–F12

To use these keyboard shortcuts, hold both keys for three seconds until the Easy-Switch LED lights up.

The keyboard layout shortcuts allow you to switch to the layout you’re most comfortable with for maximum productivity. Switch to the Mac layout to replicate Fn key behavior on macOS or iOS, or switch to the PC layout if that’s what you normally use. Using Fn + O to switch to the Mac keyboard layout also allows you to use the Fn + U shortcut.

You can turn off the Fn function key on your keyboard using a shortcut, the BIOS/UEFI settings, or software settings.

First, try pressing Fn + Esc on your keyboard to enable the keyboard Fn lock. If that doesn’t work, you can restart your keyboard and navigate to the BIOS/UEFI settings by holding F2, F10, F12, Esc, or Delete during startup. Once the BIOS/UEFI settings have loaded, look for “Action Keys Mode” or “Function Key Behavior” to turn off the function key.

For Logitech keyboards, you can use Logi Options+ software to customize function key behavior and lock/unlock the Fn key. Logi Options+ even allows you to create app-specific shortcuts and custom shortcuts with Smart Actions.

If your keyboard is stuck in Fn mode or you can’t figure out how to Fn lock on a keyboard, here are some common issues:

• Software out of sync
• Incorrect layout settings
• LED not lighting up

Here are some troubleshooting steps you can try to resolve these issues:

• Restart your device
• Connect your keyboard to a different USB port or reconnect via Bluetooth®
• Update drivers and Logi Options+ software
• Make sure you’re using the correct keyboard layout (PC vs. Mac)
• Check the keyboard battery (if wireless)

If you’re still experiencing issues with your keyboard Fn key lock, contact support for further assistance.

Best practices for Fn key usage vary based on how you use your keyboard. Here are some recommendations:

• Lock the Fn key for frequent F1–F12 use (e.g., Excel, dev tools)
• Unlock the Fn key for media-heavy workflows
• Use Logitech software to create custom shortcuts

Legacy keys like Scroll Lock and Pause Break can also help you maximize productivity. The function of the Scroll Lock key on keyboards is mostly related to Excel, allowing you to toggle arrow key behavior between switching cells and scrolling. The Pause Break key can be used by programmers to interrupt a program’s execution for debugging.

Logitech Fn key shortcuts can help you unlock the full potential of your keyboard, but you can toggle between F-row functions and traditional F1–F12 functions using the Fn + Esc shortcut. With Logi Options+, you can customize Fn key behavior for an even better experience.

Browse our lineup of keyboards to find the right addition to your office space or gaming setup.