Windows 10 doesn’t include a built-in setting to remap keys, but Microsoft’s free PowerToys utility adds one, and it can remap single keys or whole shortcuts in a few clicks. This guide covers remapping with PowerToys Keyboard Manager, changing language-switch shortcuts built into Windows, using your keyboard or mouse maker’s software, changing keybinds inside games, and an advanced registry method that works without extra software.
Quick Answer
Install PowerToys from the Microsoft Store or its official GitHub page, open Keyboard Manager, turn it on, click Remap a key (or Remap a shortcut), choose the original key and the new one, and click OK.
Method 1: PowerToys Keyboard Manager
- Install Microsoft PowerToys from the Microsoft Store (search “PowerToys”) or from Microsoft’s GitHub releases page. It’s a separate, free download.
- Open PowerToys and select Keyboard Manager.
- Turn on Enable Keyboard Manager.
- Click Remap a key, then + to add a row.
- Under Select, pick the physical key (or click Type and press it). Under To send, pick the key, shortcut or text you want.
- Click OK. Confirm if warned that a key will have no function.
To remap shortcuts, such as making Ctrl + Shift + K open an app, use Remap a shortcut. You can limit a shortcut remap to a single app by typing its process name under Target app.
Remaps only work while PowerToys is running. Turn on Run at startup in PowerToys’ General settings. Keyboard Manager needs Windows 10 version 2004 or later, and it doesn’t affect the sign-in screen or some admin apps unless PowerToys runs as administrator.
Method 2: Change Built-In Windows Shortcuts
- Input language switching: go to Settings > Devices > Typing > Advanced keyboard settings > Input language hot keys and change or turn off Left Alt + Shift and Ctrl + Shift.
- Sticky Keys and Filter Keys shortcuts: Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard lets you turn off the Shift-five-times and hold-Right-Shift shortcuts.
- Print Screen: in the same Keyboard page, Use the PrtScn button to open screen snipping changes what that key does.
- App shortcuts: right-click a desktop shortcut > Properties, click Shortcut key, and press a combination such as Ctrl + Alt + N.
Method 3: Keyboard or Mouse Maker Software
Gaming and office keyboards from Logitech, Razer, Corsair, SteelSeries and Microsoft often come with apps that remap keys, create macros and save profiles to the device. These remaps can work even on other PCs if saved to the keyboard’s memory.
Method 4: Change Keybinds in Games
Most games have their own controls menu, usually Settings > Controls or Key Bindings. Changing keybinds there is safer than system-wide remaps, which can confuse other apps. Some anti-cheat systems flag macro software, so check the game’s rules before using remap or macro tools in online play.
Method 5: Registry Scancode Map (Advanced)
Windows supports a Scancode Map value that remaps keys at a low level, for all users, without extra software. It works even at the sign-in screen, but it requires editing binary registry data under HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Keyboard Layout and a restart. Mistakes can disable keys, so back up the registry, or use a trusted tool that writes the value for you. Delete the value and restart to undo it.
Popular Remaps
| Remap | Why |
|---|---|
| Caps Lock → Ctrl or Esc | Easier shortcuts for programmers and heavy typists |
| Insert → nothing | Stop accidental overtype in Word |
| Right Alt → Windows key | Keyboards missing a right Windows key |
| Scroll Lock → Mute | Use an idle key for media control |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I undo a PowerToys remap?
Open Keyboard Manager and delete the row, or turn off Enable Keyboard Manager.
Does this work on Windows 11?
Yes. PowerToys works on both. Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025.
Can I remap the Fn key?
Usually not. Fn is handled by the keyboard itself; check your laptop’s BIOS or maker software.
Summary
- Install PowerToys and use Keyboard Manager to remap keys or shortcuts.
- Change language and accessibility shortcuts in Settings.
- Use keyboard maker software or in-game controls where possible.
- Use a Scancode Map only if you’re comfortable editing the registry.
Matthew Burleigh is the head writer at solveyourtech.com, where he covers topics like the iPhone, Microsoft Office, and Google apps. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has over 15 years of IT experience.
He has been writing online since 2008 and has published thousands of articles that have been read millions of times.