How to Get International Keyboard in Windows 10

Whenever you install Windows 10 on your computer, you are more likely to get ‘English – United Stated’ Qwerty keyboard preinstalled. There might be a slight variation with the United Kingdom’s version depending on your location. Even though the majority of the users make use of the preinstalled keyboard for their work, we came across several instances where users wanted to switch to an International keyboard on their computer.

International vs Normal Keyboard
International vs Normal Keyboard

Switching to the International Qwerty Keyboard on a computer seems effortless but the settings are somewhat found deep inside the operating system that they are not easily located by a regular user. In this article, we will first go through the major differences between an International and Normal US Qwerty keyboard and then show you how to change the keyboard.

What is the difference between International and Normal Keyboard in Windows 10?

There seems to be a very ‘slight’ difference between two versions of keyboards. The QWERTY keys are the same in both keyboards (obviously) but the main difference seems to be the size of the Enter/Return key. Furthermore, the ‘~’ and ‘\’ key is totally different in both the keyboards. Also, the US keyboard (not international) doesn’t have the ‘’ present on the keyboard even though it can easily be input using a combination of defined keys.

There can be several reasons why users might want to switch the keyboard layout on their computer. Either they can have the specified hardware or they might also be used to the layout. Below, the method to add the International keyboard on your computer is listed. You can always switch between keyboards as shown in the solution below.

How to Install International Keyboard in Windows 10

A much-criticized design element of Windows 10 is that the keyboard settings are not visible in the settings on the front lines. Since keyboards are very essential to everyday users who might want to install new ones or change the existing ones, this seems to be quite an issue. The settings are located through the time and date settings. Make sure you start with the first step and work your way down.

  1. Press Windows + S, type “settings” in the dialogue box and press Enter.
  2. Once in the settings, click on the option of Time & Language.
    Time & Language - Windows Settings
    Time & Language – Windows Settings
  3. Now, a new window will come forward. Click on Language using the left navigation pane and then select the English language (either US or British).
    Language Settings
  4. When the language is selected, some additional options will illuminate. Click on Options.
  5. Now, click on the option of Add a keyboard. A new scroll window will open right on top of it. Search for the entry of United States-International. Click it.
    Adding International Keyboard
  6. The keyboard will automatically be downloaded onto your computer and installed against your system.

If you, at any point want to change your keyboard, you can easily do so using the taskbar. The task bar has the ability to change any keyboard at any time for improved accessibility. This also includes keyboard of other languages which you have added against your system. Below is the method on how to change the keyboard which is currently active.

  1. Look at the bottom-right corner of your screen where the language information is present. Click it.
  2. When you click the icon, the list of different keyboards will be displayed which have been used on your computer and which are available.
    Changing Keyboard
  3. Select the entry of English (United States) United States – International Keyboard and click it once. The keyboard will now be active on your computer.

You can always change the keyboard back to another keyboard by replicating the same steps.

Note: This method also works for other keyboard layouts including other foreign languages.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kevin Arrows


Kevin Arrows is a highly experienced and knowledgeable technology specialist with over a decade of industry experience. He holds a Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) certification and has a deep passion for staying up-to-date on the latest tech developments. Kevin has written extensively on a wide range of tech-related topics, showcasing his expertise and knowledge in areas such as software development, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. His contributions to the tech field have been widely recognized and respected by his peers, and he is highly regarded for his ability to explain complex technical concepts in a clear and concise manner.