Guides › How do I use F1–F12 as function keys on a Mac?
How do I use F1–F12 as function keys on a Mac?
The short answer. Turn on “Use F1, F2, etc. keys as standard function keys” in System Settings > Keyboard and the F keys act as F keys, while brightness and volume need fn. For external keyboards that ignore this option, use KittyKit standard function keys (Pro).
Apple keyboards
- Open System Settings > Keyboard.
- Turn on “Use F1, F2, etc. keys as standard function keys”.
When on, pressing just F10 acts as F10, and functions like brightness and volume need fn. When off, it is the other way around.
External (non-Apple) keyboards
With external keyboards such as Logitech this System Settings option often has no effect. KittyKit's standard function keys are one checkbox in the Keyboard tab, and for keyboards that System Settings doesn't reach, the app remaps the keys instead. It re-applies automatically when a Bluetooth keyboard reconnects.
Good to know
- A Mac can't know the fn state of an external keyboard, so after the change the F keys appear even if you press fn, and media keys such as volume and playback are unavailable.
- On the Logitech K810 only F7–F11 are changed; F1–F3 (Bluetooth channel switching), F4–F6 and F12 are excluded.
- You can also toggle it from “Options” in the menu bar. It is a Pro feature with a 7-day free trial.
What is KittyKit? A macOS utility that gives you one-key language switching, Windows shortcuts, F1–F12 function keys, window layout and a desktop cat in one app. Input switching, the cat and battery alerts are free, and Pro tools have a 7-day free trial. About KittyKit · How to install
More guides
- How do I change the language switch key on a Mac?
- How do I copy with Ctrl+C on a Mac?
- How do I split windows in half on a Mac?
- How do I set mouse and trackpad scrolling separately on a Mac?
Last updated: October 9, 2026 · By KittyLand