JavaScript KeyCode Info

About JavaScript KeyCode Info

Keyboard events in JavaScript provide several properties to identify which key was pressed. Understanding these properties is essential for building keyboard shortcuts, game controls, and accessible interfaces.

Key Properties

• event.key: The actual character or key name ("a", "Enter", "ArrowUp"). This is the modern, recommended property.
• event.code: The physical key position ("KeyA", "Enter", "ArrowUp"). Same regardless of keyboard layout or modifier keys.
• event.keyCode: Numeric code (deprecated but widely used). 65 = A, 13 = Enter, 27 = Escape.
• event.location: 0 = standard, 1 = left, 2 = right, 3 = numpad

FAQ

Should I use keyCode or key?

Use event.key for new code. keyCode is deprecated and varies across browsers and keyboard layouts. event.key gives human-readable values like "Enter", "Escape", "a", making code more maintainable.

keydown vs keypress vs keyup?

keydown fires when a key is pressed (including modifiers and non-character keys). keypress is deprecated. keyup fires when a key is released. Use keydown for most keyboard handling.