What's the difference between 'key' and 'code'?

'key' represents the logical value of the key pressed (e.g., 'A', 'Enter', 'Shift'), which changes with modifier keys like Shift. 'code' represents the physical key position (e.g., 'KeyA', 'ShiftLeft'), which stays the same regardless of modifiers.

Why is keyCode deprecated?

keyCode and which are legacy properties from older browser APIs. Modern code should use 'key' for the character/action or 'code' for the physical key position. They're still shown here for debugging legacy code.

What does 'location' mean?

The 'location' property indicates where the key is on the keyboard: 0 = Standard, 1 = Left modifier (e.g., Left Shift), 2 = Right modifier (e.g., Right Shift), 3 = Numpad. This helps distinguish between left/right modifier keys.

Why won't some key combinations work?

Some browser-level shortcuts (like Ctrl+W or Cmd+T) are intercepted by the browser before reaching JavaScript. The capture area can't detect these system-level shortcuts.

Yes, completely free. It uses the browser's built-in keyboard event API — no server or external library needed.

Keycode Viewer

Press any key to see its JavaScript keyboard event properties: key, code, keyCode, which, location, and modifier states.

⌨️

Click here and press any key

The area will capture keyboard events

Common Special Keys

EnterTabSpaceBackspaceEscapeArrowUpArrowDownArrowLeftArrowRight

Press these keys in the capture area above to see their codes

How to Use

Press any key to see its JavaScript keyboard event properties: key, code, keyCode, which, location, and modifier states.

1Click the capture area to focus it.
2Press any key on your keyboard.
3See all keyboard event properties instantly: key, code, keyCode, which, location, and modifier states.
4Click 'Copy' next to any value to copy it to your clipboard.
5Check the 'Recent Keys' history to compare multiple key presses.

Key Features

Shows key, code, keyCode, which, charCode, location in real time
Displays modifier key states: Ctrl, Shift, Alt, Meta
Recent key history for easy comparison
One-click copy for each property value
Works entirely in the browser — no server needed

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn More

JavaScript Keyboard Events Guide: key, code, keyCode and More