What the Delete key does
Delete removes the character to the right of the cursor (a "forward delete"), while Backspace removes the character to the left. In file managers it sends the selected file to the Recycle Bin or Trash, and in most apps it deletes the selected text, cell contents or object.
Windows also uses it in the classic Ctrl+Alt+Delete security shortcut, which opens the lock, sign-out and Task Manager screen.
On a Mac
On a Mac the big key labelled delete works like Backspace. For a forward delete hold Fn and press delete (Fn+⌫). Command+Delete moves a selected file to the Trash in Finder, and deletes to the start of the line in text.
On a laptop
Windows laptops keep a real Delete key, usually top right, but it is sometimes tiny or shared with another function; if it shows "Del" as a smaller sub-label you may need Fn+Del. There is no numpad Delete on most laptops.
Shortcuts that use the Delete key
| Shortcut | What it does |
|---|---|
| Ctrl+Alt+Delete | Windows security screen: lock, switch user, Task Manager |
| Shift+Delete | Permanently delete a file, skipping the Recycle Bin |
| Ctrl+Delete | Delete the word to the right of the cursor |
| Fn+Delete (Mac) | Forward delete on a MacBook |
| Command+Delete (Mac) | Move the selected file to the Trash |
If the Delete key is missing or not working
If Delete does nothing, check whether the app expects Backspace instead, then test the key below. On laptops make sure you are not pressing an Fn-shifted version. If it deletes forward on a Mac only with Fn, that is normal.
Test it here: click the tester, press the key, and it should light up green. A red key is stuck; a key that never lights up is dead or intercepted by the system. The full keyboard tester has the press log and more detail.
Click the tester, then press any key. Browser shortcuts are blocked while it has focus.
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- key
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- code
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- keyCode
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none
Max at once: 0 (rollover)
None detected. A key held for more than 2 seconds is flagged.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Delete and Backspace? +
Backspace removes the character to the left of the cursor. Delete removes the character to the right. On a Mac the key labelled delete behaves like Backspace, and Fn+delete gives the forward delete.
Where is the Delete key on a Mac? +
Top right of the letter rows, labelled delete. It deletes backwards. Hold Fn while pressing it to delete forwards, which is what the Windows Delete key does.
Where is the Delete key on a laptop? +
Almost always top right, at the end of the function row. On compact layouts it may be printed in small text on the Backspace or Insert key and need the Fn key.
How do I permanently delete a file with the keyboard? +
Select the file and press Shift+Delete on Windows. It bypasses the Recycle Bin. On a Mac press Option+Command+Delete in Finder.