Backquote (`) key code in JavaScript

For Backquote (`), event.key is ` (or ~ with Shift), event.code is Backquote and the deprecated keyCode is 192. Press any key in the Key Code Finder to see its values live.

Updated

PropertyValue
event.key` (or ~ with Shift)
event.codeBackquote
event.keyCode / which (deprecated)192

How to detect Backquote (`)

document.addEventListener('keydown', (event) => {
  if (event.key === "`") {
    // Backquote (`) was pressed
  }
});

Use event.key to react to what the key means (it follows the keyboard layout) and event.code for its physical position, for example WASD in games. keyCode and which are deprecated: they still work, but their values differ between browsers and layouts.

How browsers treat Backquote (`)

Often used to open a console in games. On many international layouts it’s a dead key (event.key === "Dead") that waits for the next keystroke.

In React

<input onKeyDown={(e) => { if (e.key === "`") { /* … */ } }} />
JavaScript Keycode FinderPress any key and instantly see every property of the keyboard event, with a copy-ready keydown snippet for shortcuts.
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Frequently asked questions

What is the keyCode for Backquote (`)?
192. It’s deprecated, though: use event.key (“` (or ~ with Shift)”) or event.code (Backquote) in new code.
What is the difference between event.key and event.code?
event.key is the character or action the key produces with the current layout; event.code is the physical key position, the same on every layout.
Should I use keydown or keypress?
keydown. The keypress event is deprecated and doesn’t fire for keys that don’t produce characters, such as Escape or the arrow keys.