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Where is the microphone key on MacBook Pro?

If you don’t see a Microphone key, press Fn-D or set a Dictation shortcut in System Settings → Keyboard → Dictation.

Last updated: 2026-10-13

The “microphone key” is a Dictation key with a microphone icon in the top row (function keys). Some MacBook Pros have it. Any Mac can also start Dictation with Fn-D or the shortcut set in System Settings → Keyboard → Dictation.

How to find it

  1. Turn Dictation on first: System Settings → Keyboard → Dictation.
  2. Look at the top row of keys for a microphone icon (Dictation key).
  3. If you have it: click into any text field, then press and release the Microphone key to start Dictation.
  4. If you don’t: press Fn-D or your configured Dictation shortcut instead.

Set or change the Dictation shortcut

  1. Open System Settings → Keyboard → Dictation.
  2. Open the Shortcut pop-up menu and pick an option, such as Press Fn (Function) Key Twice, or choose Customize.
  3. Test it in Notes or any text box.

If you only need the Microphone key for short notes, built-in Dictation is enough. If you need your own word list for names and jargon, read about the limits of built-in Dictation and how the paid apps compare.

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