What is the difference between Alt and Alt Gr keys? Are they the same as the other key pairs on a keyboard?

We have around 101 keys on a standard computer keyboard, but it obviously varies by manufacturer. But most keyboards have two Shift, two Ctrl, a pair of number keys, obviously if your keyboard has a numpad, and apparently; yes apparently two alt keys. I have used the term apparently because the pair of alt keys on a keyboard is different from other key pairs like the Shift and Ctrl keys. 

While some keyboard manufacturers will put the ‘Gr’ after the right Alt key, some manufacturers will simply make the two ‘Alt’ keys look similar. That might make most users think, that both the keys serve the same purpose. So, today, on InkedFreedom I will talk about the differences between Alt and Alt Gr key, and how exactly it impacts your everyday computing.

So, without any further ado, let’s get started with the topic.

The primary purpose of the keys

Let’s first have a look at the primary purpose of the alt and alt gr keys.

Alt key: Talking about the Alt key that is on the left side of the keyboard, it is a normal modifier key just like the Ctrl and Shift keys. You press the alt key in combination with another modifier key, or another key on a keyboard to accomplish some task. On most Windows programs, you can use the Alt+F key to open the File menu, and do other things.

Additionally, you can also type in different characters using the left Alt key. For example, you can type in Φ using the ‘Alt + 1256’ key combination.

Alt Gr key: The Alt Gr key on the right side of the keyboard is primarily used to type in certain characters that are not present on the keyboard. Say, for example, you want to type æ. To do that, you have to press the ‘Alt Gr + Q’ key, etc. That is basically the function of the right Alt key or the Alt Gr key on the keyboard.

Beyond the primary purposes

Well, after having a look at the Alt and Alt Gr keys, the Alt Gr keys might seem functionally limited.

System navigation: Talking about the functionality of the Alt key on Windows, it can be used to navigate back, and forward, on Windows Explorer, and also on other programs like web browsers. On the other hand, you cannot use the Alt Gr key to navigate on Windows Explorer. However, the Alt Gr key can be used to go back or forward on a web browser like Google Chrome.

Using the legendary Ctrl+Alt+Del SOS key: Similarly, you can use the ‘Ctrl + Alt + Del’ key to open the menu to lock the computer, switch between Windows users, log off, or open the Task Manager. In this case, it doesn’t matter whether you use the Alt key or the Alt Gr key.

Cycling between Windows: While cycling between open Windows using the Alt + Tab key, the selected Window will automatically open once you release the hotkey. However, if you use the Alt Gr + Tab key, you can open the Window switcher, and use the arrow keys to navigate between those Windows.

Viewing item properties: If you want to see the properties of a file or folder, you can use the ‘Alt + Enter’ key combo. Here as well, it doesn’t matter whether you use the Alt or Alt Gr key.

Talking about other hotkeys, Alt + Esc can be used to cycle between the open Windows in real time, and here, as well, you can use both the Alt and Alt Gr key. But, the Alt + F4 hotkey that is used to close an open Windows, will not work, if you use the right Alt or the Alt Gr key.

So, what’s the difference? Are the Alt and Alt Gr keys same?

Now that I have discussed the use of the Alt and Alt Gr keys, one thing is evident the two keys function differently, even though both belong to the category of modifier keys. But, how exactly these keys will behave totally depend upon the program or operating system. In some cases they serve the same purpose, while in other cases, they behave like two different keys.

So, you simply need to try using the right alt key in different situations with different programs to find out whether it works like the left Alt key. But, if you come across a document, or a software manual, and it talks about some hotkey where the alt key is involved, it is simply referring to the left alt key. The right alt or the Alt Gr might or might not work.

So, that was all about the mystery of the Alt and Alt Gr key. Do you still have some questions in mind? Feel free to comment on the same below.