How to Fix Command M Not Working on Mac?

When using Finder, Safari, Word, or other apps, pressing Command + M will help you reduce the active window to the Dock, making it easier to manage multiple windows.

However, Command M not working on Mac is common, and many users have reported experiencing the same issue. If you're facing a similar problem, keep reading to find out how to fix it!

Why is Command M not working on Mac?

Generally, one possible reason for Command + M not working properly on a Mac is that the shortcut settings may have been changed or disabled.

Alternatively, you might have set up custom shortcuts in certain applications that override the system's default Command + M function.

Additionally, hardware issues with your keyboard could be causing the Command key or M key not to respond, such as a malfunctioning key or delayed response. 

Moreover, inherent bugs in macOS or conflicts with certain third-party software might also prevent Command + M from working as expected.

The above reasons all could cause comand M not working on Mac, you can focus on them to resolve your problem in the future.

How to fix Command M not working on Mac?

Although your Command M is not working on your Mac, don't worry. It's usually easy to fix. You can do it by following the methods mentioned below.

Share the six methods with more people if you find them useful!

Test in different applications

If Command M is not working on Mac, the first thing you should do is test the shortcut in different applications. Some applications may use custom shortcuts that disable the standard Command + M function. 

Testing in different places can help you determine whether the problem is system-wide or only exists in a specific application.

You can try using Command + M in built-in apps, such as Finder or Safari. If it works normally in these applications, the issue may be limited to a particular app.

Check system keyboard shortcut settings

If you have customized your keyboard shortcuts, the system settings may have been altered, and the default Command + M function might not work properly.  

You can open System Preferences > Keyboard > Shortcuts and check the settings, especially under "App Shortcuts", to ensure that Command + M is assigned to the "Minimize" function. If you find any conflicts, adjust or remove the conflicting shortcuts, and your Command + M shortcut will work correctly.
 

Check your keyboard hardware

If the keyboard has issues, such as a faulty Command or M key, the shortcut won't work no matter how the software is set.

You can use the Keyboard Viewer (enabled in System Preferences > Keyboard > Show Keyboard Viewer) to check if the keys respond correctly. Alternatively, connect an external keyboard to test if the shortcut works. If it's a hardware issue, replacing the keyboard will solve the problem.

Update macOS

The system bug in your current macOS version might cause the shortcut to stop working. In this case, updating macOS could help you fix the problem. Generally speaking, system updates often fix bugs and improve stability, potentially resolving the Command + M issue.

To update your system, go to System Preferences > Software Update and check for any available updates. After updating, try using Command + M again to see if it works properly.
 

Reset PRAM/NVRAM (for Intel Macs)

Resetting PRAM/NVRAM can clear any misconfigured settings that might be interfering with default shortcuts. This is because system settings stored in PRAM/NVRAM can sometimes become corrupted, affecting keyboard functionality.

For Intel Macs, restart your Mac and hold down Option + Command + P + R until you hear the startup chime twice. For Apple Silicon Macs, a simple restart will automatically reset NVRAM. After resetting, you can check the Command + M issue should be resolved.
 

Check for third-party software conflicts

Some third-party applications, such as window management tools or custom shortcut software, may conflict with the default Command + M function, causing the shortcut to stop working. In this case, identifying and removing the software conflict is the key to resolving this problem.

You should check recently installed apps that might affect keyboard shortcuts. Try disabling them in System Preferences or within the app's settings, then test if Command + M works again. If the shortcut starts working, that app is likely the cause. You can either uninstall it or adjust its settings to prevent conflicts.

Conclusion

We have listed six related resolutions to help you fix the problem of Command M not working on Mac. By following these step-by-step fixes, you can troubleshoot the problem and restore the shortcut functionality.

Share this article with more people to help them fix the problem of Command M not working on Mac.