How to Fix Loading Startup Options Not Working on Mac?

Startup options don't appear when I hold the power button for 10 seconds. The issue began after repeated restarts on macOS Big Sur. Uninstalling recent apps didn't help. - Apple Community

Startup Options on a Mac are various choices or functions available during startup, allowing you to choose how to boot your computer. Common startup options include the Startup Manager, Recovery Mode, and Safe Mode.

When loading startup options on a Mac not working, you may encounter the following issues:

How to fix the loading startup options on Mac not working? 

If you find that loading startup options on your Mac isn't working, the first thing to check is whether you're using the correct startup method. Apple Silicon and Intel Macs use different key combinations, so using the wrong one can prevent the Startup Options screen from appearing.

For Apple Silicon Macs

For Intel-based Macs

If you're sure you've used the correct way to enter Startup Options but it's still not working, try the following methods.

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Solution1. Unplug all peripherals

Some external devices, especially powered USB hubs, storage drives, or older accessories, can interfere with the startup process and cause your Mac to freeze during boot.

So it's a good idea to disconnect all external devices from your Mac, including USB drives, hubs, printers, external monitors (except the main display on desktop Macs), and any adapters or dongles.

Solution2. Try using a different keyboard

You can try using a different keyboard because startup key combinations (like Option or Command-R) need to be detected very early during the boot process. Bluetooth keyboards might not connect fast enough or could have low battery issues, causing the system to miss the input.

Using a wired USB keyboard gives you a more stable connection and helps you find out whether the issue is caused by the keyboard.

Solution3. Try a different shutdown and startup method

Don't press the startup key combination before you hit the power button. If you press the keys too early (while the system hasn't fully shut down) or too late (after the boot process has started), your Mac may not recognize the input.

Instead, wait until the Mac is fully shut down, then press and hold the correct startup key combination to enter Startup Options.

Solution4. Reset the SMC (Intel Macs only)

The SMC (System Management Controller) handles low-level hardware functions like power management, battery charging, and fan control. If it malfunctions, it can interfere with the startup process or cause issues like unresponsive keys.

Resetting the SMC can help fix problems like a black screen, startup freezes, or a non-working keyboard.

Here's how to do it:

Solution5. Reset NVRAM/PRAM (Intel Macs only)

NVRAM (non-volatile random-access memory) stores low-level settings like startup disk preferences, volume, and screen resolution. If this data becomes corrupted, your Mac might not load the startup menu correctly.

To reset that, you should first shut down your Mac. Turn it on and immediately press and hold Option + Command + P + R. Keep holding the keys for about 20 seconds, then release them. 
 

Solution6. Try a different monitor or check your display settings

If none of the above methods work, the last thing you can try is checking your display setup or using a different monitor. This is especially important for desktop Macs, such as the Mac mini, Mac Studio, or Mac Pro, since they rely on an external display to show the startup screen.

Conclusion

Six proven methods are provided for you to fix the issue of loading startup options on Mac not working. By trying these solutions, you can narrow down the cause and get your Mac back to normal. If none of these methods work, it may be time to contact Apple Support or visit an authorized service provider for further assistance.

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