How can I reset my Mac mini password without a working keyboard?

Try connecting a wired USB keyboard directly to your Mac mini, without a hub, and test another USB port. 

If you use an Apple Magic Keyboard, try connecting it with a compatible cable. See Apple's keyboard setup guide.

Your iPad, even when signed in to the same Apple Account, cannot normally reset your Mac's local login password or automatically serve as a keyboard at the login screen. 

If you previously configured a compatible remote-control or accessibility option, it may be worth checking, but it is not a guaranteed solution.

If you regain keyboard access, follow Apple's Mac login password reset instructions. 

If the process asks for a password you cannot enter, do not assume that changing your Apple Account password will resolve the problem; the two passwords serve different purposes.

If neither keyboard works, contact Apple Support before erasing the Mac, especially if your files are not backed up. 

Tell them that the keyboard is not recognized at the login screen or in Recovery Mode.

To determine whether another option is available, the key details are your Mac mini model, the type of keyboard you bought, and whether your mouse or trackpad still works.

Hi,

If you bought new keyboard is wireless such as New Magic Keyboard, you can connect it with USB-C to USB-C or USB-A wire to your Mac mini for recognizing keyboard, or wired keyboard, any keyboard, including Windows PC keyboard connect to your Mac mini must recognizes the keyboard.

And yes, your iPad and its attached keyboard (like the Magic Keyboard) can work as a keyboard for your Mac mini using Apple's built-in Universal Control feature.

Requirements

• Sign in with the same Apple Account (with two-factor authentication) on both the Mac mini and iPad.
• Turn on Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Handoff on both devices.
• Keep both devices within 10 meters (30 feet) of each other.
• Ensure neither device is sharing its cellular or internet connection.

How to Set It Up

1. On your Mac mini: Go to System Settings > Displays, click the Advanced button, and turn on "Allow pointer and keyboard to move between any nearby Mac or iPad".
2. On your iPad: Go to Settings > General > AirPlay & Continuity (or AirPlay & Handoff) and turn on Cursor and Keyboard.
3. Connect: Place your iPad next to your Mac mini. Move your Mac's mouse cursor past the edge of the screen in the direction of the iPad. The cursor will appear on the iPad screen, and your iPad keyboard will now control your Mac mini.

Note: You will need an initial mouse/keyboard setup or another way to initially log into and configure the Mac mini display settings before Universal Control can take over.

What happen to your Keyboard...?

What new keyboard did you buy...?

If it is a new Apple keyboard, connect it to the Mac mini using the supplied USB charging cable.

Another option is to dig out, borrow, buy an inexpensive USB keyboard and plug it into the Mac mini.

What make an model keyboard did you buy?

Does it have rechargeable batteries? If so plug it in with its charging cable and use it as a wired keyboard.

If you still can't use the keyboard return it for a full refund and get another. I prefer the Apple keyboards for quality and longevity.

LeighOlsen wrote:

Thanks so much for your response. The new keyboard worked this morning. Like magic!

Thank for the update information

That is good new. You're welcome.