How to Use Keyboard Shortcuts on Discord & Create Custom Keybinds (opens in new tab)
Discord’s keyboard shortcuts let users manage messages, voice calls, and navigation without relying on a mouse. The desktop app supports several global shortcuts, while custom keybinds allow users to tailor controls to their hardware and habits. The post also highlights the Quick Switcher as a fast way to jump between servers, channels, and direct messages. ## Text Chat Shortcuts - **Ctrl/Cmd + E** opens the Emoji Picker. - **Ctrl/Cmd + S** opens the Sticker Picker. - **Ctrl/Cmd + G** opens the GIF Picker. - **Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + U** attaches a file. - Press **Tab**, use the arrow keys to select a message, then: - **E** or **Up Arrow** edits the last message. - **+** adds a reaction. - **Backspace** deletes the message. - **R** replies. - **P** pins it. - **F** forwards it. - Pressing **Up Arrow** directly edits the last message sent. ## Voice and Video Shortcuts Some voice controls work even when Discord is running in the background on the desktop app. - **Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + M** toggles mute. - **Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + D** toggles deafen. - **Ctrl/Cmd + Return** answers an incoming call. - **Esc** declines a call. - **Ctrl + ’** calls the currently viewed DM. - **Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + Alt/Option + V** returns to an active voice call. - **Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + B** opens the Soundboard. ## Custom Keybinds Custom shortcuts are available under **User Settings > Keybinds** and cover voice features as well as navigation. - Toggle actions include mute, deafen, Voice Activity Detection, Streamer Mode, forward/back navigation, switching to the current voice channel, and disconnecting. - Hold-based actions include Push to Talk, Push to Mute, and Priority Push to Talk. - Priority Push to Talk lowers other participants’ volume while speaking. - Custom keybinds are especially useful for users with unusual or compact keyboards. ## Quick Switcher - Press **Ctrl/Cmd + K** to open the Quick Switcher. - Search across accessible servers, channels, DMs, and friends. - This provides rapid keyboard-based navigation without manually browsing Discord’s sidebar. Discord’s built-in shortcuts and customizable keybinds can make messaging, calls, and navigation significantly faster. Users should start with mute, deafen, Push to Talk, and Quick Switcher controls, then customize further based on their workflow.