Cyberpunk 2077 Keyboard Controls 💎

The keyboard and mouse control scheme in Cyberpunk 2077 is the definitive way to experience its fast-paced first-person combat, though it presents a steep learning curve for driving and high-speed traversal. While the default WASD layout is standard for most PC shooters, the sheer number of specialized inputs—ranging from quick-hacking and scanning to cyberware activation—requires a strategic approach to keybinding and muscle memory. The Core Movement and Interaction Suite

At its foundation, Cyberpunk 2077 utilizes a traditional FPS movement set. W, A, S, and D control basic movement, while Space handles jumping. However, the game’s RPG roots introduce layers of complexity to these basic inputs. For instance, interaction is mapped to F by default, a choice that often feels cramped for players used to "E" as the primary action key. Sprinting is handled by Left-Shift, and crouching—crucial for stealth and mitigating recoil—is mapped to C for toggling or Left-Ctrl for holding.

Following the 2.0 Update, movement became significantly more kinetic with the introduction of a dedicated Dash mechanic. While some players stick to double-tapping movement keys to dash, many power users remap this to a Side Mouse Button or E to allow for "dash-jumping"—a high-momentum technique where a player dashes and jumps mid-air to clear massive distances. Combat and Cyberware Management

Weapon handling on a keyboard offers superior precision for headshots compared to a controller's analog sticks. The default combat layout includes: Left-Click: Fire weapon or perform a quick melee attack. cyberpunk 2077 keyboard controls

Right-Click: Aim down sights (ADS) or block with melee weapons. R: Reload. Q: Quick attack or dedicated melee button. Middle Mouse Button: Use combat gadgets like grenades.

E: Activate Cyberware (such as the Sandevistan or Optical Camo).

X: Use a consumable, typically a MaxDoc or Bounce Back healing item. The keyboard and mouse control scheme in Cyberpunk

A common point of friction for PC players is the Middle Mouse Button for grenades. Because scrolling also cycles weapons, players frequently trigger accidental grenade throws while trying to switch guns. Many veterans recommend remapping gadgets to Q and moving the "Quick Attack" elsewhere to prevent these explosive accidents. Scanning and Hacking Interface

The "Netrunner" playstyle introduces a unique UI layer that relies heavily on the Tab key. Holding Tab opens the scanner, which slows time and highlights interactive objects or enemies. While in this mode, the mouse is used to highlight targets, and specific keys (usually F or Mouse Wheel) are used to cycle through available quickhacks. For players who find holding the key tedious, the game includes a Caps Lock toggle option for scanning in the settings menu. The Challenge of Keyboard Driving

The most significant drawback of keyboard controls is vehicle handling. Unlike a controller’s triggers and analog sticks, which allow for gradual acceleration and smooth turning, a keyboard is "binary"—the keys are either 100% on or 100% off. This often makes cars feel like they are "sliding on ice". The Menus & Cyberware: Managing Your HUD You

The Menus & Cyberware: Managing Your HUD

You will spend almost as much time in menus as you do on the streets. Inventory management is key to staying alive.

Pro Inventory Navigation: Use the Arrow Keys or Mouse Wheel to scroll through weapon lists. Press F to dismantle junk items.

Combat Tips

Stealth: Utilize your environment to stay hidden. Press C to crouch and Q to quick hack turrets or cameras that might spot you.
Melee: Engage enemies up close with LMB for standard attacks. Use RMB to block incoming attacks.
Shooting: Use RMB to aim and LMB to fire. Make use of cover to reduce damage taken.

Camera, Look & Interaction

Mouse — Look around / aim
V — Change camera perspective (first/third)
Z — Toggle HUD (if available)
F1–F12 — Photo mode or special functions (F6/F7 commonly used; depends on user bindings)

Quickhacks & Cyberware