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Use the Raspberry Pi 400 power key

The Raspberry Pi 400 has a built-in power key for convenient startup and safe shutdown. Learn the keyboard shortcuts to control your Pi 400.

BeginnerPi 400 · PowerBy Vilros

Power on

The Raspberry Pi 400 keyboard includes a power key function built into the F10 key. To power on your Pi 400:

  1. Ensure the official USB-C power supply is connected to the Pi 400 and plugged into a power outlet.
  2. Press the F10 key once. The Pi 400 will boot normally.

You'll see the power LED indicator light up near the USB-C port as the Pi starts. Wait for the operating system to load completely before using the keyboard.

First time setup?

If this is your first time starting the Pi 400, you'll be guided through the initial setup process, including selecting your language, connecting to Wi-Fi, and updating the operating system.

Power off safely

To shut down your Raspberry Pi 400 safely using the power key:

  1. Save all your work and close any open applications.
  2. Hold down Fn + F10 together for two seconds.
  3. Release both keys. The Pi 400 will initiate a safe shutdown sequence.

Wait for the shutdown to complete before disconnecting the power supply. The power LED will turn off when shutdown is finished. This ensures your files and operating system are not corrupted.

Alternative shutdown methods

You can also shut down from the desktop menu: click the Raspberry Pi icon in the top-left corner, select Shutdown..., then choose Shutdown. From the command line, use sudo shutdown now or sudo poweroff.

If it doesn't work

  • F10 doesn't power on: Confirm the official USB-C power supply is properly connected and the outlet is working. Try unplugging and reconnecting the power supply, then press F10 again.
  • Fn+F10 doesn't shut down: If the Pi is frozen or unresponsive, try the desktop menu shutdown method. As a last resort, hold the physical power button (if available on your power supply) or disconnect power only after saving work.
  • Keyboard not responding: Check that no other USB devices are preventing the keyboard from functioning. Try connecting a separate USB keyboard to test if the issue is specific to the built-in keyboard.

Need help with your Pi 400?

Tell us what happens when you press the power key and whether you see any LED activity.

Contact Vilros Support ↗