Brand New Pavilion Notebook Faded keys

[HCA5]

Hi
I recently was gifted an HP Pavilion Core i5 0 lovely laptop. However, I noticed after only a few days; the keyboard appeared to look worn, letters fading dramatically. I did search this community and saw a similar post back in 2018, I believe, not with this model.
I just wondered if anyone else has experienced this, I have never had this happen on any laptop I used. I am planning on taking it back to John Lewis where it was purchased. It is just somewhat frustrating as I have set the entire machine up. Appreciate any input/feedback if anyone has experienced this as I am not sure if I would purchase another one in the future, with thanks.

[Dragon-Fur]

@HCA5 

Over the many years I have been using computers, different brands - many of which have been HPs - I used to notice that I would need a new keyboard sooner (more often) than many of my colleagues.

Chemistry, perhaps.

I have also spent much of my life in front of a computer using a keyboard.

Even retired, I continue to use a keyboard hours a day.

You must do what you think is right after hearing from whomever responds or simply because you have made a decision based on what you think is best.

That said, my own solution - without having to check the keyboard manufacturer or type:  Backlit keyboard

Backlit keyboard letters, numbers do not "rub off".

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HP provides backlit keyboards on some models.

HP provides the coveted "never off" timeout option on business / commercial class machines.

Also true for any brand / manufacturer:

What you invest up front (initial cost) will be reflected in quality, longevity, and available upgrades.

Good Luck.

Stay Safe.

Thank you for participating in our HP Community.

We are a world community of volunteers dedicated to supporting HP technology

[HCA5 · Accepted solution]

Thank you for your reply, extremely helpful.  I am due to take this laptop back to John Lewis tomorrow, as in all honesty, I didn't expect this to happen, it was supposed to be the top one this particular fold back range.   If they have a backlit model, I shall go for that.  Again, a big thank you for taking the time to respond.  Stay well also, and enjoy the rest of your weekend.  

[Dragon-Fur]

@HCA5 

You are welcome.

Just in case...

Be mindful of the backlit keyboard timeout limitations on consumer systems.

I am not (certainly not) trying to get you to spend more money.  On the other hand, we hear from people all the time that have made a purchase only to find out that the computer does not support adjusting the timeout (when the keyboard goes dark) to "never".

Having the back light go off is not a big deal as long as you are willing to tap the space key (or other key) to relight the keyboard.  Personally, I get it - once on, I want the keyboard to remain "on".  Smiling.

The advantage, regardless of the timeout option:  backlit keyboard keys don't "fade" or rub-off.

BIOS – Backlit Keyboard and other Advanced Options

This is one of those situations where the how-to document mentions that a particular feature might not be supported on every computer.  The document does not offer an exact explanation because the document is not written for YOUR computer.

HP Notebook PCs - Using the Backlit Keyboard

Section: The backlight stays on for only a few seconds

Discussion

In general, and there might be exceptions,

• Business class computers offer the BIOS Advanced section. 
• Examples of business class systems include and are not limited to:  Zbook Mobile Workstations, ProBook, EliteBook, and others.

For example

• The backlit keyboard timeout option is included in the Advanced section as appropriate (assuming system has a backlit keyboard).

• At this writing, consumer class systems do not include the Advanced BIOS section.
• Examples of consumer grade systems include and are not limited to:  Spectre, Pavilion, Envy, Notebook.

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Good Luck.

Stay Safe.

Welcome, too, to having (and considering) a nice HP computer of your own.

Thank you for participating in our HP Community.

We are a world community of volunteers dedicated to supporting HP technology

Click Thumbs Up to say Thank You.

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