Urdu Keyboard Online
Type in Urdu Online using the virtual keyboard below and then copy it to your clipboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What script does Urdu use?
Urdu is written in the Perso-Arabic script. It is essentially the Persian alphabet with additional characters to represent sounds unique to Urdu, such as the retroflex consonants 'ٹ' (ṭ), 'ڈ' (ḍ), and 'ڑ' (ṛ).
How is Urdu different from Hindi?
Urdu and Hindi are linguistically very similar and are often mutually intelligible when spoken. The primary difference is their writing system (Urdu uses Perso-Arabic, Hindi uses Devanagari) and their higher-level vocabulary (Urdu borrows from Persian and Arabic, while Hindi borrows from Sanskrit).
Is Urdu written from right to left?
Yes, like Arabic and Persian, the Urdu script is written and read from right to left.
What are the unique Urdu letters on this keyboard?
This keyboard includes the special retroflex consonants 'ٹ' (ṭe), 'ڈ' (ḍāl), 'ڑ' (ṛe), and the aspirated consonants represented by the 'ھ' (do chashmi he) character.
What is the 'ھ' (do chashmi he) used for?
This letter is used to indicate aspiration. It combines with a preceding consonant to create an aspirated sound. For example, 'ب' (b) becomes 'بھ' (bh), and 'پ' (p) becomes 'پھ' (ph).
Can I use phonetic typing for Urdu?
Yes! Enabling 'Phonetic Typing' is the easiest way to type. You can use English letters that correspond to the Urdu sounds (e.g., typing 'shukriya' will produce 'شکریہ').
How are vowels written in Urdu?
Short vowels are generally not written and are inferred from context, which can be challenging for learners. Long vowels are represented by the letters 'ا' (alif), 'و' (vav), and 'ی' (ye).
What is the 'ں' (nun ghunna)?
This letter represents a nasalized vowel sound at the end of a word. It's like the 'n' in French 'bon'. It doesn't have a full 'n' sound.
Does Urdu have capital letters?
No, the Urdu script does not have a distinction between uppercase and lowercase letters.
How do I type my name in Urdu?
Using the phonetic mode is the best approach. Sound out your name using English letters, and the tool will transliterate it into the closest Urdu spelling.
Is this tool good for learning Urdu script?
It's an excellent resource for practicing typing and becoming familiar with the alphabet. Seeing how phonetic input turns into written Urdu can greatly help with learning the script's rules.
Do I need to install any special fonts?
Most modern devices have built-in support for the Urdu script. The 'Nastaliq' calligraphic style is traditional for Urdu, and fonts like 'Jameel Noori Nastaleeq' are popular, but standard Arabic fonts will also work.
What's the difference between 'ت' and 'ٹ'?
This is the difference between a dental and a retroflex consonant. 'ت' (te) is a 't' sound made with the tongue touching the teeth. 'ٹ' (ṭe) is a 't' sound made with the tongue curled back to touch the roof of the mouth.
Can I copy and paste the text from this tool?
Absolutely. After typing, click the 'Copy Text' button to copy your Urdu text to the clipboard.
Is this keyboard the same as the one used in Pakistan?
The standard physical keyboard layout in Pakistan is based on the QWERTY layout but mapped for Urdu. Our virtual keyboard is arranged for easy clicking, while our phonetic mode is often more intuitive for beginners.