The Input class

Learn keyboard input with Input.GetKey and Input.GetKeyDown.

Keyboard Input and the Input Class

In Unity, the Input class is used for legacy input handling. The Input.GetKey method returns true during every frame while the player holds down the specified key. This method is preferred for continuous actions like running or firing while held.

if (Input.GetKey(KeyCode.W))
{
    Debug.Log("Moving forward");
}

Single Key Press: GetKeyDown

Input.GetKeyDown returns true only on the single frame when the player first presses the key, and will not trigger again until released and pressed again. It is ideal for instantaneous actions like jumping, opening menus, or single-shot firing. Similarly, Input.GetKeyUp triggers on the single frame the key is released.

if (Input.GetKeyDown(KeyCode.Space))
{
    Debug.Log("Jump triggered!");
}

Exercise Write Keyboard Control

Check the character's jump input. If Input.GetKeyDown(KeyCode.Space) is true, call Debug.Log("Ziplama");.

Show example solution

using System;

public enum KeyCode { Space, Escape }

public static class Input
{
    public static bool GetKeyDown(KeyCode key) => key == KeyCode.Space;
}

public static class Debug
{
    public static void Log(object message) => Console.WriteLine(message);
}

public class Program
{
    public static void Main()
    {
        if (Input.GetKeyDown(KeyCode.Space))
        {
            Debug.Log("Ziplama");
        }
    }
}

Test yourself

Which method is used to continuously check whether the player is holding down the W key every frame?
- Input.GetButton("Horizontal")
- Input.GetKeyDown(KeyCode.W)
- Input.GetKey(KeyCode.W)
- Input.GetKeyUp(KeyCode.W)
Show answer

Input.GetKey(KeyCode.W) — Input.GetKey returns true every frame the key is held down; GetKeyDown only returns true on the first frame it is pressed.

Catch the Jump Key

if (Input.____(KeyCode.Space))

Show answer

if (Input.GetKeyDown(KeyCode.Space))

Key Methods Matching

Input.GetKey

Returns true as long as key is held
Input.GetKeyDown

Returns true when key is first pressed
Input.GetKeyUp

Returns true when key is released
KeyCode.Space

Unity code for the spacebar key

Next lesson: Axis input

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