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How to Type Euro Symbol (€) on Keyboard (Windows, Mac, Word)

Whether you’re writing a financial report, an invoice, or referencing pricing in Euros, you’ll eventually need to type the Euro symbol (€). But figuring out how to insert it can be frustrating, depending on your device or software.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to do the Euro symbol across platforms—whether you’re using a Windows PC, Mac, Microsoft Word, or even a mobile device. We’ll show you the best methods to type euro symbol, including:

  • Euro symbol keyboard shortcuts
  • Alt code for Windows
  • Mac shortcuts like Option + Shift + 2
  • Copy-and-paste method
  • And even how to automate it with AutoCorrect

Use the method that fits your setup best, and refer to the quick-access table below any time you need the Euro sign again.

💡 Quick Reference: How to Type Euro Symbol (€)

Use this table to quickly find the best way to type or insert the Euro symbol based on your device or software.

PlatformMethodShortcut / CodeWorks In
WindowsAlt CodeAlt + 0128Word, Excel, web, most apps
Word (Windows)Built-in ShortcutCtrl + Alt + EMicrosoft Word only
WindowsUnicode Shortcut20AC then Alt + XMicrosoft Word
Mac (U.S.)Keyboard ShortcutOption + Shift + 2All macOS apps (U.S. layout)
Mac (UK)Alternate ShortcutOption + 2All macOS apps (UK layout)
MacEmoji & Symbols ViewerControl + Command + SpacemacOS apps (use Symbol viewer)
Any DeviceCopy & PasteEverywhere
WordAutoCorrect Custom ShortcutReplace ;euro with Word, optional manual setup

Tip: The easiest method depends on your keyboard layout. If you’re using a laptop without a numeric keypad, copy-paste or Unicode + Alt + X might be your best option.

💻 How to Type the Euro Symbol on Windows

There are a few different ways to type the Euro symbol (€) on a Windows computer. Choose the one that works best for your keyboard and software.

🧩 Method 1: Insert Euro Symbol Using Alt Code (Windows)

The Alt code method is one of the most reliable ways to type the Euro symbol (€) on a Windows keyboard, especially if you use it often in Word, Excel, or even in web browsers.

This method uses the numeric keypad, which is typically found on the right side of full-sized keyboards. If you’re using a laptop without a dedicated number pad, skip to the tips at the end of this section.

✅ Steps:

  1. Place your cursor where you want to insert the Euro symbol.
  2. Turn on Num Lock:
    • On full keyboards, press the Num Lock key to enable the numeric keypad.
    • On laptops without a numeric keypad, you may need to enable it using a function key (e.g., Fn + NumLk).
  3. Hold down the Alt key on your keyboard.
  4. While holding Alt, type 0128 using the numeric keypad (not the top number row).
  5. Release the Alt key.
    → The Euro symbol will appear.

💡 Example:

If you press and hold Alt, then type 0128 on your numpad, the output will be:

€ ← That’s the Euro symbol typed using Alt + 0128

⚠️ Important Notes:

  • This method won’t work if you use the number keys above the letters — only the numpad works.
  • If you’re on a laptop without a numeric keypad, scroll down to the next method or consider using Unicode or copy-paste.

💡 Pro Tip: If you frequently need the Euro symbol, you can combine this with AutoCorrect or a custom shortcut to avoid repeating the steps every time.

⌨️ Method 2: Use Keyboard Shortcut (Ctrl + Alt + E) in Microsoft Word

If you’re working specifically in Microsoft Word, there’s a built-in keyboard shortcut to insert the Euro symbol (€) instantly—no need for the numeric keypad or symbol menu.

This method is quick, clean, and works well for users who type financial or pricing documents often.

✅ Shortcut:

Press: Ctrl + Alt + E
→ Word will insert the Euro symbol wherever your cursor is placed.

✅ Steps:

  1. Open Microsoft Word.
  2. Click where you want the Euro symbol to appear.
  3. Press and hold Ctrl and Alt, then tap the E key.
  4. Release all keys. The Euro symbol should appear:

💡 Example Use:

If you’re typing something like:

The total cost is Ctrl + Alt + E 500.

It will appear as:

The total cost is €500.

⚠️ Notes:

  • This shortcut only works in Microsoft Word (not in Excel, PowerPoint, browsers, or Notepad).
  • On some older systems or when using certain keyboard layouts, the shortcut might not work if it’s been overridden by another command.
  • If you prefer, you can even customize this shortcut or create your own via Word’s Symbol settings.

🧠 Tip: This shortcut is ideal if you’re using a laptop or compact keyboard without a numeric keypad and want a fast, consistent way to insert the Euro sign.

🔡 Method 3: Use Unicode + Alt + X (Microsoft Word Only)

Another easy way to insert the Euro symbol (€) in Microsoft Word is by using its Unicode value followed by the Alt + X shortcut. This is especially useful if you’re on a laptop or don’t have a numeric keypad.

✅ Unicode for Euro:

Euro symbol code: 20AC
Shortcut combo: Type 20AC, then press Alt + X

✅ Steps:

  1. Place your cursor where you want the Euro symbol to appear.
  2. Type the code: CopyEdit20AC
  3. Immediately press: nginxCopyEditAlt + X
  4. Word will convert 20AC into the Euro symbol .

💡 Example:

Typing 20AC, then pressing Alt + X results in:

€ ← Inserted using Unicode

⚠️ Notes:

  • This method works only in Microsoft Word and Outlook.
  • Make sure not to add a space between the code and the Alt + X. It must be typed as one block.
  • If the code doesn’t convert, check that it’s valid (some codes apply to other symbols).

✅ Tip: This method is ideal for users who type a lot of Unicode-based characters or who want a keyboard-only solution without relying on mouse menus or Alt codes.

🍏 Method 4: How to Type the Euro Symbol on a Mac

Typing the Euro symbol (€) on a Mac is quick and easy, especially if you know the right keyboard shortcut. However, the method depends slightly on your keyboard layout (U.S. vs. UK or other regional setups).

✅ Shortcut for U.S. Mac Keyboard:

Press: Option + Shift + 2
→ This inserts:

✅ Steps (U.S. Keyboard Layout):

  1. Open any app (e.g., Pages, Notes, Word, Safari).
  2. Place your cursor where you want the Euro symbol.
  3. Hold down Option + Shift, then press the 2 key.
  4. The Euro sign will appear.

🇬🇧 For UK or Other Mac Keyboard Layouts:

If you’re using a UK Mac keyboard, the shortcut may be:
Option + 2

To verify your current keyboard layout:

  • Go to System Settings → Keyboard → Input Sources
  • You can also enable the Input menu in the menu bar to switch between layouts easily.

✅ Bonus: Use Emoji & Symbols Viewer (For Any Layout)

  1. Press: Control + Command + Space
  2. In the popup window, search for “euro”
  3. Click the symbol to insert it anywhere

🧠 Tip: You can also add the Euro sign to your Favorites in the viewer for quicker access in the future.

🖱️ Method 5: Insert Euro Symbol Using the Symbol Menu in Microsoft Word

If you don’t want to memorize shortcuts or codes, Microsoft Word provides a simple way to insert the Euro sign (€) using its Symbol menu.

This method is perfect for beginners or occasional users who prefer clicking through menus instead of using the keyboard.

✅ Steps:

  • Open your Word document.
  • Place the cursor where you want the Euro symbol to appear.
  • On the Insert tab, click the Symbol button and choose More Symbols…

These few clicks will display the Symbol dialog box. Now it’s time to hunt for the Euro symbol.

Scroll down or up until you find the Euro sign in the symbols library.

symbol for euro
  • Select the Euro symbol, and then click Insert.
symbol for euro

Alternatively, you can double-click on the symbol to insert it into your document.


💡 Tip:

  • Word remembers your most recent symbols. Once you’ve used the Euro symbol, it’ll appear in the quick-access list under the Symbol dropdown for faster access next time.
  • You can also assign a custom shortcut while in the Symbol dialog by clicking the “Shortcut Key…” button.

✍️ Method 6: Use AutoCorrect to Insert the Euro Symbol in Word

If you frequently need the Euro symbol (€) and prefer a more automated approach, you can take advantage of AutoCorrect in Word. By setting up a custom AutoCorrect entry, you can easily type a specific code (like ERSYM) and have it automatically replaced with the Euro symbol.

This method is especially useful for people who type the Euro symbol often but don’t want to keep looking it up in the Symbol dialog or memorize a shortcut.

✅ Steps:

  • Open your Word document where you want to insert the Euro symbol.
  • Select the Euro symbol (€):
    • Either copy it from somewhere (e.g., the web or another part of your document) or use the Alt+0128 shortcut.
  • Go to the File tab and select Options to open Word Options.
  • In the Word Options window, click on Proofing from the sidebar.
  • Select AutoCorrect Options under the AutoCorrect options heading.
  • The AutoCorrect dialog box will appear. In the Replace field, type a unique code (e.g., ERSYM).
  • In the With field, paste the Euro symbol (€) or type it using the Alt code Alt+0128.
  • Click Add, then OK.
symbol for euro

🔄 How It Works:

  • Now, whenever you type ERSYM (or whatever code you chose), Word will automatically replace it with the Euro symbol (€) as you type.
  • This method works in Word only, but it can speed up your workflow if you frequently use symbols like the Euro.

💡 Tip:

  • AutoCorrect codes are case-sensitive, so ERSYM will work, but ersym will not. Be sure to type the code in uppercase if you set it that way.
  • You can also set up multiple codes for different symbols or characters, making this a highly flexible method for your typing needs.

📋 Method 7: Copy and Paste the Euro Symbol (€)

Sometimes the easiest method is also the most practical—copy and paste. If you only need to insert the Euro symbol once or twice, or you’re on a device where shortcuts don’t work (like a public computer), this method works everywhere.

✅ Steps:

  • Copy the Euro symbol from below:
Copied!
  • Go to your Word document, Excel sheet, browser field, or any text editor.
  • Paste it (Ctrl + V on Windows or Command + V on Mac) where you need it.

📱 Tip for Mobile Users:

  • On iOS or Android, press and hold the $ key on your keyboard—other currency options (like €, £, ¥) will appear in a popup.
  • Tap to insert it.

💡 When to Use This Method:

  • You’re working on a system where shortcuts don’t work (e.g., remote desktop, on-screen keyboard).
  • You just need the symbol once and don’t want to set up AutoCorrect or remember a code.
  • You’re editing on a non-English keyboard layout.

🎁 Bonus Tips for Typing the Euro Symbol (€)

While the main methods cover most situations, here are a few extra tips and lesser-known scenarios to help you type the Euro symbol smoothly across devices and apps.

💡 Euro Symbol in Excel

Most methods that work in Word will also work in Excel:

  • Use Alt + 0128 (with Num Lock enabled)
  • Use Ctrl + Alt + E in Excel for some versions (but not all—it’s not officially documented)
  • Use the Insert > Symbol menu in Excel, just like in Word
  • For frequent use, consider creating a custom formula or assigning the Euro symbol to a cell via AutoCorrect

💡 Euro Symbol in Outlook or PowerPoint

  • Outlook and PowerPoint both support:
    • Alt + 0128
    • 20AC + Alt + X
    • Insert > Symbol menu
  • Use the AutoCorrect method if you frequently reference pricing in your emails or slides

💡 Mobile Devices (iOS & Android)

Typing the Euro symbol on your phone is surprisingly easy:

  • On the keyboard, press and hold the $ key
  • A pop-up menu will appear with other currency options
  • Tap the to insert it

Works in:

  • Notes apps
  • Messaging apps (WhatsApp, Messenger)
  • Browsers and email clients

💡 What If Your Keyboard Layout Is Non-English?

On some regional keyboards (e.g. French, German), the Euro symbol may already be assigned to a key:

  • Try Alt Gr + E or Alt Gr + 5
  • Check your system’s keyboard viewer (Mac: System Settings → Keyboard → Input Sources)
  • On Windows, you can switch temporarily to a U.S. or UK layout if needed

💡 Can’t Get It to Work?

  • Double-check that Num Lock is enabled if using Alt codes
  • Try Unicode (20AC + Alt + X) if you’re in Word

✅ Conclusion

Whether you’re writing a price list, drafting an invoice, or referencing European currencies, knowing how to type the Euro symbol (€) can save you time and frustration.

From quick shortcuts like Alt + 0128 and Ctrl + Alt + E, to Mac-specific keys and AutoCorrect tricks, there’s a method for every setup—Windows, Mac, Word, Excel, or mobile. And with the click-to-copy button and reference table above, you’ve got everything you need to make the Euro sign part of your everyday typing toolkit.


💬 Still having trouble? Drop a comment below and I’ll help you figure it out.

👉 Want to master more symbols? Check out our guide on how to insert symbols in Word — includes shortcuts, Unicode, and AutoCorrect for all popular characters.

man

Friday 13th of March 2020

us international keyboard ctrl+alt+€ is empty in word 2020

Abarika Abdulai

Friday 13th of March 2020

If the shortcut doesn't work in your version of MS Word, you can use the alt code method instead. Press Alt+0128 on the numeric keypad. The shortcut works for me though. I am using Word 2019