Sleep Shortcut (Mac & Windows)
Put a Mac to sleep with ⌥⌘⏏ (Option-Command-Power/Eject); on Windows press Win+X, then U, then S. Both put the computer to sleep instantly.
| Action | Mac | Windows | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sleep | ⌥⌘⏏ (or ⌘ + Power) | Win+X, U, S | |
| Lock screen | ⌃⌘Q | Win+L | |
| Display sleep only | ⌃⇧⏏ (or ⌃⇧Power) | Win+X, U, S | |
| Shut down (dialog) | ⌃⏏ (Ctrl-Power) | Alt+F4 (on desktop) | |
| Restart | ⌃⌘⏏ | Win+X, U, R | |
| Log out | ⇧⌘Q | Win+X, U, I |
Put the computer to sleep from the keyboard
On a Mac press ⌥⌘⏏ (Option-Command-Eject) — on machines without an Eject key use ⌥⌘ + the Power button. Windows has no single sleep key, but Win+X then U then S opens the power menu and sleeps immediately.
Sleep vs lock vs display off
Sleep powers down most of the machine to save battery; lock (⌃⌘Q / Win+L) keeps it running but secured. To turn off only the screen on a Mac, press ⌃⇧⏏ or ⌃⇧ + Power.
FAQ
What is the sleep shortcut on Mac?
Press ⌥⌘⏏ (Option-Command-Eject), or ⌥⌘ plus the Power button on Macs without an Eject key.
How do I put Windows to sleep with the keyboard?
Press Win+X, then U, then S — this opens the power menu and sleeps the PC.
What is the difference between sleep and lock?
Sleep powers the machine down to save energy; lock (⌃⌘Q on Mac, Win+L on Windows) keeps it running but requires your password to return.