How to Type Ñ (N with Tilde) on Any Keyboard

The tilde over an N, Ñ—pronounced eñe—is part of the Latin alphabet. It’s used in words such as jalapeño or piña colada, as well as other Spanish-based words and phrases that have become common in English. It means that the word was previously spelled with two Ns; the tilde (sometimes called “accent marks” by Spanish speakers) is a replacement for the second one.

In this article, we’ll explain how to type n with tilde by adding the character to your keyboard layout, using keyboard shortcuts (it’s very easy!), and how to find the n with a tilde on your mobile device.

How to Type N With Tilde Using Your Keyboard

Typing this symbol with your keyboard is simple. Here’s how:

Use Alt Code

Because of the prevalence of the eñe symbol, it’s part of the standard keyboard layout, although you need these Alt codes to access it:

1. Make sure Num Lock is on.
2. Select within a text where you want to add an eñe.
3. Hold down the Alt key and type the following codes:
   • 165 or 0209 for Ñ
   • 164 or 0241 for ñ
4. Release the Alt key.

Note: In Microsoft Word/Outlook you can also use this official keyboard shortcut for accent marks: press Ctrl+Shift+~ (release), then press n (for ñ) or Shift+n (for Ñ).

Windows Without a Number Pad

If you have a Windows computer without a number pad, you can still type n with tilde (and other characters like the copyright symbol) using the built-in Character Map. Here’s how: 

1. Press Win+R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type charmap.
3. Press Enter.
4. Locate the uppercase or lowercase n with tilde and select it.
   
5. Click Select and then Copy to add it to your clipboard.
6. Now, you can paste/type n with a tilde anywhere.

Change Your PC’s Keyboard Layout to US-International

Windows PCs support a wide range of keyboard layouts, including US-International, which is helpful for eñe.

Follow these steps to install the US-International keyboard layout for Windows 11 or Windows 10:

1. Press Win+i to open Settings.
2. Select Time & language.
3. Select Language & region (Windows 11) or Language (Windows 10).
   
4. Select the three dots next to English (United States).
5. Choose Language options.
   
6. Select Add a keyboard and choose United States-International.
   
7. To easily type n with a tilde using this new layout, click the language on the taskbar and choose English (United States) — United States-International.
8. To type: hold Right Alt (AltGr) and press n for ñ; use Right Alt+Shift+n for Ñ.

How to Type Ñ on Smartphones

If you’re using your smartphone, it’s easy to select this character. Regardless of type, most phones have the same instructions:

1. Wherever you need how to type n with tilde in an email, text, or some other place, press and hold the regular n key.
2. Several characters will appear. Select the one with the tilde over it.
   

If you want it capitalized, make sure your initial N is capitalized first.

Ñ Character on macOS

Depending on which Mac you have, you can create ñ by:

• Press and hold the “n” key to open the accent menu, then choose ñ or Ñ (Apple explains accent entry here: enter characters with accent marks on Mac).
• Use key combos: press Option+n, then press n again for ñ, or Shift+n for Ñ.

Chromebook and ChromeOS

You have two easy options:

• With an international layout: press AltGr (right Alt) + n for ñ (see Google’s guide: special characters on Chromebooks).
• Using Unicode: press Ctrl+Shift+U, type 00f1 for ñ (or 00d1 for Ñ), then press Enter or Space.

Linux (Compose Key & Unicode)

On most Linux desktops you can enable a Compose key in keyboard settings. Then type Compose, ~, n to get ñ, or Compose, ~, Shift+n for Ñ. You can also type Ctrl+Shift+U then 00f1 (or 00d1) and press Enter.

Now You’re Ready to Type N with Tilde Anywhere

Getting comfortable with typing the ñ symbol is very straightforward. For Windows users, the combination of 164 or 0241 for ñ produces an instant ñ, or use the US-International layout and Right Alt+n. Mac users can create the character by pressing Option+n, followed by n again; or long-press n and pick from the accent menu.

On ChromeOS and Linux you can use AltGr shortcuts, a Compose key, or Unicode entry (00f1/00d1). In Google Docs, you can also use Insert > Special characters and search for “n tilde” (insert special characters).

These simple methods eliminate the need for copying and pasting or searching through character maps. Once you’ve mastered these techniques, typing the ñ will become second nature.

Ñ in World Alphabets

While most people associate ñ with Spanish, the letter has been adopted into other writing systems. Alphabets such as Bilen, Cahuilla, and Mazahua make direct use of ñ, which shows how its role extends far beyond Europe and Latin America.

In Tagalog and Kankanaey (the Philippines), the letter was introduced during Spanish influence. While its everyday use has declined, it still appears in proper names and older materials, which reflects its evolution through history.

Phonetics and Pronunciation

In the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), ñ is represented by [ɲ], the voiced palatal nasal. The sound is produced by pressing the tongue against the roof of the mouth, similar to the “ny” in canyon, but with a smoother quality.

For Spanish learners, distinguishing ñ from plain n is critical. Words like año (year) demonstrate how one small mark changes the meaning entirely. Mispronouncing ñ can confuse listeners, so teachers often emphasize this sound early.

Cultural Significance

In Spanish-speaking regions, ñ has become a sort of cultural emblem. It’s seen both as a functional letter and as a symbol of heritage and identity. For example, it appears in literature, music, and art. The defense of ñ in official alphabets has even taken on political weight; preserving it is tied to protecting cultural traditions.

This means ñ is more than just a typographical detail. It’s also a point of pride and recognition across the Spanish-speaking world.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s New in This Update

• Added Chromebook and ChromeOS methods (AltGr+n with international layout; Unicode input Ctrl+Shift+U → 00f1/00d1).
• Clarified Windows US-International keystrokes (Right Alt/AltGr + n / + Shift + n) and included Microsoft Word/Outlook shortcut (Ctrl+Shift+~, then n).
• Expanded macOS guidance: accent-menu long-press and Option+N method with official Apple reference.
• Added Linux Compose key and Unicode entry instructions.
• Included HTML/Unicode codes and a link to Google Docs’ Special characters tool.
• Fixed minor wording/typos and aligned steps with current Windows 11/macOS settings labels.

Last updated: 2025-10-14

Read Full Bio

Alex Ion

Latest from Author

Steam Cloud Saves — What They Are and How to Use Them Is Bluestacks Safe (And Legal) To Use?