Windows 10: Pressing esc opens start menu & unresponsive keys

Every now and then when I play games on my PC, the esc key would tab out of the game and open the start menu and every other keys would become unresponsive ex: can't type, can't alt + f4 out of programs/games, etc.. When it happens, the problem persists until I reboot my PC. I've tried everything from disabling sticky keys, to changing my keyboard and factory reset my PC but nothing seems to work. I've been suffering from this problem for 3 months now and it's driving me crazy :c

:)

 

pressing esc opens start menu unresponsive keys and weird things happen

Hi my name is Ross, I'm a Microsoft user expert. I'd be happy to help with your issue.

This sounds like the Ctrl key on your keyboard is stuck down, as Ctrl+Esc will open the start menu.

Please try press this button several time to un-lodge any dirt or dust, alternatively if possible try to replace the keyboard.

Regards,

Ross

 

pressing esc opens start menu unresponsive keys and weird things happen

does anybody know a fix to where when I press the esc key it brings up the windows start menu. also it wont let me type when this issue happens and when on a browser trying to scroll up and down with my mouse zooms the screen in and out.

there is no issue with the keyboard I have tried several and they all have the same problem. there are a few other things that happen when this issue occurs but these are the main problems.

 

How do I get a screenshot of start menu?

1. Run snipping tool ( If screen appears grayed out, press ESC, if not continue step 2.)
2. Click to open the start menu
3. Hold CTRL and press print Screen. Screen will appear grayed out, ready to capture.

NOTE: This will work with all popup menus ie. Windows Menu, Context menu etc...