Mastering the battlefield 1 keyboard controls is the first step toward becoming a formidable force in DICE's World War I masterpiece. The game relies heavily on nuanced movement, precise aiming, and quick access to a diverse arsenal of gadgets and weapons. Unlike console versions, the PC experience leverages the speed and flexibility of a keyboard and mouse, allowing for split-second reactions and complex button combinations that are impossible on a controller. This guide breaks down every essential input, helping you optimize your setup for maximum efficiency on the Western Front.
Default Battlefield 1 Keyboard Layout
When you first boot up Battlefield 1, the default keybindings are designed to be intuitive for new players transitioning from other shooters. The fundamental movement is handled by the WASD keys, a standard across the industry. Looking up and down is controlled by the mouse, while strafing left and right is managed by the A and D keys. The default jump, prone, and sprint bindings utilize the spacebar, C, and left Shift keys respectively, creating a comfortable rhythm for navigating the trenches and open battlefields.
Weapon Control and Aiming
Accuracy is paramount in Battlefield 1, and the keys dedicated to weapon management are critical for survival. The left mouse button handles your primary fire, while the right mouse button allows you to aim down sights (ADS). Reloading is assigned to the R key, a vital muscle memory to master to avoid being caught reloading in the line of fire. Additionally, the F key is your primary interaction tool, used for picking up weapons, manning vehicles, and capturing flags, making it one of the most frequently pressed buttons in the entire game.

Advanced Movement and Utility
Beyond the basics, the true depth of battlefield 1 keyboard controls reveals itself through advanced movement mechanics. Holding the left Ctrl key allows you to sprint, but learning to toggle sprint (often bound to a double tap of Shift) is essential for maintaining situational awareness. The prone position (C) offers a stable shooting platform but leaves you vulnerable if caught off guard. For a rapid change in elevation, the Spacebar is your lifeline for jumping over obstacles or dodging enemy fire, while the C key instantly drops you to the ground.
Class-Specific Commands
Each class in Battlefield 1 has a unique role, and the keybindings reflect this specialization. The Medic class relies heavily on the Q key to deploy their medical syringe for revives and healing. The Assault class utilizes the C key for suppressive fire, a crucial tool for pinning down enemies. Meanwhile, the Support class uses the Q key to deploy their ammo box, ensuring teammates stay in the fight. These class-specific actions are the backbone of team coordination and require quick access to execute successfully.
| Action | Default Key | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Move Forward | W | Basic forward movement |
| Strafe Right | D | Move right relative to view |
| Prone | C | Drop to the ground prone |
| Reload | R | Reload current weapon |
| Melee | V | Perform a close-quarters swing |
| Throw Grenade | G | Equip and throw a grenade |