Skyrim Codex

How to Open the Console in Skyrim

Open the command console in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim with the tilde (~) key on PC so you can enter cheat commands — and why using them disables Steam achievements.

Skyrim's developer console is a hidden command line built into the PC version of the game. Once it is open you can type cheats and debug commands to spawn items, adjust your character, teleport, and much more. This guide covers exactly how to open it and what to watch out for.

How to open the console

  1. Load into your game so you are out of the main menu — you need to be in the world (or paused) for commands to take effect.
  2. Press the tilde key (~), located below the Esc key and to the left of the 1 key.
  3. The game pauses and a command prompt appears at the bottom of the screen. Type your command and press Enter to run it.
  4. Press ~ again to close the console and return to play.

Notes & tips

  • Commands are not case sensitive, but item and form IDs are read as hexadecimal, so include the full code (for example 0000000F for gold).
  • Many commands act on a targeted reference. Click an NPC or object while the console is open to select it; its reference ID shows at the top of the screen.
  • Using any command disables achievements for the session. If you are achievement hunting, do your cheating on a separate save.
  • On non-English keyboards the tilde key may be bound elsewhere — see the FAQ below if the console will not open.

Where to go next

Now that the console is open, browse the full list of Skyrim console commands or jump straight to a popular cheat: learn how to add items with item codes, how to add gold, or how to enable god mode.

Frequently asked questions

What key opens the console in Skyrim?

On most PC keyboards the console opens with the tilde key (~), found just below Escape and left of the 1 key. On non-US layouts the same physical key may print a different symbol, but it still toggles the console.

Does using console commands disable achievements?

Yes. As soon as you enter a command in the console, Steam and Xbox achievements are disabled for the rest of that play session. Reloading a save or restarting the game restores the ability to earn achievements again, provided you do not use the console.

Can I use the console on Xbox or PlayStation?

No. The console is only available in the PC versions of Skyrim (including Special Edition and Anniversary Edition). The console-platform releases have no built-in command line.

Why is nothing happening when I press the tilde key?

Some keyboard layouts and overlays remap the key. Try the key directly above Tab, check that no third-party software is capturing it, and make sure you are not in a menu. You can also rebind the console toggle by editing the game's INI files.