diff --git a/.changeset/tidy-tigers-swim.md b/.changeset/tidy-tigers-swim.md
new file mode 100644
index 00000000..54e79532
--- /dev/null
+++ b/.changeset/tidy-tigers-swim.md
@@ -0,0 +1,5 @@
+---
+'@tanstack/hotkeys': patch
+---
+
+Preserve native button Space/Enter and link Enter activation when global hotkeys or sequences ignore inputs. Explicit element targets and ignoreInputs: false can still override these keys.
diff --git a/docs/framework/angular/guides/hotkeys.md b/docs/framework/angular/guides/hotkeys.md
index 5733b042..149b91ee 100644
--- a/docs/framework/angular/guides/hotkeys.md
+++ b/docs/framework/angular/guides/hotkeys.md
@@ -139,6 +139,8 @@ injectHotkey('Escape', () => closePanel(), { requireReset: true })
 
 ### `ignoreInputs`
 
+When `ignoreInputs` is enabled, global hotkeys and sequences (targeting `document` or `window`) also preserve unmodified `Space` and `Enter` on native buttons and button-type inputs, and `Enter` on links with an `href`. Other keys and modifier shortcuts still work on these controls. Set `ignoreInputs: false`, or use an explicit element `target`, to intentionally handle their activation keys. This does not automatically detect keyboard handling in custom ARIA widgets.
+
 ```ts
 injectHotkey('K', () => openSearch())
 injectHotkey('Enter', () => submit(), { ignoreInputs: false })
diff --git a/docs/framework/lit/guides/hotkeys.md b/docs/framework/lit/guides/hotkeys.md
index 75a5be84..103b5f9d 100644
--- a/docs/framework/lit/guides/hotkeys.md
+++ b/docs/framework/lit/guides/hotkeys.md
@@ -187,7 +187,9 @@ closePanel() { this.panelOpen = false }
 
 ### `ignoreInputs`
 
-When `true`, the hotkey doesn't fire when the user is focused on a text input, textarea, select, or contentEditable element. Button-type inputs (`type="button"`, `"submit"`, `"reset"`) are not ignored. When unset, a smart default applies: `Ctrl`/`Meta` shortcuts and `Escape` fire in inputs; single keys and `Shift`/`Alt` combos are ignored.
+When `ignoreInputs` is enabled, global hotkeys and sequences (targeting `document` or `window`) also preserve unmodified `Space` and `Enter` on native buttons and button-type inputs, and `Enter` on links with an `href`. Other keys and modifier shortcuts still work on these controls. Set `ignoreInputs: false`, or use an explicit element `target`, to intentionally handle their activation keys. This does not automatically detect keyboard handling in custom ARIA widgets.
+
+When `true`, the hotkey doesn't fire when the user is focused on a text input, textarea, select, or contentEditable element. Button-type inputs (`type="button"`, `"submit"`, `"reset"`) allow unrelated shortcuts. When unset, a smart default applies: `Ctrl`/`Meta` shortcuts and `Escape` fire in inputs; single keys and `Shift`/`Alt` combos are ignored.
 
 ```ts
 // Single key - ignored in inputs by default (smart default)
diff --git a/docs/framework/preact/guides/hotkeys.md b/docs/framework/preact/guides/hotkeys.md
index 96f1d291..320c70c4 100644
--- a/docs/framework/preact/guides/hotkeys.md
+++ b/docs/framework/preact/guides/hotkeys.md
@@ -165,7 +165,9 @@ useHotkey('Escape', () => closePanel(), { requireReset: true })
 
 ### `ignoreInputs`
 
-When `true`, the hotkey doesn't fire when the user is focused on a text input, textarea, select, or contentEditable element. Button-type inputs (`type="button"`, `"submit"`, `"reset"`) are not ignored, so shortcuts like Mod+S work when the user has tabbed to a form button. When unset, a smart default applies: `Ctrl`/`Meta` shortcuts and `Escape` fire in inputs; single keys and `Shift`/`Alt` combos are ignored.
+When `ignoreInputs` is enabled, global hotkeys and sequences (targeting `document` or `window`) also preserve unmodified `Space` and `Enter` on native buttons and button-type inputs, and `Enter` on links with an `href`. Other keys and modifier shortcuts still work on these controls. Set `ignoreInputs: false`, or use an explicit element `target`, to intentionally handle their activation keys. This does not automatically detect keyboard handling in custom ARIA widgets.
+
+When `true`, the hotkey doesn't fire when the user is focused on a text input, textarea, select, or contentEditable element. Button-type inputs (`type="button"`, `"submit"`, `"reset"`) allow unrelated shortcuts, so shortcuts like Mod+S work when the user has tabbed to a form button. When unset, a smart default applies: `Ctrl`/`Meta` shortcuts and `Escape` fire in inputs; single keys and `Shift`/`Alt` combos are ignored.
 
 ```tsx
 // Single key - ignored in inputs by default (smart default)
diff --git a/docs/framework/react/guides/hotkeys.md b/docs/framework/react/guides/hotkeys.md
index ed4d0ba0..5e997323 100644
--- a/docs/framework/react/guides/hotkeys.md
+++ b/docs/framework/react/guides/hotkeys.md
@@ -84,7 +84,7 @@ Most hotkey registrations exist to override the browser. When you bind `Mod+S` t
 
 #### Smart input handling with `ignoreInputs`
 
-By default, `Ctrl`/`Meta` shortcuts (like `Mod+S`) and `Escape` fire even while focus is inside a text field or textarea, so save and close work wherever the user happens to be. Single keys and `Shift`/`Alt` combos are ignored inside non-button inputs, because those are just typing. Button-type inputs (`type="button"`, `"submit"`, `"reset"`) don't block any hotkeys.
+By default, `Ctrl`/`Meta` shortcuts (like `Mod+S`) and `Escape` fire even while focus is inside a text field or textarea, so save and close work wherever the user happens to be. Single keys and `Shift`/`Alt` combos are ignored inside non-button inputs, because those are just typing. Button-type inputs (`type="button"`, `"submit"`, `"reset"`) allow unrelated shortcuts while preserving their native activation keys.
 
 #### Hotkey conflicts and `conflictBehavior`
 
@@ -165,7 +165,9 @@ useHotkey('Escape', () => closePanel(), { requireReset: true })
 
 ### `ignoreInputs`
 
-When `true`, the hotkey will not fire when the user is focused on a text input, textarea, select, or contentEditable element. Button-type inputs (`type="button"`, `"submit"`, `"reset"`) are not ignored, so shortcuts like Mod+S work when the user has tabbed to a form button. When unset, a smart default applies: `Ctrl`/`Meta` shortcuts and `Escape` fire in inputs; single keys and `Shift`/`Alt` combos are ignored.
+When `ignoreInputs` is enabled, global hotkeys and sequences (targeting `document` or `window`) also preserve unmodified `Space` and `Enter` on native buttons and button-type inputs, and `Enter` on links with an `href`. Other keys and modifier shortcuts still work on these controls. Set `ignoreInputs: false`, or use an explicit element `target`, to intentionally handle their activation keys. This does not automatically detect keyboard handling in custom ARIA widgets.
+
+When `true`, the hotkey will not fire when the user is focused on a text input, textarea, select, or contentEditable element. Button-type inputs (`type="button"`, `"submit"`, `"reset"`) allow unrelated shortcuts, so shortcuts like Mod+S work when the user has tabbed to a form button. When unset, a smart default applies: `Ctrl`/`Meta` shortcuts and `Escape` fire in inputs; single keys and `Shift`/`Alt` combos are ignored.
 
 ```tsx
 // Single key - ignored in inputs by default (smart default)
diff --git a/docs/framework/solid/guides/hotkeys.md b/docs/framework/solid/guides/hotkeys.md
index 00ac5403..0f262421 100644
--- a/docs/framework/solid/guides/hotkeys.md
+++ b/docs/framework/solid/guides/hotkeys.md
@@ -186,6 +186,8 @@ createHotkey('Escape', () => closePanel(), { requireReset: true })
 
 ### `ignoreInputs`
 
+When `ignoreInputs` is enabled, global hotkeys and sequences (targeting `document` or `window`) also preserve unmodified `Space` and `Enter` on native buttons and button-type inputs, and `Enter` on links with an `href`. Other keys and modifier shortcuts still work on these controls. Set `ignoreInputs: false`, or use an explicit element `target`, to intentionally handle their activation keys. This does not automatically detect keyboard handling in custom ARIA widgets.
+
 When `true`, the hotkey doesn't fire when the user is focused on a text input, textarea, select, or contentEditable element. When unset, a smart default applies based on the hotkey type.
 
 ```tsx
diff --git a/docs/framework/svelte/guides/hotkeys.md b/docs/framework/svelte/guides/hotkeys.md
index 3d72eb39..46559672 100644
--- a/docs/framework/svelte/guides/hotkeys.md
+++ b/docs/framework/svelte/guides/hotkeys.md
@@ -127,6 +127,8 @@ createHotkey('Escape', () => closePanel(), { requireReset: true })
 
 ### `ignoreInputs`
 
+When `ignoreInputs` is enabled, global hotkeys and sequences (targeting `document` or `window`) also preserve unmodified `Space` and `Enter` on native buttons and button-type inputs, and `Enter` on links with an `href`. Other keys and modifier shortcuts still work on these controls. Set `ignoreInputs: false`, or use an explicit element `target`, to intentionally handle their activation keys. This does not automatically detect keyboard handling in custom ARIA widgets.
+
 ```ts
 createHotkey('K', () => openSearch())
 createHotkey('Enter', () => submit(), { ignoreInputs: false })
diff --git a/docs/framework/vue/guides/hotkeys.md b/docs/framework/vue/guides/hotkeys.md
index cb8d73a7..d6777533 100644
--- a/docs/framework/vue/guides/hotkeys.md
+++ b/docs/framework/vue/guides/hotkeys.md
@@ -129,6 +129,8 @@ useHotkey('Escape', () => closePanel(), { requireReset: true })
 
 ### `ignoreInputs`
 
+When `ignoreInputs` is enabled, global hotkeys and sequences (targeting `document` or `window`) also preserve unmodified `Space` and `Enter` on native buttons and button-type inputs, and `Enter` on links with an `href`. Other keys and modifier shortcuts still work on these controls. Set `ignoreInputs: false`, or use an explicit element `target`, to intentionally handle their activation keys. This does not automatically detect keyboard handling in custom ARIA widgets.
+
 ```ts
 useHotkey('K', () => openSearch())
 useHotkey('Enter', () => submit(), { ignoreInputs: false })
diff --git a/docs/reference/classes/HotkeyManager.md b/docs/reference/classes/HotkeyManager.md
index 23a15316..571c9d31 100644
--- a/docs/reference/classes/HotkeyManager.md
+++ b/docs/reference/classes/HotkeyManager.md
@@ -3,7 +3,7 @@ id: HotkeyManager
 title: HotkeyManager
 ---
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:191](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L191)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:197](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L197)
 
 Singleton manager for hotkey registrations.
 
@@ -32,7 +32,7 @@ unregister()
 readonly registrations: Store<Map<string, HotkeyRegistration>>;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:213](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L213)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:219](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L219)
 
 The TanStack Store containing all hotkey registrations.
 Use this to subscribe to registration changes or access current registrations.
@@ -61,7 +61,7 @@ for (const [id, reg] of manager.registrations.state) {
 destroy(): void;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:796](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L796)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:802](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L802)
 
 Destroys the manager and removes all listeners.
 
@@ -77,7 +77,7 @@ Destroys the manager and removes all listeners.
 getRegistrationCount(): number;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:761](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L761)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:767](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L767)
 
 Gets the number of registered hotkeys.
 
@@ -93,7 +93,7 @@ Gets the number of registered hotkeys.
 isRegistered(hotkey, target?): boolean;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:772](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L772)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:778](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L778)
 
 Checks if a specific hotkey is registered.
 
@@ -128,7 +128,7 @@ register(
    options?): HotkeyRegistrationHandle;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:276](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L276)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:282](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L282)
 
 Registers a hotkey handler and returns a handle for updating the registration.
 
@@ -184,7 +184,7 @@ handle.unregister()
 triggerRegistration(id): boolean;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:723](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L723)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:729](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L729)
 
 Triggers a registration's callback programmatically from devtools.
 Creates a synthetic KeyboardEvent and invokes the callback.
@@ -211,7 +211,7 @@ True if the registration was found and triggered
 static getInstance(): HotkeyManager;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:234](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L234)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:240](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L240)
 
 Gets the singleton instance of HotkeyManager.
 
@@ -227,7 +227,7 @@ Gets the singleton instance of HotkeyManager.
 static resetInstance(): void;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:244](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L244)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:250](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L250)
 
 Resets the singleton instance. Useful for testing.
 
diff --git a/docs/reference/functions/getHotkeyManager.md b/docs/reference/functions/getHotkeyManager.md
index 722451ae..dde672a8 100644
--- a/docs/reference/functions/getHotkeyManager.md
+++ b/docs/reference/functions/getHotkeyManager.md
@@ -7,7 +7,7 @@ title: getHotkeyManager
 function getHotkeyManager(): HotkeyManager;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:812](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L812)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:818](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L818)
 
 Gets the singleton HotkeyManager instance.
 Convenience function for accessing the manager.
diff --git a/docs/reference/functions/toHotkeyRegistrationView.md b/docs/reference/functions/toHotkeyRegistrationView.md
index ea7cb501..cad447b5 100644
--- a/docs/reference/functions/toHotkeyRegistrationView.md
+++ b/docs/reference/functions/toHotkeyRegistrationView.md
@@ -7,7 +7,7 @@ title: toHotkeyRegistrationView
 function toHotkeyRegistrationView(reg): HotkeyRegistrationView;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:107](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L107)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:113](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L113)
 
 Creates a public view from an internal registration,
 stripping the callback function.
diff --git a/docs/reference/interfaces/HotkeyOptions.md b/docs/reference/interfaces/HotkeyOptions.md
index 5bbc1596..53037224 100644
--- a/docs/reference/interfaces/HotkeyOptions.md
+++ b/docs/reference/interfaces/HotkeyOptions.md
@@ -53,9 +53,13 @@ The event type to listen for. Defaults to 'keydown'
 optional ignoreInputs?: boolean;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:43](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L43)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:49](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L49)
 
-Whether to ignore hotkeys when keyboard events originate from input-like elements (text inputs, textarea, select, contenteditable — button-type inputs like type=button/submit/reset are not ignored). Defaults based on hotkey: true for single keys and Shift/Alt combos; false for Ctrl/Meta shortcuts and Escape
+Ignore events from text inputs, textarea, select, and contenteditable.
+Document/window targets also preserve unmodified Space/Enter on native
+buttons and Enter on links. Explicit element targets can override activation.
+Defaults to true for single keys and Shift/Alt combos; false for Ctrl/Meta
+shortcuts and Escape. Set false to handle keys even in these controls.
 
 ***
 
@@ -65,7 +69,7 @@ Whether to ignore hotkeys when keyboard events originate from input-like element
 optional meta?: HotkeyMeta;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:55](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L55)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:61](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L61)
 
 Optional metadata (name, description, custom fields via declaration merging)
 
@@ -77,7 +81,7 @@ Optional metadata (name, description, custom fields via declaration merging)
 optional platform?: "mac" | "windows" | "linux";
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:45](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L45)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:51](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L51)
 
 The target platform for resolving 'Mod'
 
@@ -89,7 +93,7 @@ The target platform for resolving 'Mod'
 optional preventDefault?: boolean;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:47](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L47)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:53](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L53)
 
 Prevent the default browser action when the hotkey matches. Defaults to true
 
@@ -101,7 +105,7 @@ Prevent the default browser action when the hotkey matches. Defaults to true
 optional requireReset?: boolean;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:49](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L49)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:55](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L55)
 
 If true, only trigger once until all keys are released. Default: false
 
@@ -113,7 +117,7 @@ If true, only trigger once until all keys are released. Default: false
 optional stopPropagation?: boolean;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:51](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L51)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:57](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L57)
 
 Stop event propagation when the hotkey matches. Defaults to true
 
@@ -125,6 +129,6 @@ Stop event propagation when the hotkey matches. Defaults to true
 optional target?: Document | Window | HTMLElement | null;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:53](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L53)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:59](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L59)
 
 The DOM element to attach the event listener to. Defaults to document.
diff --git a/docs/reference/interfaces/HotkeyRegistration.md b/docs/reference/interfaces/HotkeyRegistration.md
index 944b2f40..b6340c4e 100644
--- a/docs/reference/interfaces/HotkeyRegistration.md
+++ b/docs/reference/interfaces/HotkeyRegistration.md
@@ -3,7 +3,7 @@ id: HotkeyRegistration
 title: HotkeyRegistration
 ---
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:61](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L61)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:67](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L67)
 
 A registered hotkey handler in the HotkeyManager.
 
@@ -15,7 +15,7 @@ A registered hotkey handler in the HotkeyManager.
 optional activeMatch?: object;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:67](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L67)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:73](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L73)
 
 The concrete key/code that activated a requireReset registration.
 
@@ -39,7 +39,7 @@ key: string;
 callback: HotkeyCallback;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:63](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L63)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:69](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L69)
 
 The callback to invoke
 
@@ -51,7 +51,7 @@ The callback to invoke
 hasFired: boolean;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:65](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L65)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:71](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L71)
 
 Whether this registration has fired and needs reset (for requireReset)
 
@@ -63,7 +63,7 @@ Whether this registration has fired and needs reset (for requireReset)
 hotkey: Hotkey;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:69](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L69)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:75](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L75)
 
 The original hotkey string
 
@@ -75,7 +75,7 @@ The original hotkey string
 id: string;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:71](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L71)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:77](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L77)
 
 Unique identifier for this registration
 
@@ -87,7 +87,7 @@ Unique identifier for this registration
 options: HotkeyOptions;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:73](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L73)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:79](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L79)
 
 Options for this registration
 
@@ -99,7 +99,7 @@ Options for this registration
 parsedHotkey: ParsedHotkey;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:75](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L75)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:81](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L81)
 
 The parsed hotkey
 
@@ -111,7 +111,7 @@ The parsed hotkey
 target: Document | Window | HTMLElement;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:77](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L77)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:83](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L83)
 
 The resolved target element for this registration
 
@@ -123,6 +123,6 @@ The resolved target element for this registration
 triggerCount: number;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:79](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L79)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:85](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L85)
 
 How many times this registration's callback has been triggered
diff --git a/docs/reference/interfaces/HotkeyRegistrationHandle.md b/docs/reference/interfaces/HotkeyRegistrationHandle.md
index 33d2dfaf..67c1a5c4 100644
--- a/docs/reference/interfaces/HotkeyRegistrationHandle.md
+++ b/docs/reference/interfaces/HotkeyRegistrationHandle.md
@@ -3,7 +3,7 @@ id: HotkeyRegistrationHandle
 title: HotkeyRegistrationHandle
 ---
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:144](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L144)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:150](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L150)
 
 A handle returned from HotkeyManager.register() that allows updating
 the callback and options without re-registering the hotkey.
@@ -36,7 +36,7 @@ handle.unregister()
 callback: HotkeyCallback;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:149](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L149)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:155](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L155)
 
 The callback function. Can be set directly to update without re-registering.
 This avoids stale closures when the callback references React state.
@@ -49,7 +49,7 @@ This avoids stale closures when the callback references React state.
 readonly id: string;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:151](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L151)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:157](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L157)
 
 Unique identifier for this registration
 
@@ -61,7 +61,7 @@ Unique identifier for this registration
 readonly isActive: boolean;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:153](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L153)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:159](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L159)
 
 Check if this registration is still active (not unregistered)
 
@@ -73,7 +73,7 @@ Check if this registration is still active (not unregistered)
 setOptions: (options) => void;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:158](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L158)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:164](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L164)
 
 Update options (merged with existing options).
 Useful for updating `enabled`, `preventDefault`, etc. without re-registering.
@@ -96,7 +96,7 @@ Useful for updating `enabled`, `preventDefault`, etc. without re-registering.
 unregister: () => void;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:160](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L160)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:166](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L166)
 
 Unregister this hotkey
 
diff --git a/docs/reference/interfaces/HotkeyRegistrationView.md b/docs/reference/interfaces/HotkeyRegistrationView.md
index 71c34bb8..93e1b3d5 100644
--- a/docs/reference/interfaces/HotkeyRegistrationView.md
+++ b/docs/reference/interfaces/HotkeyRegistrationView.md
@@ -3,7 +3,7 @@ id: HotkeyRegistrationView
 title: HotkeyRegistrationView
 ---
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:86](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L86)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:92](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L92)
 
 Public view of a hotkey registration for display and introspection.
 Omits the callback function which is an internal implementation detail.
@@ -16,7 +16,7 @@ Omits the callback function which is an internal implementation detail.
 hasFired: boolean;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:100](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L100)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:106](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L106)
 
 Whether this registration has fired and needs reset (for requireReset)
 
@@ -28,7 +28,7 @@ Whether this registration has fired and needs reset (for requireReset)
 hotkey: Hotkey;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:88](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L88)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:94](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L94)
 
 The original hotkey string
 
@@ -40,7 +40,7 @@ The original hotkey string
 id: string;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:90](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L90)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:96](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L96)
 
 Unique identifier for this registration
 
@@ -52,7 +52,7 @@ Unique identifier for this registration
 options: HotkeyOptions;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:92](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L92)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:98](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L98)
 
 Options for this registration
 
@@ -64,7 +64,7 @@ Options for this registration
 parsedHotkey: ParsedHotkey;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:94](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L94)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:100](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L100)
 
 The parsed hotkey
 
@@ -76,7 +76,7 @@ The parsed hotkey
 target: Document | Window | HTMLElement;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:96](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L96)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:102](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L102)
 
 The resolved target element for this registration
 
@@ -88,6 +88,6 @@ The resolved target element for this registration
 triggerCount: number;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:98](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L98)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:104](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L104)
 
 How many times this registration's callback has been triggered
diff --git a/docs/reference/interfaces/SequenceOptions.md b/docs/reference/interfaces/SequenceOptions.md
index 19991eb2..fbae989b 100644
--- a/docs/reference/interfaces/SequenceOptions.md
+++ b/docs/reference/interfaces/SequenceOptions.md
@@ -70,9 +70,13 @@ The event type to listen for. Defaults to 'keydown'
 optional ignoreInputs?: boolean;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:43](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L43)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:49](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L49)
 
-Whether to ignore hotkeys when keyboard events originate from input-like elements (text inputs, textarea, select, contenteditable — button-type inputs like type=button/submit/reset are not ignored). Defaults based on hotkey: true for single keys and Shift/Alt combos; false for Ctrl/Meta shortcuts and Escape
+Ignore events from text inputs, textarea, select, and contenteditable.
+Document/window targets also preserve unmodified Space/Enter on native
+buttons and Enter on links. Explicit element targets can override activation.
+Defaults to true for single keys and Shift/Alt combos; false for Ctrl/Meta
+shortcuts and Escape. Set false to handle keys even in these controls.
 
 #### Inherited from
 
@@ -86,7 +90,7 @@ Whether to ignore hotkeys when keyboard events originate from input-like element
 optional meta?: HotkeyMeta;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:55](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L55)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:61](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L61)
 
 Optional metadata (name, description, custom fields via declaration merging)
 
@@ -102,7 +106,7 @@ Optional metadata (name, description, custom fields via declaration merging)
 optional platform?: "mac" | "windows" | "linux";
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:45](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L45)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:51](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L51)
 
 The target platform for resolving 'Mod'
 
@@ -118,7 +122,7 @@ The target platform for resolving 'Mod'
 optional preventDefault?: boolean;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:47](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L47)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:53](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L53)
 
 Prevent the default browser action when the hotkey matches. Defaults to true
 
@@ -134,7 +138,7 @@ Prevent the default browser action when the hotkey matches. Defaults to true
 optional stopPropagation?: boolean;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:51](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L51)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:57](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L57)
 
 Stop event propagation when the hotkey matches. Defaults to true
 
@@ -150,7 +154,7 @@ Stop event propagation when the hotkey matches. Defaults to true
 optional target?: Document | Window | HTMLElement | null;
 ```
 
-Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:53](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L53)
+Defined in: [hotkey-manager.ts:59](https://github.com/TanStack/hotkeys/blob/main/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts#L59)
 
 The DOM element to attach the event listener to. Defaults to document.
 
diff --git a/packages/hotkeys/src/_event-target.ts b/packages/hotkeys/src/_event-target.ts
index 9978beb9..eba1b388 100644
--- a/packages/hotkeys/src/_event-target.ts
+++ b/packages/hotkeys/src/_event-target.ts
@@ -1,3 +1,5 @@
+import { normalizeKeyName } from './constants'
+
 /**
  * Checks if an element is an input-like element that should be ignored for hotkeys.
  *
@@ -69,9 +71,30 @@ export function getActiveElementForListenerTarget(
   return (target as Window).document.activeElement ?? null
 }
 
+/** Native buttons use Space/Enter; links only use Enter for activation. */
+function isNativeActivationElement(
+  element: EventTarget | null,
+  key: string,
+): boolean {
+  if (!element || !('tagName' in element)) return false
+  const control = element as HTMLElement
+  const tagName = control.tagName.toLowerCase()
+  if (tagName === 'button') return true
+  if (tagName === 'input') {
+    const type = (control as HTMLInputElement).type
+    return type === 'button' || type === 'submit' || type === 'reset'
+  }
+  return (
+    key === 'Enter' &&
+    (tagName === 'a' || tagName === 'area') &&
+    control.hasAttribute('href')
+  )
+}
+
 /**
  * Returns whether an event should be ignored because it originated from an
- * input-like element other than the registration target.
+ * input-like element other than the registration target. Document/window
+ * registrations also leave unmodified native control activation keys alone.
  *
  * This checks:
  * - the currently focused element for the listener target
@@ -83,22 +106,29 @@ export function shouldIgnoreInputEvent(
   listenerTarget: HTMLElement | Document | Window,
   registrationTarget: HTMLElement | Document | Window,
 ): boolean {
+  const key = normalizeKeyName(event.key)
+  const preserveActivation =
+    ('document' in registrationTarget || registrationTarget.nodeType === 9) &&
+    !event.ctrlKey &&
+    !event.metaKey &&
+    !event.altKey &&
+    !event.shiftKey &&
+    (key === 'Space' || key === 'Enter')
+  const shouldIgnore = (element: EventTarget | null) =>
+    element !== registrationTarget &&
+    (isInputElement(element) ||
+      (preserveActivation && isNativeActivationElement(element, key)))
+
   const focused = getActiveElementForListenerTarget(listenerTarget)
-  if (focused && isInputElement(focused) && focused !== registrationTarget) {
+  if (shouldIgnore(focused)) {
     return true
   }
 
-  if (
-    event
-      .composedPath()
-      .some(
-        (element) => isInputElement(element) && element !== registrationTarget,
-      )
-  ) {
+  if (event.composedPath().some(shouldIgnore)) {
     return true
   }
 
-  return isInputElement(event.target) && event.target !== registrationTarget
+  return shouldIgnore(event.target)
 }
 
 /**
diff --git a/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts b/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts
index 6a2f0c4e..5ca75744 100644
--- a/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts
+++ b/packages/hotkeys/src/hotkey-manager.ts
@@ -39,7 +39,13 @@ export interface HotkeyOptions {
   enabled?: boolean
   /** The event type to listen for. Defaults to 'keydown' */
   eventType?: 'keydown' | 'keyup'
-  /** Whether to ignore hotkeys when keyboard events originate from input-like elements (text inputs, textarea, select, contenteditable — button-type inputs like type=button/submit/reset are not ignored). Defaults based on hotkey: true for single keys and Shift/Alt combos; false for Ctrl/Meta shortcuts and Escape */
+  /**
+   * Ignore events from text inputs, textarea, select, and contenteditable.
+   * Document/window targets also preserve unmodified Space/Enter on native
+   * buttons and Enter on links. Explicit element targets can override activation.
+   * Defaults to true for single keys and Shift/Alt combos; false for Ctrl/Meta
+   * shortcuts and Escape. Set false to handle keys even in these controls.
+   */
   ignoreInputs?: boolean
   /** The target platform for resolving 'Mod' */
   platform?: 'mac' | 'windows' | 'linux'
diff --git a/packages/hotkeys/tests/native-activation.test.ts b/packages/hotkeys/tests/native-activation.test.ts
new file mode 100644
index 00000000..61a4a07c
--- /dev/null
+++ b/packages/hotkeys/tests/native-activation.test.ts
@@ -0,0 +1,174 @@
+import { afterEach, describe, expect, it, vi } from 'vitest'
+import { HotkeyManager } from '../src/hotkey-manager'
+import { SequenceManager } from '../src/sequence-manager'
+import type { Hotkey, HotkeyOptions } from '../src'
+
+function focusControl(markup = '<button>Action</button>') {
+  document.body.innerHTML = markup
+  const element = document.body.firstElementChild as HTMLElement
+  element.focus()
+  return element
+}
+
+function dispatchKey(
+  element: EventTarget,
+  key: string,
+  options: KeyboardEventInit = {},
+  type = 'keydown',
+) {
+  const event = new KeyboardEvent(type, {
+    key,
+    bubbles: true,
+    cancelable: true,
+    composed: true,
+    ...options,
+  })
+  element.dispatchEvent(event)
+  return event
+}
+
+afterEach(() => {
+  HotkeyManager.resetInstance()
+  SequenceManager.resetInstance()
+  document.body.innerHTML = ''
+})
+
+describe.each(['hotkey', 'sequence'] as const)(
+  '%s native activation',
+  (kind) => {
+    function register(hotkey: Hotkey, options: HotkeyOptions = {}) {
+      const callback = vi.fn()
+      if (kind === 'hotkey') {
+        HotkeyManager.getInstance().register(hotkey, callback, options)
+      } else {
+        SequenceManager.getInstance().register([hotkey], callback, options)
+      }
+      return callback
+    }
+
+    it.each([
+      '<button>Action</button>',
+      '<input type="button">',
+      '<input type="submit">',
+      '<input type="reset">',
+    ])('preserves Space and Enter on %s', (markup) => {
+      const element = focusControl(markup)
+      const space = register('Space')
+      const enter = register('Enter')
+
+      expect(dispatchKey(element, ' ').defaultPrevented).toBe(false)
+      expect(dispatchKey(element, 'Enter').defaultPrevented).toBe(false)
+      expect(space).not.toHaveBeenCalled()
+      expect(enter).not.toHaveBeenCalled()
+    })
+
+    it('preserves Enter on links but still handles Space', () => {
+      const element = focusControl('<a href="#destination">Link</a>')
+      const enter = register('Enter')
+      const space = register('Space')
+
+      expect(dispatchKey(element, 'Enter').defaultPrevented).toBe(false)
+      expect(enter).not.toHaveBeenCalled()
+      expect(dispatchKey(element, ' ').defaultPrevented).toBe(true)
+      expect(space).toHaveBeenCalledOnce()
+    })
+
+    it('still handles Enter on an anchor without href', () => {
+      const element = focusControl('<a tabindex="0">Placeholder</a>')
+      const callback = register('Enter')
+      dispatchKey(element, 'Enter')
+      expect(callback).toHaveBeenCalledOnce()
+    })
+
+    it.each(['keydown', 'keyup'] as const)(
+      'preserves activation for %s listeners',
+      (eventType) => {
+        const element = focusControl()
+        const callback = register('Space', { eventType })
+        expect(dispatchKey(element, ' ', {}, eventType).defaultPrevented).toBe(
+          false,
+        )
+        expect(callback).not.toHaveBeenCalled()
+        element.blur()
+        dispatchKey(document.body, ' ', {}, eventType)
+        expect(callback).toHaveBeenCalledOnce()
+      },
+    )
+
+    it('preserves explicit ignoreInputs: false', () => {
+      const element = focusControl()
+      const callback = register('Space', { ignoreInputs: false })
+      expect(dispatchKey(element, ' ').defaultPrevented).toBe(true)
+      expect(callback).toHaveBeenCalledOnce()
+    })
+
+    it.each(['control', 'container'] as const)(
+      'preserves explicit %s targets',
+      (scope) => {
+        const container = focusControl('<div><button>Action</button></div>')
+        const element = container.firstElementChild as HTMLElement
+        element.focus()
+        const callback = register('Enter', {
+          target: scope === 'control' ? element : container,
+        })
+        expect(dispatchKey(element, 'Enter').defaultPrevented).toBe(true)
+        expect(callback).toHaveBeenCalledOnce()
+      },
+    )
+
+    it.each([
+      ['K', 'k', {}],
+      ['Escape', 'Escape', {}],
+      ['Mod+S', 's', { metaKey: true }],
+      ['Shift+Space', ' ', { shiftKey: true }],
+      ['Alt+Enter', 'Enter', { altKey: true, code: 'Enter' }],
+      ['Control+Enter', 'Enter', { ctrlKey: true }],
+      ['Meta+Enter', 'Enter', { metaKey: true }],
+    ] as const)('preserves %s on buttons', (hotkey, key, modifiers) => {
+      const element = focusControl()
+      const callback = register(hotkey, { platform: 'mac' })
+      dispatchKey(element, key, modifiers)
+      expect(callback).toHaveBeenCalledOnce()
+    })
+
+    it('protects a button in an open shadow root', () => {
+      const host = focusControl('<div></div>')
+      const shadow = host.attachShadow({ mode: 'open' })
+      const button = document.createElement('button')
+      shadow.append(button)
+      button.focus()
+      const callback = register('Enter')
+      expect(dispatchKey(button, 'Enter').defaultPrevented).toBe(false)
+      expect(callback).not.toHaveBeenCalled()
+    })
+
+    it('still handles activation keys when no native control has focus', () => {
+      const element = focusControl('<div tabindex="0">Content</div>')
+      const callback = register('Space')
+      dispatchKey(element, ' ')
+      expect(callback).toHaveBeenCalledOnce()
+    })
+  },
+)
+
+it('does not consume native activation as a sequence step', () => {
+  const element = focusControl()
+  const callback = vi.fn()
+  const manager = SequenceManager.getInstance()
+  const handle = manager.register(['Space', 'G'], callback)
+  dispatchKey(element, ' ')
+  expect(manager.registrations.state.get(handle.id)?.matchedStepCount).toBe(0)
+  element.blur()
+  dispatchKey(document.body, 'g')
+  expect(callback).not.toHaveBeenCalled()
+})
+
+it('preserves native activation for a physical-code binding', () => {
+  const element = focusControl()
+  const callback = vi.fn()
+  HotkeyManager.getInstance().register({ code: 'NumpadEnter' }, callback)
+  expect(
+    dispatchKey(element, 'Enter', { code: 'NumpadEnter' }).defaultPrevented,
+  ).toBe(false)
+  expect(callback).not.toHaveBeenCalled()
+})