diff --git a/src/calibre/gui2/search_box.py b/src/calibre/gui2/search_box.py
index 0150def30b..f2739a57af 100644
--- a/src/calibre/gui2/search_box.py
+++ b/src/calibre/gui2/search_box.py
@@ -244,6 +244,8 @@ class SearchBox2(QComboBox):  # {{{
 
     def timer_event(self):
         self._do_search(as_you_type=True)
+        # since this is an automatic search keep focus
+        self.setFocus(Qt.FocusReason.OtherFocusReason)
 
     def history_selected(self, text):
         self.changed.emit()