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(Space on desk for your keyboard ?.) Keep the MacBook plugged-in to a power source. However, also consider draining the battery to a full discharge once in a while (recommended is at least once a month) to maintain its health. I have a similar setup with an external display, wired keyboard and wired mouse connected to my MacBook Pro. Macbook Pro retina with external apple keyboard and a logic wireless mouse USB transmitter plugged in. I do have Logitec’s Special software “Unifying” for the mouse installed on El Capitan but it did not make a difference for this problem.
- Keyboards For Macbook Pro
- External Wired Keyboard For Macbook Pro 15
- Wireless Keyboard For Macbook Pro
- External Wired Keyboard For Macbook Pro Touch Screen
- Macbook External Keyboard And Mouse
- New Macbook Pro Keyboard
No matter how great your overall Mac experience is, you can always improve it, and finding the best keyboard that suits your needs perfectly is an excellent way to start. When you find and buy such a keyboard, you’ll certainly wonder why you didn’t get it before. Same as many other Mac accessories, a good keyboard can really make a difference – you won’t be frustrated when typing, and you will increase your productivity. In this article, we are going to talk about the top best Mac keyboards, so keep on reading because you may find the one perfect for your needs.
See also: How to find the best mouse for Mac
What to consider when choosing a keyboard?
Browsing through the sheer number of best Mac keyboards available online may change the common notion that Apple doesn’t support third-party accessories. While the manufacturer is capable of making the most premium peripherals such as the newly launched Magic Keyboard, Air Pods and the unique Apple mouse, there are so many third party manufacturers ready to aid your usage scenario.
Apple follows a specific design pattern whereas you can get a similar, completely new experience from a Logitech keyboard or a cheaper alternative with additional features. The best part is that they make it pure white with a matte finish so that it easily syncs with the design aesthetics of your Mac setup at home or the office.
Before we list some of the best Mac keyboards, let’s see the things you should consider.
- Ergonomics – If you are spending hours working on your computer every day, your hands should be in a natural position when you are typing, which means you need to choose a keyboard with such a design. Many great keyboards come with the adjustable tilt and height and with such keyboard, you won’t feel any pain in joints after hours of work and you will feel comfortable when typing.
- Type of keys – There are many laptop-style keyboards for Mac, and all of them look wonderful. However, many people simply don’t like these type of keyboards as it may feel strange when typing. If you are one of those people, the keyboard with the raised keys a much better option.
- Wireless or wired keyboard? You will have to decide if you want a keyboard with or without a cable. The wired keyboard is a much better option for gaming because with such a keyboard you will avoid lag issues that may occur sometimes. If you don’t like cables, the wireless keyboard for which you need the USB port on your computer is the perfect option for you but don’t forget that you will need the batteries. Also, wireless keyboards are usually more expensive.
- Features – Many keyboards today come with additional function buttons and media features buttons such as page up and down, volume up and down, browser button, mute button, just to name a few. If you don’t like such options, don’t worry, there are many awesome keyboards with just the standard QWERTY keys.
Best Mac Keyboards
The cheapest wired full-size keyboard
Mac allay Full-Size USB Wired Mac Keyboard
After having spent thousands of dollars for your Apple Mac setup, you may probably want to save some money on your replacement keyboard. Although your mileage may vary, this is the cheapest full-size keyboard you can find for your Mac. The white design seamlessly syncs with your Macintosh and the full-sized design allows you to get more things done, especially with the numeric pads being ideal for people in accounting.
The designers have implemented 15 Apple-specific shortcut keys to easily access all repeatedly used functions such as cut, copy and paste. There are also dedicated buttons to pause, play, increase or decrease the volume in your iTunes. It is a wired keyboard and the low-profile key doesn’t produce any noise when you type. For people who are largely addicted to Bluetooth, this may sound a bit off. However, if you are not interested in replacing batteries and like to keep it plugged in, this feature becomes useful.
Why should you buy this keyboard?
- The full-sized keyboard includes a numeric keypad, making it easy for people into accounting to get things done faster.
- It is USB wired version which ensures that you don’t have to worry about replacing batteries again.
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Best Apple Keyboard
Apple Wired Keyboard with numeric keypad
If you don’t want anything but Apple, this ultra-thin keyboard is a perfect choice. It has a beautiful and stylish design, built-in USB ports, and low profile keys. To can access many different Mac features such as eject, volume, screen brightness, fast-forward, rewind, just to name a few. For many users, this is unquestionably one of the best Mac keyboards.
While there are so many amazing choices available, the Apple-designed Magic Keyboard for Mac is without a doubt the best product you could buy. The third-party manufacturers do offer a similar white design with a compact footprint and some additional features like Solar charging that may not be available in the original version. It continues to stand out as the best made possible keyboard with Apple’s robust build quality.
The keyboard uses a scissor mechanism behind each key providing it more stability and posture when you type continuously. The key travel is very less that keeps it silent at all times and provides a precise typing experience with no wrist or finger fatigue. The built-in rechargeable battery lasts at least for a month before it needs to be recharged. This is a full-sized keyboard from Apple providing you the numeric keypad that is integral for accounting work.
Why should you buy this keyboard?
- The Magic keyboard is made by none other than Apple that provides you brand assurance and design aesthetics.
- The battery life is excellent and, it being a full-sized keyboard sweetens the deal.
Keyboards For Macbook Pro
Best Compact Keyboard For Mac
Anker® Ultra Compact Slim Profile Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard
Many users prefer wireless keyboards, and if you are one of them this beautiful, slim keyboard may be exactly what you have been looking for. It deserves to be on the list of the best Mac keyboards for several reasons. It is a lightweight keyboard, intuitive and very comfortable for typing. If you are not using the keyboard for half an hour, it will go into the power saving mode automatically. It is not only the perfect keyboard for your Mac, but it is also compatible with iOS devices, Android, and Windows. Its price starts at $25.
Anker has meticulously designed this Bluetooth keyboard and they have come out with flying colors in making it ultra-compact and slim. The Bluetooth keyboard doesn’t have a numeric keyboard and is so small that it occupies only two-third of the space occupied by a traditional keyboard. Powered by a large 800mAh battery, it can run for nearly six months even if you use it for two hours non-stop daily.
Using a keyboard without a break is very difficult which confirms that it should easily last months and the Bluetooth is designed to automatically connect with the last device it was paired with. The Anker compact keyboard is also compatible with a range of Bluetooth devices including Mac, PC, Windows, iOS and Android. You can use it easily with your iPhone, Mac or an Android phone. Anker has also ensured that it is easy to type on this device with low-profile matte keys with the frame being sturdy to last long.
Why should you buy this keyboard?
- The best compact keyboard that you could buy for your Mac
- The battery life is reliable and lasts months on a single charge
A Mac keyboard with mechanical switches
Azio Mk-Mac Wired USB Backlit Keyboard with Brown K-Switch
Have you ever heard of a mechanical keyboard for the Apple Mac? If you haven’t, this Azio MK-Mac keyboard should put you on track. Mechanical key switches are popular among gamers and typists in the world of Windows computers. For Mac, it is a concept unheard of. But for the enthusiasts out there who want the best of OS X and input choices, Azio has an option. They have managed to retain the pure white color and used white backlights for the keyboard bringing it on par with any Mac-friendly keyboard out there.
While the product featured here is the USB wired model, you can also find the MK Mac BT with a Bluetooth setup for a slightly higher price. The keyboard features tactile brown k-switches which are non-clicky and doesn’t make too much noise. The MK-Mac Wired USB keyboard is exclusively designed for Mac with all Apple-specific button layout including hotkeys for easy access. It also has a dedicated volume control wheel which should make analog lovers happy as you can increase or reduce the volume on your iTunes music playback at will.
Why should you buy this keyboard?
- Mechanical switches for Mac is a unique feature that sets this keyboard apart from the competition.
- Azio has also maintained the Mac key layout and provides a physical volume control button enhancing the analog experience.
Sale
Best Mac Keyboard With Modern Design
Logitech Bluetooth Easy-Switch K811 Keyboard For Mac
Logitech Bluetooth Easy-Switch Keyboard with Bluetooth technology is specially designed for Mac. It has bright backlit keys for typing in a dark room. battery life is excellent. It is slim, compact and it has a beautiful, modern design. It can be used for the iPad and iPhone as well. It provides an enjoyable typing experience.
Logitech is primarily a peripherals manufacturer for Windows PCs but they are not giving up on the world of Mac and Apple devices. The Logitech Easy-Switch K811 is the best Mac keyboard you will ever need if you have already invested heavily in Apple’s ecosystem of devices. The Easy-Switch name comes from an actual switch found on this keyboard which allows you to seamlessly change between your Mac, iPad or iPhone to keep typing without interruptions.
The Bluetooth keyboard provides a solid range of up to 30 feet which allows you to keep it connected to multiple devices in the vicinity. The keys are all backlit, facilitating you to type in the dark and it also includes a rechargeable battery. The USB cable can be used to recharge it which should theoretically last at least a month of daily usage. Logitech has designed a unique keycap for the K811 which enables it to be whisper-quiet when typing and it also sports a Mac layout to let Apple fans use it seamlessly on familiar grounds.
Why should you buy this keyboard?
- Logitech’s unique and useful easy switch technology allows you to change the connection between a Mac, iPhone or iPad easily. A must-have for people with multiple Apple devices.
- Quite keys that are comfortable yet don’t make any noise during long typing sessions.
Other models worth buying
Best Ergonomic Keyboard For Mac
Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000
External Wired Keyboard For Macbook Pro 15
This model has a cutting-edge design, and some of the key features are intuitive Zoom Slider, customizable hotkeys, and improved number pad. Typing on it is a pure pleasure, so if you want a keyboard from Microsoft, feel free to go for this one.
Why should you buy this keyboard?
- Women who work out of homes must invest in this keyboard as it is extremely comfortable to use.
- For the ones who are looking for greater comfort and keep wrist pains at bay having this keyboard is preferable.
Best Wireless Keyboard For Mac
Logitech Wireless solar keyboard K750 for Mac
If you like wireless keyboards, you will love this keyboard! Rely on the light instead of the batteries, because any light source will keep this keyboard charged. It delivers an enjoyable typing experience – you will type quieter, and faster. It has ultra-thin design and it comes with a familiar Mac layout.
Why should you buy this keyboard?
- Logitech is a brand that has been manufacturing some great keyboards of all genres. Their keyboards do not wear off easily.
- There is no need to charge the batteries as the keyboard works on solar power.
Sale
Best Mac Keyboard For Fast Typing
Das Keyboard Professional Models S for Mac
It comes with ultra-sensitive tactile response meaning to type much faster with ease. Das keyboard has two-port USB 2.0 hub – you can connect USB compatible devices or charge your iPhone. There are Mac function keys included: play/pause, next and previous track, volume up and down, mute, brightness up and down, sleep etc.
Why should you buy this keyboard?
- The keys can be replaced as desired while using different kinds of Operating systems.
- The multi-media keys option offers great functionality and usability experience.
Best Cheap Keyboard For Mac
Macally 103 key full-size USB keyboard
This keyboard could be the right one for you since it is an inexpensive substitute for Apple keyboards. It comes with Mac OS X features and shortcut keys and LED indicator for power, Num lock and caps lock. Macally keyboard delivers outstanding typing experience thanks to the low-profile responsive keys. The price of this keyboard is under $15.
Why should you buy this keyboard?
- This keyboard is best suitable for those who are into long hours of typing as it is comfortable to use.
- This keyboard can be ideal for those who like to work with shortcut keys.
Sale
Best Apple Keyboard With Long Battery Life
Matias Laptop Pro Keyboard for Mac
It is compact and easy to pack with great 1,600 mAh battery. The Mac-friendly function keys allow you to control the volume, brightness, and more. It connects to Android, iPad, PCs and other Bluetooth devices. It also has a great design.
Why should you buy this keyboard?
- This keyboard is ideal for people who work for long working hours
- This quiet keyboard offers an amazing experience for people with fast typing skills
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Mac keyboards be used with an iPad?
Check the specs sheet of the keyboard. Those keyboards designed to work on Mac computers may not be compatible with the iOS run iPads. Certain keys may not function or may offer different results. It is advisable to send a mail to the manufacturer of the Mac keyboard you are planning to buy or the seller to get a confirmation before placing the order. There are keyboards with the provision to alternate between different Apple products.
Are the Mac keyboards silent while typing?
Wireless Keyboard For Macbook Pro
Not necessarily. Many keyboards do produce noise while pressing the keys. If you are used to typing at a rapid speed, the noise levels may even be higher. Some high-end keyboards come with softer keys. Check out the listing which specifically addresses this issue and then place the order.
Will a Mac keyboard work with the Windows OS?
Not all Mac keyboards may have that capability. Yet, there are keyboards in the market that can be used with Mac machines and with Windows PCs as well. However, the typing experience may differ. If you can buy dedicated keyboards for Mac and other operating systems, you will feel comfortable with both.
Are wireless keyboards better or wired keyboards?
Both wireless, as well as wired keyboards, are good. Functionally there is hardly any difference between the two. The keys and the layout will all be the same. The only difference is that a wired keyboard will have a cord to connect the keyboard to the machine. In the case of the wireless keyboard, there is the USB receiver which you have to plug in to start using the keyboard. One benefit of the wireless keyboard is that you can use it from a distance. You can recline on your sofa and type keeping the laptop at a distance.
How soon do the letters and numbers on the keys wear out on keyboards?
In a normal environment with regular use, the letters on the keyboards don’t wear out easily. If the keyboard is used in a highly dusty atmosphere or the user does not have clean fingers while typing away, then the letters or numbers and symbols can get erased. Some manufacturers use lamination to protect the letters. Ultimately, it is in the hands of the users.
Bottom line
A whole lot of new products have arrived. Picking the best Mac keyboard could be a difficult choice right now. If you have a good idea of your expectation, it should be much easier to choose one. The Logitech keyboard uses an unconventional solar power while Anker offers the most compact keyboard you could find. There’s even a keyboard with mechanical switches and another one that connects with every Apple device. Pick your preferred one and enhance your Mac experience
These are some of the top best Mac keyboards you can get. When choosing a keyboard, don’t forget to consider the things we have mentioned at the beginning, such as ergonomics, type of keys, features, and so on. We have listed different types of keyboards here so that every person can find a perfect fit!
There are so many factors to consider when choosing a wireless keyboard for your MacBook Pro.
The last thing you want is to end up getting a wireless keyboard that is not compatible to your Mac.
Or one that does not give you the right typing feel because of its poorly designed keystroke pressure. Also considering the frustration you will experience when all the factors are right, but it has terrible wireless connectivity issues. Causing major lags throughout the course of your works .
In this article, we’ll show you a list of the best wireless keyboards, and help you pick the right one and put the spotlight on a few of our personal favorites.
Quick Summary
External keyboards come in a variety of styles and many offer special quirks that other brands may not. Here’s our breakdown of what’s best when it comes to available features:
- For the official Apple option that is sure to work perfectly with your MacBook, we recommend Apple Magic Keyboard.
- For a classic mechanical keyboard with a modern touch, we recommend Logitech MK545 Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo.
- For a full-size keyboard with glossy, flat keys and a USB dongle connection, we recommend Arteck HB030B Universal Slim.
- For a compact and Bluetooth option that will work on more than one device, we recommend Anker Ultra Compact.
Do I Need an External Keyboard for My MacBook?
External keyboards can be a great asset to your MacBook setup. They offer a variety of benefits, such as greater adjustability and positioning freedom for your screen. You can also sit further away from the harsh light, which is better for your eyes (and health).
If you plan on selling your MacBook eventually, an external keyboard will prevent the built-in keys from accumulating wear and tear. That means your Mac laptop will get higher resales value.
You’ll also benefit most from a keyboard if you’re someone who tends to use your MacBook Pro along with other device or papers that take up a lot of space on your desk, or in a relaxed environment where you have the freedom to spread out as much as you need.
That said, an external keyboard will be less helpful if you tend to use your MacBook Pro while commuting, in isolation, or do not have enough space at your workplace to expand.
Also, for those who own the newest MacBook Pro with the beautiful touch bar, you’ll be giving up easy access to Apple’s latest innovation if you choose to purchase an external keyboard.
So, as you see: it’s not always a good (nor bad) idea to buy an external keyboard for your MacBook, all depending on your goals and preferences. If you’ve decided to purchase one, make sure you also learn the following criteria.
The Best MacBook Pro Keyboards in 2020: Our Picks
Please note that all the products listed below are chosen based on the guidelines above and our personal preferences. They are not in any particular order and offer their own advantages and disadvantages.
1. Apple Magic Keyboard
Made by Apple for Apple, the magic keyboard is the best option if you’re a pure Apple fan who decides to go all the “Apple” way to your setup. It’s a clean membrane keyboard that comes in silver and white that will flawlessly match your MacBook Pro.
Pros:
- It’s designed and made by Apple, one of the world’s most trusted brands.
- It looks beautiful with clean design, and it’s extremely light and comfortable to carry around.
Cons:
- It’s a bit pricey and certainly not the most portable design available while compared to some of our other recommendations.
- Also, it doesn’t have a numeric keypad which can be a productivity boost if you deal with numbers on a regular basis.
2. Logitech MK545 Advanced Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo
From the long-trusted Logitech brand, this mechanical keyboard is complete with a number pad and comes with a free mouse as well. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a modern wireless keyboard with an old-school touch in the form of classic clicking keys.
Pros:
- It’s battery operated and claims long lifetime before batteries need to be replaced.
- The mechanical style is great if you don’t like membrane keys.
- Also, it has a number pad and shortcuts keys.
External Wired Keyboard For Macbook Pro Touch Screen
Cons:
- Plastic keys are rougher than classic Mac keys, and may feel unappealing in comparison.
3. Arteck HB030B Universal Slim Portable Wireless Keyboard
If you’re looking for a full-sized membrane keyboard but don’t want to sacrifice a good sized chunk of space, this model from Arteck is beautifully designed and it’s much smaller than a standard keyboard. It also offers function keys and a glossy finish.
Pros:
- It’s small enough to carry easily.
- The membrane keys are smooth and can be pressed easily.
- It also includes programmable hotkeys, can be connected via USB dongle.
Cons:
- It uses a “Windows” key rather than “Command” despite Mac compatible, and the keyboard may feel cramped.
4. Anker Ultra Compact Profile Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard
With this keyboard, you won’t be limited to just your MacBook Pro – it’s compatible with your iPad as well. It’s about 30% smaller than your normal laptop keyboard, so your desk will remain uncluttered. The 6-month battery life means you won’t be worried about lack of charge when it’s time to work.
Pros:
- The rechargeable battery can last up to one month without having to recharge (based on 2 hours of non-stop use per day).
- It has clean white style, Bluetooth connection, extremely compact and slim.
- Also, it’s very light and weighs in at a featherlight about 10.4 ounces.
Cons:
- Keys might feel cramped compared to a normal keyboard, and there’s no number pad.
Useful Tips & Resources
Sometimes it’s less about what keyboard you use, rather more about how you use it. If you’re interested in some helpful key shortcuts, check out this list from ComputerWorld that will reduce the amount of time you spend unnecessarily clicking on certain tasks.
Maintaining and cleaning your keyboard is also necessary if you want to maximize its life and keep it in good shape, you may be interested in reading this article from Logitech where the author shared four quick tips to keep your device clean.
If you’ve decided to purchase an external keyboard, also consider adding these two items to your shopping cart:
- ColorCoral Keyboard Cleaner Universal Cleaning Gel – helps remove dust, hair, and crumbs from the surface of a keyboard.
- MECO Rechargeable Mini Vacuum – helps clear off dirt from inside the keyboard.
Buying an External Keyboard for Mac: What to Consider in 2020?
Keyboard Style
The first thing to consider when choosing an external keyboard is the style, which is dependent on your needs. Many laptop owners are used to membrane style keyboards, which means your keys travel a short distance and press very quietly.
But if you’re getting an external keyboard, you may prefer the mechanical keyboard that produces the classic “clacking” sound while you work. You should also determine if you need a full-size keyboard with a number pad or just the standard QWERTY lineup.
Connection Type
If you only plan on using it at a single location, you might be fine with a wired option. But if you’re always on the go, wireless is probably the better choice. Additionally, wireless keyboards come in several different types themselves. Many models use Bluetooth, but a good amount of keyboards use a USB dongle instead.
Battery Life
If you plan on going wireless, battery life is definitely a factor to consider. Most external keyboards will be battery-operated, but some are rechargeable. Whichever you end up choosing, you should keep checking if the charge length is long enough not to inconvenience you.
FAQ
Can You Use A Wireless Keyboard With A MacBook Pro?
Macbook External Keyboard And Mouse
Yes, all official Apple keyboards are wireless and fully compatible with MacBook Pro.
Can I Use A Non-Apple Keyboard With A Mac?
Non-apple keyboards can only work with Mac if it specifies Mac compatible like the list we covered above. However, do note that even if it is compatible its Bluetooth connection may not be as smooth as Apple made Magic Keyboards.
Final Words
An external keyboard is a fantastic investment if you like versatility in your workplace. It will allow you greater comfort and help you be more productive by allowing you to customize your workplace.
New Macbook Pro Keyboard
Do you already use an external keyboard with your MacBook Pro? Tell us which model you use and what your experience has been like.