Do you ever feel like your typing experience is lacking on your Mac? If so, you’re not alone. Many Mac users are looking for an upgrade to their typing experience, and the answer might be a mechanical keyboard. But with so many options available, how do you know which one is the best for your Mac? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the different types of mechanical keyboards that can be used with Macs, as well as what to look for when making a purchase. So if you’re ready to get an upgrade to your typing experience, read on!
What Is a Mechanical Keyboard and Why Get One?
A mechanical keyboard is a type of keyboard that uses a key press to actuate a switch, which in turn sends a signal to the computer. Often considered to be more responsive and accurate than a standard keyboard. Additionally, mechanical keyboards typically have more keys than a standard keyboard, making them more suitable for gaming and other intensive uses.
Why get a mechanical keyboard?
There are many reasons to get a mechanical keyboard. For starters, they often consider more responsive and accurate than standard keyboards. Additionally, they typically have more keys than a standard keyboard, making them more suitable for gaming and other intensive uses. Finally, they are often less expensive than standard keyboards.
Which models are best for Macs?
There are many models of mechanical keyboards that are compatible with Macs. However, the five best models that we recommend are the Corsair K70 RGB Platinum, the Razer BlackWidow Ultimate 2016, the Logitech G213 Prodigy RGB Gaming Keyboard, the Microsoft Sculpt Comfort Keyboard (Blue), and the Apple Magic Keyboard (2018). Each of these models has unique features that make it a great choice for Mac users. For example, the Corsair K70 RGB Platinum is one of the most popular mechanical keyboards on the market and is perfect for gamers and PC enthusiasts who need durability and performance. The Razer BlackWidow Ultimate 2016 is another great option for gamers and PC enthusiasts who need an ultra-responsive keyboard that can handle intense gaming sessions. The Logitech G213 Prodigy RGB Gaming Keyboard is perfect for typists who need an ergonomic design that is comfortable to use for extended periods of time. The Microsoft Sculpt Comfort Keyboard (Blue) is perfect for people who need a standard keyboard that can also be used for gaming. Finally, the Apple Magic Keyboard (2018) is perfect for people who want an intuitive design that also offers great performance. Each of these models offers unique features that make it a great choice for Mac users.
5 Best Mechanical Keyboards Compatible With Macs
If you’re a Mac user, you should definitely consider getting a mechanical keyboard. They’re incredibly responsive and provide a more tactile experience than their membrane counterparts. Here are five of the best ones for Macs.
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The Das Keyboard 4 is a great option for Mac users. It has a number of features that make it stand out, including programmable keys and media control keys.
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The Corsair K70 is another great mechanical keyboard for Mac users. It has a number of features, including programmable keys and RGB lighting.
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The Roccat Ryos MK Pro is another great option for Mac users. It has a number of features, including programmable keys and N-Key rollover support.
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The Corsair K65 is another great mechanical keyboard for Mac users. It has a number of features, including programmable keys and Cherry MX Brown switches.
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The Filco Majestouch 2 is another great option for Mac users. It has a number of features, including programmable keys and tactile feedback.
Tips for Choosing the Right Model
If you’re looking for a keyboard that’s comfortable to use and offers fast typing speeds, a mechanical keyboard is a great option. Use switches that are activated by pressing down on the key, rather than by moving your fingers across the keyboard. This means that you’ll get faster typing speeds and less fatigue over time.
There are a variety of different types of switches available on mechanical keyboards, and each offers its own unique set of benefits. Some of the most popular switches include rubber dome, scissor, and click switches. Rubber dome switches are the most common type and offer good tactile feedback and long key life. Scissor switches are designed to provide quick response times and are preferred by gamers and typists who need to move their fingers quickly across the keyboard. Click switches are popular among typists who need to press down hard on the key to activate it.
In addition to choosing the right type of switch, you’ll also need to consider your keyboard’s layout. Most mechanical keyboards come with multiple layout options, so you can customize the layout to fit your needs. You can also adjust the key travel distance and height to find a keyboard that’s comfortable for you.
Finally, consider adding some advanced features and accessories to your mechanical keyboard. These include backlighting, macro recording, and extra keys for multimedia functions like media control and volume control.
If you’re looking for a comfortable, fast typing experience, a mechanical keyboard is a great option. Make sure to choose the right model based on your needs and preferences, and add some optional features to make your experience even better.
Different Types of Switches Explained
There are a few different types of switches used in mechanical keyboards, each with its own unique features and benefits. The three most common types of switches are Cherry MX, Alps, and Gateron.
Cherry MX switches are the most popular type of switch used in mechanical keyboards, and they offer the best overall performance. They’re available in both standard and pinky-finger variants, and they offer smooth, consistent key presses with minimal noise.
Alps switches are similar to Cherry MX switches, but they offer slightly better keystroke accuracy. They’re also available in standard and pinky-finger variants, and they’re popular among gamers because they provide fast response times and precise control over your movements.
Gateron switches are a newer type of switch that’s gaining popularity among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. They offer similar performance to Cherry MX switches, but they’re also less noisy and easier to clean.
How to Customize Your Keyboard Layout
Reprogramming Keys with a Utility App
If you’re looking for a way to customize your keyboard layout and interface, then the best option is to use a utility app. There are a number of options available, but our favorite is Switcher. It’s free and easy to use, letting you reprogram keys with just a few clicks. You can also make changes to other settings, such as speed and backlight intensity. If you’re looking for more flexibility than Switcher provides, or if you need assistance customizing your keyboard for specific tasks or languages, then consider investing in one of the paid options available.
Installing and Configuring Custom Keycaps
There are many ways to customize your keyboard layout, and each user will have their own preferences. However, some general tips for customizing your keyboard include:
- Check out online keyboard communities or forums to get ideas for keycap layouts and other customization options.
- Try out different layouts and see which ones work best for you. You can also download keyboard layouts from websites like Keychords.net.
- If you want to change the keycaps on your keyboard, you’ll need to purchase a replacement set of keys. You can find replacement keycaps for most popular keyboard layouts online or at specialty retailers.
- Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions for installing and configuring custom keycaps before you start using them. Many keyboards require specific software or hardware to be installed in order to use custom keycaps.
Adding Keyboard Shortcuts for Mac Applications
Mac users have a wealth of keyboard shortcuts at their disposal, thanks to the macOS key command. For example, pressing SPC (control + shift + C) will bring up the Spotlight search bar on Macs running 10.12 or later; pressing Option (OS X) while holding down control will open the system preferences window; and press F5 to restart your computer. With so many commands at your fingertips, customizing your keyboard layout can be a boon when working on specific tasks or using specific applications.
Before you start tinkering with your keyboard’s layout, it’s important to understand how macOS assigns keys in default layouts. To find out, open System Preferences (while holding down cmd/apple). In the System Preferences window, select Keyboard. In the Keyboard section, you’ll see all of your current keyboard layouts listed. The first row in that list is the primary layout – the layout that macOS uses by default when you don’t specify a specific layout with the key command. The next row is the secondary layout, which becomes active if you press one of the key commands mentioned earlier while in either of your primary or secondary layouts. (For example, pressing SPC while in standard English will switch to French as your secondary language.)
If you want to change a key’s function but keep it assigned to its default keyboard shortcut, simply disable its shortcut in System Preferences and reenable it later using the key command. For instance, to disable the F5 key’s shortcut, enter the following command in System Preferences:
defaults write NSUserKeyboardShortcuts -string “F5” NO
Now you can access the F5 key by pressing Control+F5 (or just F5). To enable the key’s shortcut again, simply enter the same command without the minus sign.
Once you have your layout configured the way you want it, it’s time to start adding keyboard shortcuts for specific applications. In macOS 10.12 and later, all applications installed on your system are listed in App Store under Applications -> Utilities. To add a keyboard shortcut for an application, open that application and select Keyboard Shortcuts from the menu bar at the top of the window. You’ll see a list of all the keyboard shortcuts for that application. (If an application isn’t listed, that means that its keyboard shortcut wasn’t added by Apple and you’ll need to add it yourself.)
To add a new keyboard shortcut, simply click on the + button at the bottom of the list and enter your desired shortcut in the “Keyboard Shortcut Title” field. For example, if I wanted to create a keyboard shortcut for Adobe Photoshop, I would enter “Adobe Photoshop.” You can then optionally provide a custom modifier key (for example, Control+Option+7) and a modifier value (for example, ctrl+shift+P), and finally hit OK. Clicking OK will add your new keyboard shortcut to the list in App Store.
As you can see, keyboard shortcuts make working on Macs a lot easier and faster. By taking the time to personalize your keyboard layout and add keyboard shortcuts for the applications you use most, you’ll be able to work more effectively and efficiently.
Utilizing Macro Settings to Automate Complex Tasks
When it comes to typing, there’s no one correct way to do it. Chaque person has their own personal preferences that must be taken into account when working on a computer. Pour rendre things even more complicated, different keyboards are designed for different tasks and can have completely different layouts. Additionally, many Mac users prefer to use a keyboard shortcut rather than using the scissor key (the key between the ‘[‘ and ‘]’ keys) to cut and paste text. Here are five tips on how to customize your keyboard layout, as well as some additional information on macro settings and automating complex tasks:
To change your keyboard layout, open “System Preferences” by clicking “Preferences” in the top menu bar of the application you’re using ( Safari, Firefox, etc.), then clicking “Keyboard” in the left sidebar. In the Keyboard section, you’ll see a list of layouts defined by system software. Select the layout you’d like to use and hit “Enter.”
To make use of keyboard shortcuts, first decide which application will require them. Next, open that application and activate its shortcut menu (it’s usually located on the right side of your screen). Locate the command you need (usually an abbreviation preceded by a ‘cmd’ keystroke) and select it. For example: To copy text using Cut/Copy/Paste ( cmd+c , cmd+v , cmd+x ), open a document containing the text you want to copy and press ‘cmd’ + ‘c’ at the same time.
Macros are a great way to automate complex tasks. To create a macro, first decide what you want the macro to do. For example, you might want to create a macro that copies text multiple times. Next, open “System Preferences” by clicking “Preferences” in the top menu bar of the application you’re using ( Safari, Firefox, etc.), then clicking ” Keyboard” in the left sidebar. In the Keyboard section, click on the “Keyboard Shortcuts” tab and select “Macros.” In the “Macro Recording” section, click on the “Add” button and type in the name of your macro. For example: To copy text multiple times using a macro named “Copy Text,” open a document containing the text you want to copy and press ‘cmd’ + ‘c’ at the same time. Once you’ve named your macro, click on the “Add” button and select “Macros.” In the “Macro Actions” section, click on the “Add” button and select the command you want your macro to execute ( Cut/Copy/Paste, for example). After selecting the command, click on the “Add” button and select “Repeat.” Finally, click on the “OK” button to save your macro.
To use your macro, open “System Preferences” by clicking “Preferences” in the top menu bar of the application you’re using ( Safari, Firefox, etc.), then clicking ” Keyboard” in the left sidebar. In the Keyboard section, click on the “Keyboard Shortcuts” tab and select “Macros.” In the “Macro Actions” section, click on the “Execute” button and select your macro. After selecting your macro, click on the “OK” button to save your changes and exit System Preferences.
To automate a complex task, first decide what you want to automate. For example, you might want to create a macro that copies text multiple times. Next, open “System Preferences” by clicking “Preferences” in the top menu bar of the application you’re using ( Safari, Firefox, etc.), then clicking ” Keyboard” in the left sidebar. In the Keyboard section, click on the “Keyboard Shortcuts” tab and select “Macros.” In the “Macro Actions” section, expand the macro you created in step 2 and locate the command you want your macro to execute ( Cut/Copy/Paste, for example). After selecting the command, click on the “Add” button and select “Repeat.” Finally, click on the “OK” button to save your changes and exit System Preferences.
In addition to macros and keyboard shortcuts, it’s also possible to customize how your keyboard works. To do this, open System Preferences by clicking ‘Preferences’ in the top menu bar of any application then clicking ‘ Keyboard’. In this window you’ll see a list of options that can be adjusted including “Keyboard Shortcuts,” “Keyboard Layouts” and “Text Input.
Advanced Features & Accessories of Premium Models
RGB Lighting & Customization
RGB lighting is becoming increasingly popular on keyboards as it allows users to customize their keyboard’s appearance in different colors. Some keyboards even let you change the colors of individual keys. For example, the Corsair K70 RGB has twenty-four color options, each with a dedicated key. Of course, not all RGB keyboards offer this level of customization; for example, the Apple Mac Keyboard (Late 2016) only offers five colors for each key. Regardless, RGB lighting is a great way to personalize your keyboard and make it look different from everyone else’s.
Another advanced feature that many premium mechanical keyboards now offer is customizable Key Rollover. This feature allows you to configure how many keys will still be registered when you press more than one at the same time. For example, if you are a gamer and frequently use multiple keys simultaneously, this feature will save you time by allowing you to press all of the keys without having to wait for them to register.
Finally, many premium keyboards now offer full macro support. This means that you can program complex tasks, such as pressing a series of keys to launch a program, without having to use any other tools.
Dedicated Media Keys & Volume Control
If you’re looking for a keyboard that offers a lot of advanced features and customization options, then you’ll want to consider investing in a premium mechanical keyboard. Some of the more notable features of these keyboards include RGB lighting, dedicated media keys, and volume control.
RGB lighting is a popular feature on premium mechanical keyboards, as it allows you to customize the color of each key individually. This can be useful if you want to create a unique look for your keyboard or if you need to differentiate between different keys.
Dedicated media keys are another feature that often found on premium mechanical keyboards. This allows you to control music playback, video playback, and other multimedia applications with ease.
Volume control is also an important feature on premium mechanical keyboards. This allows you to adjust the volume of your keyboard without having to go through the main menu of your computer.
Detachable Cables & Wrist Rests
When it comes to advanced features and accessories, premium mechanical keyboards can vary significantly in terms of their capabilities. Some models come with detachable cables and wrist rests, making them easier to use and more comfortable. Additionally, some keyboards may have additional features, such as backlighting or macro recording, that are worth considering if you frequently use your keyboard for work or gaming.
Ultimately, the best mechanical keyboard for you will depend on your needs and preferences. However, the features listed above are some of the most common and important features to consider when shopping for a keyboard.
Programmable Macro Keys & Key Switches
One of the most important features of a good mechanical keyboard is the ability to customize its settings to suit your needs. This is where programmable macro keys and key switches come in handy. Macro keys are small buttons that can be programmed to perform specific actions, such as opening a certain application or text document. Key switches allow you to change the function of individual keys, which can come in handy if you frequently use a specific key for a different task. Both features are available on some of the best mechanical keyboards for Mac.
Common FAQs About Mechanical Keyboards on Macs
FAQs About Mechanical Keyboards on Macs
- How do I clean my keyboard?
- The best way to clean your mechanical keyboard is to disassemble it and clean each key individually. If you don’t have the time or inclination for this, then you can use a vacuum cleaner with the appropriate attachments, such as a dustbin or soft brush. Be sure to wipe down the inside of the case and switch out the keycaps if necessary. Finally, dry everything off before reassembling.
Guide to Cleaning and Maintaining Your Keyboard
Alternative Tech Solutions: Wireless, Ergonomic & More
Wireless Keyboards: There are a few options for wireless mechanical keyboards available on the market today. One option is to connect your keyboard using Bluetooth. Another option is to use a USB receiver that you plug into your computer. Unfortunately, there are some downsides to using wireless keyboards. For one, they can be slower than wired models because they require extra time to transmit data. Additionally, if your computer experiences interference or poor reception, then your keyboard will also experience problems. Finally, if you lose connection with your keyboard, then you’ll have to reconnect it before you can continue typing.
Ergonomic Keyboard Options: There are a variety of ergonomic keyboards available on the market today that offer different features and benefits depending on what you’re looking for. Some popular options include backlit keyboards that improve visibility in dark environments, detachable cables so you can easily move the keyboard around while working and multiple key layout options so that you can customize the layout to suit your needs specifically. If being comfortable while typing is important to you, then an ergonomic keyboard might be ideal for you!
Alternative Tech Solutions: If wireless or ergonomic keyboards aren’t appealing to you and traditional mechanical keys just feel right somehow then there are other alternative tech solutions available such as trackpads and touchscreens. While these technologies don’t offer all of the same benefits as physical keys (obviously!) they do have their own set of advantages and disadvantages which we’ll explore later in this guide..
10 Tricks & Hacks for Faster Typing Speeds
If you’re like most people, you spend a fair amount of time typing on a keyboard. Whether you’re working on a project or just need to finish up some homework, a good keyboard can make all the difference. That’s why we’ve put together this guide on the best mechanical keyboards for Macs.
When it comes to choosing the right one, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, what type of keyboard do you need? Are you looking for an actual physical keyboard or something that uses Bluetooth or wireless technology? Finally, what platform is your computer running on? If it’s a Mac, there are specific models that are compatible with the operating system. Once you know these basics, it’s time to get shopping! Here are our top 5 picks:
Logitech G213 Prodigy RGB Keyboard
This model is perfect if you’re looking for something luxurious and feature-rich. With its ridiculous number of programmable keys (97!), gaming features and backlight options, it has everything anyone could want in a keyboard short of total programmability. It also works perfectly with Macs thanks to its Apple Certified keybaord which means less hassle when syncing between devices or transferring data over USB ports. Pricing starts at around $130 USD so don’t miss out!
*Ducky Shine 3 Silent Mechanical Keyboard*
What makes this keyboard great is that it doesn’t require any additional software in order to work with your computer – simply plug it in and start typing away! The design is also very sleek and modern so you’ll be sure to stand out from the rest while using this impressive device. Priced at around $120 USD, this is definitely one of our top recommendations if price isn’t an issue for you.
*Razer BlackWidow Chroma V2 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard*
If speed and accuracy are two things that matter most to you when typing then look no further than the Razer BlackWidow Chroma V2! This amazing board offers lightning-fast response times combined with 16 dedicated macro buttons that can be customized instantly according to your needs – making him one heck of an efficient typist indeed! At around $130 USD however (although prices vary depending on where you purchase), this may not be as affordable as some other models available on the market today.
*Microsoft Natural Ergonomic 4000 Mouse Keyboard*
For those who rely heavily on their mouse instead of a keyboard, the Microsoft Natural Ergonomic 4000 Mouse Keyboard is a great option. With its stylish design, backlit keys and comfortable palm rest, this mouse is perfect for either left- or right-handed individuals. It also works with Macs without any issue so you can be confident that it will meet your needs. Pricing starts at around $100 USD, making it a great value for the money if you’re in need of a keyboard that can work with your computer and mouse.
*Corsair K70 RapidFire RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard*
If all you’re looking for is an affordable mechanical keyboard that offers excellent performance then look no further than the Corsair K70 RapidFire RGB! This model features authentic Cherry MX Brown switches which deliver lightning fast response times while gaming or typing away on your mac. Plus, the backlighting allows you to customize each key individually to make sure everything looks just how you want it to. At around $60 USD (although prices may vary depending on where you purchase), this model is one of our favorites and won’t break the bank while still providing top-notch keystrokes. So which one should YOU buy? Well, that’s up to you! Just remember to take into account what type of keyboard and platform your computer runs on when making your decision so everything falls into place seamlessly.
Alternative Tech Solutions: Wireless, Ergonomic & More
If you are finding yourself frustrated with the time it takes to type, a mechanical keyboard may be the perfect solution for you. These keyboards use tactile switches that provide responsive feedback when pressed. This means that even if you are slow typist, a mechanical keyboard will make your tasks much faster. Furthermore, many models come with extra features such as backlighting and macro programming that can simplify your workflows. If all of this sounds like temptation enough for you, continue reading for our top five picks for the best mechanical keyboards compatible with Macs!
With so many great mechanical keyboards to choose from, now you have the information needed to pick the perfect one for your Mac. Now that you’re up-to-date with all the tips and tricks of working with a mechanical keyboard, you can make sure it lasts longer and performs better on your Mac. To continue learning about essential computer accessories for Mac users, be sure to check out our other content!