Apple’s Magic Keyboard is compact and elegant enough, but it’s far from the only worthy keyboard option for Mac users. Maybe you write all day, play fast-paced games, or need superior ergonomics? Or perhaps you yearn for the cacophonous comfort of mechanical key switches, which Apple’s own keyboards lack? Great alternative keyboards abound, but not all of them work perfectly with Macs, so you’ll need guidance about what works—and what works well. That’s where our extensive testing comes in. Based on typing comfort, value, software customization, and the many other factors that we evaluate each Mac keyboard on, our current favorite for most users is Satechi’s SM1 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard. We also stand behind all the Mac-compatible keyboards recommended below for more specific use cases. Check them out, plus advice on how to land the best Mac keyboard that’s—wait for it!—your type.
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
EDITORS’ NOTE
December 25, 2025: With this update, our lineup of recommended keyboards remains unchanged. The existing picks have been vetted for currency and availability. Since our last update, we reviewed and evaluated 11 new keyboards for possible inclusion in this roundup and our other keyboard roundups. We currently have three keyboards in PC Labs for evaluation, from Corsair, Be Quiet, and Razer.
- Sturdy, attractive build
- Excellent typing feel
- Multiple wireless connection options
- Long battery life (with backlighting off)
- Much cheaper than Apple’s Magic Keyboard
- No customization software
- Low-profile design is not for everyone
- 2.4GHz dongle uses USB-A, not USB-C
Apple accessories are notoriously expensive, so when we find a superior product for less, we’re eager to give it its day in the sun. The $99 Satechi SM1 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard looks the part of an Apple accessory, but it blows the Apple Magic Keyboard out of the water in terms of feel and functionality. You get satisfying and clicky keys, attractive backlighting, plenty of connectivity options, and—most important—keyboard software that’s compatible with macOS, something that’s still not as common as you’d imagine. It’s an easy recommendation and one of the best Mac alterna-keyboards you can buy.
People who want to ditch their Apple keyboards: This one is for Mac users who aren’t fans of Apple’s low-profile scissor switches. It trades Touch ID for comfortable key switches, exceptional build quality, and a compact design.
Budget-savvy buyers: Compared with the Apple Magic Keyboard, the SM1 Slim is an affordable alternative.
Number of Keys
84
Interface
Bluetooth, USB-C, 2.4 GHz Wireless
Key Switch Type
Low Profile Brown Switches
Key Backlighting
Single-Color
Media Controls
Shared With Other Keys
Passthrough Ports
None
Palm Rest
None
Learn More
Satechi SM1 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard Review
- Low price
- Built-in wrist rest
- Dedicated meeting buttons
- Onboard dongle storage
- Feels cheap
- No wired mode
- Takes up a lot of space for a TKL keyboard
You shouldn’t be ashamed to dig through the bargain bin of budget keyboards, because you just might strike gold. The affordable Kensington Pro Fit Ergo KB675 EQ TKL Rechargeable Keyboard offers all the basics, complete with a comfortable split-layout ergonomic shape and a plush wrist rest. It includes dedicated meeting buttons that make it a productivity-forward device, and onboard dongle storage for when you’re taking your keyboard on the go. Its slightly lackluster build quality is its only major drawback, but given the aggressive price, it’s one of the best budget keyboards available.
People looking for an ergonomic keyboard: The Kensington Pro Fit Ergo KB675 EQ TKL Rechargeable Keyboard offers some great ergonomics, thanks to its unique curved chassis, split layout, and comfortable wrist rest.
Budget-savvy buyers: For money-strapped Mac users looking for a Mac-friendly keyboard, the Pro Fit Ergo is an excellent value.
Number of Keys
93
Interface
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz Wireless
Key Switch Type
Rubber Membrane
Key Backlighting
None
Media Controls
Shared With Other Keys
Passthrough Ports
None
Palm Rest
Integrated
Learn More
Kensington Pro Fit Ergo KB675 EQ TKL Rechargeable Keyboard Review
- Stylish design
- Excellent typing feel
- Bluetooth and 2.4GHz connection options
- Much cheaper than Apple Magic Keyboard
- Low-profile design is not for everyone
- No customization software
Macs and other Apple devices are renowned for their aesthetic appeal, so if you’re looking for an alternative that’s just as visually pleasing, consider the Satechi SM3 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard. It’s a full-size mechanical keyboard, and like its TKL cousin, the Satechi SM1 Slim, it surpasses the Apple Magic Keyboard in several ways. From its clicky keys to its multiple connectivity options, the Satechi SM3 Slim is an excellent choice for those seeking a more affordable, aesthetically pleasing alternative to Apple’s own keyboard, and willing to forgo features like Touch ID.
People who want Apple aesthetics without the Apple price: If you’re in the market for peak functionality and aesthetics, the Satechi SM3 Slim is the keyboard for you.
People who prefer full-size keyboards: A full-size keyboard doesn’t sacrifice functionality for space. That means you get a full number pad and function keys, which makes it easier to maximize productivity.
Number of Keys
108
Interface
USB-C, 2.4 GHz Wireless, Bluetooth
Key Switch Type
Low Profile Brown Switches
Key Backlighting
Single-Color
Media Controls
Shared With Other Keys
Passthrough Ports
None
Palm Rest
None
Learn More
Satechi SM3 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard Review
- Bright single-color backlighting
- Eye-catching design that complements Apple devices
- Dedicated Mac key layout
- Built-in battery
- Robust software customization features
- Expensive
- Wrist rest is sold separately
Many Logitech peripherals are platform-agnostic, meaning they support both Windows and macOS operating systems, among others. But it’s always nice to have a keyboard dedicated to your OS of choice, and that’s what the Logitech MX Keys S for Mac is: a keyboard optimized for Macs that’s not from Apple. It’s virtually identical to Logitech’s MX Keys S, which is also compatible with macOS and delivers the same functionality and performance—for the same price. In short, while it’s a capable pick, it’s not much more than a keyboard made for Mac users who can’t stand the sight of Command sharing the same key as Alt.
People who prefer low-profile keyboards: If you prefer a low-profile design with scissor switches instead of mechanical ones, and you don’t want to pay the Apple tax, then the Logitech MX Keys for Mac is right for you.
People who switch between Mac and Windows computers: The Logitech MX Keys S for Mac is optimized for Apple computers, but it’s also fully compatible with Windows PCs, making it an excellent option for users who frequently switch between operating systems and computers on a single desk.
Number of Keys
108
Interface
USB-C, Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz Wireless
Key Switch Type
Scissor-Switch
Key Backlighting
Single-Color
Media Controls
Shared With Other Keys
Passthrough Ports
None
Palm Rest
Detachable (Separate)
Learn More
Logitech MX Keys S for Mac Review
- Magnetic switches offer variable key-press detection levels
- Machined aluminum frame
- Hot-swappable switches
- Available in two color schemes
- Works with Windows and macOS
- Expensive
- No feet or kickstand for angled typing
- No USB dongle storage
- No wrist rest
The hot-swappable Keychron Q1 HE builds upon the excellent Keychron Q1 by introducing magnetic linear switches, enabling users to adjust the sensitivity of key presses and customize variable actuation points. Built from premium materials, the keyboard wears a machined aluminum frame atop an aluminum top plate that helps absorb vibrations from key presses. A layer of sound-absorbing foam helps minimize echoes, while foam gaskets eliminate any rattling that might otherwise occur from the inner PCB. It’s an excellent mechanical keyboard right out of the box, even if you don’t tinker with it, but the additional customization options make it an excellent choice for those interested in tweaking just about every aspect of their keyboard.
DIY keyboard enthusiasts: For Mac users who are also keyboard tinkerers, the Keychron Q1 HE offers plenty of room to experiment with.
Casual gamers: With adjustable actuation points and satisfying clicky key switches, the Keychron Q1 HE also makes a solid gaming keyboard.
Number of Keys
81
Interface
Bluetooth, USB-C, 2.4 GHz Wireless
Key Switch Type
Gateron Double-Rail Magnetic Nebula Switches
Key Backlighting
RGB Per-Key
Media Controls
Shared With Other Keys
Passthrough Ports
None
Palm Rest
None
Learn More
Keychron Q1 HE Review
- True Cherry MX switches in a choice of three varieties.
- Comfortable ergonomic design, once you’re accustomed to it.
- Superb, plush wrist rest.
- Per-key customizable RGB lighting.
- Driverless SmartSet app is more work than we’d like.
- Optional “lift kit” costs extra.
- Steep learning curve.
Ergonomics is an oft-overlooked aspect of keyboard shopping, but it’s often the most important. Without good ergonomics, even the best keyboards can cause long-term damage to your fingers and wrist. The Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB Split Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a little older, but it is still one of our favorite split-body (as opposed to just split-layout) keyboards. Available with Cherry MX switches in three varieties and featuring per-key customizable RGB lighting, this keyboard is a pleasure to use, whether you’re gaming or typing through the workday. Its split design means it can operate as one whole keyboard or as two separated working parts placed up to 8 inches apart. It takes time to adjust to a split layout if you’re new to it, but once you’ve overcome the hurdle, it’s second to none.
Shoppers seeking typing comfort: If you’re interested in improving typing comfort with a design that prioritizes ergonomics, the Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB Split Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a strong entry point. It helps alleviate stress and pressure on your forearms, shoulders, and back by allowing you to angle your arms, fingers, and wrists exactly as they work for you.
Casual gamers: There’s certainly a learning curve, but the Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB Split Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is adept for gaming, thanks to its Cherry MX switches.
Number of Keys
108
Interface
USB Wired
Key Switch Type
Cherry MX
Key Backlighting
RGB Per-Key
Media Controls
Dedicated
Passthrough Ports
None
Palm Rest
Integrated
Learn More
Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB Split Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Review
- Thin and lightweight
- Quiet operation
- Touch ID sensor
- USB-C port
- Expensive, with $20 premium for black version
- No backlighting
- Design isn’t overly ergonomic
- Colors beyond white and black are only available bundled with an iMac purchase
- Requires latest version of macOS to access full range of features
Many people find Apple keyboards to be just fine—and we mostly agree with them. They work as intended and often house Apple-exclusive features like Touch ID. Our main problem with the Magic Keyboard is that it hasn’t changed much in years. That remains true with the latest Apple Magic Keyboard With Touch ID and Numeric Keypad, whose only big change is replacing the long-standard Apple Lightning port with a USB-C port. With so many quality alternatives to the Magic Keyboard out there, stomaching the near-$200 asking price for an old design is harder than ever. Still, if you insist on an all-Apple desktop, the USB-C Magic Keyboard has its charms: It’s thin, light, and striking-looking, with impressive battery life. Also, the scissor-switch design is great for those who prefer low-profile keyboards.
Fans of Apple products: For the Apple faithful or those who don’t mind paying a premium, the Apple Magic Keyboard is still a dependable daily driver despite its dated design.
People who appreciate the convenience of Touch ID: The integrated Touch ID sensor allows you to use a fingerprint to unlock your computer instead of a password, making logins much quicker.
Number of Keys
109
Interface
Bluetooth, USB-C
Key Switch Type
Scissor-Switch
Key Backlighting
None
Media Controls
Dedicated
Passthrough Ports
None
Palm Rest
None
Learn More
Apple Magic Keyboard With Touch ID and Numeric Keypad (USB-C) Review
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The Best Mac Keyboards for 2026
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Buying Guide: The Best Mac Keyboards for 2026
Technically, you can use any modern keyboard with your Mac. Plug it in (possibly with the aid of a USB-A-to-C adapter) or pair it over Bluetooth, and its basic typing functions will work seamlessly. That said, if you’re used to a Mac and especially if you’ve been using Apple’s Magic Keyboard, you’ve grown accustomed to certain keys and features that you’ll want in any new keyboard you buy.
The default Magic Keyboard features a compact, 78-key design that squeezes all its keys, including the arrows, into the smallest possible typing area. Very few other keyboards, even those of a small size, use this kind of layout. Apple also makes a full-size Magic Keyboard with a number pad, but Apple treats that more like an XL model, whereas most keyboard manufacturers see the full-size 104-key layout as the default.
(Credit: Zackery Cuevas)
If you like a smaller keyboard, a useful term to look for is “tenkeyless” or TKL, referring to a keyboard that lacks the 10-key number pad. You may also see keyboards referred to in percentage terms—that’s not a percentage of a full-size keyboard’s length and width, but a percentage of keys, based on the 104-key standard. Some omit arrow keys, function keys, and more to get as small as 60% or 65%, often with a very compact layout.
The keys in the top row of an Apple keyboard are assigned to system-level tasks such as screen brightness and volume controls. They can be used as classic F1 to F12 function keys, but you’ll need to press the Fn key for that. On most keyboards not specifically made for Mac, the roles are reversed: F1 to F12 are the primary uses for those top-row keys, and the system-level tasks require some sort of shortcut.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)
A last consideration: Macs have a few unique keys. The one you are probably most familiar with is the Command key, which is used for many popular keyboard shortcuts. It’s used very differently from the Windows or Copilot keys on modern Windows keyboards. The Option key is a more direct parallel to the Alt key on Windows. The newest Magic Keyboard model, which is compatible only with Apple Silicon Macs, features a Touch ID button that has no equivalent on a Windows keyboard.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)
If you want a keyboard that ships with Mac key configurations, your options are very limited. Some companies, such as Logitech, produce Mac-specific models of their keyboards with Command and Option keys; these models are typically labeled “Mac Edition” or “Made for Mac.” But that’s not the only way to get the keys and functions you need. Remappable keyboards are increasingly popular among Windows gamers, and Mac users can also benefit from them.
Keyboard Software on Macs: Mapping and Customization
If you’ve only used standard productivity keyboards, you’ll be amazed by the wide world of mechanical, gaming-oriented, and ergonomic keyboards. Gaming keyboards bring a touch of shine with customizable multi-colored RGB lighting, an aesthetic that can be a refreshing break from Apple’s clean, monochrome style, and many feature programmable macro keys for commonly used functions. Mechanical keyboards offer a satisfying typing sound and tactile feel, and most feature longer travel—the distance your keycap moves when pressed all the way down—to provide more support and comfort.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)
If you’re starting to experience pain in your hands, wrists, or shoulders while typing, you may want to consider switching to an ergonomic keyboard designed to mitigate the pain of repetitive stress injuries. A keyboard that’s easier and more comfortable to type on can be a life-changing upgrade.
Most premium productivity and gaming keyboards can be reconfigured with software provided by the manufacturer. Configuration apps allow you to change (remap) what each key does; alter other settings, such as how quickly a wireless keyboard falls asleep; and program RGB lighting. This is how you can turn a Windows key into a Command key, set your Caps Lock to activate Option, or otherwise create your ideal keyboard layout.
Recommended by Our Editors
Corsair’s iCUE software makes it easy to remap the K100 RGB Gaming Keyboard. (Credit: Corsair)
When you’re setting up a keyboard that isn’t explicitly designed for Macs, being able to use its configuration software is crucial. Unfortunately, many manufacturers’ configuration apps don’t run on macOS, so you need to make sure you find one that does. The biggest Mac-friendly names in productivity keyboards are Logitech and Kensington. For gaming, we’re talking about Corsair, Logitech, and SteelSeries.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)
Some smaller manufacturers don’t have traditional config apps. Instead, they provide customization support through a combination of onboard controls and either driverless apps that work through the keyboard or web apps. These processes may be slightly less convenient than using an app, but they’re broadly compatible.
The web-based configuration tool for the Drop Shift Mechanical Keyboard works on any computer. (Credit: Drop)
If you think it’ll confuse you to remap a key’s function without relabeling the key, don’t resort to masking tape. Instead, purchase a sheet of inexpensive key label stickers. They’re intended for keyboards where the legends have worn off, but they work just as well for relabeling a remapped key. Some mechanical keyboards come with replaceable keycaps for Command and Option, but if you want to set up Mac-style function keys, you’ll probably need labels.
Ready to Buy the Best Keyboard for Your Mac?
Armed with all the details, you’re ready to pick the best keyboard for your Mac. Our recommendations and reviews will help you determine which of our favorites is a good fit. If you’re looking for specific features, check out our lists of the best wireless keyboards and the best ergonomic keyboards. And if you need a mouse to match, consider the best mice for Macs as well as the best gaming mice for Macs, which are designed for gaming but work well for any purpose.
