Mac users rejoice! 🍎
As a long-time Mac user, I’m proud to say that there are TONS of mechanical keyboards that work great for Macs!
But since most keyboards aren’t SPECIFICALLY made for macOS, we’ve done our best to categorize these recommendations to help you find the right keyboard!
Here are our top 3 best mechanical keyboards for Mac:
By the way, you don’t actually need a keyboard that is built for macOS. You can make just about ANY keyboard work!
We have instructions on that below…
How the keyboards are ranked:
I’ve tried 30+ keyboards and ranked them based on several factors including the cost, whether they have a wireless option, whether they include Mac modifier keycaps, whether they are hot-swappable and how it works with a Mac computer.
Cost | I’ve included a specific category for the best budget keyboard for Mac for people on a budget. The cost isn’t factored into the other categories as much because the price differences between the options aren’t a lot. |
Wireless | Most keyboards on this list are wired but some also have a wireless option (which can be important if you move your keyboard or travel with it) |
Hot-swappable | Hot-swappable keyboards allow you to easily change the switches without de-soldering (makes it more convenient to make customizations.) |
Includes Mac modifier keycaps: | This may be an important feature for you if you really want the keycaps to have the exact same labels as Mac keys, such as command, rather than the control/windows keycaps even though they do the same function. Only Keychron keyboards come with the Mac modifier keycaps. |
How it works with Mac: | Some keyboards have a physical toggle on the keyboard that switches between Mac or PC compatibility, while others have software settings on your computer. Keychrons are the only keyboards that currently include the toggle. |
Best Mechanical Keyboards for Mac
Now that you know how I ranked the keyboards, here are the details for our best picks in each category. Find the best one for you based on whether you’re looking for the overall best, the best low-profile, the best budget, the best full-sized, or the best custom-from-scratch mechanical keyboard.
Best Overall: Keychron K2
- Keychron K2, a 75% layout 84 keys hot-swappable white LED backlight wireless mechanical keyboard giving you all the keys and function you need while keeping it compact. And let you personalize per-key...
- With a unique Mac layout while compatible with Windows, the Keychron K2 has all essential multimedia and function keys you need. Extra keycaps for both Windows and Mac operating systems are included.
- Connects with up to 3 devices via the reliable Broadcom Bluetooth 5.1 chipset and switch among them easily for multitasking needs. The K2 is best to fit home, office and light gaming use while...
- Cost: ✅ $69-$99
- Wireless? ✅ yes
- Includes Mac modifier keycaps? ✅ yes
- Hot-swappable? ✅ yes
- How it works with Mac: physical toggle on keyboard
The K2 was actually my very first mechanical keyboard EVER, and it’s fair to say it changed my life!
Keychron is really the ONLY keyboard brand that builds specifically with Mac in mind.
On a Mac? You can’t go wrong with a Keychron.
Super Important Note: There are several different versions of each Keychron keyboard, including the K2!
- Hot-swappable or soldered
- No RGB, white-only backlighting, or full RGB
- Different switch options
- Different versions of the same keyboard (one with grey keycaps, one with white & black)
You should double-check the features before you purchase! They give lots of options 😉
They come equipped with keycaps for both Mac and PC operating systems so you’ll have all the essential Mac function keys you’re used to using with your Mac keyboard.
With its large battery life (and wired option) and Mac-specific layout keycap set, you can use your MacBook or iMac like normal without special adjustments or technical knowledge.
Note: If you’re used to the Apple Keyboard, you might purchase a wrist rest for these mechanicals. Unless you get a low-profile of course!
Want to see more recommended 75% keyboards? Click here!
Best Low-Profile: Keychron K1 (Or the K7)
Cost: $79-$89
- Keychron K7 is the first ultra-slim wireless mechanical keyboard incorporates hot-swappable feature for low-profile Gateron mechanical switches on the market, designed for peak productivity. A great...
- Be ready to multitask without missing a beat by connecting the K7 with up to 3 devices via the stable Bluetooth 5.1 chipset and switch between your laptop, PC, tablet and phone seamlessly. You can...
- A compact 65% layout comes with dedicated arrow keys that are neatly designed to minimize the amount of space, With a unique Mac layout, the K7 has all the necessary Mac multimedia keys while still...
- Wireless? ✅ yes
- Includes Mac modifier keycaps? ✅ Yes
- Hot-swappable? ✅ yes
- How it works with Mac: physical toggle on keyboard
Travel with your keyboard? Want a low-profile option that looks like an Apple Magic Keyboard–but still gives you all the glorious benefits of a mechanical keyboard?
The K7 (or K1) is for you!
- Keychron K7 = a 60% layout
- Keychron K1 = an 80% layout (includes arrow keys, function row, and the “home cluster”
They both include Mac modifier keycaps, can connect with up to 3 Bluetooth devices, compatible with iOS, MacOs, as well as Windows…
These also come with low-profile switches (you can choose mechanical or optical). It’s important to note that you can’t easily put in standard MX-style switches into the K7! But honestly–only buy this keyboard if you’re going for something low-profile.
Click here to read our recommendations for the best low-profile mechanical keyboards!
If you’re looking for a smaller keyboard, the K7 is the way to go.
If you prefer an 80% layout, grab the K1 (sometimes hard to find in stock, just an FYI).
Best Premium: Das Keyboard 4 Professional (for Mac)
- 4 PROFESSIONAL MECHANICAL KEYBOARD - The thinnest mechanical keyboard in the world! The combination of tactile feel, the psycho-acoustic experience and incredible craftsmanship all deliver an...
- PREMIUM TACTILE EXPERIENCE - Best-in-class Cherry MX Brown mechanical key switches provide tactile and audio feedback so accurate it allows you to execute every keystroke with lightning-fast...
- UP TO 50 MILLION KEYSTROKES - Laser-etched keycaps for maximum durability are paired with Cherry MX Brown switches, giving your new mechanical keyboard life up to 50 million keystrokes....
- Cost: 🟡 $150+
- Wireless? ❌ No
- Includes Mac modifier keycaps? ✅ Yes
- Hot-swappable? ❌ No
- How it works with Mac: Out of the box!
If our favorites are the Keychrons, and those are all $100 or less, why are we recommending the EXPENSIVE Das Keyboard 4 Professional?
The bells and whistles, of course!
The Das Keyboard 4 is one of THE ONLY non-Keychron keyboards that include Mac modifier keycaps and is optimized for Mac out of the box.
PLUS, the Das Keyboard 4 is sporting…
- Multimedia Keys
- A rotary knob (volume knob)
- 2 USB 3.0 ports
- N-key rollover
- Loads of Cherry MX switches to choose from
It’s also housed in aluminum (more durable than plastics, but the Keychrons are mostly aluminum as well) and low-profile.
So as long as you don’t mind the fact that it’s wired, a full 100% size, and expensive, this is a fantastic keyboard. A USB port is so nice!
Warning: There are multiple versions of this keyboard–that do NOT include the Mac modifier keys!
Best Budget: VELOCIFIRE M87
- MAC DESIGN- Velocifire M87 Mac layout mechanical keyboard pairs automatically with your Mac, so you can plug and work. Exquisite design match with the Mac layout and firmware.
- BROWN SWITCH- Experience optimized key travel distance and tactile feedback with every keystroke. Velocifire M87 mechanical keyboard provides a comfortable and precise typing experience.
- ERGONOMICS DESIGN- Slightly curved keys and simple ergonomics keyboard design, remitting typing fatigue and carpal tunnel pain.
- Cost: $50-60ish
- Wireless? ❌ No
- Includes Mac modifier keycaps? ✅ Yes
- Hot-swappable? ❌ No
- RGB? 🟡 Hard to find the full RGB backlight version, but the white-only is easy to find.
- How it works with Mac: out of the box!
So we wrote an entire post on the best mechanical keyboards under $50, and the budget Amazon brand VELOCIFIRE had some on that list…but they also make a Mac-specific version!
It’s not as cheap as their other keyboards (which you can literally pick up for $40ish. Crazy!), but it should work right out of the box with your Mac, AND it comes with Mac modifier keycaps.
Runner-ups: Anne Pro 2 & the Drevo Calibur V2
No, these keyboards aren’t built specifically for Macs, but you only need to change one modifier key setting (see our instructions below) and they work great!
The Anne Pro 2 is VERY popular 60% compact mechanical keyboard in the community, and for good reason! It’s just a solid budget keyboard. Plastic case, double-shot PBT keycaps, white and black case options.
Want to see our top 60% keyboards? Read this post!
The Drevo Calibur V2 is a slightly cheaper option that comes with Outemu switch options (a budget but good switch!)–and this keyboard has a keyboard shortcut for toggling between Mac and Windows!
Just tap Function + Tab and you’re good to go.
Best 100% full-sized keyboard: Durgod Taurus K310
- Cost: ❌ $160-$171
- Wireless? ❌ no
- Includes Mac modifier keycaps? ❌ no
- Hot-swappable? ❌ no
- How it works with Mac: settings on computer
Ok, so it’s expensive and doesn’t offer a ton of features–but the Durgod Taurus K310 DOES work well with Macs, and it also offers something else!
Default Cherry MX switch options (red, silent red, brown, speed silvers!) and also COLOR options!
Durgod makes great quality keyboards, I just wish it were $50 cheaper.
Wanna see our votes for the best mechanical keyboards for writers? Click here.
Runner-up: Keychron K10
Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Keychron K10 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard with Gateron G Pro Brown Switch Aluminum Frame | $114.99 | View on Amazon |
The 100% full-sized version of the Keychron lineup!
If you need your numpad, plus some cool Mac features like a dedicated screenshot key and a Siri key, then the K10 is your go-to!
Plus it’s wireless, has RGB and different switch options, etc.
Best custom-from-scratch: GMMK Pro
- Premium Design & Materials: The GMMK PRO's body is CNC machined from solid aluminum, giving it substantial weight and unrivaled durability compared to plastic alternatives. Anodization gives the...
- 5-Pin Hotswap Design: Personalize the board's typing experience by plugging in your favorite 3 or 5-pin MX mechanical switches from Glorious, Kailh, Gateron, Cherry, and more. No soldering required....
- Fully Customizable Appearance: The GMMK PRO's included top frame, rotary knob, and cable are easily replaceable with colorful alternatives from Glorious, specially engineered for a perfect fit. This...
- Cost: 🟡 $170
- Wireless? ❌ no
- Includes Mac modifier keycaps? ❌ no
- Hot-swappable? ✅ yes
- How it works with Mac: settings on computer
Would you rather build a custom mechanical keyboard?
- Gasket-mounted PCB?
- Preinstalled Glorious screw-in stabilizers with factory lube?
- Rotary encoder media knob?
GMMK PRO is a custom built, 75% TKL keyboard in the ultra-premium category.
NOTE: This keyboard does NOT come with switches or keycaps! You’ll need to purchase those separately.
You can also customize this with linear or tactile switches and keycaps on the GMMK site if you wish, but it’s more expensive of course!
There’s also the original GMMK, which I own and love (and GMMKs work perfectly fine on my Mac).
If you want a similar keyboard but done-for-you, you might also like the original GMMK. It comes pre-built with switches and keycaps, and they also offer 100%, 80%, and 60% sizes!
Do You Need to Have a Mac Compatible Keyboard?
No, you don’t necessarily need a Mac-compatible keyboard, as virtually any keyboard that connects via bluetooth or USB can be used with your Mac!
You may prefer to get a Keychron, etc, that’s fully Mac compatible out of the box, and in fact Keychron keyboards literally have a switch that easily flips between Mac and PC compatibility.
But if you don’t mind 5-10 minutes of customization, any mechanical keyboard can fairly easily be made to be compatible with your Mac by adjusting some software and settings on your computer.
The Main Difference Between Mac and Windows Keyboards
The main difference between Mac and Windows keyboards is that Mac uses the ⌘ Command key while Windows uses the Ctrl key for shortcuts. Although they have different names, they basically function the same.
The alt keys perform slightly different functions between Mac and PC but they both have an alt key.
With a little customization you can technically set up ANY keyboard to work on Mac–but some come with more Mac compatibility out of the box like any Keychron keyboards. (these are the most similar to an Apple keyboard)
If you specifically want the ⌘ Command key then go with a Keychron keyboard, otherwise, choose from any mechanical keyboard!
Why Get A Mechanical Keyboard For Your Mac?
Mechanical keyboards are a great investment for any Mac user. Not only will they improve your typing experience and gaming abilities, but also because you can customize all aspects of your keyboard to fit your needs.
They may cost the same or more but if you want to get the most out of your typing (and gaming) experience then I recommend mechanical keyboards.
A mechanical keyboard will last longer than standard membrane keyboards, and they’re fully customizable so you can choose your own color schemes and typing sounds.
Those are just a couple of reasons why mechanical keyboards are better.
Which Keychron is best for Mac?
The best Keychron for Mac depends mostly on what size keyboard you want to use. Do you want a full-sized keyboard or more compact?
A full-sized keyboard is the best option for people who want a traditional typing experience with a number pad and all the function keys, while a compact keyboard is perfect if you don’t use those keys regularly or want something smaller that’s easy to travel with.
It also depends on whether you want a low-profile keyboard or not. A low-profile keyboard is better for people who want a more streamlined design that’s easier on your wrists. Keychron K1 & K7 are great low-profile options.
Does Apple have a mechanical keyboard?
Nope. Apple keyboards are membrane keyboards (including scissor-switch keyboards), but you can easily make most mechanical keyboards work for your Mac!
Some mechanical keyboard brands, like Keychron, have keyboards specifically with the exact same layout and keys as Apple keyboards but you can still use other keyboards with just a bit of customization.
What gaming keyboards work with Mac?
Most gaming keyboards are compatible with Macs so the best keyboard for Mac depends more on what kind of features you’re looking for.
The Keychron K2 is our top pick for overall best mechanical keyboard for Mac.
If you’re looking for a low-profile keyboard, the K1 is our top pick. The Anne Pro 2 is an awesome budget-friendly keyboard while the GMMK is the best custom from scratch keyboard and the Durgod Taurus K310 is our top choice for a full-sized keyboard.