How to Use Windows Keyboard with Mac – Guide
Some keyboard manufacturers modified the images on the modifier keys to match Apple’s, while others provided a software-based solution that mapped special window modifier keys like Start, Alt, and Menu / Applications to their respective Mac versions. Keyboard have become quite sophisticated and can remap keys both globally and per application, which is very useful for remapping game controller settings on your favorite keyboard.
Why use a Windows keyboard on a Mac?
Apple keyboards are special products that are not available at most stores. Unless you are near a local Apple Store, Best Buy, or other reseller authorized to sell new Magic Keyboards, it can take 7-10 business days to get a replacement. Most retailers have limited supplies of this product, so even authorized retailers may not have what you need. A Windows keyboard on a Mac is a viable alternative to help you stay productive.
A MacBook Pro or Air keyboard that isn’t working properly can be a frustrating experience. If you’re not sure where to look for a PC keyboard replacement, consider using one on a Mac instead. A portable product can help you keep working even when your original keyboard isn’t working right.
Some people prefer the Windows keyboard layout over what Apple provides. The keys are usually taller, the wrist is better supported, and the typing angle is slightly different. Instead of keeping your fingers in a crab-like position while typing, as you normally do with the Magic Keyboard, you can use a more natural movement. For some people, this design change can reduce the risk of repeated touch injuries. ..
Special Key Differences
Windows keyboards have different keys than Mac keyboards. ..
(Win) Cmd (Mac) Control
The Alt key on a Mac can be used to change the text formatting of a document. This includes changing the font, size, and color of text.
Windows 10 Command Line (macOS) The four-leaf clover is a symbol of good luck. ..
When you press Backspace (or Delete on a Mac) to delete a character, the cursor moves one space to the right. ..
Mac users can enter “Mac” to return to the main menu, and “Return” to the previous screen.
There are some key elements of the Mac that are not available on the Windows platform, like the Windows menu and application key. These elements can be difficult to find and use on a Mac, so it’s important to know what they are.
How to Connect a PC keyboard to a Mac
If you want to use a Windows keyboard with your Mac, the first step in the connection process is to use the USB cable that came with the product. It must be connected to an available port on your MacBook, iMac, or Mac Mini.
If you have a PS/2 keyboard to connect to your Mac, you’ll need to purchase an adapter that lets you use the USB port on your Apple system.
Wireless keyboards are becoming more and more popular, as they offer a number of advantages over traditional wired keyboards. One of the most popular wireless keyboard options is the Bluetooth keyboard. This option connects to your Mac system via Bluetooth, so you don’t need to worry about wires getting in the way. Another great benefit of using a wireless keyboard is that it may be easier for you to type on your computer than using a traditional wired keyboard.
What if my Mac doesn’t have a USB port?
If you’re using a MacBook Air as your primary laptop, you won’t be able to use the USB port that comes built into the system. Instead, you’ll need to use either one of the two Thunderbolt ports or use a USB-C cable. Older models may still have a Lightning port, which is similar to the connection used on iPhones and iPads. ..
The second option is to buy a USB-to-Thunderbolt adapter. This product will allow you to use a Thunderbolt port on your computer with a USB keyboard. This is the most expensive option, but it can offer the best connection options and can be found at most computer stores.
How to Remap Windows keyboards according to your Mac’s configuration
- Open the Keyboard Preferences window.
- In the Keyboard preferences window, select the “Mac” tab and then select “Keyboard layout.”
- In the Keyboard layout section, select “PC.”
- Click on the “Apply” button to remap your keyboard to the PC frame.
Select the Keyboard tab in System Preferences and change the key bindings to be more like a regular computer keyboard.
To connect to a PC, use the Select Keyboard drop-down menu to select the PC product you’ve connected to your Mac.
Command: Option -C
To change the Command key setting on your computer, you will need to open the Control Panel and navigate to Keyboard. There you will find a tab called “Keyboard Options.” On this tab, you will want to change the Command key setting from its default of Option to Control. ..
To remap the keyboard in System Preferences:
- Open System Preferences on your Mac.
- Click on Keyboard.
- Select the desired keyboard layout from the list of available layouts.
- Click on the “Remap Keys” button to start remapping keys.
- Use the arrow keys to move the cursor to a key you want to remap and press the key you want it to map to. ..
Final note
How to Use Windows Keyboard with Mac: A Guide
