Using a Windows keyboard on your Mac is a relatively simple process. Most USB and bluetooth Windows keyboards will work fine. Some RF ones, such as the Logitech keyboard and mouse combo that I am presently using works well also.
You may want to use a Windows keyboard for several reasons:
- You had a Windows computer with a Windows keyboard.
- You may purchase a Windows keyboard based on your budget.
- You may prefer the feel of the keys from a Windows keyboard e.g. greater travel of the keys.
Whatever is your reason this guide will help you setup your Windows keyboard.
How to use a Windows keyboard with your Mac
The main difference in using a Windows keyboard on a Mac comes about when you need to use the Command key and the Option Key, which are known as modifier keys. Modifier keys are keys that change or modify the function of other keys, for example pressing Command, Shift and 5 would open the Screenshot app. The number 5 key is modified (using Command and Shift) to perform the funtion of opening the Screenshot app.
While using a Windows keyboard on a Mac, the Windows key performs the function of the Command key and the Alt key on the Windows keyboard performs the function of the Option key on the Mac keyboard.
| Windows Keyboard | Mac keyboard |
|---|---|
| Windows key | Command Key |
| Alt key | Option Key |
An important point to note is that the placement of both keys are swapped in both keyboards as shown in the image below. The Windows key is where the Option Key is on the Mac and the Alt key is where the Command key is.
If this is a problem for you it can be swapped in System Preferences. Click the apple icon on the top left on your desktop, then navigate to -> System Preferences -> Keyboard -> Modifier Keys. From here you can set the Command key as the Option key and the Option key as the Command key to get the desired key placement.
Keyboard Setup
To install your Windows keyboard, simply plug in your USB dongle or keyboard cable to one of the USB ports on your computer. You may see a Keyboard Setup Assistant window like the one below. Follow the instructions to complete setup of your keyboard. Note that depending on your MacOS version your Keyboard Setup Assistant may look different.
Final Words
This article showed the process of using a Windows keyboard with your Mac. The process is performed simply by, plugging in your wired or wireless USB keyboard to your Mac, then following the instructions on the Keyboard Setup Assistant and finally being aware of the Windows and Alt key functionality. I hope this article was helpful and thanks for reading.
