Need to replace your Mac's Magic Keyboard but don't really want to pay the "Apple tax?" Or what about that hated default "Butterfly" keyboard that leads you to prefer using an external keyboard? You're lucky. We've put together a list of some great alternative keyboards that retain the functionality and mimic the aesthetics of Apple's bundled keyboard, all without breaking the bank.
Contents1. Anker Ultra Compact Profile2 Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard. Macally Ultra-thin USB Wired Keyboard/Mini Slim Macally USB Wired Compact Keyboard3. Logitech K7504 Wireless Solar Keyboard. Satechi5 Aluminum Bluetooth Keyboard. iHome6 Full Size Mac Keyboard. Nixeus Moda Pro Keyboard
If you don't need a wireless keyboard, you can consider Macally's ultra slim keyboards. The Macally Ultra-Slim USB Wired Keyboard is a full-size extended keyboard with a ten-key numeric keypad for data entry. Moreover, there are twenty Apple shortcut keys, including cut/copy/paste, iTunes control, volume up/down and more. In addition, there are multimedia shortcuts for Windows PCs.
On the other hand, the Macally Slim Mini USB Wired Compact Keyboard is only two-thirds the size of a normal keyboard. Despite its small size, it still has full-size keys and thirteen Apple shortcut keys as well as multimedia or Windows shortcuts. Both Macally keyboards feature an aluminum finish with white keys that evoke the Apple aesthetic. In addition, each keyboard has a long 4ft 7in USB cable.
If you need a wireless keyboard but shudder to replace the batteries or recharge it, the Logitech Solar Wireless Keyboard K750 is for you. This keyboard is fully solar powered and can operate for up to three months in complete darkness on a single charge. Additionally, the Logitech K750 can be charged by any light source, including interior lighting. The K750 keyboard also features the familiar Mac layout, complete with a Launchpad keyboard shortcut. The only downside to this particular keyboard is that it doesn't work via Bluetooth. Instead, it connects through a 2.4GHz receiver, which means it'll eat away at one of your USB ports.
If you're looking for a more premium keyboard, look no further than the Satechi Aluminum Bluetooth Keyboard. It's a sleek, expansive keyboard with a full numeric keypad. The keyboard connects via Bluetooth and can be connected to up to three devices simultaneously. The Satechi keyboard has a switcher to quickly switch between your smartphone, tablet and computer, all without having to log in and out. Additionally, the keyboard charges via USB-C and can last 80 hours of uninterrupted use before needing a recharge. Finally, the Satechi aluminum Bluetooth keyboard is available in four different colors:space gray, silver, gold and rose gold.
iHome has been making Apple-compatible devices for years, so it's no surprise that iHome has a keyboard that looks the part. The iHome Full Size Mac Keyboard is about as basic as it gets. It connects to your Mac via USB and has a numeric keypad with dedicated media keys. It's not that flashy, but it's cheap and stylish.
Mechanical keyboards are sturdier and provide a more enhanced typing experience. In addition, the clicky sound that the keys make is very satisfying. If you want a mechanical keyboard that integrates with the rest of your Apple gadgets, you're going to want to check out the Nixeus Moda. The keyboard is made of steel and has a 50 million keystroke key switch, ensuring it can go the distance. In addition, you can choose between the compact or full-size model.
If none of the above appeals to you, you can try making your own custom mechanical keyboard. Check out our detailed two-part guide for this.
