10 Best Mechanical Keyboard Models for Mac
Why Use a Mechanical Keyboard for Mac?
For most people, finding the best mechanical keyboard for Mac isn’t a priority. After all, regular keyboards can do the trick just as well. They can type what you need and perform the right actions. That’s especially true if you’re using Apple’s proprietary Magic Keyboard.
Full-sized keys offer flexibility 44 customizable RGB zones Keycaps are replaceable Programmable iCUE wheel
No wireless connectivity Not ideal for mobile connectivity
Corsair keyboards are certainly one of the most popular choices in the mechanical keyboard community. The Corsair K100 RGB is the best mechanical keyboard for Mac from the brand. This is true if you prize the full RGB experience with no sacrifices. Why is this? That’s because the K100 has all of the features you might want from a top-end mechanical keyboard. It has dedicated media controls, a dedicated volume rocker, and even a programmable iCUE wheel. With the wheel, you can do several things including adjusting the RGB or controlling media and apps. In addition, the K100 has an 8,000Hz max polling rate and split millisecond latency. Hence, you get a more fluid and seamless gaming experience. The keys are even responsive enough for precise movements and actions.
Dedicated media controls Two USB 3.0 ports for accessories Comes in two switch types Function keys are tailored for macOS Includes a detachable footboard Durable construction
Noisy and clicky No wireless connectivity RGB backlighting is missing
The Das Keyboard 4 Professional is the best mechanical keyboard typing for Mac users. That’s because it has swappable switches that allow you to adjust how tactile your keys can be. If you need a softer variant, you may purchase the Cherry MX Blues. Meanwhile, the Cherry MX Browns will provide you with a clickier, more tactile feel. Regardless, both are rated for 50 million keystrokes so you’re guaranteed durability. Apart from this, the Das Keyboard 4 Professional is also versatile in that it comes in a full-sized layout. Hence, you have access to full-sized arrow keys and a Numpad at all times. It’s also the best mechanical keyboard for Mac if you want something with better compatibility. This is because the keyboard comes with two USB 3.0 ports. Hence, you can attach accessories like mice or flash drives without purchasing additional adapters. It also has two dedicated media controls for music playback and volume above the Numpad. Moreover, the keyboard is made of aluminum, making it perfect for rugged or long-term use.
Comes in multiple sizes and keyboard layouts A large variety of Cherry MX switches Double-shot PBT keycaps make it durable
Plastic case Hotkey combinations are the only method of customization Requires tweaking to make it macOS-compatible
The Ducky One 3 is the best mechanical keyboard for Mac if you’re a big fan of Ducky keyboards. It’s compact and portable with a 60% size so it’s perfect for those with small desk spaces. However, you can also swap it for larger versions because it also comes in TKL and full-size variants. What makes it distinct apart from its size options? Firstly, it’s responsive and has solid latency so it’s great for gaming. It also comes in fun colors so it’s certainly a great choice if you’re tired of dull black or white keyboards. Apart from these, the Ducky One 3’s circuit board is hot-swappable so you can easily replace the default switches. If you dislike tinkering with keyboards, it also comes in a variety of Cherry MX switches off the bat. As a result, you can customize your experience right from the start, depending on your preferences for tactility. However, the keyboard does have specific drawbacks that may deter some customers. For example, you can’t customize the RGB or anything else using a companion program. You can only do so through hotkeys using the keyboard.
Budget-friendly Hot-swappable keys Wired and wireless connectivity are both available Detachable cable Low latency
60% size may be inconvenient for certain tasks Keycaps have no shine-through
If you need the best mechanical keyboard for Mac with a 60% layout, the Epomaker SK61 is a strong choice. That’s because it has several features that are missing from most other alternatives. For example, this 60% keyboard has variants for wired and wireless connectivity. Hence, you can connect it via the detachable USB-C cable or through Bluetooth, depending on the model you get. This makes it a more versatile choice compared to the others that only offer wired connectivity. In addition, its keys are hot-swappable so you’re not tied to the built-in PBT keycaps. You also don’t need to worry about lining pins up or distorting them during the process. Moreover, the switches underneath the keys are decent as the keyboard employs Smooth Gateron switches. This means the keys will have low latency but retain the clicky sound. However, this model does have its drawbacks. For example, both the switches and case sound quite hollow during use. Furthermore, the default keycaps don’t provide shine-through so the backlighting isn’t the best. Nonetheless, it’s one of the best gaming keyboards for Mac if you need something budget-friendly.
Great for enthusiasts Keycaps and switches are customizable Comes in both black and white Compatible with QMK, VIA, and Glorious Core Fully programmable per-key RGB Built-in knob
Pricey for what’s included Requires you to source keycaps and switches No wireless connectivity
The Glorious GMMK Pro is a fan favorite even among Windows users. Hence, it’s unsurprising that it’s the best mechanical keyboard for Mac under the Glorious brand. What makes it distinct compared to alternatives is that it’s a DIY keyboard, specifically made for enthusiasts. With this model, you’ll only get the board included in the kit. Hence, you’ll have to find keycaps and switches that fit well to make the keyboard complete. Granted, some consumers might dislike the idea of building a custom mechanical keyboard for Mac. Nonetheless, it’s certainly recommended if you’re a mechanical keyboard enthusiast who wants to have complete control over your specifications. The board comes in either black or white and has a built-in knob for media controls. Moreover, the RGB lighting is fully programmable per key and the keyboard itself has a 75%, TKL layout. The $169 price tag is fairly reasonable for keyboards of this quality. However, we do think it’s a bit pricey considering it does not provide switches and keycaps.
Affordable Solid TKL layout Keycaps have shine-through Wirelessly connects with three devices at once Readily compatible with Windows and macOS
ABS keycaps The elevation is too high for some
Keychron keyboards tend to be the best mechanical keyboard for Mac and PC. That’s because many of their keyboards are readily compatible with both operating systems. Which Keychron keyboard is best for Mac specifically? In our opinion, the Keychron K2 V2 is one of the strongest contenders. This is because the keyboard is both wired and wireless and can connect to three devices simultaneously. Hence, it’s the ideal solution if you constantly shift to your mobile devices. Moreover, the keyboard’s TKL layout is compact but robust enough to accommodate most actions. The keyboard also employs Gateron G Pro Brown switches for precise typing and gaming. They’re tactile, offer tons of feedback, and are rated for 50 million strokes. Moreover, the keyboard has backlit RGB lighting and shine-through keycaps to show off all your favorite pretty colors. However, we do wish Keychron didn’t use ABS keycaps as they’re less durable. Moreover, the USB port’s placement on the side is slightly awkward, as most cables usually run through the back. Nonetheless, it’s certainly the best Bluetooth mechanical keyboard for Macs, especially if you want something less than $90.
Readily compatible with Windows and macOS Dedicated Numpad Includes wired and wireless connectivity options Provides hot-swappable switches in different variants Compact size with most essential keys
ABS Keycaps Awkward USB-C placement Too tall
Is Keychron good for Mac? Yes, it is. Specifically, the Keychron K4 V2 is a great choice if you need something compact but with a Numpad. That’s because it includes almost all the keys you’d find on a full-sized unit. However, it’s been fitted neatly into the tighter physical dimensions of a TKL keyboard Like the K2 V2, this model employs both wired and wireless connections through USB-C and Bluetooth. It also possesses a few of K2’s other features. This includes Windows and Mac compatibility, with the latter having a specific function row for macOS. Moreover, the K4 V2 has RBG and aluminum variants, making it a versatile option for those who like different specifications. The keyboard also comes in three different switch variants: Gateron Brown, Blue, or Red. Hence, you have more control over the kind of tactile feedback you want on your keyboard. Overall, the K4 V2 is the best mechanical keyboard for Mac if you like gaming wirelessly. However, we do wish that Keychron could have used ABS keycaps. Furthermore, the keyboard’s height is a bit too tall for most people. You’ll certainly need a wrist rest to make it more ergonomic. Regardless, at less than $90, these small inconveniences aren’t a deal-breaker.
Windows and Mac compatibility Double-shot PBT keycaps Gives you three switch choices Premium, all-metal construction Hot-swappable and remappable keys through QMK/VIA Customizable RGB
Expensive No Numpad Too tall Non-customizable slope No wireless connectivity
The Keychron Q3 is the best mechanical keyboard for Mac you can get with great features. It’s built with premium materials and employs an all-metal frame. The keyboard also employs double-shot PBTs, making it more durable than its ABS counterparts. In addition, the hot-swappable Gateron G Pro switches come in three variants: Red, Blue, and Brown. Hence, you can customize the keys’ tactility so you won’t have to settle for something uncomfortable for you. The keyboard also comes with built-in compatibility with both Windows and Mac, so there’s no tinkering needed. You can even swap operating systems on the fly through a switch. Apart from these, the biggest feature the Q3 offers over other options is complete programmability. That’s because it’s compatible with VIA and QMK, making its keys fully remappable. You can also even remap the optional knob if you choose to buy it. Finally, the Keychron Q3 comes in many variants. You can purchase it fully assembled like most people. However, you can also buy a barebones version if you’d like to purchase keycaps and switches separately. Regardless, remember that the fully assembled version is quite expensive, coming in at over $180 on Keychron’s website. Meanwhile, the barebones version isn’t that much cheaper and costs about $20 less.
Customizable backlighting Low-profile switches and keycaps Ultra-fast response time for heavy gaming Also comes in a full-size variant
Expensive Mushy keys Less durable doubleshot ABS keys
If you’re looking for the best wireless mechanical keyboard for Mac, the Logitech G915 might fit the bill. That’s because it has almost every premium feature you’d want from a keyboard. For example, the device connects wirelessly through two mediums: Bluetooth and a USB receiver. As a result, you can connect this Logitech Mac keyboard to your computer and a mobile device at once. You can even switch between connections, making the keyboard a 2-in-1 productivity powerhouse. In addition, the G915 is one of the best ergonomic keyboards for Macs. That’s because both its switches and keycaps are low-profile. Hence, you don’t have to strain too much to register a stroke. Apart from this, the keyboard’s GL switches are solid performers and come in three variants: Linear, Clicky, and Tactile. Regardless of which you choose, however, the keyboard should perform well because of Logitech’s LIGHTSPEED technology. This technology simply lets you have lightning-fast response times of 1ms. Finally, the Logitech G915 also comes with customizable RGB backlighting and comes in a full-sized variant. It’s the best mechanical keyboard for Mac if you want all the best features in one.
Per-key customizable RGB lighting Three connectivity options Low sound profile Long battery life Decent price
Not completely compatible with macOS ABS keycaps No hot-swappable capability
Razer keyboards are some of the best if you’re looking for a competent gaming keyboard. Hence, it’s no surprise that one of the options for the best mechanical keyboard for Mac devices comes from Razer. The Razer BlackWidow V3 Mini HyperSpeed has all the bells and whistles you might want in a solid mechanical keyboard. For example, it has three connectivity options: wired, wireless via USB receiver, or Bluetooth. As a result, you get more versatility going for this option compared to many other alternatives. It also provides you a choice between two Razer switches: Yellow or Green. The Yellow variant is flatter and quiet. Meanwhile, the latter is more tactile and clicky. With that said, your choice of switches will depend on your typing preferences. However, do note that Razer’s switches are not hot-swappable. Hence, you’re stuck with whatever tactile (or non-tactile) keys you chose from the beginning. Moreover, Razer’s keycaps aren’t the best as they come in Doubleshot ABS plastic. Thus, it isn’t as durable and becomes greasier over time. However, getting the best mechanical keyboard for Mac is a good choice if you need a good typing experience. This is true for writers who need responsive keys that register strokes just as they type. Moreover, it’s especially useful for gamers who like to play precise games on macOS. In addition, Apple’s keyboards aren’t always the best in quality. Recently, they’ve had several hiccups and malfunctions that lower consumers’ trust in their keyboards’ durability. Hence, getting a second option is preferable for many people today.
How to Pick the Best Mechanical Keyboard for Mac
What keyboards can I use with Mac? There are several solid options if you’re searching for the best keyboard for Mac. However, how you decide to purchase a device should depend on several factors. The first is the layout. Do you work with numbers often enough to warrant a Numpad? If so, we recommend getting a full-size or 95% layout keyboard and weeding out the rest. However, if you’re fine with using the top row of number keys, then going TKL or lower can be beneficial. That’s because smaller layouts can save you more space — great if your desk is a little cramped. Moreover, they’re more portable than larger keyboard sizes. In addition, we recommend thinking of your connectivity options. If you’re fine with being stuck to your desk, a wired keyboard should be a good inexpensive option. Wireless keyboards tend to be more versatile but are also usually more costly. Furthermore, remember to pick out a keyboard that has the right switches and keycaps. After all, the whole point of finding the best mechanical keyboard for Mac is to elevate your typing experience. Therefore, the switches and their tactility should suit your tastes and needs well. Lastly, you must consider your budget before picking out a product. While some feature-rich keyboards may be tempting to buy, they’re also more expensive overall. Thus, it’s crucial to balance your budget and the features you require.
Final Word
Searching for the best mechanical keyboard for Mac shouldn’t be too hard. That’s because there are numerous options on the market as most mechanical keyboards are compatible with macOS. As a result, the harder part is choosing between the best ones available and managing your budget. With that said, just remember to weigh the factors we mentioned carefully before you make a decision.
