How to Connect an External Keyboard to Your Macbook

Connecting a Wired Keyboard to Your MacBook

The most straightforward way to connect an external keyboard is to connect a wired keyboard. You can typically plug an external laptop straight into your MacBook’s USB-C port (or USB-A port, if you have an older MacBook). That’s all there is to the MacBook wired keyboard setup.

However, if your keyboard doesn’t have the right port, you might need a USB-A to USB-C adapter or a USB-C to USB-A adapter. Also, restart your computer after plugging in the keyboard if it doesn’t show up at first.

Connecting a Wireless or Bluetooth Keyboard

You can also connect a wireless keyboard to your MacBook. There are two types of wireless keyboards.

The first type uses a USB dongle that you stick into the USB port on your MacBook. Once you plug it in, the keyboard will connect automatically.

The other type is a true Bluetooth keyboard. If there’s no dongle, you will need to go to your MacBook’s Bluetooth settings to pair the Bluetooth keyboard with your Mac and then use it.

Configuring Keyboard Preferences on macOS

Did you know that you can customize your keyboard in your Mac’s keyboard preferences? You can modify which keys on your Mac’s keyboard correspond to which shortcuts. Go to System Settings > Keyboard > Keyboard Shortcuts to customize your shortcuts. You can set up keyboard shortcuts for things such as opening the dock, opening Spotlight, or taking a screenshot of the screen.

Troubleshooting Common Connection Issues

If your keyboard is not working, here are some tips to help you fix the external keyboard. If you are facing MacBook keyboard connection issues with a wired keyboard, try the following tips:

Try a different port on the computer.
Try a different adapter if you are using one.
Make sure the keyboard is plugged into the MacBook itself and not a hub.
Restart your computer.

If you are facing issues with a wireless keyboard, try the following:

Insert the dongle into a different port.
If given the option of using a dongle or Bluetooth, try the other option (if you were using Bluetooth, switch to the dongle and vice versa).
Go to your Mac’s Bluetooth settings, forget the keyboard, and pair it again.
Make sure your keyboard is charged if it requires charging.

Using a Non-Mac Keyboard on macOS

Did you know that you can use a Windows keyboard on your Mac? Yes, you can use a PC keyboard with a MacBook! However, some keys will be different. Generally, the Windows key will function like the Command key and the Alt key will function as the Option key. Apple has a helpful guide to help you map the keys on your Windows keyboard to the correlating keys on a Mac keyboard.

Choosing the Right Keyboard for Mac Use

How to Connect an External Keyboard to Your Macbook 3

There are so many options to choose from, that deciding on the best keyboard for your Mac can be difficult! If you are looking for a portable Mac keyboard, the Apple Magic Keyboard is a solid choice. It can last for a month without recharging it!

However, it’s not your only option. The Logitech MX for Mac is another solid choice. You can also use any keyboard, technically; as mentioned, a Windows keyboard will work as well, so if you are on a budget, it’s a great option.

Connecting an External Keyboard Without a Mouse

You can certainly connect your keyboard without a mouse. The two aren’t mutually inclusive. Keyboards may come with a trackpad you can use instead of a mouse. You can also use the MacBook’s built-in accessibility options to navigate your screen without a mouse. For example, in the Apple menu > System Setting > Accessibility > Pointer Control you can activate Mouse Keys, which allows you to use your keyboard’s keys to navigate your screen.

Final Tips for Seamless Keyboard Use on a MacBook

Let’s conclude with some keyboard tips to help you optimize your Mac keyboard performance:

Customize the external keyboard’s shortcuts to be more productive.
Remember to use the appropriate Windows keys instead of their correlating Mac keys for shortcuts, if using a Windows keyboard.
Make sure to keep your keyboard charged if it’s wireless.

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