Many Mac computers come with the Apple-branded Magic Keyboard, and you either love it or hate it. The keyboards on this list are specifically for those of you who like the Magic Keyboard's general design but are looking for something slightly different. If it's time for a new keyboard, you might want to explore the other options and see what's available outside of the Applesphere. On that note, here are the best alternatives to Apple's Magic Keyboard.
Quick List
Best overall
This little ditty is an iMore favorite. It's a compact keyboard perfect for your Mac that has plenty of useful additional features. It has the added benefit of being specially designed to control features on your iPhone or iPad, like navigating to the Home screen or switching apps. With one button, you can switch between three different devices, including Windows and Android products.
Ergonomic choice
If hunching over a keyboard gives you neck or back pain, then you may need an ergonomic keyboard that supports natural hand placement and good posture. Our reviewers found that the ERGO K860 made typing much more comfortable, allowing the wrists and hands to rest in a comfortable position while typing. And since the curved shape encourages good, straight posture, it can also help prevent hunching and back pain.
Best for silent multitasking
Macally's Everyday Bluetooth keyboard can pair with up to three devices simultaneously that you can hop between on the fly, and features 110 scissor flex keys that are both quiet and smooth. It can last up to three months between charges and takes just one hour to charge fully.
Best for looks
This Bluetooth 5.1 keyboard will work with your Mac, iPad, iPhone, and even non-Apple devices. The slim design and low-profile scissor-switch keys make for smooth, quiet, and comfortable typing. It's available in two colors, including silver, which looks very much like Apple's.
Best for portability
This delightful little keyboard is ultra-portable yet comfortable to use. Smart backlighting adjusts to your environment and smart keys add extra functionality. Easy switch buttons let you connect to up to three different devices with a tap.
Best for backlighting
Arteck's well-priced Bluetooth keyboard is slim, portable, and can be used with your Mac or iOS device as well as non-Apple computers. You can choose from seven backlight colors and two brightness levels on this keyboard. The rechargeable lithium battery can go up to six months on a single charge.
Q & A
Still want the official Apple Magic Keyboard?
There's one thing that no third-party keyboard can give you, however, and that's Touch ID. If you want Touch ID, or if you just need a keyboard that matches perfectly with your Mac aesthetic, then the Magic Keyboard is the only way to go. Here are the best options to pair with a Mac desktop computer.
Comes with numeric keypad
If you love everything about the Magic Keyboard, but really want a numerical pad, this model's nearly identical to the Magic Keyboard except that it has a 10-key number pad, a couple of additional function keys, and dedicated control keys. It's the perfect solution for Mac users that need more keyboard functionality. It doesn't have Touch ID, however.
Definite upgrade
If you want Apple's best, check out this one. Not only does it have that handy numeric keypad and function keys, but it also has Touch ID for ultra-fast and secure authentication for your logins and purchases. Note that it's only compatible with Macs that sport Apple silicon chips (2020 and newer).
Which Magic Keyboard alternative should you choose?
If you love the Magic Keyboard, but you want something just a little bit different, you're sure to like one of the keyboards on this list. They all have a similar functionality but offer something a bit different. An iMore favorite is the Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard. It's great to be able to switch between your Mac, iPhone, and iPad quickly. You can't go wrong with any of the Logitech keyboards. Of course, those of us who need to type a lot of numbers love Apple's Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad and find it worth the upgrade. If you want something with more tactile feedback, check out our best mechanical keyboards for Mac list.
However, if you want something inexpensive that you can toss into your bag when you're on the go, then pick up an Arteck HB220B Universal Slim Keyboard. It's compact at just 9.7-inches-by-5.9-inches-by-0.24-inches and the battery will last six months between charges with typical use. Plus, you get backlighting in all of those fun colors.
On the other hand, if you're looking for something else besides Apple-style keyboards, we've rounded up some other great keyboards for Mac for you. That list includes a variety of different styles, something for everyone.
