In my previous Welcome to Macintosh column, I looked at the legendary Apple Extended Keyboard as the beginning of my Keyboard Roundup series. Just as some movies follow up on the original with a sequel, Apple came out with a sequel to the Apple Extended Keyboard. It was named, appropriately, the Apple Extended Keyboard II.
Not a whole lot changed from the Extended to the Extended II (M3501), but there were some changes.
First, here's what didn't change: The size and weight remained pretty much unchanged. The wide space at the top for putting keyboard shortcuts is still there. In the picture below, you can tell where a slip over cover (more than likely containing keyboard shortcuts) once was. The lock down Caps Lock key is still the same.
At first glance, a Mac keyboard doesn't really show any difference from other keyboards we use daily. Mac fix fluid foundation nc20. Aside from a couple of Mac-only keys (e.g. Command, option keys) you wouldn't really think there's something more. Well, in this article, you'll find out that beneath the regular exterior there are fun and interesting things you can do. The Apple Keyboard is a keyboard designed by Apple Inc. First for the Apple line, then the Macintosh line of computers. Dozens of models have been released over time, including the Apple Extended Keyboard.Currently, Apple offers only dual-mode (Bluetooth and USB) keyboards with integrated batteries: Magic Keyboard (silver only), and Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad (silver or space gray).
You're saying at this point, 'What about the feel of the keys? Did that change?'
On that note, let's move on to what did change. The feel of the keys changed only a slight bit. The tactile feel is still there, but it's different from the original Extended in the sense of it being a softer feel when a key is pressed down.
- Great introduction: Keychron K2 V2. This well-received mechanical keyboard offers.
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- The Logitech Easy-Switch K811 is the best Mac keyboard you will ever need if you have already invested heavily in Apple's ecosystem of devices. The Easy-Switch name comes from an actual switch found on this keyboard which allows you to seamlessly change between your Mac, iPad or iPhone to keep typing without interruptions.
It's difficult to put into words the difference between the two as far as the feel. The sound is different as well. It still has a clickity sound, but it's not a click-clock sound like the original. The benefit is that the Extended II doesn't sound quite as loud as the original Extended. Download latest mac.
Don't get me wrong, the Extended II, even with these changes, is still plenty satisfying to type on. Some even argue the Extended II is better than the original.
What else changed? The biggest thing is the addition of a height adjustment. The original Extended (top in photo) was taller in height and did not include a height adjustment. The Extended II isn't as high, but if one wants the angle of the original Extended, it's there with the height adjustment.
I have to say though, the adjustment is rather crude. Maybe it's just the two I have, but the height adjustment leaves something to be desired. If you want a higher angle, you slide the bar over. But getting this bar slid over is a task in and of itself. You'll more likely end up not even messing with the adjustment. Apple really missed the mark here.
Other changes are mostly cosmetic. The Apple logo was moved from the lower left corner of the keyboard to the upper left corner. The Extended II has more of a sloping curve in the top part of the plastic casing instead of the slight curve on the original Extended.
On the original Extended, the power key looked just like the other keys. The Extended II's Power key is flatter and wider (rear in photo). This may have been changed to help typists better avoid hitting it by mistake.
The original Extended had little grooves located above the Help, Home, and Page Up keys, below the arrow keys, and between the Delete, End, and Page Down keys and the top arrow key. The Extended II doesn't have these grooves.
On the original Extended you would find Undo under F1, Cut under F2, Copy under F3, and Paste under F4. These are gone from the Extended II.
Cleaning the Extended II
One other difference that's noticeable is in the disassembly of the Extended II. The original Extended had four screws on the bottom of the casing. The Extended II only has one screw on the bottom and relies on plastic clips around the keyboard to hold the rest together.
One other thing that didn't change: the key caps are not easily removed, so my recommendation doesn't change. Don't attempt to remove the key caps.
Like with our look at the original Extended in last week's column, I'll show you how to disassemble the Extended II to get all the crud, dust, and other junk out of it. Here's how to get to the guts of the Extended II:
- Turn the Extended II over with the bottom facing up.
- Looking at the picture to the right. you'll notice the lone screw on the bottom towards the top of the keyboard. Using any kind of regular Philips screwdriver, unscrew this screw and place it wherever you place screws.
- Turn the Extended II back over so the keys are facing upward, but place it toward the edge of whatever you've got it set on. You can either use your fingernails or a thin flat-head screwdriver to pry the top part of the plastic casing upward toward you. I'm sorry for the lack of a picture here. There wasn't really a sure way to get a picture of how to do this. This can be tricky, but it can be done. If you're stuck, shoot me an email at thomas (at) lowendmac (dot) com and I'll walk you through it.
- Lift the front part of the plastic casing up and off.
- You should now be looking at the main part of the keyboard like is shown in the picture below.
At this point, you'll see all the dirty stuff in the keyboard. Unlike the original Extended, I was unable to find a way to get the main part of the keyboard out of the bottom of the casing (although there probably is a way). Because of this, I recommend just cleaning it with the main keyboard still in place. If anyone knows how to get the keyboard out of the bottom part of the casing, please email me and let me know.
Now you're ready to put it all back together. Here's how:
- With the keys facing upward, put the front cover back on by lining it up at the top and lowering it down. Press down on the bottom and all the way around until you hear everything snap back into place.
- With both hands, turn it over so the bottom is facing up.
- Find the screw you took out earlier and put it back in.
That's all she wrote. A nice, clean Extended II keyboard awaits you.
From the Mailbag
I've received a lot of emails from people about their original Extended keyboards or ones like it. I want to thank everyone for the emails and stories you sent. I want to share two of them to wrap up this column.
And I want to hear from you. If you have any stories to share about your Extended or the Extended II keyboard, email me at thomas (at) lowendmac (dot) com and tell me your story! I also want to mention that I reply to every email I receive, whether it's a question or a comment.
Steve's Story
The first story comes from Steve. His Extended was a trooper through all the years he used it:
When I bought my Mac IIci back in 1990, I bought the Extended Keyboard with it. It took me awhile to really appreciate how good a keyboard it actually was. Is. I used that keyboard daily throughout six solid years on my IIci, and it never failed me. When I upgraded from a IIci to a PowerTower Pro 225, Power Computing's keyboard never left the original plastic; the Extended Keyboard came along for the ride. Six years later I ditched the PowerTower Pro for a mirrorred door G4 where, with the help of an ADB-to-USB adapter, I got another two years out of it before replacing it with a Matias Tactile Pro, which I still use today.
So let's summarize: I got about 14 years of heavy, daily use out of that keyboard without a single operational problem, and it bears mentioning that I touch type at an average of 90 words per minute, so I'm hardly a slouch on the keyboard. The keyboard outlasted four mice, three computers, four apartments (well, my childhood home plus three apartments), several girlfriends, and two cars.
The only reason why I got rid of it was because, after twelve years of service, I had actually worn holes into several of the keys. The space bar, left command key, left shift key, and Return keys actually had holes in them. The keys themselves still worked, but the increasingly-larger holes made typing difficult. (I even tried filling the holes with epoxy, but it wasn't the same.)
I actually still have the keyboard in my mother's basement; I keep it as a sort of memento of times past, when building a keyboard actually meant building something that you could, in an emergency, reliably use as a blunt weapon.
That's what I call heavy duty typing!
Chris' Story
The last story comes from Chris Tucker. Along with his story, he has great cleaning advice for these old battleboards. There's even a picture with this one:
In the space of less than a year, I collected six Extended keyboards (and three Extended II keyboards). All for between 1 and 2 dollars each at the local GoodWill thrift store. One of the Extended boards was in its original box. All that was lacking was the keyboard cable. The Extended I'm using now on my Rev. 2 [Blue & White Power Mac G3] was the first Extended I bought. It was filthy beyond belief. So much so that I had to pull all the keycaps off to clean them.
Cleaning was easy. A bucket of hot water, a generous dollop of Spic & Span mixed in, and just dumping all the keys in the bucket and leaving them overnight. Brownian motion is your friend.
Cleaning the top and bottom was done in a similar manner, save that I soaked them in the bathtub with hot water and Spic & Span for a few hours. The diverse crud on the actual keyboard was easily removed via an old toothbrush and shaking and some canned air. The next day, the keycaps only required some rubbing with a towel to clean them right up.
Once reassembled, it really did look brand new.
As for the keyboard itself. It is, perhaps, the best keyboard I have every used. And as I am a 55 year old hacker, I have used a lot of keyboards in my life. After using this Extended keyboard, just about any other contemporary keyboard feels like I'm poking at a slab of Silly Putty.
The Extended II boards feel just as good. I find that the angle of the Extended is just fine for my typing needs, so the Extended IIs are safely stashed away with the extra Extendeds. Just in case.
I've a few AppleDesign ADB boards. I'd been using one for some years on the diverse Macs I've owned over the years – until I read about the Extended keyboard some years ago. Shortly thereafter, I found the first of my Extended keyboards in the thrift store.
What a difference between the two of them! Despite that the Extended was obviously a very used, 20-year-old keyboard, it hasn't given me a moment's trouble. Indeed, the deciding factor in my buying the B&W was the ADB port.
I was not giving up my Extended keyboard just to use OS X. I think that's pretty much the giveaway that I am indeed a Macintosh fanatic. Choosing a keyboard compatible computer.
There's no doubt about it – ya gotta love the old Extendeds!
In the spirit of all Extended lovers out there, click on!
Further Reading
Keywords: #extendedkeyboardii #appleextendedkeyboardii
Short link: http://goo.gl/NnLkcU
searchword: extemdedkeyboardii
No matter how great your overall Mac experience is, you can always improve it, and finding the best keyboard that suits your needs perfectly is an excellent way to start. When you find and buy such a keyboard, you'll certainly wonder why you didn't get it before. Same as many other Mac accessories, a good keyboard can really make a difference – you won't be frustrated when typing, and you will increase your productivity. In this article, we are going to talk about the top best Mac keyboards, so keep on reading because you may find the one perfect for your needs.
See also: How to find the best mouse for Mac
What to consider when choosing a keyboard?
Browsing through the sheer number of best Mac keyboards available online may change the common notion that Apple doesn't support third-party accessories. While the manufacturer is capable of making the most premium peripherals such as the newly launched Magic Keyboard, Air Pods and the unique Apple mouse, there are so many third party manufacturers ready to aid your usage scenario.
Apple follows a specific design pattern whereas you can get a similar, completely new experience from a Logitech keyboard or a cheaper alternative with additional features. The best part is that they make it pure white with a matte finish so that it easily syncs with the design aesthetics of your Mac setup at home or the office.
Before we list some of the best Mac keyboards, let's see the things you should consider.
- Ergonomics – If you are spending hours working on your computer every day, your hands should be in a natural position when you are typing, which means you need to choose a keyboard with such a design. Many great keyboards come with the adjustable tilt and height and with such keyboard, you won't feel any pain in joints after hours of work and you will feel comfortable when typing.
- Type of keys – There are many laptop-style keyboards for Mac, and all of them look wonderful. However, many people simply don't like these type of keyboards as it may feel strange when typing. If you are one of those people, the keyboard with the raised keys a much better option.
- Wireless or wired keyboard? You will have to decide if you want a keyboard with or without a cable. The wired keyboard is a much better option for gaming because with such a keyboard you will avoid lag issues that may occur sometimes. If you don't like cables, the wireless keyboard for which you need the USB port on your computer is the perfect option for you but don't forget that you will need the batteries. Also, wireless keyboards are usually more expensive.
- Features – Many keyboards today come with additional function buttons and media features buttons such as page up and down, volume up and down, browser button, mute button, just to name a few. If you don't like such options, don't worry, there are many awesome keyboards with just the standard QWERTY keys.
Best Mac Keyboards
The cheapest wired full-size keyboard
Mac allay Full-Size USB Wired Mac Keyboard
After having spent thousands of dollars for your Apple Mac setup, you may probably want to save some money on your replacement keyboard. Although your mileage may vary, this is the cheapest full-size keyboard you can find for your Mac. The white design seamlessly syncs with your Macintosh and the full-sized design allows you to get more things done, especially with the numeric pads being ideal for people in accounting.
The designers have implemented 15 Apple-specific shortcut keys to easily access all repeatedly used functions such as cut, copy and paste. There are also dedicated buttons to pause, play, increase or decrease the volume in your iTunes. It is a wired keyboard and the low-profile key doesn't produce any noise when you type. For people who are largely addicted to Bluetooth, this may sound a bit off. However, if you are not interested in replacing batteries and like to keep it plugged in, this feature becomes useful.
Why should you buy this keyboard?
- The full-sized keyboard includes a numeric keypad, making it easy for people into accounting to get things done faster.
- It is USB wired version which ensures that you don't have to worry about replacing batteries again.
Best Apple Keyboard
Apple Wired Keyboard with numeric keypad
If you don't want anything but Apple, this ultra-thin keyboard is a perfect choice. It has a beautiful and stylish design, built-in USB ports, and low profile keys. To can access many different Mac features such as eject, volume, screen brightness, fast-forward, rewind, just to name a few. For many users, this is unquestionably one of the best Mac keyboards.
While there are so many amazing choices available, the Apple-designed Magic Keyboard for Mac is without a doubt the best product you could buy. The third-party manufacturers do offer a similar white design with a compact footprint and some additional features like Solar charging that may not be available in the original version. It continues to stand out as the best made possible keyboard with Apple's robust build quality.
The keyboard uses a scissor mechanism behind each key providing it more stability and posture when you type continuously. The key travel is very less that keeps it silent at all times and provides a precise typing experience with no wrist or finger fatigue. The built-in rechargeable battery lasts at least for a month before it needs to be recharged. This is a full-sized keyboard from Apple providing you the numeric keypad that is integral for accounting work.
Why should you buy this keyboard?
- The Magic keyboard is made by none other than Apple that provides you brand assurance and design aesthetics.
- The battery life is excellent and, it being a full-sized keyboard sweetens the deal.
Best Compact Keyboard For Mac
Anker® Ultra Compact Slim Profile Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard
Many users prefer wireless keyboards, and if you are one of them this beautiful, slim keyboard may be exactly what you have been looking for. It deserves to be on the list of the best Mac keyboards for several reasons. It is a lightweight keyboard, intuitive and very comfortable for typing. If you are not using the keyboard for half an hour, it will go into the power saving mode automatically. It is not only the perfect keyboard for your Mac, but it is also compatible with iOS devices, Android, and Windows. Its price starts at $25.
Anker has meticulously designed this Bluetooth keyboard and they have come out with flying colors in making it ultra-compact and slim. The Bluetooth keyboard doesn't have a numeric keyboard and is so small that it occupies only two-third of the space occupied by a traditional keyboard. Powered by a large 800mAh battery, it can run for nearly six months even if you use it for two hours non-stop daily.
Using a keyboard without a break is very difficult which confirms that it should easily last months and the Bluetooth is designed to automatically connect with the last device it was paired with. The Anker compact keyboard is also compatible with a range of Bluetooth devices including Mac, PC, Windows, iOS and Android. You can use it easily with your iPhone, Mac or an Android phone. Anker has also ensured that it is easy to type on this device with low-profile matte keys with the frame being sturdy to last long.
Why should you buy this keyboard?
Mac Keyboard And Windows
- The best compact keyboard that you could buy for your Mac
- The battery life is reliable and lasts months on a single charge
A Mac keyboard with mechanical switches
Azio Mk-Mac Wired USB Backlit Keyboard with Brown K-Switch
Have you ever heard of a mechanical keyboard for the Apple Mac? If you haven't, this Azio MK-Mac keyboard should put you on track. Mechanical key switches are popular among gamers and typists in the world of Windows computers. For Mac, it is a concept unheard of. But for the enthusiasts out there who want the best of OS X and input choices, Azio has an option. They have managed to retain the pure white color and used white backlights for the keyboard bringing it on par with any Mac-friendly keyboard out there.
While the product featured here is the USB wired model, you can also find the MK Mac BT with a Bluetooth setup for a slightly higher price. The keyboard features tactile brown k-switches which are non-clicky and doesn't make too much noise. The MK-Mac Wired USB keyboard is exclusively designed for Mac with all Apple-specific button layout including hotkeys for easy access. It also has a dedicated volume control wheel which should make analog lovers happy as you can increase or reduce the volume on your iTunes music playback at will.
Why should you buy this keyboard?
- Mechanical switches for Mac is a unique feature that sets this keyboard apart from the competition.
- Azio has also maintained the Mac key layout and provides a physical volume control button enhancing the analog experience.
Best Mac Keyboard With Modern Design
Logitech Bluetooth Easy-Switch K811 Keyboard For Mac
Logitech Bluetooth Easy-Switch Keyboard with Bluetooth technology is specially designed for Mac. It has bright backlit keys for typing in a dark room. battery life is excellent. It is slim, compact and it has a beautiful, modern design. It can be used for the iPad and iPhone as well. It provides an enjoyable typing experience.
Logitech is primarily a peripherals manufacturer for Windows PCs but they are not giving up on the world of Mac and Apple devices. The Logitech Easy-Switch K811 is the best Mac keyboard you will ever need if you have already invested heavily in Apple's ecosystem of devices. The Easy-Switch name comes from an actual switch found on this keyboard which allows you to seamlessly change between your Mac, iPad or iPhone to keep typing without interruptions.
Google chrome 34 mac. The Bluetooth keyboard provides a solid range of up to 30 feet which allows you to keep it connected to multiple devices in the vicinity. The keys are all backlit, facilitating you to type in the dark and it also includes a rechargeable battery. The USB cable can be used to recharge it which should theoretically last at least a month of daily usage. Logitech has designed a unique keycap for the K811 which enables it to be whisper-quiet when typing and it also sports a Mac layout to let Apple fans use it seamlessly on familiar grounds.
Why should you buy this keyboard?
- Logitech's unique and useful easy switch technology allows you to change the connection between a Mac, iPhone or iPad easily. A must-have for people with multiple Apple devices.
- Quite keys that are comfortable yet don't make any noise during long typing sessions.
Other models worth buying
Best Ergonomic Keyboard For Mac
Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000
Mac Keyboard End And Home Key
This model has a cutting-edge design, and some of the key features are intuitive Zoom Slider, customizable hotkeys, and improved number pad. Typing on it is a pure pleasure, so if you want a keyboard from Microsoft, feel free to go for this one.
Why should you buy this keyboard?
- Women who work out of homes must invest in this keyboard as it is extremely comfortable to use.
- For the ones who are looking for greater comfort and keep wrist pains at bay having this keyboard is preferable.
Best Wireless Keyboard For Mac
Logitech Wireless solar keyboard K750 for Mac
If you like wireless keyboards, you will love this keyboard! Rely on the light instead of the batteries, because any light source will keep this keyboard charged. It delivers an enjoyable typing experience – you will type quieter, and faster. It has ultra-thin design and it comes with a familiar Mac layout.
Why should you buy this keyboard?
- Logitech is a brand that has been manufacturing some great keyboards of all genres. Their keyboards do not wear off easily.
- There is no need to charge the batteries as the keyboard works on solar power.
Best Mac Keyboard For Fast Typing
Das Keyboard Professional Models S for Mac
It comes with ultra-sensitive tactile response meaning to type much faster with ease. Das keyboard has two-port USB 2.0 hub – you can connect USB compatible devices or charge your iPhone. There are Mac function keys included: play/pause, next and previous track, volume up and down, mute, brightness up and down, sleep etc.
It comes with ultra-sensitive tactile response meaning to type much faster with ease. Das keyboard has two-port USB 2.0 hub – you can connect USB compatible devices or charge your iPhone. There are Mac function keys included: play/pause, next and previous track, volume up and down, mute, brightness up and down, sleep etc.
Why should you buy this keyboard?
- The keys can be replaced as desired while using different kinds of Operating systems.
- The multi-media keys option offers great functionality and usability experience.
Best Cheap Keyboard For Mac
Macally 103 key full-size USB keyboard
This keyboard could be the right one for you since it is an inexpensive substitute for Apple keyboards. It comes with Mac OS X features and shortcut keys and LED indicator for power, Num lock and caps lock. Macally keyboard delivers outstanding typing experience thanks to the low-profile responsive keys. The price of this keyboard is under $15.
Why should you buy this keyboard?
- This keyboard is best suitable for those who are into long hours of typing as it is comfortable to use.
- This keyboard can be ideal for those who like to work with shortcut keys.
Best Apple Keyboard With Long Battery Life
Matias Laptop Pro Keyboard for Mac
It is compact and easy to pack with great 1,600 mAh battery. The Mac-friendly function keys allow you to control the volume, brightness, and more. It connects to Android, iPad, PCs and other Bluetooth devices. It also has a great design.
Why should you buy this keyboard?
- This keyboard is ideal for people who work for long working hours
- This quiet keyboard offers an amazing experience for people with fast typing skills
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Mac keyboards be used with an iPad?
Check the specs sheet of the keyboard. Those keyboards designed to work on Mac computers may not be compatible with the iOS run iPads. Certain keys may not function or may offer different results. It is advisable to send a mail to the manufacturer of the Mac keyboard you are planning to buy or the seller to get a confirmation before placing the order. There are keyboards with the provision to alternate between different Apple products.
Are the Mac keyboards silent while typing?
Not necessarily. Many keyboards do produce noise while pressing the keys. If you are used to typing at a rapid speed, the noise levels may even be higher. Some high-end keyboards come with softer keys. Check out the listing which specifically addresses this issue and then place the order.
Will a Mac keyboard work with the Windows OS?
Not all Mac keyboards may have that capability. Yet, there are keyboards in the market that can be used with Mac machines and with Windows PCs as well. However, the typing experience may differ. If you can buy dedicated keyboards for Mac and other operating systems, you will feel comfortable with both.
Are wireless keyboards better or wired keyboards?
Both wireless, as well as wired keyboards, are good. Functionally there is hardly any difference between the two. The keys and the layout will all be the same. The only difference is that a wired keyboard will have a cord to connect the keyboard to the machine. In the case of the wireless keyboard, there is the USB receiver which you have to plug in to start using the keyboard. One benefit of the wireless keyboard is that you can use it from a distance. You can recline on your sofa and type keeping the laptop at a distance.
How soon do the letters and numbers on the keys wear out on keyboards?
In a normal environment with regular use, the letters on the keyboards don't wear out easily. If the keyboard is used in a highly dusty atmosphere or the user does not have clean fingers while typing away, then the letters or numbers and symbols can get erased. Some manufacturers use lamination to protect the letters. Ultimately, it is in the hands of the users.
Bottom line
A whole lot of new products have arrived. Picking the best Mac keyboard could be a difficult choice right now. If you have a good idea of your expectation, it should be much easier to choose one. The Logitech keyboard uses an unconventional solar power while Anker offers the most compact keyboard you could find. There's even a keyboard with mechanical switches and another one that connects with every Apple device. Pick your preferred one and enhance your Mac experience
These are some of the top best Mac keyboards you can get. When choosing a keyboard, don't forget to consider the things we have mentioned at the beginning, such as ergonomics, type of keys, features, and so on. We have listed different types of keyboards here so that every person can find a perfect fit!
