How to Use a Windows Keyboard With a Mac

There are five key differences between a Windows and Mac keyboard. The Enter key on Windows works as a Return key on Mac. Similarly, the Backspace key on Windows will work as Delete on Mac. You won’t have any issues with those keys, though.

The problems start when you try to use other Mac functions with a Windows key. Thankfully, Apple has a way to fix the issue.

Method 1: Remap Modifier Keys

Apple has added a built-in option to let you modify keys on the keyboard. Here’s how to use it.

Step 1: Connect the keyboard to the Mac and click on the Apple logo at the top-left corner. Open the System Preferences/Settings menu.

Step 2: Go to Keyboard > Modifier Keys.

Step 3: Select your connected USB or Bluetooth keyboard name from the drop-down menu.

Step 4: Keep the Caps Lock and Control keys as they are.

Step 5: For the Option Key, change the action to Command. Then, for the Command Key, change the action to Option.

Step 6: Hit OK at the bottom, and you are good to go.

Method 2: Use a Third-Party App

As you can see from the screenshots above, the default Apple way is limited in certain ways. Using a third-party key customizer, you can customize the keyboard experience at your wish. One such app is Karabiner-Elements.

The app allows you to remap every key on the keyboard. You can also create your own rules or choose from the predefined rules. The app is free to download, and you can check out detailed tutorials for each function from the website.

This helps when using a small/minimal mechanical keyboard without arrow or function keys.