Mac Specific Gaming Keyboard
Programmable keyboards let you assign custom key actions, rearrange keys, record macros, and much more. Choose the right one to increase your comfort and boost your productivity.
Not all Programmable Keyboards are Created Equal
Jan 15, 2020 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.
There are two types of programmable keyboards: those that let you reprogram any key on the keyboard (“fully-programmable”) and those that add extra keys to the keyboard for programming macros. Programmable keyboards are popular with gamers who use high-powered macros and require extra keys to trigger them, but programmable keyboards are also powerful productivity tools at home or in the office.
Kinesis has a lot of experience making fully-programmable keyboards such as our new Advantage2 and Freestyle Pro keyboards featuring our SmartSet Programming Engine, and our Freestyle Edge RGB gaming keyboard.
Read this guide to learn how a programmable keyboard can help increase your productivity, and even make you more comfortable.
Customizing your Keyboard Layout
Regardless of which keyboard layout you prefer to use (Learn more about alternatives to QWERTY), not every key is going to be in the optimal position based on your physiology, typing style, preferences, and specific workflow.
Programmable keyboards recognize this important fact and allow you to electronically move keys from one position to another (Kinesis calls this “remapping” but others refer to this practice as “key binding”) and in many cases interchange the physical keycaps.
For example, an author may be perfectly happy with the standard QWERTY layout, but QWERTY may be wholly inadequate for a software developer who could benefit immensely from a custom keyboard layout. The reason is most software languages require extensive use of the modifier keys, punctuation keys, and function keys, but those keys were positioned on a conventional keyboard decades ago when keyboard users were typing mostly prose.
One common remap is to swap the Escape key, frequently used in coding, with the Caps Lock key, which has very little value to the vast majority of keyboard users. Arrow keys, navigation keys (e.g. Page Up, Page Down, Home and End) can also be re-positioned for improved access. You can even add key actions that don’t even appear on the keyboard like F13 through F24!
If you’re a software engineer writing millions of lines of code a year, for your entire career, would you rather have your body adapt to a keyboard designed for a 19th century typist writing small amounts of prose, or would you rather have a programmable keyboard which you can customize to meet your specific workflow? That’s what we thought!
The best programmable keyboards (like those made by Kinesis) allow users to create multiple layouts which can be used interchangeably depending on the task, application, or user.
To learn more about how software engineers can benefit from a programmable keyboard read our Ergonomics for Developers guide.
Multiple Keyboard Layers – One Key… Two Actions
On the average keyboard (and even many programmable keyboards), each physical key can only perform one single action. This is kind of a waste when you think about it! One way to make a programmable keyboard more versatile is to add a second “layer” of key actions. A second layer allows a single key to perform two separate actions depending on which layer is active. Many laptop keyboards make use of a second layer (accessed with the “Fn” key) since they are space constrained.
An “embedded” layer boosts productivity by doubling the functional size of your keyboard without sacrificing comfort because a keyboard’s footprint doesn’t increase, meaning you don’t have to move further and further off the home row to access these extra key commands.
All Kinesis programmable keyboards feature dual-layer layouts, where each layer can be accessed by either a “shift” or “toggle” action which can be positioned anywhere on the keyboard. Pretty cool, huh?
We like to put the standard 10-key actions in the embedded layer to reduce mouse overreach, but each key can be independently programmed to perform hard to reach keys, multimedia actions, macros, and much more. It’s virtually limitless!
What’s a macro?
Keyboard macros are powerful productivity tools which can be used to cut down on repetitive keystrokes or eliminate awkward key combinations. A macro is a series or combination of keystrokes triggered by a single key press to save time and effort.
Simply identify a key sequence (any combination of text or key actions) that is repetitive or awkward to press, then identify a more convenient “trigger key” that will substitute for that key sequence. The trigger key can be 1) a key you don’t otherwise use, 2) the embedded layer action for a key you do use, 3) a unique key combination using a modifier key (e.g., Ctrl + F1), or 4) one of the extra hotkeys found on the Freestyle Pro keyboard.
Most “macro keyboards” are designed for gaming and feature exotic styling but Kinesis is the leader in macro keyboards built for the office.
Best Mac Keyboards
What makes a great macro?
The best kind of macros are those that replace frequently used key combinations, key sequences, or text phrases. Macros are highly individualized and application specific. Think about your workflow all the repetitive tasks you perform throughout the day, and then ask yourself which of those could be converted to a macro to save time. Create a custom layout on your Freestyle Pro and assign these macros to the dedicated hotkeys for one-touch access to your favorite shortcuts. If you’re on an Advantage2, assign the macro to a 2-key combination using the thumb-mounted Ctrl and Alt keys for maximum productivity.
Examples from popular applications
Photoshop:
- Create New Layer: Windows + Shift + N
- Flatten Layers: Windows + Alt + Shift + E
- Save for Web: Ctrl + Alt + Shift + S
Outlook
- New Message: Shift + Ctrl + M
- New Appointment: Shift + Ctrl + A
- Text strings likes “Thank you for contacting technical support. Please visit our resource page at Kinesis.com/support.”
Excel
- Insert New Column/Row: Ctrl + Shift + =
- New Worksheet: Alt + Shift + F1
Corel Draw
- Convert Outline to Object: Ctrl + Shift + Q
- Show/Hide Guides: Alt + Shift + D
AutoCAD
- Copy to Clipboard with base point: Ctrl + Shift + C
- Toggle Display Palettes: Ctrl + Shift + H
Slack
- Open Direct Messages Menu: Ctrl + Shift + K
- Activity: Ctrl + Shift + M
- Switch Workspaces: Ctrl + Shift + Tab
Macro Programming
Virtually all programmable keyboards require the installation of special software on your computer to support macro programming, editing, and playback. That’s not the end of the world, but many people prefer not to install unnecessary “bloatware” on their computer if they can avoid it.
SmartSet Programming Engine
Cheap Gaming Keyboards
The Kinesis Advantage keyboard has long been synonymous with macros, but our new SmartSet™ Programming Engine found on the Advantage2 and Freestyle Pro makes macro capabilities even more powerful.
Now you can record and save hundreds of “heavy-duty” macros right to the keyboard (“on-the-fly macro recording”) using a simple onboard shortcut without installing software or special drivers. The macro can be assigned to one or more “trigger” keys in either the top layer or keypad layer for easy access.
Once you’ve recorded a macro, you can even view the macro contents and make changes to the macro or its trigger by a process called “Direct Editing”. Even copy it to another keyboard or layout with a simple cut and paste function. If you’ve ever tried to record a long macro you’ll appreciate just how powerful this is.
SmartSet App
For complex macros, or users who just prefer a graphical interface for programming, Kinesis offers the no-install SmartSet App.
The App lives on the keyboard’s v-Drive so it never has to be installed on your computer! Launch the App to program macros from scratch, or edit an existing macro, you can even change global macro playback settings to optimize performance.
Macro Playback is Computer and Application Specific
Another common complaint about macros is playback speed. Most keyboards play macros back at one speed. But invariably macro speed can be too fast or too slow depending on the macro. With the Advantage2 and Freestyle Pro, you can adjust the global macro playback speed from a modest 100 words per minute (“WPM”) all the way up to a blazing fast 3,000 WPM. You can even set the playback on macros individually in case some require faster or slower playback. Whether you’re a seasoned macro user or someone just starting to explore the world of keyboard macros, the Advantage2 gives you the most powerful macro toolkit available.
On the Freestyle Pro, we’ve added the Multiplay feature which lets you program a macro once and set it to be played back a specific number of times with each trigger event.
Great, I’m convinced! What Macros are Right for Me?
This is the most commonly asked question we get about macros, but it’s really the most difficult to answer. Macros are intensely personal and depend on the individual user, their keyboarding preferences, and of course their workflow. Macro keyboards are also popular in PC gaming where the ability to rapidly trigger a number of sequential actions with the touch of a button is a powerful weapon. Regardless of why you use macros, once you gain familiarity with their capabilities you’ll quickly find dozens of applications for them.
Optimize your Layout for Mac, Windows or Linux
Have you ever tried using a PC keyboard on a Mac computer, or vice versa? It will usually work okay, but some keys may not function properly and others may be in a different location than you were expecting. With a programmable keyboard, you can configure your layout to be used on different operating systems without making tradeoffs or having “dead” keys.
On the Advantage2, we take this a step further with our pre-configured “Thumb Key Modes” for either Windows, Mac or PC/Linux use. Rather than custom programming the keyboard, just use our simple onboard shortcut to toggle the keyboard to activate Windows Mode, Mac Mode, or PC/Linux mode.
On the Freestyle Pro, toggle over to Layout 2 for a customizable Mac layout that optimizes the modifier keys and office hotkeys for playback on Mac OS X.
Both keyboards include extra Mac keycaps so the key legends match the key actions.
Specific Applications for a Programmable Keyboard
- Video/Photo Editing
- Audio Recording/Editing
- Computer Aided Design (“CAD”)
- Animation
- Software Development
- Call Centers / Customer Service
- Transcription
- Web Design
- Gaming
- Assistive Learning
- Industrial
- Point-of-Sale
- Healthcare
- and many more…
Great gaming setups can cost thousands of dollars — but they don't necessarily have to. You can find high-quality hardware at reasonable prices, especially when shopping online. The best gaming keyboards under $50, for example, have more than enough features to vastly improve your gaming experience.
First thing's first: membrane keyboards versus mechanical keyboards. Mechanical keyboards have individual, color-coded switches (which indicate their specific resistance levels) underneath each key. Due to those individual switches, mechanical keyboards are typically louder and have a more tactical feel, so they make it easier to type smoothly without looking. They're also more durable and often preferred among serious gamers.
Membrane keyboards, on the other hand, register keystrokes with connected pressure pads. They're harder to personalize and type on — but they're also quieter, more affordable, and easier to transport. Since you're looking for keyboards at a lower price point, most of your options will be membrane. That said, you can still find a few great mechanical keyboards under $50, though you may have to compromise on other features.
Next, as always, check your compatibility before purchasing. Most keyboards have wide compatibility across Windows operating systems (even older ones), but especially if you game on a Mac or a non-PC console, your options will be significantly more limited.
Finally, narrow down your pick using the availability of specific features. Anti-ghosting, for example, is recommended for gaming, as it allows you to press multiple keys at once and ensure that they all register. Then there's ergonomics, wrist support, and multimedia keys, which are convenient, but not necessary. Other features, like personalized backlighting and overall appearance, are entirely dependent on your preferences.
With all that in mind, check out some of the best gaming keyboards in varying categories — and none of them will run you more than $50.
We only recommend products we love and that we think you will, too. We may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was written by our Commerce team.
The Overall Best Gaming Keyboard Under $50
The overall best pick is at the top of this price point — but according to reviewers, it's worth it. With their K55 gaming keyboard, Corsair has created a sleek, comfortable, programmable option at a great price. First, let's talk about functionality: This keyboard offers six dedicated keys for custom macros, as well as volume and multimedia controls so you can personalize the sound without interrupting your game. Next, there's comfort and ease of use. It has adjustable heights and a built-in rest to minimize wrist fatigue, not to mention quiet, responsive keys with anti-ghosting capabilities. Last but not least, this keyboard offers three-zone RGB backlighting with 10 preconfigured modes for various lighting effects.
Type: Membrane
Compatibility: Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and Windows Vista
Reviewers say: 'I love everything that is in this keyboard. The macro keys, the multimedia keys, the relaxing mouse pad and those sexy RGB lights. [...] If someones looking for a keyboard under $50, this one is the best.'
The Most Affordable Gaming Keyboard
If you're intent on sticking to a strict budget, look no further than the Havit gaming keyboard, which currently costs just $20 in black and $32 in white. Even though it's shockingly affordable, it offers all the best features: a rainbow LED backlight, an ergonomic wrist rest, multimedia combination keys, four adjustable heights, and a plug-and-play USB cord. It also comes with a 3200-DPI, six-button mouse, which cycles through seven vivid colors and has an epic root pattern on it. You can't customize the colors of either the mouse or the keyboard, but at this price point, it's still a solid option.
Type: Membrane
Compatibility: Windows 2000, Windows 2003, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, and Mac OS
Reviewers say: 'I bought this keyboard to find an improvement on my previous keyboards and instead discovered the true meaning of love. Its a beautifully crafted piece of mastery, and at its price, we should all be singing of Lord Havit's grace.'
The Best Mechanical Keyboard Under $50
As previously discussed, mechanical keyboards have switches underneath each key, which give them the tactical feel that most gamers prefer. This K552 keyboard from Redragon partially utilizes switches that are equivalent to Cherry MX blue, so they're clicky, heavy, loud, and have a long lifespan — all for $33. It cuts costs by remaining 60% mechanical and minimizing backlight options (hope you like red), but it still has a metal alloy base, an ergonomic shape, and a splash-proof design. All in all, it's one of the smoothest keyboards at this price point and offers some serious bang for your buck.
Mac Specific Gaming Keyboard For Pc
Type: Mechanical, blue switches
Compatibility: Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP, and Limited Mac OS
Reviewers say: 'I can't believe that since I started PC gaming more than a decade ago I've been buying cheap $20-$30 rubber dome keyboards because I assumed that I couldn't afford a mechanical. When I saw this keyboard I assumed that it had to have some kind of catch to it, that there's no way that a real mechanical keyboard could be this cheap. Well, I've got good news, this keyboard is the real deal.'
The Quietest Option
HyperX is well-known for their gaming headsets, but their Alloy Core gaming keyboard offers the same quality, durability, and comfort as their other products. Most importantly, however, it's the best pick for someone who games until all hours of the night — and needs to remain silent while doing so. The lightweight frame and anti-ghosting, soft-touch keys make virtually no sound while typing. Additionally, this unit offers customizable LED lighting, a spill-resistant design, quick-access buttons, and dedicated media controls.
Type: Membrane
Compatibility: Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows 10
Reviewers say: 'This is the quietest keyboard I’ve ever encountered and I love it. I have a sensitivity to noise like no other, and my husband is a PC gamer. After three and a half years of maddening clicks, arguments, and a lot of frustration, we tested several 'silent' gaming keyboards and this was by far the best of the bunch. This keyboard was worth every penny and I’d buy it again in a heartbeat.'
The Best Wireless Gaming Keyboard
Full disclosure — wireless gaming keyboards at this price point are likely not suitable for pro gaming; top-of-the-line options typically cost double or triple. That said, for casual gaming, the Klim wireless keyboard is considered one of the best. Even though it's cordless and rechargeable, it has a quick response time and supposedly performs just as well as its wired counterparts. Since it weighs less than a pound, lasts for several hours on a single charge, and works from dozens of feet away, it's a great option for those who prefer to game from their couch or bed. It also has adjustable brightnesses, three modes, and a durable frame.
Type: Membrane
Compatibility: PC, PS4, Xbox One, and Mac
Reviewers say: 'Great wireless gaming keyboard at a price that's scary cheap. [...] I'm a gamer and have had zero issues. It has quick response time (I can't tell the difference between this and my wired Razor Black Widow keyboard.)'
The Most Durable Gaming Keyboard
Crumbs, dust, accidental spills, rage quits — this keyboard can stand up to it all. The VicTsing is fully waterproof and extremely durable, all thanks to its mechanical design and ABS plastic construction. The red switches have passed the 60-million keystroke test, and buyers say it shows no signs of wear and tear even after a couple years of regular use. In addition to the longevity, you can expect anti-ghosting capabilities, nearly countless lighting options, 12 multimedia shortcut keys, a detachable ergonomic wrist rest, and relatively quiet sound output (for a mechanical).
Type: Mechanical, red switches
Compatibility: Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows ME, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, and Mac OS
Reviewers say: 'Had this keyboard for a month now, by far one of the best budget keyboards I have purchased [...] It is advertised as sold, truly water resistant as I have rinsed off the keyboard after accidentally spilled soda onto my keyboard. Great keyboard for typing on and gaming with.'
The Best Ergonomic Keyboard
For gamers who are at a computer for hours a day, an ergonomic keyboard can help to minimize discomfort and poor circulation. That said, most ergonomic designs (like split and contoured keyboards) are well over $100, especially when they're made for gaming. Microsoft, luckily, offers one for just $37. While it's still one single piece, the angled keys, wave shape, and break in the middle accommodate the natural positioning of your hands while typing. It also has a cushioned palm rest and an integrated lift for added support. Besides some media keys, this one is pretty light on the features — no rainbow illumination here — but gamers say it's a worthy sacrifice if comfort is your top priority.
Type: Membrane
Compatibility: All Windows operating systems; Mac OS may have to install enclosed software.
Reviewers say: 'As a software developer that spends 40+ hours a week working at a computer desk, and additional hours for gaming, this has been a very comfortable keyboard solution. [...] Before I purchased this ergonomic keyboard five years ago, I had many issues with wrist/shoulder pain. With this keyboard along with a good mouse, and chair, I don't have nearly the same degree of issues with extended use.'
The Best One-Handed Gaming Keyboard
A one-handed keyboard (sometimes referred to as a keypad) is a great option if you're looking for portability and clutter-reduction, as well as if you're gaming on a laptop or using VR. Some gamers also add them to their existing setups for additional key access. At this cost bracket, the Redragon K585 is one of the best one-handed keyboards you can get. Even though it's slim and ergonomically designed, it provides all the basic keys you'd need for gaming, plus seven programmable macro keys and function keys. This option also offers full anti-ghosting, a detachable magnetic wrist rest, five backlit modes with countless color options, a clicky, tactile mechanical experience, and a USB pass-through port to connect your mouse or charge your phone.
Type: Mechanical, blue switches
Compatibility: PC
Reviewers say: 'I always game competitively with mechanical switch keyboards but I typically (like 99%) of the one only use half of it. Having this half keyboard allows me to have my gaming keyboard, typing keyboard, and gaming mouse in perfect reach. It’s stable with the rubber supports on the bottom. I slay with this thing.'
The Best All-In-One Gaming Bundle
If you're new to gaming and you're looking to cover all your bases in one single, affordable purchase, the Redragon gamer bundle offers everything you need to get started — at a shockingly low price. For $44, you get an ergonomic, backlit keyboard with adjustable RGB modes, brightness levels, and multi-media keys. You also get an adjustable 3200 DPI gaming mouse with six buttons, a lightweight stereo headset with memory foam cushions, a built-in microphone, and 40-millimeter directional drivers, and a large, silk-like mouse pad for precise movements. With over 1,000 reviews and a 4.3-star rating, buyers are obviously impressed with the overall quality and value of this combo.
Type: Membrane
Compatibility: Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, or Windows XP, Limited Mac OS
Reviewers say: 'This bundle is the best [money] I’ve spent in who knows how long. The mouse is made well and looks like it won’t be having buttons or side grips falling off like others I’ve had in the past. The headset quality is great, and the keyboard is cool too. Did I mention the free mousepad that’s waterproof?'