External Wired Keyboard For Macbook Pro

It’s 2019, and your MacBook will be one year older soon in just a few months. For all the hours you spend typing on your MacBook’s keyboard, it’s time to find out if using an external keyboard may be better for your workflow.

After all, making your workspace your own has many advantages. With an external keyboard, you’ll have greater freedom to position your Mac at a comfortable viewing height and distance, be able to clear space by raising it on a laptop stand but still type, and do your work without worrying that you’re developing carpal tunnel syndrome.

Get Magic Keyboards, trackpads and mice for Mac. Shop sensor switches and keyboard cases for your Mac. Buy online with fast, free shipping. MacBook Pro (Retina. Yes, absolutely. You can easily plug in your favorite USB keyboard.

For those of you who use an old MacBook Pro with some keys broken or not functioning well, getting an external keyboard means increased productivity. And you don’t need to spend the time and extra cost for key replacement.

In this article, we’ll show you a list of the best wireless keyboards, and help you pick the right one and put the spotlight on a few of our personal favorites.

Quick Summary

External keyboards come in a variety of styles and many offer special quirks that other brands may not. Here’s our breakdown of what’s best when it comes to available features:

If your quest for the best MacBook Pro keyboards is not chained by a certain price point, I would recommend you to give serious consideration to Apple Magic Keyboard. It comes with a scissor mechanism underneath each key which not just enhances stability but also plays a vital role in accelerating typing speed. Not having to deal with a big condenser mic, an audio interface, or a USB preamp, would be great, wouldn't it? Maybe we just want to connect an external mic like a lapel mic, or a Rode VideoMicro, and get our voice recorded. But, what if you have a MacBook Pro? It just has a headphone output! So, no way we can record audio straight to it, right? You can always buy an 'magic keyboard', which will feel a lot closer to a laptop keyboard and it has the same layout. It really depends on your setup. At work I use the laptop keyboard with a high mounted extra wide screen above the internal screen. At home I have it in clam shell with 2 external screens and external keyboard.

  • For the official Apple option that is sure to work perfectly with your MacBook, we recommend Apple Magic Keyboard.
  • For a classic mechanical keyboard with a modern touch, we recommend Logitech MK545 Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo.
  • For a full-size keyboard with glossy, flat keys and a USB dongle connection, we recommend Arteck HB030B Universal Slim.
  • For a compact and Bluetooth option that will work on more than one device, we recommend Anker Ultra Compact.

Do I Need an External Keyboard for My MacBook?

External keyboards can be a great asset to your MacBook setup. They offer a variety of benefits, such as greater adjustability and positioning freedom for your screen. You can also sit further away from the harsh light, which is better for your eyes (and health).

If you plan on selling your MacBook eventually, an external keyboard will prevent the built-in keys from accumulating wear and tear. That means your Mac laptop will get higher residual value.

You’ll also benefit most from a keyboard if you’re someone who tends to use your MacBook Pro along with other device or papers that take up a lot of space on your desk, or in a relaxed environment where you have the freedom to spread out as much as you need.

That said, an external keyboard will be less helpful if you tend to use your MacBook Pro while commuting, in isolation, or do not have enough space at your workplace to expand.

Also, for those who own the newest MacBook Pro with the beautiful touch bar, you’ll be giving up easy access to Apple’s latest innovation if you choose to purchase an external keyboard.

So, as you see: it’s not always a good (nor bad) idea to buy an external keyboard for your MacBook, all depending on your goals and preferences. If you’ve decided to purchase one, make sure you also learn the following criteria.

External Wired Keyboard For Macbook Pro Keyboard

Buying an External Keyboard for Mac: What to Consider in 2020?

Keyboard Style

The first thing to consider when choosing an external keyboard is the style, which is dependent on your needs. Many laptop owners are used to membrane style keyboards, which means your keys travel a short distance and press very quietly.

But if you’re getting an external keyboard, you may prefer the mechanical keyboard that produces the classic “clacking” sound while you work. You should also determine if you need a full-size keyboard with a number pad or just the standard QWERTY lineup.

Connection Type

If you only plan on using it at a single location, you might be fine with a wired option. But if you’re always on the go, wireless is probably the better choice. Additionally, wireless keyboards come in several different types themselves. Many models use Bluetooth, but a good amount of keyboards use a USB dongle instead.

Battery Life

If you plan on going wireless, battery life is definitely a factor to consider. Most external keyboards will be battery-operated, but some are rechargeable. Whichever you end up choosing, you should keep checking if the charge length is long enough not to inconvenience you.

The Best MacBook Pro Keyboards in 2020: Our Picks

Please note that all the products listed below are chosen based on the guidelines above and our personal preferences. They are not in any particular order and offer their own advantages and disadvantages.

1. Apple Magic Keyboard


Made by Apple for Apple, the magic keyboard is the best option if you’re a pure Apple fan who decides to go all the “Apple” way to your setup. It’s a clean membrane keyboard that comes in silver and white that will flawlessly match your MacBook Pro.

Pros:

  • It’s designed and made by Apple, one of the world’s most trusted brands.
  • It looks beautiful with clean design, and it’s extremely light and comfortable to carry around.

Cons:

  1. It’s a bit pricey and certainly not the most portable design available while compared to some of our other recommendations.
  2. Also, it doesn’t have a numeric keypad which can be a productivity boost if you deal with numbers on a regular basis.

2. Logitech MK545 Advanced Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo


From the long-trusted Logitech brand, this mechanical keyboard is complete with a number pad and comes with a free mouse as well. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a modern wireless keyboard with an old-school touch in the form of classic clicking keys.

Pros:

External Wired Keyboard For Macbook Pro
  • It’s battery operated and claims long lifetime before batteries need to be replaced.
  • The mechanical style is great if you don’t like membrane keys.
  • Also, it has a number pad and shortcuts keys.

Cons:

  • Plastic keys are rougher than classic Mac keys, and may feel unappealing in comparison.

3. Arteck HB030B Universal Slim Portable Wireless Keyboard


If you’re looking for a full-sized membrane keyboard but don’t want to sacrifice a good sized chunk of space, this model from Arteck is beautifully designed and it’s much smaller than a standard keyboard. It also offers function keys and a glossy finish.

Pros:

  • It’s small enough to carry easily.
  • The membrane keys are smooth and can be pressed easily.
  • It also includes programmable hotkeys, can be connected via USB dongle.

Cons:

  • It uses a “Windows” key rather than “Command” despite Mac compatible, and the keyboard may feel cramped.

4. Anker Ultra Compact Profile Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard


With this keyboard, you won’t be limited to just your MacBook Pro – it’s compatible with your iPad as well. It’s about 30% smaller than your normal laptop keyboard, so your desk will remain uncluttered. The 6-month battery life means you won’t be worried about lack of charge when it’s time to work.

Pros:

  • The rechargeable battery can last up to one month without having to recharge (based on 2 hours of non-stop use per day).
  • It has clean white style, Bluetooth connection, extremely compact and slim.
  • Also, it’s very light and weighs in at a featherlight about 10.4 ounces.

Cons:

  • Keys might feel cramped compared to a normal keyboard, and there’s no number pad.

Useful Tips & Resources

Sometimes it’s less about what keyboard you use, rather more about how you use it. If you’re interested in some helpful key shortcuts, check out this list from ComputerWorld that will reduce the amount of time you spend unnecessarily clicking on certain tasks.

Maintaining and cleaning your keyboard is also necessary if you want to maximize its life and keep it in good shape, you may be interested in reading this article from Logitech where the author shared four quick tips to keep your device clean.

If you’ve decided to purchase an external keyboard, also consider adding these two items to your shopping cart:

  • ColorCoral Keyboard Cleaner Universal Cleaning Gel – helps remove dust, hair, and crumbs from the surface of a keyboard.
  • MECO Rechargeable Mini Vacuum – helps clear off dirt from inside the keyboard.

Final Words

Wireless Keyboard For Macbook Pro

An external keyboard is a fantastic investment if you like versatility in your workplace. It will allow you greater comfort and help you be more productive by allowing you to customize your workplace.

Do you already use an external keyboard with your MacBook Pro? Tell us which model you use and what your experience has been like.

Getting an Apple device is one of the best investments one can attain. Apple devices are a premium category of gadgets that symbolizes the status also. With these gadgets, you can get optimal performance as well. If you are opting for these gadgets then one of the foremost things one should opt for the quality peripherals. These quality peripherals comprise of keyboard, mouse, charger, screen guard, etc.

Keyboards are one of the essential that provides much of the support to the user. Without an optimal typing experience, you could not complete any of the desired work. Getting a top-class keyboard that provides all essential features is not a cumbersome process. You just have researched a bit before buying the keyboard.

Some of the attributes which define the quality of the keyboard are sensitivity, finish, and ease of performing different chores.

Best MacBook Pro Keyboards 2020

These are some of the best MacBook pro keyboards which are equipped with par quality features. If you are planning to buy a quality keyboard for your mac then give attention to this excerpt. These following products help you to narrow down your options and getting a good value for your money.

#1. Macally Ultra-Slim USB Wired Computer Keyboard for Apple MacBook Pro/Air

With specially constructed aluminum backing, this is the keyboard that provides a slim yet feature-loaded. The compatibility of this keyboard makes it quite adaptable and appealing. This full-sized extended keyboard provides easy access to media with its 20 Apple shortcut keys.

Apart from these, the multimedia shortcuts for other PC is also an added benefit. It comes with a ten-key numeric keypad that makes it quite efficient in data entry work. You need not charge this keyboard continually. It comes with a cord length of 140cm to be connected with the computer. This keyboard doesn’t need any sort of driver to be installed before the installation. You just have to plug and play.

This is one of the bets peripherals that provides all-around features including wired keyboard. Some of the handy functions such as shortcut keys and other essentials make it quite perfect for usage.

What we like:

  • Wired Keyboard
  • Aluminum backing
  • Extended Keyboard
  • 20 Apple shortcut keys
  • 4’7″ (140 cm) USB cable
  • Plug and Play Connection

#2. Apple Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad (Wireless, Rechargeable) (US English) – Silver

If your work is business-centric then this keyboard provides all the essential functions. It comprises of magic keyboard with 10key. This is a wireless keyboard that provides maximum features. Your MacBook will be easily equipped with a top-class peripheral that simplifies your workload. It has a solid look and feels that the original Magic Keyboard has. The internal battery is rechargeable via the Lightning port on the back.

This design makes it quite appealing. The weight of this keyboard is 1lb that makes it quite lightweight. The best feature about this keyboard is the Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad features an extended layout, with document navigation controls for quick scrolling and full-size arrow keys for gaming. Apart from this, the scissor mechanism beneath each key allows stability.

With these, you can get a comfortable and accurate typing experience. In addition to that, the numeric keypad provides ease of doing work in spreadsheets. In this price range, the above features come handy and provide good value for money.

What we like:

  • Magic Keyboard WITH 10-Key
  • Numeric Keypad
  • Quick scrolling
  • Optimized key travel

#3. Apple Magic Keyboard (Wireless, Rechargeable) (US English) – Silver

This keyboard comes with Magic Keyboard that has a sleek design with a built-in rechargeable battery and optimal key features. The additional scissor mechanism of this keyboard provides a par level of comfortability and accurate typing experience.

This keyboard is equipped with a numeric keypad that makes the work of spreadsheets or excels easy enough. This keyboard has an amazing battery life and the keyboard felt good. The angle of the rear positioning of this keyboard makes it quite good for the wrist position while typing. The battery life of this keyboard provides longevity in the usage.

With the sleek design and the rechargeable battery, it provides an appealing feature. The design of this keyboard makes this to attain the top position among its peers. Under this price tag, you can get a solid mac peripheral that complements the efficiency of the same.

What we like:

  • A sleek design
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Enhanced key features
  • Scissor mechanism

#4. Multi-Device Keyboard for Mac OS/ iOS/ iPad OS, Jelly Comb Bluetooth Keyboard for MacBook Pro/Air

This is one of the keyboards which function Across Three Devices. It can easily switch between 3 devices effortlessly by pressing a single button. This is completely wireless with Bluetooth which can be recharged. If you are an Apple user this will provide a good experience.

The aesthetical looks of this device make it appealing as it comes in the same shade as the mac or pcs. The scissor mechanism helps to provide a good typing experience. This ultra-slim keyboard is preferable for mac users who work at home or offices. One can easily connect the keyboard to their laptop.

The accurate specifications of this keyboard comprise a built-in 280mAh rechargeable lithium battery, the key life of 3 million strokes, the Bluetooth connectivity works within 8metres and comes in a dimension of 42.8cm x 12.5cm x 1.6cm.

What we like:

  • Quick and smooth switch
  • Space Grey Look
  • Scissor Mechanism
  • Bluetooth Keyboard

#5. Jelly Comb Bluetooth Keyboard for MacBook Pro

If you want a professional accessory that provides compatibility with your MacBook pro then this is the keyboard you should opt for. It provides different features such as Easy access for Media, My Computer, Volume/ Light adjustment as well as Power on/ off. The Numpad part is the added advantage of this device as it can substantially reduce the shoulder pain from reaching arms too far away.

You can easily pair it with any mac device via Bluetooth. It gets automatically connects to your last-connected device. The low-profile silent keys enable fingers gliding from key to key. With this, you can substantially increase your productivity. The design of this device with an aluminum black color scheme perfectly matches the shade of MacBook. It comes with a 1-year worry-free warranty and welcome guide.

The essential keyboard specifications comprise of built-in 280mAh rechargeable lithium battery, key life of 3 million strokes, the Bluetooth connectivity can work within the range of 8metres and the physical dimension of 28.3cm x 13.5cm x 0.4cm. The package includes a Compact Bluetooth Keyboard and a Charging Cable.

What we like:

  • Bluetooth Keyboard
  • Compact Key Travel
  • Rechargeable besides phenomenal battery life.
  • Low-profile silent keys
  • Aluminum black color

#6. iClever Bluetooth Keyboard for MacBook Pro

If you want to have a peripheral which is quite ergonomic and efficient for your mac then this is the keyboard that fulfills all of your needs. This iClever Bluetooth keyboard is manufactured with high-quality stainless steel and ABS. the design that provides optimum slope for the wrist and palm placement makes it quite efficient. The stylish silver colorway provides an attractive appearance to this keyboard.

Users who want aesthetically par keyboard, they get all the features in their desired one. The key set of this keyboard is matte finished and spill-resistant. These safety features provide a good and safe covering to the keyboard. The multi-device connection enables this device to connect with 3 devices. Apart from that, you can seamlessly switch between them without taking any stress.

This peripheral for your MacBook comes with an incredibly long-lasting rechargeable battery. This delivers up to 90 hours of continuous typing on a single charge. If you are more stressed about the accidental errors due to typing then this sensitive and responsive keyboard enables you to restrict those errors. The rear of the keyboard is equipped with shock and skid-proof pads which restricts the slipping of the keyboard.

What we like:

  • High-quality stainless steel
  • Inbuilt Bluetooth 5.1 technology
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Sleek design
  • Low-profile keys

#7. Macally Slim USB Wired Small Compact Mini Computer Keyboard for MacBook Pro

If you are stressed out with your clumsy desk space and want to give it a minimalistic feel then using this keyboard will provide it all. This small keyboard only takes up only two thirds the space of a traditional keyboard. The plug and play feature of this keyboard makes it quite budgetary. It doesn’t need any kind of driver’s installation.

The availability of 13 Apple shortcut keys including cut/copy/paste, iTunes control, Volume up/down, etc. this comes with 140cm USB cable which provides stable connection. With the usage of this one can easily efficiently get their work. Apart from these the large Chiclet shaped keys make you’re typing fluent and easier.

The compact design of this USB wired keyboard makes it preferable for apple users. The wired connection makes you restrict the problem of weak connection between your keyboard and computer. With the high battery usage, you don’t have to change batteries constantly. This is one of the most affordable keyboards for your Apple device. The comfortable kickstand tilting makes it very comfortable to adapt according to your typing needs and wrist placement.

What we like:

  • 13 Apple shortcut keys
  • 4’7″ (140 cm) USB cable
  • Large Chiclet shaped keys
  • Smooth tactile feedback

#8. Macally Compact Wireless Keyboard

This is a keyboard which is equipped with best in class features such as syncing with 3 bluetooth devices. It can be used as a computer keyboard, tablet keyboard, and smartphone keyboard. The compatibility of this keyboard with different operating systems makes it suitable for all types of computers.

It has convenient shortcut keys customized for the Apple iPad keyboard or iPhone keyboard. This keyboard is good for traveling purposes as an essential peripheral for your heavy laptop. With the full-size keycaps, you can get a comfortable typing experience. With the super long battery, one can easily enjoy stress-free usage.

It comes with vales which makes it quite appealing for those who want minimal hassles. It can easily simplify your peripherals. With the scissor keycaps, you can attain smooth and silent typing. The keys are equipped with the minimum distance that makes it quite good for those who want to increase their productivity while traveling. With the optimal level of Bluetooth connectivity, one can get benefits regarding easy handling.

What we like:

  • Tablet keyboard
  • Full-size keycaps
  • Long battery life
  • cable-free connection

#9. Macally Full-Size USB Wired Keyboard for MacBook Pro/Air

If you want to have a perfect peripheral for your MacBook then Macally Full-Size USB Wired Keyboard is the perfect one. The 104 keys, 16 Apple-specific shortcut keys, and a numeric pad one can get an optimal level of ease while typing. The comfortable and responsive touch keys provide comfortability at its best.

With the ergonomic design and long USB cable, you can get any of the postures as per your need. You can choose the positioning of the keyboard as it comes with a foldable kickstand. The anti-slip rubber pads keep it firm on the base with having any of the slippery movement. You get a high tolerance of 5ft of the USB cable in case your CPU is kept at a distance or underneath the table.

The durable and spill-proof design makes it quite protected from any kind of mishappenings. This wired keyboard can easily restrain the spillage with its inbuilt drainage holes. One of the major advantages of this keyboard is the simple usage, you just need to attach in the USB cord, and there is no need to install any drivers.

Some of the core specifications of this keyboard are 104 Full-Size Keyboard, 16 Convenient Shortcuts for Mac, Integrated 10 Number Keypad and an accurate dimension of 5.4″ x 17.5″ x 0.78″. With the weight of 1lb and length of cable 150mm, this provides maximum ease to the user.

What we like:

  • 16 Apple-specific shortcut keys
  • Full-sized keycaps
  • Responsive touch
  • 5FT USB wire cable

#10. Mini USB Wireless Keyboard Small Computer Wireless Keyboards Slim Compact External Keyboard for MacBook Pro

This mini wireless keyboard is one of the best among the peers which comprises 32ft of range and the frequency range is 2.4 GHz. the need for cord has been restricted with the usage of this keyboard. The range if this keyboard enables good mobility and increases the device efficiency.

One of the main features is the plug and play option. You just have to insert the USB receiver and the keyboard is ready to use. One of the concerns is the usage of AAA batteries but this lasts for months. The longevity of this is massive. With this wireless device, you can get compatibility in any operating system. One of the backdrops of this device is that its dent gets compatible with foreign languages.

With this wireless keyboard, you get a comfortable and responsive user interface. With the sleek design that consists of thin on the front and tapered towards the rear provides good finger movement. The design of this keyboard comes handy as it saves some of the vital space of your desk. With the above features, the 1-year money-back guarantee provides a stress-free usage. In this price range if you are getting all of the above features then it is totally worth your money.

What we like:

  • The frequency range is 2.4Ghz
  • 32 feet working range Plug-n-Play

These are some of the best peripherals which can provide optimal support and comfort. Most of the keyboards come with different efficient features that make it quite appropriate to use. If you are using a Mac and want to have one of the efficient peripherals then these should be given a keen view. With all of the essential features such as wireless connectivity, rechargeable batteries, magic keyboard, etc. one can acquire maximum relief and increased efficiency.

It is evident that if you readily work in an efficient environment without any stress for peripherals and their maintenance then your efficiency increases substantially. The function of the keyboard is very essential for any type of computer whether it MacBook or any pc. When you equip yourself with MacBook the need for quality peripherals generates, above are the most suitable keyboards for MacBook which provides good value for money.

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