Top Mechanical Keyboards for Mac in 2025

April 23, 2025 | 10 min read

If you’re a Mac user who loves the feel of a mechanical keyboard, you’re not alone. The good news? You don’t have to settle for something that’s only made for Windows. These days, there are plenty of great mechanical keyboards that work perfectly with macOS, right out of the box or with just a quick tweak. Whether you’re typing all day or want a better setup for your home office, we’ve rounded up some of the best picks that blend that classic mechanical feel with full Mac compatibility.


1. Keychron K2

The Keychron K2 is a compact mechanical keyboard with a 75% layout, designed for both Mac and Windows users. It uses mechanical switches and comes in wireless or wired versions, with a physical switch to toggle between operating system layouts. The keyboard has a frame made of aluminum or plastic, depending on the model.

The K2 supports multiple device connections, allowing users to pair it with several devices and switch between them. It includes backlighting, either in RGB or white, and offers Mac-specific function keys for tasks like media control or system shortcuts. The keyboard is powered by a rechargeable battery for wireless use and connects via USB-C for wired mode.

Customization is available through software, letting users remap keys or create macros. The keyboard supports different switch types for varied typing feels and is available with or without a hot-swappable feature for switch changes. It’s built for portability while maintaining a functional key layout.

Key Highlights

  • Compact 75% layout with 84 keys

  • Wireless Bluetooth and wired USB-C connectivity

  • Mac-specific function keys

  • RGB or white backlighting

  • Rechargeable battery

  • Customizable via software

  • Optional hot-swappable switches

 

2. Logitech MX Mechanical Mini for Mac

The Logitech MX Mechanical Mini for Mac is a low-profile mechanical keyboard with a compact layout, designed for macOS and iPadOS. It uses tactile switches for quieter typing and comes in colors like Space Gray or Pale Grey. The keyboard is built with some recycled materials.

It connects wirelessly via Bluetooth or a USB receiver and can pair with multiple devices, with a button to switch between them. The backlighting adjusts automatically based on lighting conditions or hand proximity. The keyboard charges via USB-C and supports wired use during charging.

Software allows users to customize key functions or set app-specific profiles. The keyboard includes Mac-specific keys for system commands. Its slim design makes it portable, and the low-profile switches aim to reduce typing noise compared to standard mechanical keyboards.

Key Highlights

  • Low-profile mechanical switches

  • Bluetooth and USB receiver connectivity

  • Pairs with multiple devices

  • Automatic backlighting adjustment

  • USB-C charging

  • Customizable via software

  • Mac-specific key layout

 

3. NuPhy Air75 V2

The NuPhy Air75 V2 is a slim mechanical keyboard with a 75% layout, designed for Mac and Windows compatibility. It uses low-profile mechanical switches and has an aluminum frame with durable keycaps. The keyboard includes Mac-specific keycaps for system functions.

It supports wireless and wired connections, using Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, or USB-C. The keyboard can connect to multiple devices and switch between them. It features RGB backlighting and side lighting, which can be adjusted through software for different effects.

The keyboard allows switch customization without soldering, supporting various switch types. It has a rechargeable battery for wireless use and supports fast charging. The compact design is suited for portability while maintaining a functional layout for typing.

Key Highlights

  • Slim 75% layout

  • Tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, USB-C)

  • Low-profile mechanical switches

  • RGB backlighting and side lighting

  • Hot-swappable switches

  • Rechargeable battery with fast charging

  • Mac-specific keycaps

 

4. Satechi SM1 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard

The Satechi SM1 is a compact mechanical keyboard with a 75% layout, designed for Mac users. It uses low-profile mechanical switches and has an aluminum body. The keyboard includes Mac-specific keys for system commands and shortcuts.

It connects via Bluetooth and can pair with multiple devices, with a key to switch between them. The keyboard features white backlighting with adjustable brightness levels. It supports both Mac and Windows layouts, switchable via a key combination, and charges via USB-C.

The design focuses on portability with a slim profile. The keyboard is rechargeable, though specific battery details are not provided. It’s built to complement Mac aesthetics with a minimalist look and functional key layout.

Key Highlights

  • Compact 75% layout

  • Bluetooth connectivity

  • Pairs with multiple devices

  • White backlighting with adjustable brightness

  • Mac and Windows layout switching

  • USB-C charging

  • Aluminum body

 

5. Das Keyboard 4 Professional for Mac

The Das Keyboard 4 Professional for Mac is a full-size mechanical keyboard with standard mechanical switches. It has an aluminum top panel and includes Mac-specific keys for system commands. The keyboard is designed for wired use only.

It features dedicated media keys and a large volume knob for audio control. The keyboard includes a USB hub for connecting other devices. It supports multi-key input for accurate typing during fast or complex key presses.

The keyboard does not have backlighting or wireless connectivity. It uses a USB-C connection for power and data. The full-size layout includes a number pad, making it suitable for users who need extensive key functionality.

Key Highlights

  • Full-size layout with number pad

  • Standard mechanical switches

  • Mac-specific keys

  • Dedicated media keys and volume knob

  • USB hub included

  • Wired USB-C connection

  • Multi-key input support

 

6. Matias Tactile Pro

The Matias Tactile Pro is a full-size mechanical keyboard designed for Mac users, with a layout inspired by older Apple keyboards. It uses custom mechanical switches for tactile feedback and has a plastic body. The keyboard includes Mac-specific keys for system functions.

It connects via USB, supporting both USB-C and USB-A cables, and is wired only. The keyboard supports multi-key input for reliable typing. It does not include backlighting, focusing on a traditional mechanical typing experience..

Key Highlights

  • Full-size layout with number pad

  • Custom mechanical switches

  • Mac-specific keys

  • Wired USB-C and USB-A connectivity

  • Multi-key input support

  • No backlighting

  • Plastic body

 

7. Keychron Q1 Pro

The Keychron Q1 Pro is a 75% mechanical keyboard with a solid aluminum case. It uses mechanical switches and includes Mac-specific keys for system commands. The keyboard supports both wireless and wired connectivity.

It connects via Bluetooth or USB-C and can pair with multiple devices, with a button to switch between them. The keyboard features RGB backlighting, adjustable through software. It allows switch customization without soldering, supporting various switch types.

The keyboard has a rechargeable battery for wireless use. Software enables key remapping and macro creation. The compact layout balances portability with a functional key set, including a function row for Mac shortcuts.

Key Highlights

  • 75% layout

  • Bluetooth and USB-C connectivity

  • Mac-specific keys

  • RGB backlighting

  • Hot-swappable switches

  • Rechargeable battery

  • Customizable via software

 

8. Logitech G915 TKL

The Logitech G915 TKL is a tenkeyless mechanical keyboard with low-profile switches. It includes Mac-compatible keys that can be customized for system commands. The keyboard has an aluminum top case and a slim design.

It supports wireless connectivity via a USB receiver or Bluetooth, as well as wired USB-C use. The keyboard can pair with multiple devices and switch between them. It features RGB lighting, adjustable through software, and includes programmable keys for macros or shortcuts.

The keyboard has a rechargeable battery for wireless operation. It includes dedicated media controls for audio and playback. The tenkeyless layout omits the number pad for a more compact footprint.

Key Highlights

  • Tenkeyless layout

  • Low-profile mechanical switches

  • Wireless (USB receiver, Bluetooth) and wired USB-C

  • RGB lighting

  • Programmable keys

  • Rechargeable battery

  • Dedicated media controls

 

9. Akko 5075B Plus Air

The Akko 5075B Plus Air is a 75% mechanical keyboard with custom mechanical switches. It includes Mac-specific keycaps for system functions and has an aluminum frame with durable keycaps. The keyboard supports multiple connection types.

It connects via Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, or USB-C and can pair with several devices. The keyboard features RGB lighting, adjustable through software. It allows switch customization without soldering and supports both Mac and Windows layouts.

The keyboard has a rechargeable battery for wireless use. Software enables key remapping and macro programming. The compact layout includes a function row for Mac shortcuts and maintains portability.

Key Highlights

  • 75% layout

  • Tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, USB-C)

  • Custom mechanical switches

  • RGB lighting

  • Hot-swappable switches

  • Rechargeable battery

  • Mac and Windows layout support

 

10. Drop Shift Mechanical Keyboard

The Drop Shift is a full-size mechanical keyboard with standard mechanical switches. It includes Mac-specific keycaps for system commands and has an aluminum case. The keyboard is designed for wired use only.

It connects via USB-C and supports switch customization without soldering. The keyboard features RGB lighting, adjustable through a web-based tool. It supports programmable macros and custom layouts for various tasks.

The full-size layout includes a number pad and function keys for Mac shortcuts. The keyboard supports multi-key input for accurate typing. It does not offer wireless connectivity, focusing on a stable wired connection.

Key Highlights

  • Full-size layout with number pad

  • Standard mechanical switches

  • Mac-specific keycaps

  • RGB lighting

  • Hot-swappable switches

  • Wired USB-C connection

  • Programmable via web-based tool

 

Alternatives to Traditional Keyboards: Freewrite Devices

Freewrite devices, offered by Astrohaus, are distraction-free writing tools designed for writers who want to focus without internet or app interruptions. Unlike traditional keyboards paired with computers, Freewrite devices function as standalone drafting tools with minimal features, prioritizing the writing process. They sync drafts to the cloud for later editing on other devices.

Each device has a unique design, such as portable clamshell models or typewriter-inspired builds, and uses either E Ink or LCD screens to reduce eye strain. Keyboards vary from mechanical to scissor-switch types, tailored for tactile feedback. Freewrite devices automatically save work locally and to the cloud via Wi-Fi, supporting services like Dropbox, Google Drive, or Evernote.

Smart Typewriter (Gen3)

The Smart Typewriter (Gen3) is a desktop writing device developed by Astrohaus, designed for distraction-free drafting. Features a mechanical keyboard with Kailh Box Brown switches for typing comfort  and an E Ink screen with a frontlight for visibility in various lighting conditions. The device lacks internet browsers or app access, focusing solely on writing and storing drafts locally.

Drafts are saved continuously to the device’s internal storage, can be synced to the Postbox web platform when connected to Wi-Fi, or transferred offline via USB-C. Postbox allows users to export drafts to third-party services like Dropbox, Google Drive, and Evernote. The Smart Typewriter supports multiple keyboard layouts, including QWERTY, QWERTZ, and AZERTY, adjustable via Postbox settings. 

The device requires a one-time purchase and includes a long-lasting battery, though specific duration is not detailed on the website. It is constructed with a durable frame suitable for stationary use, primarily at a desk or fixed workspace. The Smart Typewriter is part of Freewrite’s ecosystem, which emphasizes separating drafting from editing to maintain focus.

Key Highlights

  • Features a mechanical keyboard with Kailh Box Brown switches for typing comfort.

  • E Ink screen with frontlight for clear visibility.

  • Continuous local draft storage with Wi-Fi syncing to Postbox.

  • Exports to Dropbox, Google Drive, and Evernote.

  • Supports multiple keyboard layouts (e.g., QWERTY, AZERTY).

Traveler

TheTraveler is a portable writing device from Astrohaus, built for distraction-free writing on the go. It features a clamshell design with a scissor-switch keyboard and an E Ink screen, weighing less than two pounds for easy transport. Like other Freewrite devices, it excludes internet browsers and apps to maintain focus on drafting.

The Traveler saves drafts locally and syncs them to the Postbox platform when Wi-Fi is available, with offline transfer possible via USB-C. It supports integration with cloud services such as Dropbox, Google Drive, and Evernote through Postbox. Users can adjust settings like font size or keyboard layout (e.g., QWERTY, Dvorak) online. The device offers a battery life of up to four weeks under typical use.

A one-time purchase is required to own the Traveler, positioning it as a premium tool for writers needing mobility. Its compact design fits into bags or backpacks, and the E Ink screen reduces eye strain compared to traditional displays. The Traveler aligns with Freewrite’s approach of prioritizing uninterrupted writing sessions.

Key Highlights

  • Clamshell design with a scissor-switch keyboard for comfortable typing.

  • E Ink screen for reduced eye strain.

  • Four-week battery life under typical use.

  • Local storage with Wi-Fi syncing and USB-C transfer.

  • It supports integration with cloud services such as Dropbox, Google Drive, and Evernote through Postbox.

Alpha

TheAlpha is a lightweight writing device from Astrohaus, designed for focused drafting without digital distractions. It features a backlit LCD screen and Kailh Choc V2 low-profile key switches, weighing under two pounds for portability. The device avoids internet access or app notifications, dedicating its functionality to writing and draft storage.

Syncs drafts to the Postbox platform via Wi-Fi, with exports to Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, and Evernote. Offers a battery life of up to 100 hours, supporting extended writing sessions over months with typical use (30 minutes per day).

The Alpha requires a one-time purchase, targeting users who value both portability and extended battery life. Its slim design suits travel or home use, and the backlit screen supports writing in low-light environments. The device reflects Freewrite’s philosophy of creating a distraction-free space for creative output.

Key Highlights

  • Backlit LCD screen for low-light writing.

  • Kailh Choc V2 low-profile key switches for typing.

  • Drafts are stored locally on embedded flash memory.

  • Offers a battery life of up to 100 hours, supporting extended writing sessions over months with typical use (30 minutes per day).

  • Syncs drafts to the Postbox platform via Wi-Fi, with exports to Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, and Evernote.


Conclusion

The mechanical keyboards listed cater to Mac users with layouts and features tailored for macOS, such as Mac-specific keys for system shortcuts. They vary in size, from compact 75% designs to full-size models with number pads, and offer both wired and wireless connectivity options. Some include advanced features like hot-swappable switches, customizable RGB lighting, or multi-device pairing, while others focus on simplicity and traditional typing experiences. Each keyboard provides mechanical switches for tactile feedback, with options for different typing preferences. Users can choose based on their needs for portability, functionality, or customization.

 

FAQs

Do these keyboards work with Windows as well as Mac?

Most keyboards listed support both Mac and Windows, often with a switch or key combination to toggle layouts. Some include keycaps for both systems.

Are wireless keyboards reliable for Mac use?

Keyboards with Bluetooth or 2.4GHz connectivity are designed for stable connections with macOS, often supporting multiple device pairings for seamless switching.

Can I change the switches on these keyboards?

Keyboards like the Keychron Q1 Pro, NuPhy Air75 V2, Akko 5075B Plus Air, and Drop Shift support hot-swappable switches, allowing customization without soldering.

Do these keyboards have backlighting?

Most keyboards feature backlighting, either RGB or white, with adjustable settings. The Matias Tactile Pro and Das Keyboard 4 Professional for Mac do not have backlighting.

Are these keyboards portable?

Compact models like the Keychron K2, Logitech MX Mechanical Mini, NuPhy Air75 V2, and Satechi SM1 are designed for portability, while full-size keyboards like the Drop Shift are less portable due to their size.

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