I'm using a Windows keyboard connected to my Mac. I just switched from a PC to a Mac. I'd like to use my Windows keyboard, but it seems to be missing some keys.

For example, what is the command key I keep hearing about? Newcomers and old pros alike use Windows keyboards with Macs.

Windows Keyboard Equivalents for the Mac's Special Keys

Why toss a perfectly good keyboard, just because you switched platforms? I've been using a Microsoft keyboard with my Mac for quite awhile. I just like how the keys feel better than the keyboards supplied by Apple. In fact, I'm dreading the day the Windows keyboard stops working and I have to find another.

This model of the keyboard hasn't been made in years.

Option key - Wikipedia

I suppose I'll check out Microsoft, Logitech, and even Apple offerings. The point is you're not compelled to use an Apple keyboard unless you wish to; any wired USB keyboard, or Bluetooth-based wireless keyboardwill work fine with a Mac. In fact, Apple even sells the Mac Mini without a keyboard or mouseallowing customers to supply their own.

There's just one little problem with using a non-Apple keyboard: There are at least five keys that may have different names or symbols on a Windows keyboard than they do on tutorial forex trading indonesia Mac keyboard, which can make it difficult to follow Mac-related instructions.

It's there; it just looks a little different. Here are the five most commonly used special keys on a Mac, and their Windows keyboard equivalents.

Once buy pepsico stock know the keyboard equivalents, you can use them to control various Mac functions, including using Mac OS X Startup Shortcuts. Another helpful bit of information for new Mac users is to know which menu key symbols correspond to which keys on the keyboard.

The symbols used in the Mac menus can be a bit strange to those new to the Mac, as well as old hands who may be more mousers than keyboard users.

Say Hello to Your Mac's Keyboard Modifier Keys, will explain the symbols option button computer keyboard how they map to your keyboard. The last bit of trouble you may run into depends on which platform you were using before you started using a Windows keyboard with your Mac.

This problem is one of finger memory. Besides Windows and Mac keyboards having slightly different names, they also swap the positions of two often-used modifier keys: Likewise, the Windows keyboard's Alt key is where you expect to find the Mac's Command key.

If you're used to using the modifier keys from your old Mac keyboard, you're likely to run into trouble for a while as you relearn the key locations. Instead of having to relearn key locations, you can use the Keyboard preference pane to reassign the modifier keys, allowing you to keep the fingering skills you already possess.

With the modifier key swap issue resolved, you shouldn't have any problems using any Windows keyboard with your Mac. Search the site GO.

Updated March 10, Question I'm using a Windows keyboard connected to my Mac. Get the Most From Your Tech With Our Daily Tips Email Address Sign Up.

Using the Option Button Control

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