Apple’s smallest desktop computer is a powerhouse in a small package, but it doesn’t come with peripheral devices — so what are the best keyboards for Mac mini?
Whether you use a Mac mini for work or gaming, adding the right keyboard is crucial for maximizing your productivity and comfort.
I’ve always been fascinated with keyboards and have several. I’ll show you 10 of my favorite choices for great keyboards to use with Mac mini below.
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Best keyboards for Mac mini
First off, will any keyboard work with a Mac mini? The answer is yes, for the most part, if it can connect via Bluetooth or a USB-C cable (or a USB-A cable with adapter).
Also, can I use a non-Apple keyboard with Mac mini? Yes, you certainly can, and most of my recommendations below are non-Apple keyboards.
Choosing the right keyboard for your Mac mini from the vast number available is essential for several reasons.
First, a good keyboard has a massive impact on your typing experience and comfort. A well-designed keyboard with ergonomic features can reduce repetitive strain on your wrists and fingers. A bad one can send literally cripple you.
Second, a good keyboard is an integral part of your workflow. The keyboard’s layout, responsiveness and additional features can significantly impact your efficiency and speed while working on your Mac mini.
And third, aesthetics play a role. A visually appealing keyboard that complements your Mac mini’s sleek design can enhance the rizz of your workspace.
Table of contents: Best keyboards for Mac mini
- Pick the right keyboard type and layout for you
- Best keyboard for Mac mini: top pick
- Best keyboards for Mac mini M1
- Best silent keyboards for Mac mini inexpensive
- Best silent keyboards for Mac mini
Pick the right keyboard type and layout for you
When choosing a keyboard for your Mac mini, consider several factors. For one, the type of keyboard — with mechanical, membrane or scissor-switch keys — can greatly affect your typing experience. Mechanical keyboards offer a tactile and satisfying typing feel, with a pleasing clickety-clackety noise (though some people find that annoying). Membrane keyboards are quieter and often more affordable. Scissor-switch keyboards offer a balance between the two.
A keyboard’s layout matters, too. Mac-specific keyboards usually have dedicated Mac keys and a layout optimized for macOS, providing convenient access to various functions. And you should take into account wired and wireless connectivity options, as well as compatibility with your Mac mini’s ports.
Finally, evaluate the overall build quality, durability and additional features like backlighting or programmable keys — extras that could make a difference as you get to know your keyboard and apply it to favorite uses, like gaming.
To help you find the perfect keyboard for your Mac mini, see our list of the market’s best options, below. I selected them based on performance, design, affordability and, of course, seamless compatibility with Mac mini.
Best keyboard for Mac mini: top pick
1. Logitech MX Keys S Wireless Keyboard
Photo: Logitech
Successor to the beloved Logitech MX Keys series membrane keyboards, Logitech MX Keys S offers a look that complements Apple design, a great feature set, terrific comfort and some new features for a price lower than Apple can offer.
As a full-sized keyboard, it features a number pad. An ambient light sensor saves battery life by enabling backlighting when needed. And the ability to remap F-row keys and other keys helps you adapt it to your workflow.
Logitech software makes it more customizable than Apple’s Magic Keyboard, the keys’ fingertip grooves make it more comfortable to type on, plus you can pair it with multiple devices. What’s not to love?
Where to buy: Amazon
Best keyboards for Mac mini M1
1. Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad
Photo: Apple
Which keyboard is best with Mac Mini M1? M2? Most work, and Apple’s Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad perfectly complements Apple silicon machines like Mac mini. It features a compact design, scissor-mechanism keys for a comfortable typing experience, and a numeric keypad for increased productivity. The Magic Keyboard is wireless and rechargeable, ensuring a clutter-free workspace. Touch ID helps you skip using passwords, which is a great, underrated feature. And while the keyboard only pairs with one device, Apple’s Universal Control functionality helps out by making it work across compatible Apple devices like iPad.
Where to buy: Amazon (also available in mini version without numeric keypad for $149)
2. Keychron K2 Version 2 Wireless Gaming Mechanical Keyboard
Photo: Keychron
The Keychron K2 75% layout wireless mechanical keyboard offers a delightfully tactile typing experience and excellent compatibility with M1 and M2 Mac mini machines. The keyboard features a compact and sleek design with a variety of switch options to cater to individual preferences. The K2 has a Mac layout with dedicated Mac keys for quick access to macOS functions. With its wireless connectivity and long-lasting battery, the Keychron K2 is a great choice for those who value both performance and portability. Keychron’s Q series of customizable mechanical keyboards, though pricier, is full of good choices, too.
Where to buy: Amazon
3. Keychron K6 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Another excellent option from Keychron is the super-compact K6 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard. It features hot-swappable switches, allowing you to easily customize the typing feel to your preference. The K6 has a compact 68-key layout with a dedicated Siri button and convenient shortcuts for macOS. With its wireless connectivity and ergonomic design, the Keychron K6 is a fantastic choice for Mac mini users seeking a (relatively) quiet yet responsive mechanical keyboard. Keep in mind, however, no mechanical keyboard is as quiet as a membrane or scissor-switch keyboard. If you’re looking for a “silent” keyboard, check the section below.
Where to buy: Amazon
Best silent keyboards for Mac mini inexpensive
1. iClever BK10 Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard
Photo: iClever
The iClever BK10 is a Bluetooth 5.1 keyboard that offers a combination of portability and silence. It features scissor-switch keys that provide a comfortable and quiet typing experience. The BK10 is compatible with a wide range of devices, including the Mac mini, and its foldable design makes it easy to carry and store.
Where to buy: Amazon
2. Macally Bluetooth Keyboard for Mac
Photo: Macally
Macally’s recently updated 78-key Bluetooth keyboard for Mac works with Mac mini and all other models. It connects with three Bluetooth devices, includes 13 shortcut keys and sports a kickstand. The integrated 800mAh battery works for up to 2 months on a charge before needing juice via USB-C cable. And one of the keyboard’s best features right now is that it’s 40% off on Amazon.
Where to buy: Amazon
3. Anker Bluetooth Keyboard
The Anker Bluetooth Keyboard is a very budget-friendly option that offers a quiet and comfortable typing experience in an ultra-slim package. It connects wirelessly to your Mac mini via Bluetooth and boasts a slim and lightweight design, making it highly portable. The Anker keyboard is compatible with both Mac and Windows devices. At just $18, it’s highly rated for value.
Where to buy: Amazon
Best silent keyboards for Mac mini
1. Logitech K380 Multi-device Bluetooth Keyboard for Mac
Photo: Logitech
The attractive, slim, membrane-keyed K380 is very quiet and not particularly pricey. And this wireless keeb also sports an incredible 24 months of battery life on two AA batteries. It works with Macs, Windows PCs, Android and iOS devices, connecting with up to three devices at once for easy switching. You can get the 60% keyboard with a Mac layout. It comes in graphite, white, blue, blueberry and rose colors to complement the keyboard’s fun style.
Where to buy: Amazon
2. Logitech K780 Multi-Device Wireless Keyboard
Photo: Logitech
Aimed at business but good for almost anyone, Logitech’s K780 is a multi-device wireless keyboard that connects to up to three devices and lets you switch between them with the touch of a button. It comes with an integrated phone and tablet stand for your iPhone and iPad, too, making it great for travel or the coffeeshop.
Where to buy: Amazon
3. Logitech Wave Keys
