Best External Keyboards for MacBook Air Users in 2023

MacBook Air is one of the most popular laptops in the market. It’s lightweight, portable, and powerful, making it an ideal choice for students, professionals, and anyone who needs to work on-the-go. However, the keyboard on the MacBook Air can be a bit cramped, especially if you have to type for long hours. That’s where external keyboards come in.

External keyboards are a great way to improve your typing experience on a MacBook Air. They offer more space, better key travel, and additional features that can enhance your productivity. However, not all external keyboards are created equal. When looking for the best external keyboard for your MacBook Air, you should consider a few things.

First and foremost, you must ensure the keyboard is compatible with your MacBook Air. Most keyboards will work with any computer with a USB or Bluetooth connection, but it’s always best to check the manufacturer’s website to ensure compatibility. Additionally, you should consider the size and layout of the keyboard, as well as the type of switches used. Some people prefer mechanical switches, while others prefer membrane switches.

After researching and testing several external keyboards, we have identified the top options for MacBook Air users. These keyboards offer a comfortable typing experience, reliable connectivity, and additional features that can improve your workflow.

Best External Keyboards for MacBook Air Users

We understand that typing on a MacBook Air keyboard can be a challenge, especially if you’re used to typing on a traditional keyboard. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best external keyboards for MacBook Air users. These keyboards are designed to make typing on your MacBook Air a breeze, with features like backlit keys, ergonomic designs, and easy connectivity. So, we’ve got you covered whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone who wants to make typing on your MacBook Air a bit more comfortable. Check out our top picks below.

Macally Small USB C Keyboard

If you’re in the market for an external keyboard for your MacBook Air, the Macally Small USB C Keyboard is worth considering.

Pros

• Designed for USB-C, making it easy to connect to newer gen devices without the need for extra software
• Elegant and durable design that looks great with any computer or laptop
• Powerful shortcut keys that work with both Apple and Windows to improve productivity

Cons

• Some may find the keys a bit stiff and not as responsive as they’d like
• The keyboard is a bit on the smaller side, which may not be ideal for users with larger hands
• There is no backlight, which may be a dealbreaker for some users who prefer to work in dimly lit environments

Overall, we were impressed with the Macally Small USB C Keyboard. It’s a great alternative to the Apple keyboard and offers a lot of convenience and functionality. The fact that it’s designed for USB-C is a huge plus, making it easy to connect to newer devices without any extra hassle. The keyboard is also elegant and durable, and it looks great with any computer or laptop. The shortcut keys are a nice touch, allowing you to navigate and control your computer or tablet easily.

That being said, the keys may not be as responsive as some users would like, and the keyboard is a bit on the smaller side, which may not be ideal for users with larger hands. Additionally, the lack of backlight may be a dealbreaker for some users who prefer to work in dimly lit environments.

OMOTON Bluetooth Keyboard for Mac

We highly recommend the OMOTON Bluetooth Keyboard for Mac as a great addition to your MacBook Air setup.

Pros

• Effortless compatibility with Mac OS X 10.10 and above
• Stable Bluetooth connection range up to 33ft/10m
• Ergonomically friendly scissor-switch design

Cons

• No backlighting
• No rechargeable battery
• May take some time to get used to the key layout

The OMOTON Bluetooth Keyboard for Mac is a great choice for MacBook Air users who want a reliable, lightweight, and portable keyboard. The keyboard is designed to work seamlessly with Mac devices, including MacBook, MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, Mac, iMac, iMac Pro, Mac Pro/Mini, etc.

The Bluetooth connection is solid and stable, with a range of up to 33ft/10m. The slim, refined design makes it a valuable and gainful addition to your MacOS devices. The scissor-switch design reduces fatigue and makes typing smoother and more comfortable. Further, it is particularly slim and light, allowing for easy portability.

This Mac Bluetooth keyboard has streamlined each and every one of your movements to ensure ultimate efficiency in terms of time and productivity. The range of 12 shortcut keys makes everything a lot speedier. The keyboard runs on only 2 AAA batteries and features an environmentally friendly auto-sleep mode. Click any key to wake it up after 10 minutes of inactivity. The batteries are not included in the package.

Nasuque Bluetooth Keyboard for Mac OS

If you’re looking for an affordable keyboard that works well with your MacBook Air, the Nasuque Bluetooth Keyboard for Mac OS might be the one for you.

Pros

• Supports up to three devices simultaneously
• Ultra-slim design
• Long connection distance

Cons

• Keycaps have a little texture to them
• Bluetooth light blinks obnoxiously
• Some users reported issues with the keyboard not working after a few months.

We’ve been using this keyboard for a few weeks and are impressed with its performance. The keyboard feels solid and well-built, and we appreciate the ultra-slim design that makes it easy to carry around.

One of the best features of this keyboard is that it supports up to three devices simultaneously, which is great if you have multiple Apple devices that you use regularly. We could easily switch between our MacBook Air, iPhone, and iPad with just a press of a button.

The keyboard also has a long connection distance, which means you can use it from up to 8 meters (26ft) away from your device. This is great if you like to work from a distance or want to use your MacBook Air as a media center and control it from your couch.

However, we did notice that the keycaps have a little texture, which might bother some users. Additionally, the Bluetooth light blinks obnoxiously, which can be distracting if you’re working in a dark environment.

Finally, some users reported issues with the keyboard not working after a few months. While we haven’t experienced this ourselves, it’s something to remember if you’re considering purchasing this keyboard.

CHESONA Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard

We highly recommend the CHESONA Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard for Mac users looking for a versatile, slim, responsive external keyboard.

Pros

• The wireless Bluetooth 5.1 connection allows for stable connectivity up to 33ft/10m and lets you switch between three devices by pressing the Bluetooth 1/2/3 button.
• The keyboard is designed for Mac OS/iOS and is compatible with iMac, Mac mini/Studio/Pro, Macbook, Macbook Air/Pro, iPad, and iPhone, making it highly versatile.
• The keyboard features a rechargeable 280 mAh lithium battery that can work up to 110 hours on a single charge, and it comes with a USB-A to Type-C charging cable.

Cons

• The keyboard does not support the brightness adjustment function (F1/F2) within Mac Mini/Studio/Pro.
• The keyboard is not as sturdy as Apple-branded keyboards.
• The keyboard is not ergonomically designed.

The CHESONA Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard is a great choice for Mac users looking for a slim, responsive, and versatile external keyboard. The wireless Bluetooth 5.1 connection allows for stable connectivity up to 33ft/10m and lets you switch between three devices by pressing the Bluetooth 1/2/3 button. The keyboard is designed for Mac OS/iOS and is compatible with iMac, Mac mini/Studio/Pro, Macbook, Macbook Air/Pro, iPad, iPhone, making it highly versatile. The keyboard features a rechargeable 280 mAh lithium battery that can work up to 110 hours on a single charge, and it comes with a USB-A to Type-C charging cable.

The full-size keyboard with a number pad enables fast typing and calculating, and it features a full row of Fn-function keys for Mac OS. There are three function keys Fn 13/Fn 14/Fn 15; you can customize their functions via Mac OS/iOS settings to increase work efficiency. The scissor-switch keys are quiet and responsive, perfectly suitable for home office, studying, and remote working. A waterproof silicone membrane attached can effectively avoid accidental liquid spills, such as coffee, juice, and milk.

ProtoArc XK01-A Folding Wireless Keyboard

If you’re looking for a portable and versatile keyboard for your Apple devices, the ProtoArc XK01-A Folding Wireless Keyboard is worth considering. Designed specifically for Mac users, this keyboard is lightweight and foldable, making it easy to carry around wherever you go.

Pros

• The keyboard features a Mac key layout, making it effortless to use with Apple devices.
• The foldable keyboard includes a numeric keypad and a full row of Fn-function keys for Mac OS, greatly increasing your work efficiency.
• The quiet, responsive scissor switch keys offer a fluid, laptop-like typing experience, reducing 90% of disruptive sounds.

Cons

• The keyboard needs more comfort for long-term usage.
• The front and back of the keyboard are not sturdy enough.
• The keyboard might be too small for people with larger hands.

We recently got our hands on the ProtoArc XK01-A Folding Wireless Keyboard, and we were impressed with its portability and ease of use. The keyboard features a Mac key layout, making it effortless to use with Apple devices, including MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, iMac, iMac Pro, Mac Mini, Mac Pro Laptop and PC, iPad 9th/8th Gen, iPad Pro/Air/Mini, iPhone14/13/12 Pro, etc. The full-size foldable keyboard includes a numeric keypad and a full row of Fn-function keys for Mac OS, greatly increasing your work efficiency and making everything much faster.

Equipped with quiet and responsive scissor-switch keys, the ultra-slim foldable keyboard offers a fluid, laptop-like typing experience that reduces 90% of disruptive sounds. This makes it a great portable wireless keyboard suitable for home office, studying, or remote working. Its excellent touch and clean appearance make it perfect for your Mac laptop, desktop, or iPad.

The keyboard is easy to carry around, thanks to its foldable design. Folds on two innovative hinges & magnetic, you’ve got a small compact keyboard on the move. It won’t open easily when you put it in the bag and carry it around. A perfect Mac keyboard to use on planes, in cars, at cafes, at home, or at a public library. The built-in 210 mAh lithium battery can be used for 40 hours of operation or 180 days of standby. A 2-hour full charge lasts enough for your short business trip or vacation.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best external keyboard for your MacBook Air, there are a few key features to consider. We’ll review some of the most important factors to remember to help you make an informed decision.

Compatibility

First and foremost, you’ll want to ensure that the keyboard you choose is compatible with your MacBook Air. Look for keyboards specifically designed for Macs, as they will likely have all the necessary function keys and shortcuts. Additionally, check that the keyboard connects to your MacBook Air via USB or Bluetooth, depending on your preference.

Size and Ergonomics

Consider the size and ergonomics of the keyboard. A full-sized keyboard with a number pad may be more comfortable for some users, while others may prefer a more compact option. Additionally, look for keyboards with a comfortable and ergonomic design, such as one with a curved or split layout, to reduce strain on your hands and wrists.

Key Type

The type of keys on the keyboard is also important to consider. Some users prefer mechanical keys, which provide a tactile and satisfying typing experience, while others prefer quieter membrane keys. Additionally, consider the key travel distance and actuation force, as these factors can greatly impact the keyboard’s feel.

Additional Features

Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you. This could include backlit keys for typing in low light, multimedia keys for controlling media playback, or even a built-in touchpad or trackball for added convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions