Using an external keyboard with your Mac computer offers benefits like a more comfortable typing experience, additional functionality, and customization options. It might be difficult to know How to Connect an External Keyboard to Mac. Whether connecting via USB or Bluetooth, the process is straightforward. USB provides a direct and reliable connection, while Bluetooth offers wireless convenience.
Your Mac will seamlessly integrate the external keyboard as the primary input device, and you can customize settings in the System Preferences. Choose the connection type that suits your needs and enjoy an enhanced typing experience on your Mac.
How to Connect an External Keyboard to Mac
There are two ways to connect an external keyboard to Mac;
1. Connecting an External Keyboard to a Mac via USB:
- Start by ensuring that your Mac is powered on and functioning properly.
- Determine the type of USB port your Mac has. Older Mac models feature USB-A ports, while newer models may have USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 ports. Note the port type as it will affect the type of connector or adapter you’ll need.
- Locate an available USB port on your Mac that matches the type of USB connector on your external keyboard. If necessary, you may need a USB-C to USB-A adapter or other relevant adapters to match the ports.
- Take the USB cable that came with your external keyboard and plug one end into the USB port on your Mac.
- Connect the other end of the USB cable to the USB port on your external keyboard. Ensure the connection is secure.
- Once the keyboard is physically connected, your Mac should automatically recognize the external keyboard and start using it. In most cases, you won’t need to install any additional software or drivers.
- To confirm that your Mac is using the external keyboard, go to the Apple menu (located at the top left corner of the screen), click on “System Preferences,” and then select “Keyboard.” In the “Keyboard” tab, you’ll see the name of the connected external keyboard listed.
- Optionally, you can customize the keyboard settings by clicking on the “Modifier Keys” button in the “Keyboard” tab of System Preferences. This allows you to change the behavior of specific keys, such as the Command, Option, Control, and Caps Lock keys, to match your preferences.
2. Connecting an External Keyboard via Bluetooth:
- Ensure that your external keyboard has Bluetooth functionality. Refer to the keyboard’s user manual for instructions on how to enable pairing mode.
- On your Mac, click on the Apple menu (located at the top left corner of the screen) and select “System Preferences.”
- In the System Preferences window, click on “Bluetooth.”
- Turn on Bluetooth if it’s not already enabled. You can do this by clicking on the toggle switch labeled “Bluetooth.”
- On your external keyboard, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to put it into pairing mode. This typically involves pressing a designated pairing button or key combination.
- Your Mac will start searching for nearby Bluetooth devices. When you see your external keyboard listed in the Bluetooth devices list, select it.
- Click on the “Pair” button next to the keyboard’s name to establish the Bluetooth connection.
- Follow any additional prompts or instructions that may appear on your screen to complete the pairing process.
- Once the external keyboard is connected, your Mac will automatically switch to using it as the primary input device. You can start using the external keyboard for typing and other functions.
Note: If your external keyboard requires a passcode to pair, it may provide instructions on how to enter the passcode on your Mac.
Remember to keep your external keyboard within the Bluetooth range of your Mac to maintain a stable connection. If you experience any issues, consult the user manual or support documentation for your specific keyboard model.
Connecting an external keyboard to your Mac is as simple as plugging in a USB cable or pairing via Bluetooth. By following the appropriate steps above, you can seamlessly integrate the external keyboard into your Mac setup and enjoy the advantages it provides. Whether you opt for a USB connection for immediate recognition or a Bluetooth connection for wireless convenience, using an external keyboard can greatly enhance your typing experience on a Mac.