Using External Keyboards with a MacBook Air: A Comprehensive Guide

Many users wonder if they can use an external keyboard with their MacBook Air. The answer is yes, and this article will explain how to do so, offering detailed instructions and recommendations for different types of external keyboards.

General Compatibility

Whether you have a 2021–22 MacBook model or an older one, you can indeed use an external keyboard. The built-in keyboard on MacBook Air models is often praised for its quality, but there might be specific circumstances, such as the presence of the Universal Control feature in MacOS, where an external keyboard would come in handy.

Universal Control and External Keyboards

The Universal Control feature in MacOS allows you to share a single keyboard across multiple Macs and iPads. For example, you can use a single Magic Keyboard on your iMac to seamlessly control your MacBook Air and iPad Air 4. This feature makes it incredibly convenient to work across multiple devices without managing multiple keyboards.

Types of External Keyboards

You can use any USB or Bluetooth keyboard with your MacBook Air, not just an external Apple keyboard. Here are some recommendations for different types of external keyboards:

Bluetooth Keyboards

For newer MacBook models that use USB-C connectors, a Bluetooth keyboard is generally a better choice. This allows you to keep your computer connected to peripherals without the need to unplug the keyboard during charging. Additionally, the setup is straightforward and doesn't require any additional cables or adapters.

USB Keyboard with Adapter

If you already have a USB keyboard that you want to use with your MacBook Air, you'll need an adapter to convert the USB connection to USB-C. You can choose a simple USB-C to USB Adapter for a budget-friendly option, which sets you back around $19. However, this means you will need to unplug your keyboard when charging your laptop. A more convenient option would be to use the following adapters:

Apple's USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter

Apple's USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter provides a standard USB port to connect your keyboard, a place to plug in an external monitor, and a designated USB-C charging port. This adapter is compatible with the latest MacBook Pro and Air models, making it an excellent choice for those who frequently use external monitors and need quick charging. It is available for around $79.

Apple's USB-C VGA Multiport Adapter

Alternatively, you can choose the USB-C VGA Multiport Adapter, which also provides a standard USB port for the keyboard, a place to connect the keyboard, and a USB-C charging port. This adapter is tailored for users who primarily require a VGA output for their external monitor. It is also priced at around $79.

Conclusion

In summary, you can use any external keyboard with your MacBook Air, whether it's a USB or Bluetooth keyboard. Whether you want to take advantage of the Universal Control feature or simply prefer the flexibility of an external keyboard, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs. By following the steps and recommendations in this article, you can easily connect your preferred keyboard to your MacBook Air and enhance your productivity and workflow.