What keyboard can I use for my old iMac (2025)

N

novetan

macrumors 6502

Original poster

Sep 3, 2010
404
12
  • Jul 23, 2024
  • #1

I need help for a new key board to sync with my 8-yr old iMac with OS 10.13.6. I hv no intention to upgrade. If I do that many of the programs are unusable.

The default magic keyboard is the Apple A1644. Apple is not selling anymore. Their current new keyboard will not sync. I heard the much talk abt Logitech MX which many hv used in lieu of Apple keyboard. But their specification require 10.15.

I like to hear fr any expert does Logitech MX with OS 10.15 any problem to sync with OS 10.13 ? Otherwise what keyboard can I use. My current Apple keyboard is about to die.

Tks

What keyboard can I use for my old iMac (1)

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Pakaku

macrumors 68040
Aug 29, 2009
3,296
4,901
  • Jul 24, 2024
  • #2

Is there any particular reason it needs to be wireless? Any standard USB keyboard should be totally hassle-free, just plug it in.

If you're definitely set on buying that keyboard, then it also says it right below: "Compatible with Logi Bolt USB Receiver (not included)", so you could just buy the adapter and plug that in

N

novetan

macrumors 6502

Original poster

Sep 3, 2010
404
12
  • Jul 24, 2024
  • #3

Pakaku said:

Is there any particular reason it needs to be wireless? Any standard USB keyboard should be totally hassle-free, just plug it in.

If you're definitely set on buying that keyboard, then it also says it right below: "Compatible with Logi Bolt USB Receiver (not included)", so you could just buy the adapter and plug that in

Oh silly me. Tks for the heads up on the dongle thing and the wired thing came to my mind.

I totally forgotten there are wired keyboard. The wireless and blue tooth thingy has inked on my mind. Guess i go back to the trusted wired old school.

  • What keyboard can I use for my old iMac (4)

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_Mitchan1999

MBAir2010

macrumors 604
May 30, 2018
6,975
6,356
there
  • Jul 24, 2024
  • #4

i scored a magic keyboard  for the 2012 mac mini running Mt Lion on ebay 2 weeks ago for under $30
the keyboard is in great condition and works excellent, and long battery life!, 2AA tho...
also MacAlly and Logitech has new ones that work with High Sierra to Sequoia (I forgot what Cali 10.13.6 is)
for a great price and they are usb c charged.
I love my 2023 Satechi BT keyboard that i thinks works with High Sierra to Sonoma and beyond.

i hoped this helped!

Fishrrman

macrumors Penryn
Feb 20, 2009
29,536
13,613
  • Jul 24, 2024
  • #5

For a new keyboard, I'd get a Logitech -- but make sure it has the "unifying receiver" (this IS NOT bluetooth).

For a used keyboard, a WIRED MacAlly from ebay for about $20...

Z

zgagato

macrumors member
Nov 24, 2021
91
33
  • Jul 24, 2024
  • #6

Really any usb keyboard will work, even pc ones. Then win keys are commands. also old keyboards from g4 or g3 macs work great with m1/m2 or newer.

MBAir2010

macrumors 604
May 30, 2018
6,975
6,356
there
  • Jul 24, 2024
  • #7

OWC is offering the Apple Magic Keyboard 2 for $52 bucks (free shippping) that works with Yosemite to Sequoia.

N

novetan

macrumors 6502

Original poster

Sep 3, 2010
404
12
  • Jul 24, 2024
  • #8
  • What keyboard can I use for my old iMac (8)

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MBAir2010

smirking

macrumors 601
Aug 31, 2003
4,103
4,201
Silicon Valley
  • Jul 24, 2024
  • #9

You can use just about any wired or Bluetooth keyboard. Keyboards are pretty standard. Even the exotic ones with special functions on them will still work fine as normal keyboards without the special features that requires additional software support.

This has been the case for very long time. Keyboards are more or less interchangeable as long as the plugs fit. I've used an IBM Model M keyboard through an Active USB adapter for fun once in a while on all of my Macs for the past 12+ years. People use Mac keyboards on PCs too... even the old Apple Desktop Bus ones. Keyboard enthusiasts are well known for wiring up vintage Apple Design Keyboard II's to a USB adapter so they can use it on their PCs.

There are some things you won't get with a non Mac specific keyboard though. These are things like a power button that will turn your Mac on, but that's hardly a deal breaker. You just push the button on your iMac instead.

Everything I just said more or less applies to a computer mouse too. You can use just about any mouse with any computer. The basic functions will all just work, but you may need software to unlock some more exotic features.

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What keyboard can I use for my old iMac (2025)

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