Switching from Mac to Windows (or vice versa) can feel like learning a new language, especially with confusing keyboard shortcuts. It may take you a while to find the “Option” key on a Windows keyboard that’s similar to Mac’s.
But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll list equivalent keys, explain the ins and outs of three special modifier keys (Option, Command, and Control), and show you how to reassign them if you prefer to work as you have always done.
Equivalent Keys between Mac and Windows Keyboards
Here’s a table with equivalent keys between Mac and Windows keyboards:
| Window Key | Mac Key |
| Alt | Option ⌥ |
| Ctrl | Command ⌘ |
| Windows Key | Command ⌘ |
| Back Space | Delete ⌫ |
| Enter | Return ⏎ |
| Page Up | Command ⌘ + Up Arrow key |
| Page Down | Command ⌘ + Down Arrow key |
| Home | Command ⌘+ Left Arrow key |
| End | Command ⌘+ Right Arrow key |
| Scroll Lock | F14 More on Mac Scroll Lock |
| Print Screen | Command ⌘ + Shift + 3 |
| Selection Print Screen | Command ⌘ + Shift + 4 |
Mac Special Keys on Windows Keyboards
Some modifier keys on Mac, such as “Option ⌥”, “Command ⌘”, and “Control ⌃” keys require extra attention, so we’ll explain them in detail.
Here are Mac special keys on Windows keyboards:
1. The Option Key on Windows Keyboards
Where Is the Option Key on the Windows Keyboard?
The Windows keyboard’s “Alt” key is equivalent to the Mac’s “Option ⌥” key. It’s not strange or unheard of to find someone working on their Mac using a Windows keyboard. Long-term Mac users switching to a Windows keyboard can rely on the “Alt” key to perform the functions of the “Option ⌥” key on Mac keyboards.
Opt Button on Mac Keyboard
The “Option ⌥” key is a handy modifier that, when combined with other keys, sends specific commands or completes shortcuts. It can also generate characters not shown on the keyboard, letting you do things that usually need a trackpad or mouse.
Common Usages For the Option ⌥ Key
The “Option ⌥” or “Alt” keys on the Windows keyboard can be used to copy files, close all windows, add special characters, and navigate. Simply combine them with other keys to achieve your desired action.
Here is a table of valuable commands with the option key:
| Closing all Windows | Option ⌥ + Command ⌘ + W |
| Typing Symbols and Accent Marks | Option ⌥ + Other Key |
| Navigating | Option ⌥ + Left / Right arrow |
| Copying Files | Option ⌥ + Mouse Dragging |
2. The Command Key on Windows Keyboards
The Command key on a Mac (⌘) is a vital modifier for shortcuts, similar to the “Control” key on Windows. It’s used for tasks like copying “Command+C” and pasting “Command+V”, much like “Control+C” and “Control+V” on Windows.
Positioned next to the space bar, it replaces the spot where the “Control” key is on Windows keyboards, which can initially be confusing.
On Windows, the Control key does most of the heavy lifting for shortcuts, while the Windows key (with the logo) handles system functions like opening the “Start” menu or locking the screen.
When switching between Mac and Windows, remember that “Command ⌘” on Mac is like “Control” on Windows. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll navigate both systems smoothly.
3. The Control Key on Windows Keyboards
On a Mac, the “ Control ⌃ ” key isn’t the same as the “Ctrl” key on Windows. It’s mainly used for right-clicking when you don’t have a mouse handy. The real equivalent to the Windows “Ctrl” key on a Mac is the “Command ⌘” key. You’ll find it on the left side of the space bar.
Did you know you can restart your graphical subsystem using a Windows keyboard combination? Find out everything about it in this article.
How to Change Modifier Keys on Mac
If you’re switching to a Mac but want to keep using your Windows keyboard, you might want to reassign some keys to function as they do on Windows.
Here are the steps to change modifier keys on Mac:
Step 1: Open “System Settings > Keyboard”
Step 2: Select “Keyboard Shortcuts > Modifier Keys”
> Note: You can also select which keyboard to change modifier keys.
Step 3: Change the Mac Keys to Windows Equivalents
Change “Option ⌥” to “Alt” and “Command ⌘” to “Ctrl”.
Step 4: Click “Done”
Now you have reassigned the keys.
Reference Articles
- Mac Keyboard Shortcuts
- Window Keys On Mac Keyboard
Related Articles
- Scroll Lock Key on a Mac
- Scroll Lock Key: What It Is and How To Turn It On/Off
- How To Scroll With an Apple Mouse
- How To Scroll Down on MacBook
mac option key in windows keyboard: Find the Equivalent Key
Understanding the Mac Option Key
The mac option key in windows keyboard context refers to the Mac’s Option key (⌥), which plays a crucial role in enhancing user experience by allowing access to special characters and alternate functions. This key is essential for performing various tasks, such as typing symbols that are not readily available on the standard keyboard layout. Understanding its functionality is vital for users transitioning from Mac to Windows or vice versa.
Equivalent Key on Windows
The equivalent key to the Mac Option key on a Windows keyboard is the Alt key. When using a Windows keyboard, the mac option key in windows keyboard can be effectively replaced with the Alt key. This means that any function or shortcut that requires the Option key on a Mac can be executed using the Alt key on Windows.
Functionality Comparison
Both the Option key on Mac and the Alt key on Windows serve similar purposes, particularly in terms of keyboard shortcuts and special character input. The mac option key in windows keyboard scenario highlights that while the keys are labeled differently, their functionalities are largely aligned. For instance, both keys can be used to access alternate characters and perform specific commands within applications.
Using Keyboard Shortcuts
When utilizing keyboard shortcuts, it is important to remember that the Option key on Mac corresponds to the Alt key on Windows. Users should replace the Option key with the Alt key when following instructions or performing tasks on a Windows keyboard. This simple substitution allows for a seamless transition between the two operating systems.
Documentation References
Many software applications provide documentation that may refer to the Option key as «Alt» when offering instructions for Windows users. This is particularly relevant for users who are accustomed to the mac option key in windows keyboard equivalency, ensuring that they can easily follow along without confusion.
Combination Key Functions
The Option key can be used in combination with other keys to perform various functions, just like the Alt key on Windows. For example, using the Option key in conjunction with other keys allows users to execute commands or access features that enhance productivity. Understanding these combinations is essential for effective use of both keyboard layouts.
Example Shortcut Conversion
To illustrate the mac option key in windows keyboard equivalency, consider the following example: If a Mac shortcut instructs users to press Option + N, the equivalent action on a Windows keyboard would be to press Alt + N. This conversion is straightforward and highlights the importance of recognizing the functional similarities between the two keys.
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Windows Keyboard Equivalents for the Mac’s Special Keys
Yes, you can keep that Windows keyboard you love so much
Updated on December 22, 2021
Newcomers and old pros alike use Windows keyboards with Macs. Why toss a perfectly good keyboard just because you switched platforms? Some people just prefer how the keys feel to the ones Apple supplies. Any wired USB keyboard or Bluetooth-based wireless keyboard will work fine with a Mac.
In fact, Apple even sells the Mac Mini without a keyboard or mouse. There’s just one little problem with using a non-Apple keyboard: figuring out some of the keyboard equivalents.
Windows and Mac Keyboard Differences
At least five keys have different names or symbols on a Windows keyboard than they do on a Mac keyboard, which can make it difficult to follow Mac-related instructions. For example, a software manual may tell you to hold down the command key ( ⌘ ), which appears to be missing from your Windows keyboard. It’s there; it just looks a little different.
Here are the five most commonly used special keys on a Mac and their Windows keyboard equivalents.
|
Mac Key |
Windows Key |
|
Control |
Ctrl |
|
Option |
Alt |
|
Command (cloverleaf) |
Windows |
|
Delete |
Backspace |
|
Return |
Enter |
Use these to control various Mac functions, including using Mac OS X startup shortcuts.
Another helpful bit of information for new Mac users is to know which menu key symbols correspond to which keys on the keyboard. The symbols used in the Mac menus can be a bit strange to those new to the Mac, as well as old hands who may be more mousers than keyboard users.
The Command and Option Key Swap
Besides Windows and Mac keyboards having slightly different names, they also swap the positions of two often-used modifier keys: the Command and Option keys.
If you’re a long-time Mac user transitioning to a Windows keyboard, the Windows key, which is equivalent to the Mac’s Command key, may occupy the physical position of the Option key on a Mac keyboard. Likewise, the Windows keyboard’s Alt key is where you expect to find the Mac’s Command key. If you’re used to using the modifier keys from your old Mac keyboard, you’re likely to run into trouble for a while as you relearn the key locations.
How to Reassign Key Locations on a Mac
Instead of having to relearn key locations, use the Keyboard pane in System Preferences to reassign the modifier keys.
-
Launch System Preferences by clicking its icon in the Dock, or clicking the Apple menu on the left side of the menu bar then selecting System Preferences.
-
In the System Preferences window that opens, select the Keyboard preference pane.
-
Click the Modifier Keys button.
-
Use the pop-up menu next to the Option and Command keys to select the action you wish the modifier keys to perform. In this example, you want the Option key (the Alt key on a Windows keyboard) to execute the Command action, and the Command key (the Windows key on a Windows keyboard) to perform the Option action.
Don’t worry if this sounds a bit confusing, it will make more sense when you see the drop-down pane in front of you. Also, if things get a bit mixed up, click the Restore Defaults button to put everything back the way it was.
-
Make your changes and click the OK button, then close System Preferences.
With the modifier keys remapped, you shouldn’t have any problems using any Windows keyboard with your Mac.
How to Use a Mac Magic Keyboard on a Windows PC
Keyboard Shortcuts
People new to the Mac but proficient using keyboard shortcuts to speed up their workflow may be a little taken aback by the notation used in the Mac’s menu system to indicate when a keyboard shortcut is available.
If a keyboard shortcut is available for a menu item, the shortcut will be displayed next to the menu item using the following notation:
| Menu Item Notation | Key |
|---|---|
| ⌃ | Control |
| ⌥ | Option |
| ⌘ | Command |
| ⌫ | Delete |
| ⏎ | Return or Enter |
| ⇧ | Shift |
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Windows and Mac are different in many ways, not just in software, but also in keyboard. This is the reason people switching from Windows to Mac or vice versa face problems initially. But what if you have a Mac and decide to use a Windows keyboard with it? Windows keyboard lacks Option key, backspace key, and Enter key. With key positions, we can easily guess that Enter is the return key and Delete is the Backspace in Mac. But there is no Option and Command Key on the Windows keyboard. Now if you have paired Windows keyboard with Mac, you will find it hard to use several keyboard shortcuts.
If you are using a Windows keyboard with a Mac, the ALT key is the option key. It is found on either side of the spacebar on a Windows keyboard. Both the option keys work as Option keys.
But there’s a problem. The position of ALT key is not the same as the option key on Mac. See the screenshot below.
This can create confusion and can slow down your work. To overcome the problem, you can remap keys for a better experience. You may end up pressing the Windows key when you need Option, while you need to press ALT.
To overcome this problem, you can remap the keys of the keyboard. Follow these steps to remap keys.
Go to the Apple menu and select System Preferences. Click on Keyboard on the left sidebar and then Keyboard Shortcuts. Now go to Modifier Keys and reassign keys to suit your preferences.
Wrap up
There will be no problem in using a Windows keyboard with a Mac. It is a straightforward process once you know what key does what function. You now know that the Alt key serves as the Option key. You can also remap keys if you want.
I hope this article is useful. You can explore more articles on our website to learn more about Mac and Windows.
When you use a Windows (PC) keyboard on a Macintosh computer, the keyboard shortcuts that you use map to different keys.
…
INTRODUCTION.
| Windows | Macintosh |
|---|---|
| CONTROL | COMMAND (for most shortcuts) or CONTROL |
| ALT | OPTION |
| Windows/Start | COMMAND/Apple |
| BACKSPACE | DELETE |
- What is the Command key on Windows keyboard?
- What is Command R for Mac on Windows keyboard?
- How do I make my Mac keyboard look like Windows?
- How do I connect a Mac to a Windows keyboard?
- What is Alt on Mac?
- What is Command Shift R on Windows keyboard?
- How do I open Disk Utility on Mac with Windows keyboard?
- Where is Command key on laptop?
- Do Macs have an Alt key?
- What is F5 Mac?
- What does Command Q do on Mac?
- What is the shortcut to open Disk Utility on Mac?
- Where is my recovery key Mac?
What is the Command key on Windows keyboard?
On a PC keyboard the Command key is either the Windows key or the Start key.
What is Command R for Mac on Windows keyboard?
Power up your Mac and hold down the Command and R keys to enter the OS X Recovery Partition. Your Mac should boot to a screen that says OS X Utilities.» On a Windows keyboard, the correct key combination is Control-R.
How do I make my Mac keyboard look like Windows?
Step 1: Open System Preferences → Keyboard → Modifier Keys. Step 2: Select your third-party Windows keyboard via the Select keyboard drop down box. Step 3: For the Option (⌥) Key setting, select ⌘ Command. Step 4: For the Command (⌘) Key setting, select (⌥) Option.
How do I connect a Mac to a Windows keyboard?
Connect the Windows PC keyboard to the Mac as usual, either by USB or Bluetooth. Pull down the Apple menu and choose “System Preferences” Click on “Keyboard” Choose the “Keyboard” tab and then click on the “Modifier Keys” button in the lower right corner of the preference panel.
What is Alt on Mac?
Where is the Alt key on a Mac keyboard? The PC-keyboard equivalent of Alt on a Mac is called the Option key, and you’ll find the Option Key on your Mac if you go two keys to the left of the spacebar.
What is Command Shift R on Windows keyboard?
Alternatively referred to as Cmd+R, Command+R is a keyboard shortcut most often used to refresh the page in an Internet browser.
How do I open Disk Utility on Mac with Windows keyboard?
On a Windows keyboard, the Windows key is equivalent to the Mac keyboard’s Command key. So if you’re using a Windows keyboard, restart your Mac and then hold down the Windows key + R key combination to boot into Recovery Mode.
Where is Command key on laptop?
The key is present on the left side of space bar on some compact keyboards, such as on laptops, whereas the keys are present on either side in the common layout. The key performs multiple functionalities when pressed along with other keys. The symbol for the Command key is a looped square, with a Unicode of U+2318.
Do Macs have an Alt key?
Hi, Alt Key
Sometimes called the Option Key, the Alt Key is the third key from the left on a Mac keyboard. The key won’t do anything when pushed separately since it can’t independently execute a system command. When combined with other keys, however, you can quickly access hidden functions and special characters.
What is F5 Mac?
The function to reload a web page in all browsers available for Windows is the same F5. The equivalent of that function in macOS is Command + R. Through this command, we can reload the page we are on either using Safari, Firefox, Chrome, Opera or any other browser.
What does Command Q do on Mac?
Control-Command-Q: Immediately lock your screen. Shift-Command-Q: Log out of your macOS user account. You will be asked to confirm. To log out immediately without confirming, press Option-Shift-Command-Q.
What is the shortcut to open Disk Utility on Mac?
To access the Disk Utility on a modern Mac—regardless of whether it even has an operating system installed—reboot or boot up the Mac and hold Command+R as it boots. It’ll boot into Recovery Mode, and you can click Disk Utility to open it up.
Where is my recovery key Mac?
Go to Settings > [your name] > Password & Security. You might need to enter your Apple ID password. Tap Recovery Key. Slide to turn on Recovery Key.