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.
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
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- How To Scroll Down on MacBook
If you’ve connected your Windows keyboard to an Apple computer, you’re probably wondering why there’s no option key. Mac and Windows keyboards are built differently, but they can perform the same functions. While the keys have different names and locations, they will act identically.
This guide will discuss the option key on Windows keyboards and how you can execute commands on your Mac. We’ll also cover how to manipulate the key order to match the default Mac arrangement.
On Apple computers, pressing the option key allows users to type special characters. It’s also used with other keys to execute different commands and activate numerous software features.
There are two reasons why your keyboard could be missing the option key:
- New Mac keyboards are designed without an Option key. Instead, they have an Alt key that acts the same way and enables users to navigate their devices efficiently.
- Perhaps you can’t spot the option keys because you’ve connected a Windows keyboard to your Mac. Although this piece of hardware has no designated Option key, it works well with Mac products, so you won’t have any trouble using your device.
Computer products from different manufacturers usually don’t pair well. But Windows keyboards are easy to use and made to fit Mac computers perfectly. Also, they’re mass-produced. When searching for a Mac keyboard in your local store, you might learn that most models are out of stock. With Windows models, that’s not usually an issue.
Windows keyboards have a familiar layout, so you don’t have to relearn where different keys and functions are. If you’ve been using the same keyboard for a year, you can probably type without looking at the keys. Reusing the old model will add this sense of familiarity to your new device and spare you from investing in a new Mac keyboard.
This is why users who have switched to a Mac device from their old Windows PC typically prefer to connect the Windows keyboard to the Mac. As most Windows keyboards are compatible with Mac products, you can link them with a USB cord or a Bluetooth connection.
Using a Windows keyboard won’t limit your Mac experience. You can still use the device and execute commands that require the option key. The Alt key acts as an option key on Windows keyboards and pressing it will trigger the software events typically done with the option key. The Alt key is usually placed next to the Space bar.
Using the Option Key on a Windows Keyboard
Once you know how to trigger the option command with the Windows Alt key, you can perform both an option-click and several keyboard shortcuts.
Performing an Option Click
When you want to option-click, tap the Alt key. The Apple computer will register this when you simultaneously hold the Alt key and press the mouse.
Performing a Keyboard Shortcut
If you want to execute a keyboard shortcut that needs an Option key, click on the Alt button. Your Mac will identify it as an option-click and act accordingly.
Performing a Keyboard Shortcut with Apple Key
Some Mac keyboard shortcuts call for both the Apple and Option key. In that case, hold down the Windows and Alt keys. Mac devices with Windows keyboards interpret the Windows key as an Apple key.
App Menu Items and the Option Key
Different Mac programs make unique use of the option key. Using it will allow you to reveal hidden menu items. Here’s how it works with a few popular apps:
- Safari
When you press the Alt key in the Safari browser, the Close Windows option will become Close All Windows. Similarly, if you hold the Alt key when you tap a window’s x icon, all open windows will be shut down. This action is a built-in feature for all Apple computers and applies to most Mac programs.
- Dock
Clicking on the Alt key when using Dock transforms the Quit and Hide menu options into Force Quit and Hide Others.
- iTunes
The Alt key modifies the Create Playlist menu item into Create Smart Playlist. Additionally, holding the Option key and tapping the + icon at the top of the screen will enlarge the iTunes window.
- iPhoto
The option key will revert your toggle preference in the iPhoto app. If your default rotating direction is set to “right,” the option key will reverse it to “left.” Any preference controls you can modify on a Mac will be inverted this way when you hold the Alt key.
Mouse Actions with the Option Key
Clicking on the Alt button and left-clicking your mouse will cause specific Mac behavior. For example, when you option-click an app that you’re not currently using, the computer will hide the program you’re in. Instead, it will take you to the option-clicked app.
Additionally, if you’re dragging a file, pressing the option key will create a copy of the file instead of transferring it to a new location.
Downloading with the Option Key
If your preferred web browser is SeaMonkey or Safari, the action key allows you to download files to your Mac. When you tap the Return option in the web address field, pressing the key will download the file tied to that URL.
When you hold the Alt key and click on a hyperlink, you will download the link target.
Downloading files usually involves choosing several options with your mouse, so the option-click method saves time when you want to save an online file.
How to Remap a Windows Keyboard on a Mac
Mac keyboards users may struggle with Windows models. While they have all the necessary keys, the order is different. Even if you remember their names, muscle memory will play tricks on you, and you’ll keep hitting the wrong buttons. However, Apple lets users customize Windows keyboards to match the Mac button arrangement. Mac devices come with a built-in remapping feature that changes the order of the keys.
Here’s how it works:
- Connect the Windows keyboard to your Mac.
- Tap the Apple icon in the top left part of the desktop.
- Select System Preferences from the list of available options.
- Choose Keyboard and click Modifier Keys.
- Tap the name of your Bluetooth or USB Windows keyboard in the pop-down menu bar.
- Navigate to the Option Key tab and select Command.
- Go to the Command Key tab and choose Option.
- Press OK button to save the changes.
The Windows keys will now act as their Mac counterparts. When you press the Alt key, it will serve as a Mac Command key. This is quite handy, especially if you’re familiar with the Mac keyboard layout.
Remapping Windows Keyboard with Third-Party Software
Mac’s built-in feature only allows you to remap up to five keys. But third-party apps like Karabiner-Elements will enable you to change the order of every keyboard button and create a user experience that caters to your needs. It’s an excellent option when you have a smaller model missing several keys. Modifying their order lets you access your most used commands more easily.
Never Limit Your Mac Options
When using Windows keyboards on Apple computers, it’s all a matter of names and placement. The buttons serve the same purpose, so you’ll have no difficulty completing actions on your device when you memorize their arrangement. Use the Alt key whenever you’re performing an action that calls for its option counterpart. If you find that you don’t like the key order on your Windows model, you can remap it through your Apple computer.
Do you use a Windows keyboard for your Mac? How often do you reach for the Alt key? Let us know in the comments section below.
The Option key on Windows keyboards is actually called the Alt key. The Alt key on Windows serves the same purpose as the Option key on Mac computers. This key sits next to the spacebar and has “Alt” written on it. It’s used for shortcuts and special commands in many programs.
Windows keyboards have a different layout than Mac keyboards. The Alt key on Windows is in the same spot as the Command key on Macs. This can be confusing for people switching between the two systems. But once you know this, it’s easy to use the Alt key like an Option key.
You can use the Alt key on Windows to do things like type special characters or access hidden menu items in programs. It’s also part of many useful keyboard shortcuts. Learning these shortcuts can help you work faster on your computer.
Bridging the Gap: The Option Key on a Windows Keyboard
Switching between a Mac and a Windows computer can be a bit confusing. The keyboards have some key differences, literally! One key that often trips people up is the Option key found on Mac keyboards. If you’re looking for the Option key equivalent on a Windows keyboard, you’ll find it’s not a one-to-one match. But don’t worry, there are ways to achieve the same functions.
The Alt Key: Your Main Substitute
In most cases, the **Alt key** on a Windows keyboard serves a similar purpose to the Option key on a Mac. It’s often used in combination with other keys to access special characters or perform specific actions.
Examples of Option Key Equivalents
Here are a few examples of how to achieve common Option key functions on a Windows keyboard:
- Special Characters: On a Mac, you might press Option + e to get an accent mark (´). On Windows, you’d typically press Alt + 0233 (using the numeric keypad). Many special characters have their own Alt code combinations.
- Keyboard Shortcuts: Some Mac shortcuts that use the Option key have Windows equivalents using the Alt key. For example, Option + Command + Esc on a Mac forces an application to quit. On Windows, the equivalent is Ctrl + Alt + Delete.
Other Keys to Consider
While the Alt key is the primary substitute for the Option key, there are times when other keys might be involved:
- Ctrl Key: The Control key on Windows is often used in combination with other keys for shortcuts, similar to how the Option key is used on a Mac.
- Windows Key: The Windows key, which has the Windows logo on it, can also be used for shortcuts and special functions.
Finding Specific Equivalents
If you’re looking for the Windows equivalent of a specific Mac shortcut that uses the Option key, you can usually find it by searching online or checking the documentation for the relevant software.
| Mac Key | Windows Key |
| Option | Alt (in most cases) |
| Command | Ctrl |
Remember, while there isn’t a perfect one-to-one match for the Option key on a Windows keyboard, the Alt key is your best bet for most functions. With a little exploration and practice, you’ll be navigating Windows shortcuts like a pro in no time.
Key Takeaways
- The Alt key on Windows is the same as the Option key on Mac
- Alt is used for shortcuts and special commands in many programs
- Learning Alt key shortcuts can boost your productivity on Windows
Understanding the Key Differences and Functions
The Option key on Windows keyboards and the Apple key on Mac keyboards serve as important modifier keys. These keys enable users to access special functions and characters across different keyboard layouts.
Option Key on Windows Keyboard vs Apple Key on Mac Keyboard
The Option key on Windows keyboards is also known as the Alt key. It sits next to the spacebar. On Mac keyboards, the equivalent is called the Option key. It has a similar location but a different symbol.
Windows keyboards have a Windows logo key. This key opens the Start menu. Mac keyboards have a Command key instead. The Command key is used for many shortcuts that the Control key handles on Windows.
Key functions:
- Windows/Alt: Access menus, switch apps
- Mac Option: Type special characters, modify other keys
- Mac Command: Common shortcuts like copy, paste, save
The Role of Modifier Keys in Keyboard Layouts
Modifier keys change how other keys work when pressed together. Common modifier keys are Shift, Control, Alt/Option, and Command (on Macs).
These keys allow for many keyboard shortcuts. Shortcuts help users work faster by reducing mouse use. For example, Ctrl+C copies text on Windows, while Command+C does this on Macs.
Modifier keys also help type special characters and symbols. On Windows, Alt codes create symbols like ©. On Macs, the Option key often does this job.
Different keyboard layouts may place modifier keys in slightly different spots. But their core functions stay mostly the same across systems.
Another helpful bit of information for new Mac users is to know which menu key symbols correspond to which keys on the keyboard.
…
Windows and Mac Keyboard Differences.
| Mac Key | Windows Key |
|---|---|
| Control | Ctrl |
| Option | Alt |
| Command (cloverleaf) | Windows |
| Delete | Backspace |
- Where is the Option key on a Microsoft keyboard?
- What is the shortcut key for options?
- What is the Option key on a non Apple keyboard?
- How do I open the keyboard options?
- What is function of F1 to F12 keys?
- How do I enable Ctrl key?
Where is the Option key on a Microsoft keyboard?
INTRODUCTION
| Windows | Macintosh |
|---|---|
| CONTROL | COMMAND (for most shortcuts) or CONTROL |
| ALT | OPTION |
| Windows/Start | COMMAND/Apple |
| BACKSPACE | DELETE |
What is the shortcut key for options?
List of basic computer shortcut keys: Alt + F—File menu options in the current program. Alt + E—Edits options in the current program.
What is the Option key on a non Apple keyboard?
Although Windows and Mac keyboards feature most of the same keys, there are a few that differ. When using a Windows keyboard on a Mac, the Windows key is used instead of the Command key, and the Alt key is used in place of the Option key. For example, the Undo shortcut would use Windows+Z instead of Command+Z.
How do I open the keyboard options?
Open Windows 10 Settings using the Run window
To open it, press Windows + R on your keyboard, type the command ms-settings: and click OK or press Enter on your keyboard. The Settings app is opened instantly.
What is function of F1 to F12 keys?
The function keys or F keys are lined across the top of the keyboard and labeled F1 through F12. These keys act as shortcuts, performing certain functions, like saving files, printing data, or refreshing a page. For example, the F1 key is often used as the default help key in many programs.
How do I enable Ctrl key?
Enable Control Key Shortcuts in Command Prompt: Windows 10
- Open Command Prompt.
- Right-click on the title bar of the Command Prompt Window and Click Properties.
- Move your cursor to the Experimental tab and open that tab, you will find experimental console features, you will have various shortcut key options under Experimental Control Settings.
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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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