Windows Keyboard

[Twaize]

I recently purchased a MBP 13", and I'm going to my fathers house to pick it up on Saturday. I have a windows keyboard here at home, and was wondering, will it work as well as an Apple keyboard? I like the Apple keyboards, but if my own works fine, I wouldn't mind holding it off a bit.

Thank you

 

[scienide09]

It should work fine, most do, but some don't. You may have to map a few keys to get the same functionality.

 

[Twaize]

Is the mapping built into OS X, or do I need some 3rd party software? And if so, why suggestions?

 

[donuttakedonuts]

Why would you want to use a windows keyboard with your mbp?

 

[Twaize]

II have a windows keyboard here at home, and was wondering, will it work as well as an Apple keyboard? I like the Apple keyboards, but if my own works fine, I wouldn't mind holding it off a bit.

That and the fact that an Apple keyboard costs 77 USD.

 

[Twaize]

Is the mapping built into OS X, or do I need some 3rd party software? And if so, why suggestions?

Anyone? It would be much appreciated.

 

[scienide09]

Thirty seconds on Google turns up a bunch of results.

There are third-party utilities to do this. However, mapping the basic functions (eg the command key) can be done natively in OS X through the System Preferences.

Here's a tuaw article that discusses the native method and a couple of third party apps. http://www.tuaw.com/2008/09/11/mac-101-using-your-windows-keyboard/

IMO, you should try things out with the keyboard to test what does (and doesn't) work before changing any of the settings.

 

[jodelli]

Yes, a generic Windows key board will work. A couple of key symbols are different but functions are still available. I have done it in the past when I've had three Macs and only two Mac keyboards.

As scienide09 suggests, plug one in and try it out.