Wednesday, December 11, 2024
Archived Post

Macally XKEYLED is a solid, wired, backlit alternative to Apple’s Mac keyboards

The Macally XKEYLED is a backlit, full-size USB keyboard designed specifically for a Mac running macOS 10.6 or higher. It doesn’t require any software; just plug it into a USB port (more on that in a moment) and you’re good to go.

Providing smooth and responsive typing with a satisfying “click” feel and sound, the XKEYLED has a standard layout with full size keys for a comfortable, efficient typing experience. It also has 16 convenient shortcut keys for controlling Mac apps and a 17-key numeric keypad that makes it easy to enter long sequences of numbers.

Apple doesn’t make a backlit keyboard for desktops; if you need/want one, the XKEYLED fills the bill. The keyboard has backlit in white, with three levels of brightness adjustment to suit different environment. 



All these features are great, but the XKEYLED has two potential drawbacks, depending on your needs. One: there’s no wireless option; wireless keyboard fans should look elsewhere. Two: you’ll need an adapter to use with USB-C only Macs and the LG Ultrafine Displays, which means a few extra bucks to spend.

However, the Macally XKEYLED itself is reasonably priced at about $60. If you don’t mind the  lack of USB-C and wireless connectivity, this is certainly a keyboard worth your  consideration.

 

Dennis Sellers
the authorDennis Sellers
Dennis Sellers is the editor/publisher of Apple World Today. He’s been an “Apple journalist” since 1995 (starting with the first big Apple news site, MacCentral). He loves to read, run, play sports, and watch movies.