Apple announced the new M1 iMac at its Spring Loaded event in April alongside the latest iterations of the iPad Pro series. It gets a well-needed redesign and is now powered by Apple's own ARM-based M1 chipset that was introduced last year. The new iMac also comes with a 24-inch 4.5K Retina Display, a powerful six-speaker system with a triple-mic array, and the option of up to seven colors: Blue, Green, Pink, Silver, Yellow, Orange, Purple.
If you are interested in getting one for yourself, the M1 iMac is on pre-order with deliveries and open sale beginning from 21st May 2021.
The new iMac is available in three configurations starting at $1,299 (₹1,19,900) for the 8-Core CPU, 7-Core GPU option that features 8GB RAM, and 256GB storage. There is the 8-Core CPU and 8-Core GPU option for $1,499 (₹1,39,900) that also comes with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. The top-variant featuring an 8-Core CPU, 8-Core GPU, 8GB RAM and 512GB storage is priced at $1,699 (₹1,59,900).
Apple iMac (2021)
The new iMac gets a complete redesign with a super-slim design powered by Apple's M1 Silicon, a brand new 24-inch 4K Retina Display and seven color options.
Today, we are looking at some of the best keyboards available for the new Apple iMac 2021:
Magic Keyboard with Touch ID
Apple announced a new Magic Keyboard this year that includes Touch ID. It is the first external keyboard for a Mac product that offers fingerprint authentication, and it will be offered with the same seven colors as the new iMacs. The new Magic Keyboard with Touch ID is currently being bundled with the iMac, if you opt for the 8-Core CPU and 8-Core GPU option. However, if you go for the base variant, you get the older keyboard without Touch ID. Apple just started selling the Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and the Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad, although it's still only in silver.
Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID
The Apple Magic Keyboard offers the best typing and usability experience on the iMac.
Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad
The full size version of the Magic Keyboard offers a similar experience and features a dedicated numeric pad.
Logitech MX Keys
Logitech is one of the few brands that makes high-quality accessories for Apple. The MX Keys is an excellent third-party full-size keyboard for the new iMac, featuring a sturdy full metal frame and slim profile. It comes with smart key backlighting that can change depending on the ambient lighting conditions and turn on automatically using a built-in proximity sensor. The keys themselves make use of scissor switches and are very silent while the keyboard can be connected wirelessly via Bluetooth or using a USB receiver. For an extra $70, you can go for the Logitech Craft, which is the same as the MX Keys, but with a fully customizable dial for various use cases.
Logitech MX Keys
The Logitech MX Keys is one of the best third-party full-size wireless keyboard for the iMac offering great low-profile keys and great functionality.
Logitech Craft
This is the same as the Logitech MX Keys, but comes with a rotating dial that can be customized for a variety of functions.
Keychron K4
If low-profile keyboards are not your thing, then check out the Keychrone K4. It is a wireless mechanical keyboard that is fully compatible with the Mac, and comes with the option Gateron switches, and can be configured with white or RGB backlighting and an aluminum frame. The K4 is a full-sized keyboard and if you want a more compact option you can try the Keychron K2. Both offer wired connectivity via USB-C and wireless via Bluetooth while the switches themselves can be swapped easily.
Keychron K4
The Keychron K4 (v2) is one of the best mechanical keyboards for the iMac offered in a variety of key switches.
Satechi Aluminum Bluetooth Keyboard
This keyboard offers an elegant look similar to the original Apple Magic Keyboard with a slim design and an aluminum chassis. According to Satechi, it features ‘enhanced’ scissor-switch keys, an extended keyboard layout, and the ability to connect up to three devices. The battery can last up to 80-hours and the battery can be recharged using USB-C.
Satechi Aluminum Bluetooth Keyboard
Go for the Satechi Aluminum Bluetooth keyboard if you are looking for a third-party look-alike for the full-sized Apple Magic Keyboard.
Logitech K380
Here’s another recommendation if you are looking for an affordable wireless keyboard for the new iMac. The Logitech K380 comes in various colors and offers a clean and chic look. The Bluetooth keyboard offers the ability to connect up to three devices and is powered by standard AAA-batteries that can last up to two years. I’ve personally tried this keyboard and while the rounded keys look unique, they feature scissor switches along with a tactile bump so it does take a while to get used to them.
Logitech K380 Keyboard
This is one of the best affordable and compact wireless keyboards that you should buy for the iMac
The new Magic Keyboard with Touch ID is probably the most exciting keyboard on the list. But as mentioned, it is currently only available with the new iMac. From what we know, the keyboard will be fully compatible with all Mac devices, although the Touch ID functions will only work on devices running on the M1 chipset. For more information, check out a quick explainer done by my colleague explaining the compatibility of the new Magic Keyboard with Touch ID.