Das Keyboard MacTigr

Is this the new Tigr king?

Mechanical keyboards made for Mac are few and far between. If you want a solid mechanical typing experience with a macOS layout and keycaps, you’re limited to one or two choices among a sea of Windows boards. Now, there’s another option. Das Keyboard has just launched the MacTigr, a set of keys designed specifically for Mac users. They use high–quality Cherry MX Red switches, giving a comfortable, lightweight typing feel that’s a step above the vast majority of traditional Mac keyboards. Unlike some other switches, there’s no tactile bump or audible click, meaning they’re still (just about) quiet enough for an office environment.

Right from the off, the MacTigr impresses. Its chassis is all–metal and feels incredibly robust, which is perfect if you intend to travel with it. That’s complemented by the low-profile keys, which reduce the overall bulk noticeably. And those keycaps are doubleshot, meaning they’re made from two differently colored pieces of plastic, so they won’t chip or fade over time.

In the top–right corner is a set of media keys, a sleep button to snooze your Mac, and a volume knob. The latter is a nice touch, although we noticed it occasionally failed to register turns. On the back are two USB–C ports running at 5Gbps.

Still, there’s room for improvement. There’s no adjustable stand, no alternative switch choices, no backlighting, and no wireless option. It’s also extremely expensive, even for a mechanical keyboard. Rival Keychron’s boards can switch between Mac and Windows layouts, which we’d love to see here, but it’s an unusual feature.

If you’re serious about typing, a mechanical keyboard is the way to go. Das Keyboard’s MacTigr is a premium board that impresses in many ways. It’s far from perfect, but still a good option if you’re tired of mushy, lackluster keys.

Features: Aluminum unibody, stainless steel top, two–port USB–C hub, Cherry MX switches

Price: $219

A good upgrade that falls short in a few areas.

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