Karabiner-Elements is a free, open-source keyboard customizer for Mac. It can change a key into another key, make a modifier behave differently, or apply more involved rules that depend on context. Its configuration is especially useful for non-Apple keyboards and personal shortcut systems.

Start with a simple modification, such as swapping Caps Lock and Escape. More advanced rules can combine keys, change behavior for a specific device or application, and use variables or conditions to create a layered keyboard layout.

Features

Remap individual keys with simple modifications.
Build complex modifications with conditions, modifiers, and device-specific behavior.
Manage multiple keyboards and identify key codes with EventViewer.
Share or back up JSON-based rules for repeatable setups.

Where it fits

Karabiner-Elements suits people who need deeper input changes than macOS Keyboard settings provide. Complex rules can be powerful but also hard to debug, so begin with small changes and keep a copy of working configuration.

Privacy and requirements

The app runs background components that intercept keyboard input and needs the system permissions shown during installation, including Accessibility and input-related access. Its published source can be inspected. The current project lists supported releases from macOS 13 onward, with older downloads for earlier systems.

Pricing

Karabiner-Elements is free and open source; donations are optional.

Visit site

Features

Where it fits

Privacy and requirements

Pricing

Related apps.