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Asked: 2024-09-24T17:51:11+05:30 In: ,

I am looking to adjust my keyboard layout on Ubuntu so that it mimics the functionality of my MacBook Air. I’ve attempted various methods, but none have been successful. Can someone provide guidance or solutions for this issue?

I’ve been having a bit of a struggle lately, and I thought maybe someone here could help me out. So, I recently switched over to Ubuntu from using a MacBook Air, and while I love the new setup, I’m really missing the keyboard layout and shortcuts I was so used to on macOS. It’s driving me a little nuts because I’ve tried a few things to make the keyboard behave like my Mac, but nothing seems to work out.

For starters, I want to replicate the function of those cute little key combinations I could use on my Mac. For instance, the Command key was my best friend for shortcuts, and I find myself trying to hit it, only to remember that I’m on a different system! So, I thought maybe I could map the Windows key as a Command key equivalent and make other necessary adjustments.

I’ve looked online for solutions, and there are quite a few posts about customizing the keyboard shortcuts in Ubuntu, but when I follow the instructions, it never quite turns out the way I expect. Sometimes the keys don’t respond as they should or the functionality just isn’t there. It’s kinda frustrating because I’m really trying to optimize my workflow, but these little hiccups are getting in the way.

I also tried using some third-party tools, but they either seem too complex or they just don’t work with my current version of Ubuntu. Does anyone have any tried-and-true methods or tools they would recommend? Or maybe some step-by-step tips that actually worked for you?

I’m open to any suggestions, honestly. Whether it’s tweaking some settings, using terminal commands, or even installing special software, I’m desperate to get my keyboard acting right! It’d be awesome to feel a little more at home when I’m typing away. Thanks a ton for any help you can provide!

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    2 Answers



    1. Keyboard Shortcuts in Ubuntu

      To achieve a Mac-like keyboard experience on your new Ubuntu setup, you can start by mapping the Windows key to behave like the Command key. You can do this by accessing the keyboard settings. Go to “Settings” > “Keyboard” > “Keyboard Shortcuts”. Here, you can modify existing shortcuts to use the Windows key instead of the typical Alt or Ctrl keys. You can also use the included utility called “dconf Editor” to remap the keys at a deeper level. Simply install it via the terminal (`sudo apt install dconf-editor`), then navigate to the `/org/gnome/desktop/wm/keybindings/` path and change the values of various keys to your liking.

      If you’re looking for more advanced customization, consider installing the “GNOME Tweaks” tool, which allows for more extensive changes, including tweaking the keyboard and window manager settings. Another option is to use a tool like “AutoKey” for creating your own keybindings and shortcuts with Python scripts. For terminal commands to create custom shortcuts, you can use the `gsettings` command. An example would be: `gsettings set org.gnome.settings-daemon.plugins.media-keys “[‘c’]”` to set the Windows key + C as a shortcut. Follow these steps, and you should start to feel much more at home while using Ubuntu. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Ubuntu forums for more community-driven solutions as well!


    2. I totally get where you’re coming from! Switching from Mac to Ubuntu can definitely be a bit of a struggle, especially with those keyboard shortcuts you’re used to. Here are some steps you can follow to get closer to that Mac-like experience:

      1. Remap the Windows Key

      You can map the Windows key (Super key) to act like the Command key. To do this:

              
        # Open the Settings app
        # Go to Keyboard settings
        # Under 'Shortcuts', you can modify existing shortcuts or create new ones
        # Look for 'Navigation' and 'Launchers'
        # Change any shortcuts that have 'Super' to mimic your macOS shortcuts

      2. Use gsettings or dconf

      You can also use terminal commands to change the keybindings:

              
        # Install dconf editor if you don’t have it
        sudo apt install dconf-editor
        
        # Launch it and navigate to `org/gnome/desktop/wm/keybindings`
        # Here, you can modify the key bindings to your liking.

      3. Try AutoKey

      This tool can help you create custom shortcuts and automations:

              
        # Install AutoKey
        sudo apt install autokey-gtk
        
        # You can create scripts to perform certain actions with shortcuts that mimic the Mac functionality.

      4. Explore GNOME Tweaks

      GNOME Tweaks allows you to do a bit more customization:

              
        # Install Tweaks
        sudo apt install gnome-tweaks
        
        # Open Tweaks > Keyboard & Mouse > Additional Layout Options

      5. Look for Community Scripts

      There might be community scripts or external configurations available for download. Sites like GitHub can be a goldmine for ready-to-use scripts!

      Don’t worry, you’ll get used to it with a little patience and experimentation! Just remember to back up your settings before you make big changes. Good luck!

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