Top Microsoft Keyboard Layout Creator Alternative Software for Custom Keyboards
The Microsoft Keyboard Layout Creator (MSKLC) has been a valuable tool for users wanting to customize their keyboard layouts, define new layouts for unsupported languages, or simply remap keys for faster access to symbols. It's offered extensive functionality for Windows 2000 through Windows 7, allowing users to create, modify, and build custom keyboard layouts. However, with evolving operating systems and diverse user needs, many are looking for a robust Microsoft keyboard layout creator alternative. Whether you're on a newer Windows version, a Mac, or Linux, there are excellent options available to tailor your typing experience.
Top Microsoft Keyboard Layout Creator Alternatives
If MSKLC no longer meets your requirements or you're seeking more advanced features and broader platform compatibility, look no further. We've compiled a list of the best alternatives that offer powerful key mapping, layout editing, and customization capabilities.
SharpKeys
SharpKeys is a fantastic free and open-source Microsoft keyboard layout creator alternative for Windows users. It simplifies the process of remapping one key to another by managing a Registry key. With features like disabling keyboard keys and robust key mapping, it's an excellent choice for straightforward remapping needs.
Karabiner
For Mac users, Karabiner (formerly KeyRemap4MacBook) stands out as a very powerful free and open-source keyboard remapper. Beyond simple key remapping, it offers special remapping modes and tab control, making it a comprehensive Microsoft keyboard layout creator alternative for macOS environments.
KeyTweak
KeyTweak is another free and reliable Microsoft keyboard layout creator alternative for Windows NT/2000/XP/Vista/Win 7. It leverages Microsoft's Scancode Map registry key for effective key remapping, providing a simple yet effective solution for customizing your keyboard.
Clavier+
Clavier+ is a free and open-source Windows application that goes beyond simple remapping by allowing you to create global keyboard shortcuts for launching applications, opening folders, writing text, and opening websites. Its portable nature makes it a versatile Microsoft keyboard layout creator alternative for quick shortcuts.
Key Manager
Key Manager is a commercial Windows software that offers extensive capabilities for customizing your keyboard and mouse. It enables users to create macros, remap keys, and manage keystrokes, making it a powerful Microsoft keyboard layout creator alternative for advanced users seeking automation features.
Key Remapper
Key Remapper is a commercial Windows tool specifically designed for remapping keys, mouse buttons, and mouse wheel actions. Its focused functionality for key mapping and keystroke remapping makes it a strong contender as a dedicated Microsoft keyboard layout creator alternative for precise control.
keyboardlayouteditor
For Linux users, keyboardlayouteditor is a free and open-source solution designed to be user-friendly for editing keyboard layouts. If you're on Linux and need to customize your keyboard, this is a valuable Microsoft keyboard layout creator alternative that leverages the X server.
Ukelele
Ukelele is a free Unicode Keyboard Layout Editor for Mac OS X, providing an intuitive way to view, edit, and convert keyboard layouts. Its focus on key mapping makes it an excellent dedicated Microsoft keyboard layout creator alternative for macOS users.
KbdEdit
KbdEdit is a comprehensive commercial keyboard layout editor and mapper/remapper for Windows. It offers advanced features like special and function keys reprogramming, making it a robust and versatile Microsoft keyboard layout creator alternative for detailed keyboard customization.
Whether you're a casual user looking for simple key remapping or a power user needing complex macro capabilities and full layout customization, there's a Microsoft keyboard layout creator alternative out there to suit your needs. Explore these options to find the best fit for your operating system and desired functionality.