Karabiner Elements 16.3.0 for Mac

Mac Utilities

Updated Aug 17, 2026

⬇ Download Now

Every keyboard has a few keys in the wrong place. Maybe Caps Lock never earns its prime spot, or a Windows keyboard feels awkward on a Mac, or your wrists want a gentler layout. Karabiner Elements is a free and open source tool that fixes this properly. It can swap simple keys in seconds, and it goes far beyond that with rules based on the app, the device or how long you hold a key.

Key Features

• Simple changes swap one key for another in a few clicks
• Complex rules add conditions based on app, device or timing
• Different settings can apply to each keyboard you connect
• Profiles let you switch whole layouts for work or play
• EventViewer helps you see key codes while you build rules

How to Download

1. Go to the vendor site and Download from the official site to check the latest release notes and get the installer.
2. Open the downloaded disk image and run the installer package.
3. Allow the requested permissions in System Settings, then set your first key change.

System Requirements

The current release needs macOS 13 Ventura or later and runs on both Apple Silicon and Intel Macs. Older builds remain available for older systems. macOS will ask you to grant Input Monitoring and Accessibility access during setup.

FAQs

Is Karabiner Elements really free?

Yes. The project is open source and free to use, and the full tool costs nothing to download and run.

Will it work with my external keyboard?

Very likely. It supports internal and external keyboards, and you can keep separate settings per device.

What if a remap stops working after an update?

Check the permissions first. After a macOS update those grants can switch off, and turning them back on usually restores normal behaviour.