Swapping the control and caps lock key in OSX

To swap the control and caps lock keys in OSX enter system preferences -> keyboard -> modifier keys: caps before

Swap the control and caps locks settings: caps after

Why swap the control and caps lock key?

  • I use the control key more than the caps lock key (vi is my editor of choice).
  • The original control key is difficult to press with your fingers on the home row keys.
  • I started my career using a Sun keyboard, where control and caps lock were already in the proper position.

Fingers and hand have to stretch to reach the control key: original control

Fingers and hand are in a relaxed natural position while pressing control: after control