Option key

There are two Option keys on modern (as of 2020) Mac desktop and notebook keyboards, one on each side of the space bar.

In this regard, it is akin to the AltGr key, found on some IBM-compatible PC keyboards.

The options available differ depending on the keyboard input locale that the user has selected.

[citation needed] The key is also used to provide for alternative menu items and buttons when pressed down.

It is common for such controls — that is, those whose behavior is governed by a preference — to be invertible in this way In text areas, the Option key can be used for quick keyboard navigation.

Pressing down the option key when hitting return in the address bar causes the URL-specified file to be downloaded.