The 10 Best Programmable Keypads
This wiki has been updated 25 times since it was first published in October of 2018. The QWERTY keyboard may be the standard on computers these days, but that doesn't mean it is the most efficient option for every task. These programmable models allow you to customize the buttons for gaming and other application-specific inputs. With the right one, you'll be able to get your work done quickly or take down your gaming adversaries before they get to you. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Elgato Stream Deck
2. NPET T20
3. Razer Tartarus V2
Editor's Notes
December 07, 2020:
For this update, we have removed the Infinitton Smart and the Koolertron SMKD72-A due to availability issues. We've also updated the listing for the Aula Excaliber and adjusted the ranking order of other devices.
Two newcomers to the list, the Redragon K585, and the NPET T20 both have vibrant RGB backlighting to illuminate their keypads. The Redragon K585 offers your choice of switches, in case you prefer either a "clicky" style or quieter keypresses. Just be aware that its 42 main keys aren't programmable, it only has seven keys that can be used for macros. The NPET T20 is an extremely affordable option that has 38 programmable keys and adds 3 side buttons that can be used to create macros.
November 29, 2018:
We realize that user needs for a programmable keypad vary wildly depending on the tasks they will perform. The ideal model for gaming may not be suitable for video editing, and vice versa. For that reason we did our best to include models that represent a wide variety of different layouts.
4. X-Keys XK-60
5. Redragon K585
6. XP-Pen AC19
7. Logitech G13
8. Genovation ControlPad CP24
9. Koolertron Gaming
10. Aula Excaliber
A wandering writer who spends as much time on the road as in front of a laptop screen, Brett can either be found hacking away furiously at the keyboard or, perhaps, enjoying a whiskey and coke on some exotic beach, sometimes both simultaneously, usually with a four-legged companion by his side. He has been a professional chef, a dog trainer, and a travel correspondent for a well-known Southeast Asian guidebook. He also holds a business degree and has spent more time than he cares to admit in boring office jobs. He has an odd obsession for playing with the latest gadgets and working on motorcycles and old Jeeps. His expertise, honed over years of experience, is in the areas of computers, electronics, travel gear, pet products, and kitchen, office and automotive equipment.