Gaming peripherals come in all shapes and sizes, and none seem to be more scrutinized than gaming keypads. Built to give players a comfortable experience with the quickest key presses, the best gaming keypads come in all shapes and sizes to suit players of any kind.
From being fully customizable to replacing the need for a full keyboard when playing, there are many things to consider when looking for the right gaming keypad. Let’s take a look at some of the best currently available. From comfort to the number of keys, hopefully this helps you with your decision to find the best option out there for you.
Let’s get into it.
1. Razer Tartarus V2
For a while now, Razer has been at the top of the market when it comes to its specialty gaming peripherals. With gaming keypads, that’s no different. The Razer Tartarus V2 takes everything about the original model that was good and improves upon it in such a way that makes this stand out from anything else on this list.
The Tartarus V2 features 32 programmable keys and an 8-way thumbstick for players. It’s comfortable with an ergonomic design that feels nice no matter the hand size thanks to being able to adjust the position. The detachable palm rest also gives you more freedom to find the best comfort level you can.
Using Razer’s Synapse software allows users to customize the RGB, create profiles that save over the cloud for redownload, and more. The absolute best thing about the Tartarus V2, however, are the keys themselves. Using tactile mecha-membrane switches, every press feels so smooth and responsive that you’ll find yourself just wanting to press the keys over and over even when you aren’t using it.
2. RedThunder One-Handed Gaming Keyboard
This may be a strange one to mention right away but for the price, you can’t beat the RedThunder One-Handed Gaming Keyboard. The keyboard basically takes the left side of a traditional keyboard and cuts everything else off. So, what you get is a membrane board with 35 keys that feature a solid response time. The keypad includes RGB backlighting, but it’s only seven built-in colors with two modes to choose from. The wristpad isn’t the most comfortable due to being all plastic, but it does help with overall comfort when in use.
While there’s nothing overly special about it, being priced at just $17.99 at most outlets makes this a great budget choice for anyone looking to see what using gaming keypads are all about.
3. Redragon K585 DITI
Another budget-friendly option, the Redragon K585 DITI is a bit more feature-filled than the RedThunder alternative. Like the RedThunder, the Redragon K585 DITI takes the left side of a keyboard and fits it into an ergonomic package for gaming. It goes a step beyond just taking half of a keyboard, though. The Redragon K585 DITI features 42 keys with custom RGB backlighting, and the spacebar is positioned in a way that it feels more natural under your thumb when in use. The mechanical keyboard also includes seven macro keys and up to 28 macro settings for your customizing pleasure.
Though it usually runs about $55, you can often find it on sale for much cheaper.
4. Razer Orbweaver Chroma Gaming Keypad
The second Razer product on this list, the Razer Orbweaver features Razer mechanical switches, 20 programmable keys, and a thumbstick. Like the Tartarus V2, it also includes customizable RGB with individually lit keys. Speaking of the keys, the Orbweaver’s mechanical switches feature precise actuation that will have you enjoying response time with the best non-keypad players out there.
From an ergonomics standpoint, the Orbweaver offers adjustable hand, thumb, and palm rests to allow you to find the best fit and position for your hand.
5. Logitech G13 Programmable Gameboard Keypad
To be fair, the only reason the Logitech G13 isn’t higher up on the list is that it can be difficult to find due to its age. It was first released back in 2004 but still holds up to this day. The G13 features 25 programmable keys as well as an add-on joystick for more precise movement when playing. A feature that only it has compared to the others on this list is the LCD screen, something Logitech used to do a lot with its keyboards. The LCD screen is great for viewing profile information, in-game stats, and even in-game communication.
There’s no RGB or anything over the top like that. It’s just a great keypad that holds up against the test of time.
6. Koolertron Mechanical Gaming Keypad
Personally, this is one of the best-looking keypads on this list. It’s also the smallest. The Koolertron Mechanical Gaming Keypad features 23 programmable keys in a plexiglass shell, making it feel more durable than even the most expensive keypads on the market.
Ready to go right out of the box for both PC and Mac users, every key can be customizable and swapped around to make sure your setup is the most accessible for you. It doesn’t come with any sort of wrist rest, which can lead to some comfort issues during long play sessions. With that said, because of its simple and symmetric design, the Koolertron Mechanical Gaming Keypad can be used whether you are left- or right-handed.
7. DELUX T9 Advanced One-Handed Mechanical Keyboard
With a great ergonomic design and plenty of keys — 46 in total — the DELUX T9 Advanced is a solid choice for any user. Everything feels quick and accessible without the need to stretch your fingers too far. The large wrist rest provides you with added comfort for those long, late-night gaming sessions. It even includes dedicated volume controls for quick sound adjustment on the fly.
Where some will be turned off is the fact that the keys aren’t programmable. If you aren’t one that cares for macros or full remapping per game, this will be just fine. If you are an MMO fan or even an RTS player, this is likely one keypad you should skip
Unfortunately, like with the Logitech G13, it can be tough to find. But if you manage to find out, scoop it up immediately.
8. GameSir VX2 AimSwitch Gaming Keypad
The last on this list comes with both PC and even console players in mind. The wireless GameSir VX2 AimSwitch features mechanical red switches with an advertised 50-million keystroke lifespan. Despite needing the 2.4GHz adapter for connection, the GameSir VS2 AimSwitch offers low latency and an impressive response time that’ll leave those who are used to wired keypads impressed. With the adapter, it even offers a complete plug-and-play experience right out of the box.
The WASD keys feature an “anti-skid” texture to allow for easy no-look placement when playing. Like the aforementioned DELUX T9, none of the keys are programmable due to it needing to work with both PC and console.
It even comes with a mouse, giving you a full gaming setup for the same cost as some of the other gaming keypads on this list.
