Best Gaming Keypads: Top Picks for Every Play Style

The Razer Tartarus Pro is the best gaming keypad for most players because it combines a thumb-operated eight-way control, plenty of programmable keys and adjustable actuation in a compact one-handed layout. It is a strong choice for MMO skills, shooter movement and custom shortcuts, though its price and Razer Synapse software make simpler options a better fit for some buyers.

What to Look For

A gaming keypad replaces the left-hand portion of a keyboard with a smaller set of keys and, usually, a thumb control. Before buying, check the details that affect how it feels and whether it suits your games:

• Key count and layout: More keys give you more commands without reaching for a full keyboard, but a crowded pad can be harder to learn. Check whether the keys are arranged for your hand and the games you play.
• Thumb control: A D-pad or analog-style stick can handle movement, navigation or extra commands. These controls are not interchangeable: a digital pad registers directions, while an analog stick can report varying movement depending on the model and game support.
• Switch feel and actuation: Mechanical switches have a distinct tactile feel; membrane keys are often softer. Adjustable actuation is useful for tuning sensitivity, but it is not essential for most players.
• Profiles and software: Look for profiles, macros and per-game key assignments if you need them. Confirm that the configuration software supports your operating system and that settings can be saved to the device if you want them available without the software running.
• Ergonomics and desk fit: Consider wrist support, hand size, cable placement and whether the keypad can sit where your left hand naturally rests. A comfortable layout matters more than a high headline key count.
• Compatibility: Check the exact model’s connection type, platform support and software requirements. Console use can be more restricted than PC use, and a keypad may not work in every game even if the console recognizes it.

Razer Tartarus Pro: Best Overall

The Tartarus Pro is a versatile wired keypad with 32 programmable inputs, a thumb-operated eight-way pad and analog optical switches with adjustable actuation. Its compact layout leaves a mouse beside it and gives players ample room for movement commands, abilities, macros and shortcuts. The thumb pad can also be assigned to different functions through Razer Synapse.

Trade-offs: Its software and customization options can take time to set up, and the specialized switches do not suit everyone. The number of inputs may be excessive if you only want a few extra commands. Best for: PC players who want a feature-rich keypad for several games and are willing to configure it.

Razer Tartarus V2: Best for Most Budgets

The Tartarus V2 offers a similar one-handed format, with 32 programmable inputs, a thumb D-pad and Razer’s mecha-membrane switches. It provides a broad set of controls for games and desktop shortcuts without requiring analog actuation features. Its familiar layout also makes it easier to compare with the Pro if you are choosing between the two.

Trade-offs: The mecha-membrane switches feel different from either conventional mechanical switches or the Pro’s optical switches, so preference is personal. It still relies on Razer Synapse for extensive customization. Best for: Players who want a full-featured keypad but do not need the Pro’s adjustable actuation.

Logitech G13: Best Used or Refurbished Option

The Logitech G13 is a discontinued keypad known for its large programmable layout, thumb stick and built-in display. It can still appeal to players who find a working unit and prefer its particular shape or want to preserve an existing setup. Its many controls can be useful for MMOs and complex command layouts.

Trade-offs: Because it is no longer a current product, condition, availability, software support and replacement parts can be uncertain. Buying used means checking that all keys, the stick, display and cable work, and verifying that configuration software runs on your computer. Best for: Existing G13 users or careful second-hand shoppers—not buyers seeking straightforward current support.

Redragon K585 DITI: Best Compact Mechanical Pick

The K585 DITI is a one-handed mechanical gaming keyboard with a more conventional key layout than the thumb-pad designs above. It includes programmable macro keys and a detachable wrist rest on versions that list that feature. Its mechanical switches make it a reasonable option for players who want a keypad-like footprint but prefer standard key presses.

Trade-offs: It does not offer the same thumb joystick or extensive control scheme as the Tartarus models, and switch type and included features can vary by version. Check the specific listing rather than assuming every K585 configuration is identical. Best for: Players who prioritize mechanical keys and familiar movement-key placement over a thumb controller.

Behringer X-Touch Mini: Best for Custom Desktop Controls

The X-Touch Mini is a compact MIDI controller, not a conventional gaming keypad. Its buttons, rotary controls and layers can be assigned to commands with compatible software, making it a flexible option for stream controls, shortcuts or specialized setups. It may be useful when you want knobs and buttons rather than a gaming-oriented key grid.

Trade-offs: It is not plug-and-play for most games: mapping and compatible software are necessary, and it lacks the familiar movement layout of a dedicated keypad. It is not the right choice if you want a straightforward WASD replacement. Best for: Tinkerers building custom PC or streaming controls who are comfortable setting up MIDI mappings.

How to Choose

Start with your games and hand position. For MMOs or games with many abilities, a larger programmable keypad can keep commands close. For shooters, consider whether you want a thumb D-pad or stick for movement, and check that its location feels natural. If you mostly want a few extra shortcuts, a simpler layout may be easier to use than a feature-packed model.

Set a budget, then compare features you will use. Entry-level and compact options can cover basic commands. Paying more may add adjustable actuation, additional inputs, a thumb controller or more elaborate software. Those features are worthwhile only if they match your play style; do not buy based on key count alone.

Choose the control style before the switch type. Decide whether you want a joystick or D-pad, a standard key grid, or a custom controller with knobs. Then compare key feel, noise and actuation. If possible, try similar switches in person: descriptions such as “tactile” and “membrane” cannot fully predict personal comfort.

Check software and support. Look up operating-system compatibility, profile handling and the requirements for macros or per-game remapping. For used or discontinued models, verify current software availability and the condition of every control. If you play on console, confirm support for your specific console and game before ordering.

Finally, remember that a keypad does not automatically improve aim or performance. It changes where commands sit and how you reach them; expect a learning period, and keep a return option in mind if the layout does not suit your hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are gaming keypads worth it?
They can be, if you want programmable controls close to your mouse or a smaller alternative to a full keyboard. They are unnecessary if your current layout already feels comfortable.

Can a gaming keypad replace a keyboard?
Usually not. Most are designed for one-handed gaming and lack the full set of keys needed for typing and general use.

Is an analog thumb stick better than a D-pad?
It depends. An analog stick can allow variable movement where supported; a D-pad gives discrete directional inputs and may feel more precise for assigned commands.

Do gaming keypads work on consoles?
Some may, but support depends on the keypad, console and game. Check compatibility for the exact setup rather than assuming PC support carries over.

Is the Razer Tartarus Pro better than the Tartarus V2?
The Pro adds adjustable-actuation optical switches. Choose it if that feature matters; the V2 is a sensible alternative if you prefer its switch feel or do not need the adjustment.

Can I use a discontinued keypad like the Logitech G13?
Potentially, but inspect its condition and confirm that its configuration software works with your system before buying.

Bottom Line

For most PC players, the Razer Tartarus Pro is the strongest all-around pick: it has a flexible control layout, plenty of programmable inputs and adjustable actuation. Choose the Tartarus V2 if you want a similar feature set without that switch feature, the Redragon K585 DITI if mechanical keys matter more, or another option when your budget and control preferences point elsewhere. Buy for the layout you will actually use, not the longest feature list.

Related

• Best DDR4 RAM for Gaming PCs: 5 Kits Worth Considering
• Hood Wars Codes: Are Any Available?
• Best WordPress Hosting for a Blog: 5 Options Compared