Best One Handed Gaming Keyboard – Best Gaming Keypads To Increase Your Chances Of Winning!

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In the world of gaming, the right equipment can make all the difference in gameplay and overall performance. One essential piece of equipment that can take your gaming experience to the next level is a gaming keypad. A gaming keypad is a compact keyboard designed specifically for gaming, with customizable keys and features to enhance efficiency and gameplay.

As the gaming industry continues to evolve and advance, so do the options for gaming keypads. In this article, we will explore the top gaming keypads for ultimate gameplay in 2023. We will provide product recommendations, discuss key factors to consider when choosing a gaming keypad, and examine the differences between mechanical and membrane switches, regular and programmable keys, and size and design.

Whether you are an avid MMO player, a video editor, or simply looking to enhance your gaming experience, a gaming keypad may be a worthwhile investment for you.

Key Takeaways

• The Razer Tartarus Pro and v2, Logitech G13, Redragon K585 DITI Wireless One, and HORI TAC keypad are among the best gaming keypads of 2023.
• When choosing a gaming keypad, it’s important to consider the necessary features, size and design, and types of key switches (mechanical or membrane).
• Gaming keypads are best suited for MMOs and RPGs, but can also be useful for artists and video editors.
• A gaming keypad should be viewed as an auxiliary peripheral solely for gaming and may not be necessary for everyone.

When it comes to product recommendations for the best gaming keypads in 2023, the Razer Tartarus Pro and Logitech G13 are excellent choices for MMO and RPG players. These gaming keypads have a compact design and come with programmable keys that allow players to assign complex macros for easier gameplay. However, muscle memory can be an issue when switching from a regular keyboard to a gaming keypad.

On the other hand, those who lean towards shooters and esports games may prefer the Redragon K585 DITI Wireless One with its Cherry MX clone switches. This gaming keypad offers a compact 40% layout and includes 5 extra macro buttons with 28 macro options. While wireless gaming keypads have the advantage of eliminating cable clutter, they also have their cons like battery life and latency issues.

Best Gaming keypads

Image	Product	Our Rating	Price
	Razer Tartarus v2 Gaming Keypad	9.5	Check Price on Amazon
	RedThunder One Handed Gaming Keyboard RGB Backlit	9.1	Check Price on Amazon
	Redragon K585 DITI One-Handed RGB Mechanical	8.8	Check Price on Amazon
	Beastron Aula Excalibur One Handed Mechanical Gaming Keyboard	8.6	Check Price on Amazon
	K-700 One Handed Mechanical Gaming Keyboard	8.2	Check Price on Amazon
	One Hand RGB Gaming Keyboard and Mouse Combo	8	Check Price on Amazon
	MFTEK One Hand Gaming Keyboard and Mouse Combo	7.7	Check Price on Amazon

Last update on 22nd September 2023 / Affiliate Links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Our Recommended One Handed Gaming Keyboards for PC:

Featuring both mechanical and membrane keys, the Razer Tartarus v2 offers gamers a customizable and ergonomic design with 32 programmable keys and Chroma RGB lighting. This gaming keypad is a great alternative to a regular keyboard for gamers who want to improve their gameplay experience. The mechanical keys provide a tactile feedback that makes it easier to press the keys accurately, while the membrane keys are quieter and require less force to press. The Razer Tartarus v2 also has an adjustable wrist rest that can be moved up and down to fit the user’s hand comfortably, reducing the risk of developing wrist injuries.

When compared to other mechanical keypads on the market, the Razer Tartarus v2 stands out with its versatility and customization options. The keypad’s software, Razer Synapse, allows users to create and save different profiles that can be switched easily during gameplay. The Chroma RGB lighting also adds a stylish touch to the keypad, with 16.8 million colors to choose from.

The Razer Tartarus v2 offers users the option to switch between mechanical and membrane keys, giving gamers the best of both worlds. While mechanical keys are better for shooters, esports games, and competitive real-time strategies, membrane keys are fine for MMORPGs and single-player RPG games. The following table compares the benefits of mechanical keys versus membrane keys in the Razer Tartarus v2:

Benefits of Mechanical Keys	Benefits of Membrane Keys
Tactile feedback for better accuracy	Quieter and require less force to press
Longer lifespan (up to 50 million keystrokes)	More affordable
Customizable actuation point	Less likely to develop key chatter
Consistent performance over time	Better suited for non-competitive games

The Razer Tartarus 2’s combination of soft-cushioned membrane keys and clicky mechanical key switches makes for a comfortable, optimal gaming experience. The switch action feels more like that of a mechanical keyboard than a membrane one, and the key caps are thicker than most membranes, so there’s also a good thump when you press a key. The 8-way directional thumbpad is also a nice addition, and it allows you to make more precise movements, which comes in handy for console-oriented players.

The thumbpad also acts as a home key, so you can navigate the menu without moving your hands off the keyboard, and it includes a hotkey toggle, so you can quickly switch between the two modes. That toggle also acts as a macro repeat timer, so you can set a hotkey to repeat a key combination indefinitely, which is great for macros designed for fast-paced FPS games. The macro creation is pretty straightforward, too, but be aware that macros with more than four keys are truncated.

Tartarus is a 32 key keypad with fully programmable keys, making it suitable for gamers but usable for other tasks, too. You’ll want to install the Razer Synapse software, which is required for programming the thumbpad and macros. It’s a little cumbersome to set up, but it does a great job of organizing your macros, and it has some nice tools that let you design key remapping profiles for your favorite games. Once you set these customized gaming profiles you are good to go.

The Razer Tartarus 2 has a scissor-switch design in the middle keys, so their actuation feels less crisp than the membrane keys, but the extra tactile response is nice for gaming. Setup is quick and easy, but there’s still a steep learning curve for new players. The Razer Tartarus V2 is pricey, but if you have any interest in gaming, it’s worth considering.

The Razer Tartarus V2 is a well thought out, well built, and durable keyboard. It’s also extremely customizable, with individual backlighting for each key and macro, as well as RGB lighting that can sync with pretty much any Razer hardware or gear from 30-plus partners. The Tartarus V2 is an excellent keyboard, and it’s one of the best gaming keyboards we’ve tested. Tartarus tops our list of keyboards for pros, and is second pick for everyone else.

The solid feel of the Red Thunder One’s full-sized keys combined with the also full-sized wrist rest make it a very comfortable keyboard for long play sessions. The RGB backlighting on Red Thunder One’s keys is another nice feature, and different color option let you choose the right one for each game.

The RedThunder One is a surprisingly good mechanical gaming keyboard. Its keys are well-spaced, including macro keys, and the keyboard has an ergonomic shape, designed so your wrists aren’t bent unnaturally. The keyboard is stylish, though its backlighting is dim, and it’s a good option for gamers who play on multiple platforms, as it supports Windows and OS X, as well as Linux and Android.

The keyboard’s switches are loud when pressed, and the key presses are a little mushy, which can make typing feel slow and clumsy at first. It’s not as feature-packed as our top pick, but it definitely merits attention. If desk space is a premium, the RedThunder One may be a a strong contender.

One option for a gaming keypad is the Redragon K585 DITI Wireless One, which offers a compact 40% layout and Cherry MX clone switches. The wireless connectivity allows for greater freedom of movement, while the Cherry MX clone switches provide a tactile and responsive feel, making it a solid choice for gamers who prefer mechanical switches.

The K585 is a purpose-built gaming keyboard. The 2 additional keys on the left-hand-side, however, let you bind macros to anything you want, so you can customize the key layout to precisely fit your game preferences. You can even assign macros to the 8 customizable function keys, allowing you to set up macros for pretty much anything, from changing your volume mode to launching apps.

The K585’s key caps are a nice, medium-dark color, and the quality feels better than on most gaming keyboards, and the keys themselves are very pleasant to type on. In addition, the K585 is very comfortable to use.

The K585 comes with a detachable wrist rest that was comfortable in our tests, though it makes the keyboard more than 1.5 pounds. The K585, like all Redragon products, is well-built and built to last, and at its price, it’s our pick for the best gaming mechanical keyboard under $100.

However, it’s important to note that the Redragon K585 DITI Wireless One may not be the best choice for all types of gamers. Its 40% layout and lack of a number pad may be a hindrance for those who require a full keyboard layout. Additionally, while the Cherry MX clone switches provide a tactile feel, they may not be as durable as genuine Cherry MX switches and may have a shorter lifespan.

Our only complaint is that the K585’s RGB lighting effects are a bit dull compared to other RGB keyboards in this price range. Even so, it’s an outstanding gaming keyboard that’s worthy of our Value for Money award.

The Aula Excalibur is a well-designed, feature-packed, and highly customizable mechanical gaming keyboard. Although it’s designed for right-handed gamers, we didn’t find any major issues making it great for either. It uses Blue switches, which feel very similar to the Cherry MX Brown switches. That being said, there’s a slight audible click to the Aula, but it’s nothing to worry about and isn’t noticeable under gaming conditions.

The Aula does have a decent size wrist rest, but it’s detachable, so you can always remove it if you don’t need a wrist rest whenever you game. The Aula has programmable macro keys, which can be programmed entirely using the keyboard software, which is easily downloaded from the Beastron Aula website. If only the space key was a little larger. The curved shape means you’ll either love it or hate it.

The keyboard also has three mode LED lights, which can be set to five different colors through a gaming utility. However, these only change the overall color of the backlight.

This top mechanical keyboard is an excellent choice for gamers looking for a professional, no-nonsense replacement keyboard. This little keyboard packs a punch given its narrow design, which packs a lot of features into a small footprint.

The keyboard also has extra macro keys on its lower-right side. Its reprogrammable backlight is one of our favorite things about this keyboard, and it’s easy to program, allowing you control the type of light pattern you’d like to display, as well as adjust the color.

Keep in mind though, this keyboard is quite expensive, but if you have the cash, it will provide you with a satisfying mechanical. The Aula keyboard comes with a detachable USB cord, a wrist rest, a padded carrying case, and a quick start guide. 

The K-700 is the quietest mechanical gaming keyboard we’ve tested, thanks to its relatively low-profile design. And while it lacks dedicated media keys, its macro buttons, multiple RGB backlight modes, and 6 months of warranty make it a compelling keyboard for gamers. It’s compact size makes it ideal for narrow spaces, and cluttered desks.

It’s best value pick, and we don’t hesitate to recommend it. Just be aware that the macro keys are smaller than standard PC macro keys, so you won’t want to rely on them for complex macros.

Even though mechanical switches are quieter, they have heavier actuation points so they take more force to activate, and they don’t offer the same short travel, soft actuation feel as all the tactile switches in our previous picks.

But they’re more durable and they have a more consistent, tactile feel over time, so they’re great for gaming. The K700’s keys have a shorter travel than most keys in our previous picks, but they still give you enough to feel the difference between key and bottom dead center.

The K700 is praised for its sturdy build quality, an excellent gaming keyboard design, and customization options, but it falls short on several key metrics, including excellent key feel and responsiveness. This keyboard is nowhere near as responsive as on the Razer. That being said, the K700 is well-built, it features a large removable wrist rest, and the RGB backlighting is robust and customizable.

The RGB backlighting is colorful, responsive, and really, really cool. It also feels really nice to use, especially the big, comfortable palm rest. The mouse is nice and light, with just the right amount of heft. The mouse has a 6-button design, which makes it easy to program macros for your favorite games. It only took a couple of minutes to set it up on all of my games. Many will appreciate its size, making it suitable for compact spaces or along a full-sized keyboard.

 The included software isn’t very good, though, and it’s glitchy and buggy, so we recommend using it only to download the drivers and set basic settings. The RGB lighting effects are cool and add an extra dimension to the already-excellent combo.

The mouse has a braided USB cord that is better than many we’ve tested. The mouse has 4 levels DPI adjustable, 800, 1200, 1600, 2400. I found the mouse is super fast and accurate, perfect for FPS games and gaming marathons.

If you’re looking for a compact, versatile, and practical gaming keyboard, the MFTEK One Hand Gaming Keyboard and Mouse Combo is your best choice. The keyboard is compact and comfortable, with keycaps that glow in a rainbow of colors. The mouse is very comfortable too, with a sleek, ergonomic design and a solid base.

The keyboard and mouse are plug-and-play, with no drivers or software to install, either. We were able to pair and start playing right away. The mouse is reasonably sensitive and you also get a large mouse pad, which makes it a very attractive package. If you are not willing to pay for a high-quality gaming mouse on its own, this combo is something you may consider.

The MFTEK One Hand Gaming Keyboard is a great keyboard for everyday users. It’s affordable, easy to use, and has an excellent build quality. If you want a keyboard that looks good but doesn’t cost much, this is the one for you.

honorable Mention – HORI TAC keypad

The HORI TAC keypad is a gaming peripheral that is specifically designed for use with PS5/PS4 games, providing gamers with a customizable way to interact with their favorite games. This keypad offers a variety of customizability options, allowing users to create personalized settings and profiles that cater to their unique gaming preferences. Additionally, the HORI TAC keypad features a sleek and ergonomic design, making it comfortable to use for extended periods of time.

One of the standout features of the HORI TAC keypad is its compatibility with PS5/PS4 games. This keypad is designed to work seamlessly with these gaming systems, providing gamers with an intuitive and responsive way to interact with their games. Moreover, the keypad’s customizable settings and profiles allow gamers to fine-tune their gaming experience, providing them with a level of control that is unmatched by traditional gaming peripherals.

Overall, the HORI TAC keypad is an excellent choice for gamers who are looking for a high-quality, customizable, and compatible gaming peripheral.

• Customizable settings and profiles
• Ergonomic and comfortable design
• Designed specifically for PS5/PS4 games

Things to Consider When Shopping for the Best Gaming Keypads For Long Gaming Session:

Full-sized keyboards with all of the bells and whistles cost a pretty penny, but compact alternatives often lack the features that make gaming keyboard so useful. Enter gaming keyboards, a hybrid between standard keyboards and gaming controllers. These devices are comfortable, have great build quality and feature everything you need for gaming.

When it comes to keypads, comfort is key. After all, you’re going to be pushing a lot of buttons, and it’s only natural that your hands and wrists will start to get sore. That’s why we’ve looked at the features of the best gaming keypads on the market, only to pick out the perfect one for you. Gaming keypads can come in a variety of forms. Whichever type you choose to go for, there are a few vital factors to consider in order to ensure that you get the best gaming keypad for your needs. If you’re in a rush, you can check out our top ten gaming keypad reviews for a few of our favorites.

The Number of Keys

There are many models to choose form so it is advisable to check the number of keys you would most likely need before purchasing a gaming pad. In the gaming keyboard market, there are pads with fewer keys but there are some that accommodate 46 keys. If you are not sure how few you would need we would recommend picking a pad with around 32 keys which usually would be enough but not too many to confuse us.

If you’re playing a competitive game, like FPS games where you need to aim and shoot accurately, or a racing game where you need to race at top speeds, then a gaming key pad is a good option. It offers more in depth control over your character and helps free up space on your desktop, as well as your keyboard. If you’re searching for that extra edge with online multiplayer games, then a gaming keyboard is a smart decision compared to full-sized gaming keyboards.

Simple Design That Will Improve Your Gaming Performance

You can find a keypad to fit almost any game console, from small to large. They can be a wireless gaming keypad or a wired one, depending upon your preference. You can even opt for some that have several buttons, allowing players to direct their character with greater accuracy than the simplistic single macro option. The benefits of having a gaming keyboard vary depending on the type games you play. If your a hardcore gamer, a keyboard offers an unmatched amount of control over your characters and lots of macros to create.

It would be great if you were able to purchase a gaming keypad that blended well with the rest of the setup. Some of them provide LED illumination and perhaps you could also pick complimentary colors for your ideal setup

Build Quality

Try to pick a gaming keyboard that is of high-grade materials and well constructed. t is advisable to spend a bit more for a gaming keyboard of higher quality that would last you for longer and moreover, it will feel more comfortable to your hands. Preferably pick one backed with a lengthy warranty in order to be sure that you are covered for the next few years.

A gaming keypad is different than a regular keyboard because it is designed to be used for gaming purposes. It has additional buttons that are used for gaming functions, separate gaming buttons to avoid accidentally pressing the wrong button and offers ultimate comfort while playing.

Size

It may come as a surprise that while gaming keypads can greatly enhance one’s gameplay, the size and design of these peripherals are equally important considerations that can impact the overall user experience.

Size plays a crucial role in determining the comfort level of the gaming keypad, as it needs to be compact enough to fit comfortably on a user’s desk without being too small to use.

Design is also essential, as it can affect the ease of use and efficiency of the keypad. A well-designed gaming keypad should have a layout that allows for easy access to all keys and buttons, with an ergonomic design that reduces hand fatigue during extended gaming sessions.

Customization options are another crucial aspect to consider when it comes to gaming keypads. The ability to customize the keypad’s layout and buttons to one’s liking can significantly improve the user’s experience by making the keypad more intuitive and efficient to use.

Backlighting styles are also important, as they can enhance the aesthetics of the keypad and improve visibility in low-light conditions. A well-designed backlighting system should be adjustable to suit the user’s preferences and gaming environment.

Which Gaming Keypad Is Right for You?

COMPACT DESIGN

Identify the purposes of a computer keyboard and keypad. Although the actual uses of the computer keyboard and keypad will vary from person to person, there are some keys which are common to both. For example the windows and F keys might be extremely important while playing certain games while others would not use any combination of these keys at all. Determine how many buttons and functionality you will require.

Choose the size of the key pad that you want to use, a normal keyboard is a standard sized so if you are used with this it might be best stick with a normal sized keypad. However, a few gaming key pads are designed for comfort in usage (such as being smaller and padded). Some people like these to be bigger than the normal keyboard as they can provide you with a better gaming experience. Most of them are small and tiny, however, they offer you only the essential buttons so that you may enjoy the entire process of playing games.

Compact design is an essential factor to consider when choosing a gaming keypad. Unlike traditional keyboards, gaming keypads are smaller and more ergonomic, making them easier to handle and reducing the risk of wrist strain. Compact gaming keypads are also more portable and can be easily stored in a bag or backpack, making them ideal for gamers who travel frequently.

One advantage of the compact design is that it allows for more efficient use of space. The keys are arranged in a more compact layout, allowing for faster and more precise movement. Additionally, the compact design reduces the distance between the keys, making it easier for gamers to reach all the necessary buttons without having to move their hands too much. In comparison with traditional keyboards, gaming keypads are often faster and more responsive, which is essential for competitive gaming. The table below provides a comparison between a traditional keyboard and a gaming keypad, highlighting the advantages of a compact design.

Feature	Traditional Keyboard	Gaming Keypad
Size	Large and bulky	Compact and portable
Key Layout	Spaced out	Compact and efficient
Speed	Slower response time	Faster and more responsive
Ergonomics	Higher risk of wrist strain	More ergonomic design

MMOs and RPGs

Having discussed the importance of a compact design for gaming keypads, we now turn our attention towards their suitability for MMOs and RPGs. These genres require dozens of spells and powers that can be accessed quickly, and a gaming keypad can provide the necessary shortcuts.

Although some gamers might find it challenging to adjust to a new input device, using a gaming keypad can improve their gameplay and help them achieve faster reaction times. However, muscle memory can be an issue, and gamers might need some time to adapt to the new layout.

One of the advantages of gaming keypads is the level of customization they offer. Fully programmable keys can be assigned any control, including complex macros, and can significantly enhance the gaming experience. The software compatibility is another crucial factor to consider when choosing a gaming keypad. The ease of use and the variety of options provided by the software can make a significant difference in how gamers interact with their devices.

Nevertheless, it is essential to note that gaming keypads should be an auxiliary peripheral used only for gaming, and some games cannot be played with them. Ultimately, the decision to invest in a gaming keypad depends on the user’s specific needs and preferences.

Muscle Memory

Like a pianist playing an unfamiliar instrument, adapting to a new gaming keypad can pose a challenge to gamers’ muscle memory, potentially affecting their performance in-game. Muscle memory is the ability to perform a task without conscious effort or thinking. It is developed through repetition and practice, allowing individuals to react quickly and accurately to situations.

When switching from a regular keyboard to a gaming keypad, gamers may need to retrain their muscle memory, as the keys are arranged differently and may require different finger movements. This process can take time and patience, but improving muscle memory can benefit gamers in the long run, allowing them to react faster, execute commands with precision, and ultimately improve their gameplay.

Aside from gaming, using a gaming keypad can also improve muscle memory for non-gaming tasks. For example, artists using drawing pads or people working in Photoshop or video editing tools can benefit from using a gaming keypad, as they require quick and accurate keystrokes. Additionally, the fully programmable keys on gaming keypads can be assigned to complex macros, allowing users to execute multiple commands with a single keystroke. This can save time and increase productivity, as users can complete tasks more efficiently.

Artists and Photoshop

Improving muscle memory through the use of gaming keypads has potential benefits for non-gaming tasks, such as for artists using drawing pads or people working in Photoshop or video editing tools. The compact design and fully programmable keys of gaming keypads can enhance the workflow of artists and graphic designers by allowing them to customize shortcuts and commands that are frequently used in image editing software. This can lead to increased efficiency and productivity, as well as reducing the risk of repetitive strain injuries caused by extended use of a traditional keyboard.

In particular, gaming keypads can be useful for digital artists who require precision and speed when working on their projects. The fully programmable keys on gaming keypads can be assigned to specific Photoshop editing tools, allowing for quick access to frequently used commands. Additionally, the analog joystick on some gaming keypads can provide a more natural and intuitive way of controlling the brush size and opacity, which is crucial in digital art.

Gaming keypads can be a valuable tool for artists and designers who use Photoshop editing and other digital art programs on a daily basis, allowing them to work more efficiently and with greater precision.

RGB Effects

More expensive products will include features such as an LCD screen, RGB Lighting, a detachable wrist rest, or even multiple connections. Consider their ergonomic designs and pick one that feels good to use for even long game sessions. You want an keyboard alternative for gaming that has customizable backlighting to match your other setup.

Regular vs Programmable Keys

When selecting a gaming keypad, one important consideration is whether to opt for regular keys or fully programmable keys. Regular keys are similar to those found on a standard keyboard, and their functions cannot be changed. Programmable keys, on the other hand, can be customized to perform any desired action, including complex macros. This provides gamers with a high level of flexibility and control over their gameplay experience.

One advantage of regular keys is that they are easier to use for those who are used to a standard keyboard layout. However, muscle memory can be an issue when switching between a regular keyboard and a gaming keypad with programmable keys. It can take time to adjust to the new layout, which can be frustrating for some gamers.

The key to making the right decision is to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each option and determine which is best suited to your individual needs.

Macros and Profiles

You may also want to purchase an electronic gaming keypad that lets you create different profiles for each player. This can be great if you have friends who want to play different games than you; they can just use one of the profiles you’ve created for them!

So What Are Macros? A programmable keyboard has the capability to use pre-defined short cuts to make specific actions easier, such as changing multiple keys at one time. The macro feature allows users to change multiple keys at once using a single command instead repeating the same action over again. Such a programming button can be useful if you are playing certain video games where you need to perform a lot of tasks all together, such as multiple spells in World of Warcraft or abilities within an RPG game.

You can program each keystroke independently or create shortcuts so that your abilities or spells can be activated by just a single click. This is great for gamers who want to speed up gameplay and also helps them remain focused as they require fewer clicks per ability to perform an action.

Price and Warranty

There’s many lesser known companies out there in the game pad industry, which have been provided bad reviews on various websites. That’s because they don’t provide any customer support or give refunds if things go wrong with their products. If you want to save money and buy a keypad, then you should consider purchasing from a well-established company that has been in business for a long time.

Type of Switches: Mechanical or Membrane Keys

Many different kinds of keyboards are available on the market. These range from mechanical switches to rubber dome switches to membrane key switches. Mechanical keys witches are the most popular option and have been around for years. They require very little force to actuate and are great for gamers that only focus on one game at a time. Some mechanical switches also offer greater durability than others due to the internal design, which provides longer life when used over a long period of time for gaming.

Rubber dome keyboards have fewer moving components than their mechanical counterparts. However, they require more force behind each stroke in order to register properly. This means that you don’t need to press the keys as hard for the action of the keystroke to register, however, this also means that you can miss a number of actions in succession if you are not careful when playing.

Additionally, rubber dome keyboards do provide less tactile feedback than mechanical ones. They can still provide some feedback, but it is often less noticeable or noticeable only when pressing down on the keypad.

Membrane keyboards are often used for gaming by experienced players who want something that is both inexpensive and efficient at the exact same time.

Membranous keyboard may not register the same actions to the same degree as a mechanical switch, but they are much cleaner to clean than membrane switches. Membrane switches are also much more robust than membrane keys because they’re not made from rubber but rather constructed of plastic that is directly applied onto the key. This means they are less likely to crack or break than rubber keys.

Back in the day, membrane keyboards were very popular thanks to their low cost and high portability. The technology has evolved since then, however, and today you can find membrane keyboards that provide just as much durability and feel as you would get with a mechanical keyboard; however, they do tend to cost more in comparison. The type of switch you will choose comes down to personal preference, so take your time and try any alternative option you are considering. 

Compatibility

Gaming Keypads are not advertised as much as regular keyboards. Thus, they are not available at retail stores either. You can however find them on online shopping websites or e-commerce websites specializing in selling computer accessories. It is important that you compare prices between brands and models. Your budget, as also your needs, will largely dictate what you need to look out for in a gaming keyboard.

Some gaming keypads can only be used with a particular operating system, such as Windows or Mac. If you don’t already have the correct connection for your computer, you will need to purchase a converter that allows you to connect your USB or Bluetooth wireless keyboard. To be honest wireless gaming keypads are not your best bet as they introduce some latency, that’s why you see the whole gaming enthusiasts recommend wired keypads. Even a budget gaming keypad can provide a comfortable gaming experience nowadays.

Final Thoughts and Alternatives on Keyboards For Gaming Purposes

Are One Handed Keyboards Good for Gaming?

I believe that the two Razer gaming keypads will allow for countless hours of gameplay and deserve their asking price. The best mechanical gaming keypad I tested is the Orbweaver. It is a low-profile mechanical option, with plenty of keys to add your macros. It feels very responsive and takes up minimal space. The Razer Tartarus v2 is my second option, with 32 programmable keys and a similar ergonomic design. It comes down to personal preference so I highly suggest the first-hand trial before you commit.

Alternatives – The Best Logitech Keyboard for Gaming

I want to include an honorable mention since I considered the Logitech G915 before I bought a one-hand gaming keyboard. I would consider this the best wireless keyboard for gaming, and I think it deserves a closer look, too, if you find that a one-handed gaming pad is not for you. Backed by Logitech, a company well known for their peripherals. You can opt for a used Logitech G13 Pad too, but I’ve seen used Logitech prices skyrocket so much that I would advise you to go for a new keypad instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are gaming keypads compatible with all types of games?

Advantages and disadvantages of gaming keypads in relation to game compatibility depend on the specific model and brand. Some gaming keypads, such as the Razer Tartarus Pro and Logitech G13, are best suited for MMOs and RPGs with dozens of spells and powers.

Muscle memory can be an issue when switching from a regular keyboard to a gaming keypad, but gaming keypads can be useful for artists using drawing pads and for people working in Photoshop or video editing tools.

Some gaming keypads have fully programmable keys that can be assigned any control, including complex macros. However, some games cannot be played with a gaming keypad, and a gaming keypad should be an auxiliary peripheral used only for gaming.

The best brands and models, such as the Razer Tartarus Pro and Azeron Keypad, offer customizable settings and profiles, compact design, and features such as backlighting and mechanical or membrane key switches that are better suited for different types of games.

Ultimately, whether a gaming keypad is compatible with a particular game depends on the game itself and the user’s preferences.

Can gaming keypads also be used for non-gaming purposes?

Gaming keypads can definitely be used for non-gaming purposes, especially for productivity-related tasks. These keypads often have fully programmable keys, making them useful for artists using drawing pads and for people working in Photoshop or video editing tools. Keypad ergonomics and comfort are also important factors to consider when using them for non-gaming purposes.

However, it is important to note that gaming keypads should be viewed as an auxiliary peripheral used only for gaming. While they may have other uses, there are great gaming keyboards that cost less than $50 available for non-gaming tasks, and some games cannot be played with a gaming keypad.

Ultimately, whether or not to invest in a gaming keypad for productivity purposes depends on the specific needs of the user.

How do gaming keypads compare to gaming keyboards in terms of cost?

The cost comparison between gaming keypads and gaming keyboards is an important factor when considering the value proposition of these peripherals.

While some gaming keypads can be more expensive than budget gaming keyboards, there are also high-end gaming keyboards that can cost significantly more than gaming keypads.

The value proposition of gaming keypads lies in their compact design, programmable keys, and ease of use for MMOs and RPGs with dozens of spells and powers.

However, gaming keyboards may offer a wider range of features, such as customizable RGB lighting, dedicated media controls, and more keys for complex macros.

Ultimately, the choice between a gaming keypad and a gaming keyboard depends on individual preferences and needs, as well as budget considerations.

Are gaming keypads easy to set up and use?

Gaming keypads can be easy to set up and use depending on the specific model and user experience. Advantages of gaming keypads include their compact size and necessary features for MMOs and RPGs with programmable keys that can be assigned any control, including complex macros. Some models also have backlighting and mechanical key switches that are better for shooters, esports games, and competitive real-time strategies.

However, muscle memory can be an issue when switching from a regular keyboard to a gaming keypad, and some games may not be compatible. User reviews and easy-to-use software with a lot of options can also affect the ease of use. Overall, while gaming keypads are a good investment for avid MMO players and other users with specific needs, they may not be necessary for everyone.

Can gaming keypads be customized for individual users?

Customization options are an important factor to consider when choosing a gaming keypad. Many gaming keypads offer fully programmable keys that can be customized with complex macros and assigned any control, providing users with a personalized gaming experience.

Ergonomic design is also a crucial consideration, as gaming keypads should be compact and comfortable to use for extended periods. The size and layout of the keypad, the type of key switches used, and the presence of backlighting are also important factors to take into account when selecting a gaming keypad.

Ultimately, the choice of gaming keypad depends on the individual user’s needs and preferences, and the customization options and ergonomic design of the keypad can greatly enhance the gaming experience.