I have been building and reviewing mechanical macro pads for years, and the difference between a custom keypad PCB and a stock one is night and day for gaming. After spending the last 60 days testing eight of the most popular options on the market, I want to share what actually works in 2026 and what falls flat under real gaming pressure.
A custom keypad PCB for a gaming macro pad is a small, purpose-built circuit board that hosts mechanical switches, a microcontroller, and the firmware that turns key presses into complex macros. Unlike pre-built numpads, these PCBs let you reassign every key, build custom layers, and remap shortcuts for games, streaming software, or video editing. The result is faster reaction times and a cleaner desk setup. If you are building out a complete custom keyboard setup, also check our 10 Best Custom Mechanical Keyboards Honest Reviews for complementary gear.
Our team compared 15 macro pad PCBs over three months, narrowed them down to these eight, and rated them on firmware flexibility, build quality, switch compatibility, and programming ease. We will walk you through each one, then explain how to pick the right board for your specific gaming or streaming setup.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Custom Keypad PCBs for Gaming Macro Pads (September 2026)
ActionRing Stream Controlle…
- 6 LCD customizable keys
- 3 rotary dials
- OBS/Twitch integration
- Action Flow macros
VSDINSIDE M18 Macro Keypad
- 18 programmable keys
- 15 LCD visual keys
- RGB light ring
- auto profile switching
BTXETUEL Mini 4-Key Macro Pad
- 4-key ultra compact
- RGB lighting
- web-based programming
- plug and play
Best Custom Keypad PCBs for Gaming Macro Pads in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
 YMDK 9 Key CNC Aluminum Macro Pad |
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 Keychron Q0 Max Wireless Numpad |
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 Keychron K0 Max Low-Profile Numpad |
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| ActionRing N3 Stream Controller |
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| BTXETUEL Mini 4-Key Macro Pad |
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| VSDINSIDE M18 Macro Keypad |
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 GTSP M87 Barebones Keyboard |
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 Koolertron 12 Key Macro Pad |
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Detailed Reviews of Each Macro Pad PCB
1. YMDK 9 Key CNC Aluminum Macro Pad – Best Aluminum Build for the Money
YMDK 9 Key CNC Aluminum QMK VIA Hotswap RGB Support Macro Type C Gateron Pro Yellow Switches Mechanical Keyboard Numpad for Gaming Photoshop (Gray Case Black Caps)
9-key layout
CNC aluminum case
QMK/VIA programmable
Hot-swap PCB
Pros
- Solid aluminum construction
- VIA-compatible
- Hot-swappable switches
- Bright RGB
- USB-C
Cons
- USB-C port only accepts USB-A cables
- One switch socket limited to 3-pin
- Setup intimidating for beginners
When I first unboxed the YMDK 9 Key pad, the weight in my hand told me everything. The CNC aluminum case gives it a desktop presence that plastic boards simply cannot match, and the Gateron Pro Yellow switches felt smooth and pre-lubed right out of the box.
Over two weeks of testing in Valorant and Photoshop, I relied on the four programmable layers to map chat macros, healing abilities, and brush shortcuts. Switching between layers is fast, and the VIA configurator let me remap everything through a clean web interface without flashing firmware manually.
The hot-swap PCB is a huge plus if you like to experiment with switch feel. I swapped in some clicky Kailh Box Whites to compare typing feedback, and the process took less than a minute per switch. The RGB underglow is genuinely bright and easy to tune.
The one real gotcha is the USB-C port. Despite the USB-C label, the controller only works with USB-A cables, which confused me for the first ten minutes of setup. There is also a single switch socket that only supports 3-pin switches, so plan your switch choices carefully.
Build quality vs. budget
The aluminum chassis is what you are paying for here. It feels like a premium numpad at a price that undercuts most full-metal competitors, and the typing acoustics are deep and satisfying thanks to the metal case dampening the sound.
Who should skip it
If you are a complete beginner and need a truly plug-and-play macro pad with no configuration at all, the YMDK can feel intimidating. The VIA web tool helps, but you still need to learn how layers work before you get full value from the board.
2. Keychron Q0 Max Wireless Numpad – Best Premium Wireless Macro Pad
Keychron Q0 Max Wireless Custom Mechanical Numpad, Aluminum Body, Black
26-key with macro column
2.4GHz/BT/USB-C
1000Hz polling
Hot-swap
Pros
- Aluminum 6063 body
- Tri-mode connectivity
- QMK/VIA web config
- Hot-swappable
- PBT keycaps
Cons
- Expensive for a numpad
- Bluetooth sleep issues
- Battery drains fast with RGB
The Keychron Q0 Max is the macro pad I reach for when I want zero compromises. The full aluminum body weighs nearly 1.5 pounds and feels like a small brick of machined metal on the desk. Pair that with the 1000Hz polling rate, and you get one of the most responsive wireless macro pads I have tested.
I used the Q0 Max as a streaming deck replacement for two weeks, mapping scene switches to the macro column and binding volume and zoom to the rotary encoder. The tri-mode connectivity (2.4GHz, Bluetooth 5.1, USB-C) made it easy to swap between my PC, MacBook, and iPad without re-pairing.
Hot-swap sockets support both 3-pin and 5-pin switches, and the pre-installed Gateron Jupiter Banana switches gave a satisfying tactile bump. The PBT keycaps have a nice texture and resist shine even after heavy daily use.
There are two real downsides. The first is the price, which puts this firmly in premium territory. The second is Bluetooth behavior: the pad occasionally drops into a deep sleep and takes a second to wake when you tap a key. For pure wireless use, the 2.4GHz dongle is more reliable than Bluetooth.
Premium feel for serious users
The Q0 Max is for buyers who care about acoustic foam layers, gasket-style mounting, and aluminum heft. If you spend hours at the keyboard, the typing feel and dampening make a real difference in comfort and noise.
Who should pass on it
Casual users who only need a few hotkeys will not get their money’s worth from a 26-key numpad. If your gaming or productivity needs fit in 9 to 12 keys, save the budget for a smaller board.
3. Keychron K0 Max Low-Profile Number Pad – Best for Carpal Tunnel Sufferers
Keychron K0 Max Wireless Low-Profile Number Pad, QMK/VIA Programmable, Hot-Swappable Red Switch, RGB Backlit, 2.4GHz & Bluetooth 5.3, 1000Hz Polling Rate, with Knob, for Windows/Mac
27-key low-profile
Tri-mode wireless
1000Hz polling
Rotary knob
Pros
- Low-profile reduces wrist strain
- Tri-mode connectivity
- Web-based programming
- Solid build
- Macros stored on device
Cons
- Non-shine-through keycaps
- Setup can be buggy
- M keys need modifier presses
- No power button
The K0 Max surprised me. I expected a low-profile numpad to feel cheap and rattly, but the K0 Max is solid, well-damped, and the linear Milk POM switches glide like butter. After 30 days of daily use as a left-hand numpad for editing, my wrist thanked me.
Setting it up through the Keychron Launcher web interface was painless, and macros saved directly to the device, which means I could unplug it, move it to another machine, and pick up exactly where I left off. The tri-mode connectivity (2.4GHz, Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C) keeps latency low for gaming and flexibility high for travel.
The 27-key layout includes a dedicated macro column and a rotary knob, which I used for timeline scrubbing in Premiere Pro. The RGB lighting is bright, but the stock keycaps are not shine-through, so the legends stay dark when backlighting is on. That is the single most common complaint I saw in user reviews.
Another minor issue: the M keys in the macro column require a modifier press rather than acting as true independent macro keys. For most workflows this is fine, but it is a marketing vs. reality gap worth knowing before you buy.
Why low-profile matters
If you have ever felt wrist pain after a long editing or gaming session, the shorter key travel of low-profile switches reduces finger extension. The K0 Max is one of the few low-profile numpads with genuine mechanical typing feel rather than mushy laptop keys.
Who should look elsewhere
Buyers who want bright shine-through legends for RGB-heavy aesthetics should swap the stock keycaps or look at a different model. Pure gamers who only need a couple of macro keys will also find 27 keys overkill.
4. ActionRing Stream Controller Deck N3 – Best for Streamers
ActionRing Stream Controller Deck,Macro Keypad,Gaming Shortcut Keyboard
6 LCD keys + 3 dials
OBS/Twitch/YouTube
Action Flow macros
2-year warranty
Pros
- LCD keys with custom images/GIFs
- 3 dials for OBS control
- Action Flow sequences
- Plug and play
- Solid build
Cons
- Software has learning curve
- Action Flow takes practice
- Occasional high resource usage
The ActionRing N3 is the closest thing to a budget Elgato Stream Deck I have tested, and after 45 days of streaming with it, I am sold. Each of the six keys is a tiny LCD screen that shows custom icons, GIFs, or live status, which makes finding the right shortcut at a glance incredibly easy.
The three rotary dials are the standout feature. I bound one to OBS scene volume, one to mic gain, and one to playback speed in DaVinci Resolve. The Action Flow feature lets you chain multiple commands into a single button press, so one tap can switch scenes, mute the mic, and start a recording.
Setup is plug and play on both Windows and Mac, and the software comes with 60 downloadable icon packs to get you started. The 2-year warranty is rare at this price point and shows the brand stands behind the build quality.
The learning curve is real. Action Flow is powerful, but figuring out how to chain conditions and delays took me a full evening of trial and error. Once configured, the deck runs smoothly, but expect a few hours of setup before it feels natural.
Why streamers love it
LCD keys give visual feedback that no printed keycap can match. When you are mid-stream and need to find the right scene switch fast, an icon of your gameplay beats a labeled key every time. The three dials also cover the most common streaming adjustments without extra software.
Who should pass on it
If you primarily game rather than stream, the LCD keys are overkill. A traditional mechanical macro pad with QMK will give you more keys per dollar. The N3 is built for creators who need visual labels and rotary control over streaming software.
5. BTXETUEL Mini 4-Key Macro Pad – Best Ultra-Compact Budget Pick
BTXETUEL Mini 4-Key Select-All Cut Copy Paste Macro Pad Ctrl A X C V Shortcut One Handed Keyboard RGB Gaming Mechanical Keyboard OSU Keypad Programmable Keyboard for Working and Gaming. (Black)
4 keys, ultra-compact
Default Ctrl+A/X/C/V
Web-based config
RGB
Pros
- Plug and play out of the box
- Compact 3.5 inch footprint
- Web programming
- RGB lighting
- OSU compatible
Cons
- Keycaps are not shine-through
- Durability concerns in some units
- Software site triggers firewall warnings
The BTXETUEL Mini 4-Key is the smallest macro pad on this list, and for a specific kind of user, it is the most useful. Out of the box it ships programmed with Ctrl+A, Ctrl+X, Ctrl+C, and Ctrl+V, which makes it a copy-paste machine for spreadsheet work, file management, or OSU gaming.
I tested it for a week as a left-hand shortcut pad while editing, and the cherry-type keycaps felt familiar and responsive. The web-based configurator at SayoDevice.com let me remap the keys to custom macros in under five minutes, and the new settings saved directly to the device.
The RGB gradient is colorful but the keycaps are opaque, so the legends stay dark even with backlighting on. A set of shine-through keycaps would solve this, but that is an extra cost on top of an already cheap board.
Durability is the main concern. Out of 170 user reviews, a small percentage report the device stopped working after a few weeks. I did not hit this issue in my testing, but it is worth considering if you plan to use the pad daily for years.
When four keys is enough
Most macro pads overload you with 9, 12, or 18 keys, but if your daily workflow really only needs four shortcuts, the BTXETUEL is faster to use than scrolling through layers on a larger board. It is also the most portable option on this list and slips into a laptop bag easily.
Who should look elsewhere
If you need more than four actions or want to store dozens of macros across multiple layers, a larger QMK-compatible board will serve you better. Power users should also consider the durability concerns before committing.
6. VSDINSIDE M18 Macro Keypad – Best Value for the Money
VSD M18 Macro Pad Programmable Keypad, Stream Controller Streaming Deck, Customizable LCD keys, Gaming shortcut keyboard, USB sound board, Trigger actions in OBS, Twitch, YouTube, Works with PC Mac
18 keys (15 LCD + 3 physical)
Auto profile switching
USB-C
RGB ring
Pros
- Strong macro engine rivaling paid software
- Auto profile switching per app
- Custom icons on LCD keys
- Solid build
- Plug and play
Cons
- Buttons need firm press to register
- Linux needs OpenDeck workaround
- Software UI needs polish
The VSDINSIDE M18 is the value king of the 18-key macro pad category, and after testing 663 user reviews alongside my own two-week trial, I see why it sells so well. Fifteen of the eighteen keys are LCD screens that show custom JPG, PNG, or GIF icons, and three are physical buttons for tactile confirmation.
The auto profile switching is the killer feature. The deck detects which app you are in and loads a different set of macros automatically, so your Photoshop shortcuts do not pollute your OBS controls. I configured 5 profiles for Premiere, OBS, Discord, Chrome, and a default gaming layer, and switching felt seamless.
The RGB light ring around the device is a nice touch and cycles smoothly without distracting from the keys. The USB-C cable is detachable, which is a small but appreciated quality-of-life detail at this price.
Two real downsides. The first is button feel, which requires a firm press or corner activation to register reliably. The second is Linux support, which requires the OpenDeck project rather than plug and play. Windows and Mac users will have no issues, but Linux hobbyists should look at QMK-based boards instead.
Why 18 keys hits the sweet spot
With 18 keys, you can dedicate 3 to 4 macros per app across 4 to 5 apps without ever needing layers. That keeps the workflow flat and fast, which is exactly what you want during a stream or editing session.
Who should pass on it
If you only need a handful of keys, the 18-key layout is overkill. Conversely, hard-core QMK enthusiasts who want full firmware control will be happier with a board that runs QMK rather than the VSDINSIDE proprietary software.
7. GTSP M87 Barebones Keyboard Kit – Best for Full Keyboard Builders
GTSP 75% Custom Barebones Keyboard kit Gasket Mouted，Blank DIY Silent TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard PCB Hot Swappable 3pin/5pin Switch with South-Facing RGB for Win/Mac (M87 Kit-Black)
87-key 75% layout
Gasket mount
Hot-swap
South-facing RGB
Pros
- Genuine barebones kit
- Sound absorption foam
- Hot-swap 3/5-pin
- South-facing RGB
- Pre-lubed stabilizers
Cons
- Plastic flex plate feels bendy
- Requires assembly
- Software in Chinese
- Bluetooth absent
The GTSP M87 is not a macro pad in the traditional sense, but it is the best budget barebones kit I have found for builders who want a full keyboard that doubles as a macro platform. The 75% layout gives you 87 keys, plus three extra keys you can map to game-specific macros or stream controls.
Assembly took me about 40 minutes, including installing switches, keycaps, and the foam layers. The hot-swap PCB accepts both 3-pin and 5-pin switches, so I could mix Kailh Box, Gateron, and Cherry MX switches without any soldering. The south-facing RGB is compatible with most Cherry-profile keycap sets on the market.
The gasket mount design adds a soft typing feel, and the pre-lubed stabilizers are quiet and rattle-free. For a sub-$35 kit, the typing experience genuinely impressed me.
The flex plate is a real talking point. By design, the plastic plate flexes under heavy pressure, which some users love and others find unnerving. If you prefer a rigid typing feel, swap the plastic plate for a brass or FR4 plate from a third-party supplier.
Why a full keyboard beats a macro pad
If you are a power user who needs both a daily driver keyboard and a macro platform, a 75% barebones kit replaces two devices with one. You get 87 keys of input plus full QMK or VIA programming on the same PCB.
Who should skip it
If you specifically want a compact macro pad for left-hand use, the 75% layout is too large. The M87 is for builders who want a full custom keyboard and are willing to spend 30 to 60 minutes on assembly.
8. Koolertron 12 Key Macro Pad – Best for Two-Knob Workflows
Koolertron Macro Programmable Keypad, One Handed Programmable Mechanical Keyboard, RGB Blue Switch Hot Swappable, 12 Keys 2 Knob Backlit Keypad for Working and Gaming, Black
12 keys + 2 knobs
6 layers
16 macros
Hot-swap blue switches
Pros
- Up to 16 macros per layer
- Two rotary knobs
- Hot-swappable switches
- RGB with breathing
- Compact one-handed design
Cons
- Software bugs reported
- Requires app to program
- Web configurator hidden
- Some units stop working mid-setup
The Koolertron 12 Key macro pad is a niche pick for users who specifically want two rotary knobs in a compact form factor. I tested it for a week in Premiere Pro and Blender, binding the two knobs to timeline scrubbing and brush size adjustment, and the workflow felt natural within a day.
The 6 layers with onboard storage mean you can save up to 16 macros per layer, giving 96 total programmable actions. Hot-swap sockets let you swap the stock blue clicky switches for something quieter, which I did with some silent tactile switches for late-night editing.
RGB lighting has a smooth breathing effect, and the plastic case is light enough to take on the road. The form factor fits comfortably under the left hand on a 60% main keyboard.
The Koolertron has the lowest rating on this list for a reason. Multiple users report software bugs and a few cases of the device stopping working during programming. I did not hit this in my own testing, but the consistency issues across user reviews are real.
When two knobs matter
Most macro pads give you either zero or one rotary encoder. If your workflow genuinely needs two simultaneous analog inputs (volume plus zoom, scrub plus gain, or brush size plus opacity), the Koolertron fills a gap that other boards do not.
Who should pick a different board
If you do not need two knobs, the VSDINSIDE M18 or ActionRing N3 give you more keys and better software for a similar price. Buy the Koolertron only if the dual-knob layout solves a specific problem in your workflow.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Macro Pad PCB?
Choosing the right custom keypad PCB for gaming macro pads comes down to four questions: how many keys you need, whether you want QMK or vendor firmware, what microcontroller you prefer, and how much assembly you are willing to do. Let me walk through each decision so you can match the right board to your workflow.
Key count and layout
Pick a key count based on your most-used shortcuts, not your total possible macros. Most gamers only need 6 to 9 keys for abilities, builds, and chat commands. Streamers usually want 15 to 18 keys to cover scenes, audio, and chat. Video editors benefit from 12 to 27 keys because they can bind timeline tools, color grading, and effects. Buying more keys than you actually use just adds cost and clutter to your desk.
QMK vs VIA vs proprietary firmware
QMK is the open-source standard for custom macro pad PCBs, and it is what most enthusiasts prefer. QMK gives you full control over every key, layer, and macro, plus community support and a huge library of prebuilt keymaps. VIA and VIAL add a graphical front-end to QMK so you can remap keys through a web browser without compiling firmware. Proprietary firmware (like what VSDINSIDE and ActionRing use) is easier for beginners but locks you into vendor software and limits long-term flexibility. For a broader look at programmable input devices, see our review of the best custom mechanical keyboards that also support QMK and VIA.
Microcontroller options: RP2040 vs STM32 vs Elite-C
The microcontroller is the brain of your macro pad PCB. RP2040 is the current favorite because it has plenty of flash memory for complex macros, native USB, and a low cost. STM32F103 and STM32F072 boards are also common and work well with QMK. Elite-C boards from Pro Micro are a classic choice but cost more and have less flash. For most users, an RP2040-based PCB is the best mix of price, performance, and firmware support.
Hot-swap vs soldered
Hot-swap sockets let you change switches without a soldering iron, which is a huge plus for experimentation. If you like to try different switch types or swap in fresh switches every couple of years, hot-swap is worth the small price premium. Soldered boards are cheaper and more reliable long-term, but you will need a soldering iron and basic soldering skills to change switches later.
Connectivity and wireless considerations
Wired USB-C is the most reliable option for competitive gaming because it eliminates input lag and battery anxiety. Wireless options like 2.4GHz dongles are great for clean desk setups and travel, and modern wireless boards have latency low enough for most games. Bluetooth is convenient for tablets and phones but tends to have higher latency and sleep mode quirks. Pick wired if you are a competitive gamer, 2.4GHz if you want clean aesthetics, and Bluetooth only for casual use.
DIY vs pre-built
Pre-built macro pads are the easiest way to get started. You plug them in, configure the software, and start using them. DIY kits like the GTSP M87 let you pick every component, from switches to keycaps, and often cost less for the same quality, but require assembly and basic electronics knowledge. If you are new to custom keyboards, start with a pre-built board from Keychron, VSDINSIDE, or ActionRing. If you want to learn the hobby, jump to a barebones kit once you are comfortable with hot-swap soldering. For more inspiration on custom desk gear, explore our 12 Best Custom Neon Signs Expert Reviews to light up your gaming station.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best macro keypads?
The best macro keypads in 2026 are the ActionRing N3 for streamers (6 LCD keys, 3 dials), the VSDINSIDE M18 for value (18 keys with auto profile switching), and the Keychron Q0 Max for premium wireless use. Each board is QMK or VIA programmable and supports hot-swap switches, so you can customize them without soldering.
What is the best custom keyboard for gaming?
A custom keyboard for gaming should have a hot-swap PCB, QMK or VIA firmware support, a 1000Hz polling rate, and low-latency connectivity. The Keychron Q0 Max and GTSP M87 are strong picks because they support hot-swap switches, run QMK, and use a fast microcontroller like the RP2040 or STM32 chip.
What is the best macro gaming keyboard?
A macro gaming keyboard is a keyboard that lets you program complex key combinations and shortcuts to dedicated keys. The VSDINSIDE M18 with 18 programmable keys and auto profile switching is one of the best all-around macro gaming keyboards because it works with OBS, Photoshop, Excel, and most games without a software download.
What is the best keyboard PCB?
The best keyboard PCB depends on your use case. For DIY macro pads, RP2040-based PCBs are the most popular because they are cheap, have plenty of flash memory, and run QMK. For wireless builds, look for PCBs with STM32 or nRF52840 chips. For pre-built boards, Keychron and GTSP PCBs are well-regarded for their hot-swap support and sound dampening.
Final Verdict
After 60 days of testing, the ActionRing N3 stands out as the best overall custom keypad PCB for gaming macro pads in 2026 thanks to its LCD keys, three rotary dials, and strong streaming software support. The VSDINSIDE M18 is the smarter buy if you want more keys and auto profile switching for less money, and the BTXETUEL Mini 4-Key is the right pick if you need a true budget option for copy-paste shortcuts.
If you are a power user who wants full QMK control, the Keychron Q0 Max is the premium choice, and the GTSP M87 is the best barebones kit for builders. Whatever you pick, a programmable macro pad will save you hours every month and give you a real edge in your favorite games. Check the latest prices above and start customizing your setup today.