Keychron Q1 knob version with baby raccoon switches and Keychron OEM keycaps. Numpad is Epomaker TH21 with Gateron yellow switches and the same keycaps.

Every time I have a full size keyboard hooked up, I think "I almost never use the numpad, let me plug in a tenkeyless."

So, I do. And then I end up putting in numbers and thinking how much easier it would be if I had a full size board hooked up, and end up switching back.

Then when I switch back to a full size board, I think my trackball is too far away from the keyboard and I want to switch back to a 10 keyless.

And, no, you can't make me happy.

Do I really need to spend the extra 70-100$~ on a number pad, or is it better to save the money and stick with a full size. I would use my keyboard to game and do highschool and eventually college homework. I probably wouldn't move my keyboard around place to place very often.

So I already have a numberpad on my keyboard but I would like a separate numberpad to use with my left hand while I'm working. But ideally, this number pad could be used as a macro keyboard when I'm playing video games. So my question is will my computer read the number pad already on my keyboard as the same inputs as a separate numberpad? like if I keybind "number pad 1" on both items to different actions, will a game read them as separate inputs or the same? Or is that purely dependent on the game?

And on top of that does anyone have a suggestion for a number pad that's less than $50 that they like? Ideally with a few extra buttons.

Any help is appreciated, thank you!

Hey people, I am looking to get a TKL keyboard soon (probably the GMMK pro that just got announced), but I absolutely need a numpad.

Does anyone have recommendations of separate numpads that are good quality, but also won't break the bank? I've seen some nice looking ones floating around but they are as expensive as some keyboards themselves :|

It doesn't have to be top of the line, just something that isn't going to feel like complete garbage.

Thanks everyone!

All,

I’m transitioning from a full sized keyboard to a TKL keyboard. I have occasional use for numpad, and curious if there is any good budget options for it?

I don’t imagine using macro much, perhaps it’d be nice to program 1-2 keys, but not a deal breaker if not able to. Heard about Epomaker TH21, but it seems to be discontinued??

Let me know if you have any recs. Thank you!

What is r/MechanicalKeyboards thoughts on using a TKL keyboard with a separate number pad on the left side of the keyboard?

I am looking to purchase a new keyboard for work. I do some coding & scripting, server management and a good bit of data manipulation, but no gaming. I can't see living without my number pad, but hate how far my hand is from the mouse. The desk to the left of my keyboard is barren so I though why not put the number pad there and learn to use it with my left hand.

I figure worst case is I move the number pad to the right or stop using it all together.

Edit: Thanks for the great info. My plan is to go for a TKL keyboard, with a separate number pad to start. Then try something like AutoHotKey to map a number pad.

Which is better? I realized most cases are 60% - should I separate them or it more efficient to have it all in one case?

I just love having the numpad. It is so easy to type numbers with it. I want to buy a new mechanical keyboard but many of the good ones seem to be sans numpad. Is it just required for people who work in software and/or do math?

While we're here, why don't all wired keyboards have a USB port? The least they can do is give you your USB port back.

I honestly prefer mine without a numpad because it’s smaller and don’t see a reason why I should pay extra for it.

Are there any wireless split keyboards with the number pad? I would need the number pad when i'm using blender.

I'm thinking about trying to move my mouse in a little closer to the middle without having to offset the letter block to the left - I like keeping it centered in front of me. I've never used the numpad with my left hand, so this is an experiment before I invest in something more expensive. Still, I'd rather not just spring for the cheapest junk and set myself up for a bad experience.

Any recommendations, especially from right-handed users who had the same idea?

I’m going with a 60% form factor keyboard but I still want the functionality of a full keyboard if I need it.

I do some hobby graphic design (guitar and wiring schematics, light architecture), and sometimes find myself wishing I could type numbers with my left hand easier than the top row of numbers or reaching all the way to keyboard's number pad on the right (use a Keychron Q6 QMK), since my right hand is busy with the mouse.

Just curious if anyone uses an accessory keypad on the left or in addition to a full keyboard?

Please help me pick my ideal setup for wfh!

I'm looking for a TKL, 75 exploded, or 65 exploded that will sound creamy out of the box. Not super compact layout but not super attached to fn keys. I'm happy to buy barebones and put in hotswap switches, I just don't want to open it up and do a ton of mods or solder. Currently I have a Keychron V1 with Akko Lavendar switches and really enjoy it for gaming. I'm looking for something that sounds a little softer/less hollow for my next setup.

The big catch here is I want a separate numpad/20% that will look similar/good with it. I need a numpad for work and really enjoy the southpaw layout. However, I want to be able to put it away when I'm not using it or swap to the right side if I need.

I looked at the Keychron Q0 Max and Q3 Max but they're a bit out of my budget. The Kit Adam sounds a bit too tinny for me and is too intimidating to put together.

I like the Aula F75 but can't find a numpad that would look good with it. The rounded corners make it kind of hard. Not interested in the Aula F99, I don't like how close the arrow key is to the numpad.

I'd prefer white as the case color, not interested in black or clear. Definitely would prefer VIA/QMK compatibility. No preference for wired/wireless. Would love to add a 100% set of keycaps so both boards match.

I'd like to keep the whole setup (keeb, numpad, switches, keycaps) under $200 USD but I'm a little flexible, bonus points if it can all be ordered from the same place and a reputable storefront. I've had bad experiences with aliexpress & temu.

Any help is greatly appreciated!