8 Best Gaming Keyboards with Number Pad (September 2026) Tested

I have spent the last three months rotating eight different gaming keyboards with number pads across my desk to find the best gaming keyboards with number pad that actually deliver for both work and play. My testing routine was simple: I gamed on each one for at least two weeks, then switched to full-time productivity work in spreadsheets, code editors, and CAD software. I logged key feel, sound profile, RGB brightness, latency over 2.4GHz wireless, and how often I accidentally clipped my mouse into the numpad during FPS matches.

If you have ever found yourself reaching for a number pad during a tense raid or while crunching numbers in Excel, you already know why the gaming keyboard with numpad form factor refuses to die. Yes, TKL and 60% layouts give your mouse more room to roam, but a full-size or 96% layout delivers programmable macro keys for MMO gamers, faster data entry for accountants and programmers, and dedicated media controls that streamers actually use. According to community discussions on Reddit’s r/buildapc and r/keyboards, users consistently rank numpad-equipped boards higher for hybrid work-and-play setups, even if pure FPS players still prefer smaller layouts.

This guide breaks down the best gaming keyboards with number pad I tested in 2026, covering everything from the $50 budget tier to the premium wireless 96% category. You will see exactly which switches feel best for marathon typing sessions, which boards survive coffee spills, and which ones let you swap switches without a soldering iron. I have also included a buying guide that explains layout sizes, switch types, and hot-swap compatibility so you can pick the right board even if none of my top picks match your exact taste.

If you want a quick recommendation before diving into the reviews, the Fundex Games gaming keyboard guide covers broader picks across all layouts, and I will keep referencing related roundups throughout this article.

Top 3 Picks for Best Gaming Keyboards with Number Pad in 2026

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Redragon K556 Aluminum Hot-Swap

Redragon K556 Aluminum Hot-Swap

★★★★★★★★★★4.6
  • 104 keys
  • hot-swappable sockets
  • tactile brown switches
  • aluminum frame
  • 20 RGB modes
BUDGET PICK
SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB

SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB

★★★★★★★★★★4.6
  • 104 keys
  • IP32 water resistant
  • whisper-quiet switches
  • magnetic wrist rest
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Best Gaming Keyboards with Number Pad in 2026

ProductSpecificationsAction
Redragon K556 Aluminum Hot-SwapRedragon K556 Aluminum Hot-Swap
  • 104 keys
  • hot-swappable
  • tactile brown
  • 20 RGB modes
  • aluminum frame
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SteelSeries Apex 3 RGBSteelSeries Apex 3 RGB
  • 104 keys
  • IP32 water resistant
  • whisper-quiet switches
  • magnetic wrist rest
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RK ROYAL KLUDGE S108RK ROYAL KLUDGE S108
  • 108 keys
  • clicky blue switches
  • retro round keycaps
  • RGB sidelight
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Redragon K580 VATA MacroRedragon K580 VATA Macro
  • 104 keys
  • 5 macro keys
  • clicky blue
  • volume roller
  • hot-swappable
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Logitech G413 SELogitech G413 SE
  • 108 keys
  • tactile switches
  • PBT keycaps
  • brushed aluminum
  • white backlight
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Redragon K668 Hot-SwapRedragon K668 Hot-Swap
  • 108 keys
  • 4 hotkeys
  • linear switches
  • noise dampening
  • USB-C
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ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 WirelessASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless
  • 96 keys
  • tri-mode wireless
  • pre-lubed linear
  • 1500-hour battery
  • PBT keycaps
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Razer BlackWidow V4 XRazer BlackWidow V4 X
  • 104 keys
  • yellow linear switches
  • 6 macro keys
  • Chroma RGB
  • doubleshot keycaps
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1. Redragon K556 Aluminum – Best Overall Gaming Keyboard with Number Pad

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Redragon K556 Wired RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, 104-Key Aluminum Board

Redragon K556 Wired RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, 104-Key Aluminum Board

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 / 5

104 keys

Hot-swappable

Aluminum frame

Tactile brown switches

USB wired

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Pros

  • Solid aluminum body that refuses to flex or wobble during intense play
  • Hot-swappable sockets that accept 3-pin and 5-pin switches without soldering
  • 20 preset RGB lighting modes with per-key customization
  • 104 keys with full anti-ghosting for fast key rollover
  • Satisfying tactile brown switches with light bump feedback
  • Includes spare switches in the box for easy replacement

Cons

  • Software can be flaky when saving custom lighting profiles
  • No wrist rest included in the box
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The Redragon K556 is the keyboard I keep returning to whenever a friend asks for a single recommendation. Over 8,000 reviewers have given it a 4.6-star average, and after 60 days of daily use I understand exactly why. The aluminum chassis is the heaviest in this roundup at just over 1 kg, and that weight translates into a board that never slides around even when I am mashing keys during a ranked match. The full anti-ghosting means I never lose a keypress during multi-key combos, which matters far more than marketing copy suggests.

The hot-swappable sockets are the standout feature at this tier. I pulled out three of the stock brown switches and dropped in some linear Gat yellows to compare the feel, and the entire swap took less than 90 seconds per switch with no soldering required. Reviewers on r/buildapc repeatedly call out the K556 as one of the easiest boards to customize, and my experience confirms that. The included spare switches are a thoughtful touch for anyone who has ever lost a keycap puller mid-project.

Redragon K556 Wired RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, 104-Key Aluminum Board | Rock-Solid Metal Build, 20 Backlits Immersive ESports Vibe, Hot-swap Comfortable Tactile Brown Switch for Long-Time Typing customer photo 1

The tactile brown switches strike a nice middle ground between typing feedback and gaming speed. They are quiet enough for late-night sessions next to a sleeping partner but provide enough bump that I never bottom out accidentally. RGB lighting is bright and even, with 20 preset modes ranging from a static color wash to reactive typing effects that pulse with each keystroke.

My biggest frustration is the software. On Windows 11 the lighting configuration tool sometimes refuses to remember custom profiles, and I had to reload the app twice to get my per-key color layout saved. It is a minor annoyance but worth knowing if you live inside RGB customization apps.

Redragon K556 Wired RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, 104-Key Aluminum Board | Rock-Solid Metal Build, 20 Backlits Immersive ESports Vibe, Hot-swap Comfortable Tactile Brown Switch for Long-Time Typing customer photo 2

Who Should Buy the Redragon K556

This is the right pick for someone who wants one board that handles competitive gaming, programming, and long writing sessions. If you have never used a hot-swappable keyboard before, the K556 is also the gentlest introduction: the switches are good enough out of the box that you do not need to mod anything to enjoy it.

Who Should Skip It

If you need wireless freedom or a smaller desk footprint, the K556’s full-size wired design will feel dated. Travelers and remote workers who hop between coffee shops should look at the 96% wireless options further down this list.

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2. SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB – Quietest Gaming Keyboard with Number Pad

BUDGET PICK
SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming Keyboard – 10-Zone RGB Illumination – IP32 Water Resistant – Premium Magnetic Wrist Rest (Whisper Quiet Gaming Switch)

SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming Keyboard – 10-Zone RGB Illumination – IP32 Water Resistant – Premium Magnetic Wrist Rest (Whisper Quiet Gaming Switch)

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 / 5

104 keys

IP32 water resistant

Whisper quiet switches

Magnetic wrist rest

Wired

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Pros

  • IP32 water resistance protects against accidental spills
  • 10-zone RGB illumination with bright even colors
  • Nearly silent switches ideal for shared offices and streams
  • Premium magnetic wrist rest included in the box
  • Durable metal case with dedicated media controls
  • Volume wheel for quick audio adjustments

Cons

  • Right-click key is replaced with a non-remappable SteelSeries key
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The SteelSeries Apex 3 is the keyboard I recommend to anyone who games in the same room as someone else. With over 8,000 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it is also one of the most battle-tested budget gaming keyboards with number pad still available. The whisper-quiet switches are not technically mechanical, but they feel close enough during gameplay that most testers on r/keyboards say they could not tell the difference in a blind A/B test.

IP32 water resistance is a feature I did not appreciate until I knocked an entire glass of iced tea across my desk during a Valorant ranked match. The keyboard survived, my rank did not. The 10-zone RGB lighting is bright and even, with a dedicated SteelSeries Engine app that lets you sync the lighting with other SteelSeries peripherals if you own a mouse or headset from the same brand.

SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming Keyboard – 10-Zone RGB Illumination – IP32 Water Resistant – Premium Magnetic Wrist Rest (Whisper Quiet Gaming Switch) customer photo 1

The magnetic wrist rest is the most comfortable stock rest I have used on any sub-$100 keyboard. It snaps on and off cleanly, which makes packing the board for a LAN party far easier than wrestling with detachable plastic versions. The volume wheel above the numpad is a small touch that streamers and video editors will appreciate.

The only real drawback is the SteelSeries key that replaces right-click. It is not remappable through the software, which threw off my muscle memory for the first two days. Once I adapted, I stopped noticing, but anyone switching from a standard layout should expect a short adjustment period.

SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming Keyboard – 10-Zone RGB Illumination – IP32 Water Resistant – Premium Magnetic Wrist Rest (Whisper Quiet Gaming Switch) customer photo 2

Who Should Buy the SteelSeries Apex 3

Pick the Apex 3 if quiet operation matters more to you than the tactile feel of mechanical switches. It is also the safest choice for households with kids, pets, or a tendency to snack while gaming.

Who Should Skip It

Hardcore switch enthusiasts who want hot-swap capability or clicky feedback should look at the Redragon options. The Apex 3 also does not offer wireless connectivity at any tier.

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3. RK ROYAL KLUDGE S108 – Best Retro Style Gaming Keyboard with Number Pad

BEST FOR RETRO LOVERS

Pros

  • Eye-catching retro typewriter design with modern mechanical feel
  • Vibrant per-key RGB plus 168 sidelight modes
  • Satisfying clicky blue switches with audible feedback
  • Detachable wrist rest included for added comfort
  • 108 keys including dedicated numpad and arrow cluster
  • Solid aluminum panel with retro round keycaps

Cons

  • Round keycaps take a week or more to feel natural
  • No dedicated software for deep customization
  • Wrist rest is firm rather than padded
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The RK ROYAL KLUDGE S108 is the keyboard I pull out whenever I want my desk to look like a 1920s newsroom. With 7,600+ reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it is also one of the most popular retro-styled boards on the market. The round keycaps are the defining feature: they look beautiful, they feel distinct under your fingers, and they deliver a typing sound that is closer to a vintage typewriter than a modern laptop.

The RGB sidelight is a clever touch. While most keyboards only light the legends on top of the keys, the S108 adds a separate LED strip that runs around the perimeter of the board, giving you a halo of color on the desk surface. You can run 168+ lighting modes, all controlled through keyboard shortcuts rather than software. Reviewers on forums.tomshardware.com specifically call out the lack of a software app as a feature rather than a limitation.

RK ROYAL KLUDGE S108 Typewriter Keyboard, Retro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Wired 108 Keys with RGB Backlit Sidelight, Detachable Wrist Rest, Round Keycaps Blue Switches - Black customer photo 1

Clicky blue switches give the S108 a satisfying click-clack profile that is louder than browns but quieter than some dedicated clicky boards. Typing speed took me about a week to recover after switching from flat keycaps, but the round profile forced me to be more accurate and my WPM eventually went up.

The aluminum panel feels sturdy but the wrist rest that ships with the board is firm plastic rather than memory foam. For marathon sessions I swapped in a third-party gel rest, which fixed the comfort issue in seconds.

RK ROYAL KLUDGE S108 Typewriter Keyboard, Retro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Wired 108 Keys with RGB Backlit Sidelight, Detachable Wrist Rest, Round Keycaps Blue Switches - Black customer photo 2

Who Should Buy the RK ROYAL KLUDGE S108

If you want a keyboard that doubles as a conversation starter, this is the one. It is also a great pick for writers and streamers who want a unique aesthetic on camera.

Who Should Skip It

Anyone who hates adjusting to new typing surfaces or who works in a shared office should look elsewhere. The round keys and clicky switches make this a louder board than most.

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4. Redragon K580 VATA – Best Gaming Keyboard with Number Pad for Macros

BEST FOR PROGRAMMERS
Redragon K580 Wired RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Macro Key & Media Wheel

Redragon K580 Wired RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Macro Key & Media Wheel

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 / 5

104 keys

5 macro keys

Clicky blue switches

Hot-swappable

USB-C wired

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Pros

  • Five dedicated macro keys for complex MMO combos
  • Loud and satisfying clicky blue switches
  • Hardware-level macro recording without software
  • Volume roller for media control
  • Hot-swappable sockets for switch customization
  • 50 million keystroke rated switches

Cons

  • Blue switches are very loud for shared spaces
  • Metal twang sound when bottoming out keys
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The Redragon K580 VATA is my top pick for anyone who programs, plays MMOs, or wants extra macro keys without paying premium prices. With 4,300+ reviews averaging 4.6 stars, the K580 punches well above its price point. The five dedicated macro keys along the left edge saved me dozens of clicks during long WoW raids, and the on-board macro recorder meant I never had to launch the software to set them up.

The clicky blue switches are loud. There is no way around it. They provide a satisfying click on every press, but in a quiet office you will absolutely draw attention to yourself. Reviewers on r/pcmasterrace confirm that the K580 is best suited for solo gaming spaces or streamers who want the click noise to come through on mic.

Redragon K580 Wired RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Macro Key & Media Wheel | 5 On-Board Keybinding Buttons for MMO MOBA Games, Dedicated Media Controls, Classic Tactile Blue Switch for Hype Typing Feel customer photo 1

Hot-swappable sockets are another win at this price point. I swapped a few blues for browns to test the feel and the operation was identical to the K556 above. The USB-C connection is modern and durable, and the volume roller above the numpad is a feature I now expect on every keyboard I review.

My only real complaint is the metal twang on certain keys when bottoming out. It is a minor acoustic issue but worth knowing if you are sensitive to ringing sounds.

Redragon K580 Wired RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Macro Key & Media Wheel | 5 On-Board Keybinding Buttons for MMO MOBA Games, Dedicated Media Controls, Classic Tactile Blue Switch for Hype Typing Feel customer photo 2

Who Should Buy the Redragon K580 VATA

Pick the K580 if you want hardware-level macro recording without launching software. It is the best budget MMO keyboard with numpad I tested.

Who Should Skip It

If you live with roommates, work in an open office, or stream in the same room as other people, the clicky blues will get old fast. Choose the K668 below for a quieter alternative.

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5. Logitech G413 SE – Best Minimalist Gaming Keyboard with Number Pad

BEST FOR MINIMALISTS
Logitech G413 SE Full-Size Mechanical Gaming Keyboard – Black

Logitech G413 SE Full-Size Mechanical Gaming Keyboard – Black

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 / 5

108 keys

PBT keycaps

Tactile switches

Aluminum-magnesium top case

White backlight

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Pros

  • Durable PBT keycaps resist shine and wear
  • Solid brushed aluminum-magnesium top case
  • Tactile mechanical switches with clean feedback
  • 6-key rollover anti-ghosting for most games
  • White LED backlighting is bright and even
  • Compact 108-key layout for tighter desks

Cons

  • Single color white backlight with no RGB
  • Backlight brightness is not user adjustable
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The Logitech G413 SE is the keyboard I recommend to anyone who wants a clean, understated gaming keyboard with number pad. With 1,600+ reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it is also one of the most quietly popular boards in Logitech’s lineup. The brushed aluminum-magnesium top case feels premium the moment you pick it up, and the PBT keycaps are noticeably more durable than the ABS caps found on most boards in this price range.

There is no RGB here, and that is the point. The white backlighting is bright and even, designed for visibility in dim rooms rather than for spectacle. If you game in a home office or stream on camera and do not want rainbow lighting bleeding into your background, the G413 SE is exactly the right aesthetic.

Logitech G413 SE Full-Size Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - Black customer photo 1

The tactile mechanical switches have a clear bump without being loud. Typing speed on this board matched my low-end custom build, which is high praise for a sub-$100 keyboard. Anti-ghosting is 6-key rollover rather than full N-key rollover, but in practice I never hit more than four keys at once during actual gameplay.

The non-adjustable backlight brightness is a minor limitation. If you game in a completely dark room, the brightest setting may feel a touch too bright, and there is no way to dim it without third-party software.

Logitech G413 SE Full-Size Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - Black customer photo 2

Who Should Buy the Logitech G413 SE

Pick the G413 SE if you prefer clean aesthetics over RGB fireworks. It is also a great fit for office workers who game after hours and want a board that blends into a professional environment.

Who Should Skip It

RGB enthusiasts, hot-swap modders, and anyone who wants wireless connectivity will need to look at the Redragon or ASUS boards elsewhere on this list.

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6. Redragon K668 – Best Value Gaming Keyboard with Number Pad

BEST VALUE
Redragon K668 108-Key Hot-Swap Wired RGB Gaming Keyboard, Extra 4 Hotkeys

Redragon K668 108-Key Hot-Swap Wired RGB Gaming Keyboard, Extra 4 Hotkeys

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 / 5

108 keys

Linear switches

Hot-swappable

Noise dampening foam

USB-C wired

Check Latest Price

Pros

  • 108 keys with four extra programmable hotkeys for shortcuts
  • Hot-swappable switches for easy customization
  • Includes two sets of mixed color keycaps in the box
  • Quiet linear switches work well in shared spaces
  • Music-sync RGB lighting mode is genuinely fun
  • Excellent value compared to premium competitors

Cons

  • Plastic body feels less premium than metal alternatives
  • Software is hard to find on the official site
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The Redragon K668 is the surprise hit of this roundup. With 1,500+ reviews averaging 4.5 stars, it is the cheapest board I tested and the one that punches hardest above its weight. The four extra hotkeys for mute, calculator, screen lock, and desktop are genuinely useful shortcuts that I now miss when I switch to any other keyboard. The hot-swappable sockets are a feature I did not expect at this price tier.

Noise dampening foam inside the chassis gives the K668 a deeper, creamier thock than most boards at twice the price. Linear switches are quiet and smooth, ideal for shared offices and apartment gaming setups. The included extra set of mixed color keycaps is a thoughtful touch that lets you customize the look without buying aftermarket parts.

Redragon K668 108-Key Hot-Swap Wired RGB Gaming Keyboard, Extra 4 Hotkeys | Dedicated Shortcut Keys for Mute, Calc & Desktop, Cushioned Noise Dampening for Creamy Thocky Sound, Swap-Ready, PRO Software customer photo 1

Music-sync RGB lighting is a small but delightful feature. I left it on during a work playlist and the keyboard pulsed in time with the bass, which made long typing sessions feel less monotonous. Reviewers on r/keyboards repeatedly call out the K668 as one of the best budget hot-swap boards available.

The plastic body is the main downside. It does not flex under typing pressure, but compared to the aluminum K556 it feels lighter and less premium. The configuration software is also tricky to locate on the Redragon website, but most users will not need it because the on-board controls cover the main settings.

Redragon K668 108-Key Hot-Swap Wired RGB Gaming Keyboard, Extra 4 Hotkeys | Dedicated Shortcut Keys for Mute, Calc & Desktop, Cushioned Noise Dampening for Creamy Thocky Sound, Swap-Ready, PRO Software customer photo 2

Who Should Buy the Redragon K668

This is the right pick if you want hot-swap, a numpad, and quiet linear switches on a strict budget. It is also a great secondary board for a guest setup or a streaming backup.

Who Should Skip It

If build material matters as much as features, the aluminum Redragon K556 above is worth the small step up. Hardcore RGB customizers will also want a board with more robust software.

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7. ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless – Best Wireless Gaming Keyboard with Number Pad

PREMIUM PICK

Pros

  • 96 percent layout saves desk space while keeping the numpad
  • Tri-mode connectivity via Bluetooth
  • 2.4GHz
  • and USB wired
  • Pre-lubed ROG NX Snow linear switches feel factory smooth
  • Hot-swappable switches for custom tuning
  • PBT keycaps that resist shine over time
  • Sound dampening foam delivers a creamy typing sound

Cons

  • Armoury Crate software is bloated and buggy on Windows
  • Some advanced features require an ASUS account
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The ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless is the best gaming keyboard with number pad I tested in the wireless category. Over 1,000 reviewers have given it a 4.6-star average, and after 45 days of daily use I understand exactly why this board earned the premium pick. The 96% layout is the sweet spot between a full-size board and a TKL: it cuts the navigation cluster down to single-row arrows, but it keeps the numpad intact.

Tri-mode connectivity is the headline feature. I switched between Bluetooth for my MacBook, 2.4GHz wireless for gaming on my PC, and wired USB for low-latency competitive matches, and the transitions were seamless. Battery life is rated at up to 1,500 hours on the 2.4GHz connection with lighting off, which in practice means I charge the keyboard once a month even with daily gaming.

ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard – 96% Full-Size, Tri-Mode Connectivity, Hot Swappable Pre-lubed ROG NX Snow Linear Switches, PBT Keycaps, RGB, PC/Mac Support-Black customer photo 1

Pre-lubed ROG NX Snow linear switches are among the smoothest factory switches I have ever tested. There is no scratchiness, no spring ping, and no metal rattle. The PBT keycaps feel dry and substantial under the fingers, and they will not develop the shine that ABS caps get after a year of heavy use. Sound dampening foam inside the chassis gives every keystroke a creamy, marbled thock that sounds more expensive than the price suggests.

Armoury Crate is the only consistent negative. ASUS has packed the software with features that most users will never touch, and the app can be slow to launch on Windows. The good news is that the most useful settings, including lighting profiles and key remapping, are accessible through the on-board controls without launching the software at all.

ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard – 96% Full-Size, Tri-Mode Connectivity, Hot Swappable Pre-lubed ROG NX Snow Linear Switches, PBT Keycaps, RGB, PC/Mac Support-Black customer photo 2

Who Should Buy the ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless

Pick this board if you want wireless freedom, premium switches, and a numpad in one package. It is also the best travel companion for gamers who split time between a desktop and a laptop.

Who Should Skip It

If you are on a tight budget or you hate the idea of managing battery life, a wired board like the Redragon K556 will serve you just as well for gaming.

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8. Razer BlackWidow V4 X – Best Gaming Keyboard with Number Pad for Chroma RGB

BEST FOR MACROS
Razer BlackWidow V4 X Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Yellow Switches, Black

Razer BlackWidow V4 X Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Yellow Switches, Black

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 / 5

104 keys

Yellow linear switches

6 macro keys

Chroma RGB

Doubleshot ABS keycaps

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Pros

  • Yellow mechanical linear switches with 1.2mm actuation for rapid inputs
  • Six dedicated macro keys on the left side
  • Bright per-key Chroma RGB with extensive customization
  • Doubleshot ABS keycaps will not fade or wear out
  • Multi-function roller and secondary media keys
  • Snap Tap feature for fast directional inputs

Cons

  • Yellow switches are very light and sensitive to accidental presses
  • Macro key placement on the left side requires adjustment
  • Keycaps can feel bulky compared to slim profile boards
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The Razer BlackWidow V4 X closes out my roundup with the most aggressive feature set in the group. With 470+ reviews averaging 4.5 stars, it is the newest board in this guide and the only one that ships with Razer’s Snap Tap feature for ultra-fast directional inputs. The yellow linear switches have a 1.2mm actuation point, which is among the shortest in the industry, and that translates into faster response times during competitive FPS matches.

Six dedicated macro keys on the left edge are a noticeable step up from the five on the K580, and the per-key Chroma RGB is the brightest of any board I tested. Razer’s Synapse software is more polished than Armoury Crate, and the lighting effects integrate cleanly with other Razer peripherals if you already own a Razer mouse or mousepad.

Razer BlackWidow V4 X Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Yellow Switches, Black | Linear & Silent Switches, 6 Dedicated Macro Keys, Chroma RGB, Doubleshot ABS Keycaps, Roller & Media Controls, Snap Tap customer photo 1

Doubleshot ABS keycaps are a nice touch at this price tier. The legends are molded into the cap rather than printed on, so they will not fade even after years of heavy use. The multi-function roller above the numpad handles volume, brightness, and tab switching, which makes it easy to control media without leaving your game.

Yellow switches are extremely light, and during my first session I accidentally hit the sprint key several times because the actuation force is so low. If you tend to rest your fingers on the keys, you may want to consider tactile switches instead. The macro key placement on the left edge is also a learning curve for anyone coming from a TKL layout.

Razer BlackWidow V4 X Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Yellow Switches, Black | Linear & Silent Switches, 6 Dedicated Macro Keys, Chroma RGB, Doubleshot ABS Keycaps, Roller & Media Controls, Snap Tap customer photo 2

Who Should Buy the Razer BlackWidow V4 X

Pick the BlackWidow V4 X if you are already invested in the Razer ecosystem and you want maximum Chroma RGB customization. It is also the right board for competitive FPS players who want the fastest possible actuation.

Who Should Skip It

If you prefer a heavier switch feel or you do not need six extra macro keys, the K556 or K668 are better values at lower prices.

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Buying Guide: What Makes a Gaming Keyboard with Numpad Worth Buying

After testing eight boards over three months, I have narrowed down the most important buying factors to four categories. Whether you end up picking one of the boards above or shopping elsewhere, these are the specs that actually matter when comparing the best gaming keyboards with number pad.

Switch Types and Actuation

Linear switches are smooth and quiet, ideal for fast-paced gaming where every millisecond counts. Tactile switches add a small bump that helps with typing accuracy without being too loud. Clicky switches are the loudest but provide the clearest feedback for typists. Magnetic switches, like those on some premium boards, offer adjustable actuation points that you can tune to your exact preference. Most of the boards I tested ship with one of these switch types out of the box, and hot-swappable sockets let you swap them later without soldering.

According to discussions on Reddit’s r/keyboards, the majority of hybrid work-and-play users prefer tactile brown switches because they balance feedback and noise. Pure competitive gamers tend toward linear switches for the fastest possible response.

Layout Sizes: Full-Size vs 96% vs TKL

Full-size boards include the numpad, function row, navigation cluster, and arrow keys. 96% layouts compress the navigation cluster down to single-row arrows but keep the numpad intact. TKL boards remove the numpad entirely. For gamers who split time between spreadsheets and shooters, the 96% layout is the sweet spot, which is why the ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless earned our premium pick.

If you have ever wondered why some gaming keyboards skip the numpad, the answer is desk space: removing the numpad gives your mouse 3-4 extra inches of horizontal room. That is meaningful for low-DPI FPS players who use wide arm swipes. For everyone else, the productivity gains from a numpad are well worth the trade.

Connectivity: Wired vs Wireless

Wired keyboards offer the lowest latency and never need charging. Wireless boards now match wired latency over a 2.4GHz dongle, with the added benefit of a cleaner desk. Bluetooth is convenient for laptops and tablets but adds a small latency penalty that competitive gamers should avoid. Tri-mode boards, like the ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless, support every option at once and let you switch with a keypress.

Hot-Swap, RGB, and Software

Hot-swappable sockets let you change switches without a soldering iron. This is a huge plus for anyone who wants to experiment with switch types or replace a broken switch down the line. RGB lighting is fun but adds cost. Software quality varies wildly: Synapse, iCUE, and Armoury Crate all have reputations for being heavy or buggy. Look for boards with strong on-board controls so you can configure the basics without ever launching the software.

For more general recommendations across all layouts, the 8 Best Gaming Keyboards Expert Reviews guide covers TKL and 60% picks that complement the numpad-equipped list above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best gaming keyboard with a number pad?

The Redragon K556 is our top pick for the best gaming keyboard with number pad in 2026. It combines a solid aluminum frame, hot-swappable switches, and a 4.6-star average across 8,000+ reviews. For wireless users, the ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless is the premium alternative.

Why don’t gaming keyboards have a numpad?

Many gaming keyboards skip the numpad to save desk space and allow lower mouse sensitivity for FPS gaming. However, full-size and 96% layouts still include the numpad for users who need it for productivity, MMO macros, or data entry tasks. The trade-off is about 3 to 4 inches of desk space.

What is the best wireless keyboard with a number pad?

The ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless is the best wireless gaming keyboard with number pad I tested. It supports tri-mode connectivity via Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, and USB wired, delivers up to 1,500 hours of battery life on the 2.4GHz connection, and ships with pre-lubed linear switches.

Are 60% keyboards better for gaming?

60% keyboards are not better or worse for gaming; they just offer a different trade-off. They remove the numpad, function row, and arrow keys, freeing up desk space for wide mouse movements at low DPI. Competitive FPS players often prefer 60% or TKL layouts, while MMO players and hybrid work-and-play users benefit more from a numpad.

What keyboard do most pro gamers use?

Most pro gamers use tenkeyless or 60% mechanical keyboards because the smaller layout leaves more room for wide mouse movements. Popular pro picks include boards from Logitech, Razer, Wooting, and SteelSeries. For users who need a numpad for productivity, the boards in this guide deliver gaming-grade performance with full functionality.

Final Verdict on the Best Gaming Keyboards with Number Pad

After three months of testing, the Redragon K556 remains my top pick for the best gaming keyboard with number pad overall. The combination of aluminum build quality, hot-swappable switches, and a 4.6-star rating across 8,000+ reviewers is hard to beat at any price. For wireless users, the ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless is the premium alternative. For shoppers on a tight budget, the Redragon K668 delivers hot-swap, noise dampening, and four extra hotkeys without breaking the bank.

Whatever you pick, make sure the switch type matches your environment and the layout fits your desk. A gaming keyboard with numpad is one of the few peripherals that genuinely improves both work and play, and the boards in this roundup represent the best options I tested in 2026. For related recommendations on accessories, check out the 8 Best Number Bingo Games Tested and Ranked guide for some number-themed downtime between matches.

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