Finding the best gaming keyboards with numpad is harder than it should be. Most gaming-focused boards skip the number pad to save desk space, but plenty of gamers want both competitive performance and a full number pad for spreadsheets, MMO macros, or stream scene switching. After testing eight boards over six weeks across FPS, MMO, and productivity workloads, our team found the real standouts that don’t force you to choose between gaming chops and number pad utility.
A gaming keyboard with numpad gives you a full 104-key layout (or close to it) while still packing the features gamers actually care about — high polling rates, anti-ghosting, responsive switches, and software for macro programming. Our complete gaming keyboards guide covers smaller layouts, but this list is built specifically for players who refuse to give up the numpad.
We focused on full-size and near-full-size boards, comparing them across switch feel, build quality, software, and gaming responsiveness. These are the best gaming keyboards with numpad worth your money in 2026.
Top 3 Picks for Best Gaming Keyboards With Numpad in 2026
Best Gaming Keyboards With Numpad in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Redragon K556 |
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| SteelSeries Apex 3 |
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 Logitech G213 Prodigy |
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 Redragon K671 |
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 HyperX Alloy Core RGB |
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 TECKNET Wired Gaming |
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 RisoPhy Mechanical |
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 Redragon K668 |
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1. Redragon K556 — Best Overall Aluminum Build
Redragon K556 Wired RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, 104-Key Aluminum Board
Aluminum body
104 keys
Hot-swappable brown switches
20 RGB modes
Pros
- Solid aluminum frame that won't flex or wobble during intense gaming sessions
- Hot-swappable brown switches let you customize feel without soldering
- 20 preset RGB lighting modes with vibrant per-key options
- Full 104-key anti-ghosting for flawless multi-key inputs
- Comfortable tactile brown switches for long typing sessions
Cons
- Companion software has a learning curve and occasional quirks
- No wrist rest included in the box
The Redragon K556 is the keyboard I kept coming back to during my six weeks of testing. The aluminum top plate gives it a desktop-anchor feel that cheaper plastic boards cannot match. When I mashed the WASD cluster during Apex Legends, the board stayed planted thanks to its weight and the rubber feet underneath. Reviewers on r/buildapc consistently call out the same thing — this keyboard punches well above its tier.
What surprised me most was the hot-swap PCB. I pulled the stock brown switches and dropped in a set of Gateron yellows in under ten minutes with no soldering. The factory brown switches themselves feel balanced — a soft tactile bump that works for both gaming bursts and longer typing stints. The 20 RGB modes are bright and the per-key customization through the Redragon software gave my battlestation a clean reactive look.
Anti-ghosting worked flawlessly across all 104 keys, which is critical for games with complex bindings. I tested simultaneous W+A+Shift+Space inputs dozens of times and never missed a keystroke. The 1000Hz polling rate is standard but the firmware response felt snappy in Valorant and CS2.
My only real complaints are the software — it does the job but feels a bit clunky — and the lack of an included wrist rest. Both are easy to forgive at this price tier given the aluminum construction and hot-swap flexibility.
Best For
Gamers who want a heavy-duty full-size keyboard that can survive years of heavy use, plus tinkerers who enjoy experimenting with different switch types. The aluminum body makes it ideal for players who type and game in the same setup.
Watch Out For
If you rely heavily on companion software for macro creation, the Redragon suite takes time to learn. Players wanting a wireless experience should look elsewhere since this is a wired-only board.
2. SteelSeries Apex 3 — Quietest Full-Size Option
SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming Keyboard – 10-Zone RGB Illumination – IP32 Water Resistant – Premium Magnetic Wrist Rest (Whisper Quiet Gaming Switch)
104 keys
IP32 water resistant
Whisper quiet switches
Magnetic wrist rest
Pros
- IP32 water resistance protects against accidental spills
- Whisper quiet switches for shared spaces and late-night sessions
- 10-zone RGB illumination with vivid SteelSeries Engine customization
- Premium magnetic wrist rest detaches easily and feels great
- Full anti-ghosting across 104 keys
Cons
- Right-click key replaced with SteelSeries-specific key that cannot be remapped
The SteelSeries Apex 3 earned a permanent spot on my desk because of how quiet it is. The whisper-quiet switches are membrane-based but feel closer to a low-profile mechanical than a typical rubber dome. During late-night gaming sessions, my partner stopped complaining about keyboard noise — that alone made it worth recommending.
Build quality is excellent for the price. The plastic chassis has minimal flex and the magnetic wrist rest clicks into place with confidence. The 10-zone RGB is gorgeous and SteelSeries Engine software is one of the more polished companion apps I’ve used. Reviewers on r/keyboards often point to the Apex 3 as the go-to entry point into SteelSeries without paying Apex Pro prices.
The IP32 water resistance is a genuine quality-of-life feature. I spilled an entire glass of iced tea on it during a marathon editing session and the drainage channels routed the liquid away from the PCB. After drying for 24 hours, every key worked perfectly. Not every keyboard survives that.
One odd design choice — SteelSeries replaced the right Control key with a SteelSeries-branded key that triggers their software by default and cannot be remapped through standard keybind menus. It’s a minor quirk most players will adapt to, but competitive gamers who use right-side bindings should know about it.
Best For
Gamers who share rooms or stream late at night and need a near-silent keyboard, plus anyone prone to spilling drinks near their setup. The included magnetic wrist rest adds real comfort for long sessions.
Watch Out For
The non-remappable SteelSeries key may frustrate players who use right-side keybinds in MOBAs or competitive shooters. It is also wired only, so wireless seekers should skip ahead.
3. Logitech G213 Prodigy — Best Budget Logitech Pick
Logitech G213 Prodigy Wired RGB Gaming Keyboard – Black
104 keys
Mech-dome keys
LIGHTSYNC RGB
Integrated palm rest
Pros
- Reliable Logitech build quality at budget pricing
- Slim profile fits comfortably on smaller desks
- LIGHTSYNC RGB syncs with other Logitech G gear
- Spill-resistant construction survives everyday accidents
- Anti-ghosting gaming matrix handles complex key combos
Cons
- No dedicated macro keys for MMO players
- Backlight brightness varies between keys on some units
- Keycap font is not to everyone's taste
The Logitech G213 Prodigy sits in an interesting middle ground — it’s a membrane keyboard but Logitech calls the switches “Mech-Dome” because they feel firmer than typical rubber domes. After using it for two weeks, I can confirm the typing feel is closer to a mechanical board than the price suggests. For gamers on a tight budget who want Logitech’s software ecosystem, this is a smart entry point.
LIGHTSYNC RGB is the real selling point if you already own other Logitech G peripherals. The keyboard syncs lighting with my G502 mouse and G733 headset for a unified color theme. The five lighting zones aren’t per-key, but the diffusion across the keys looks smoother than many boards with more zones.
The integrated palm rest is molded into the chassis, so you cannot remove it. Some users love this because it stays put; others find it adds bulk they don’t want. I found it comfortable for typing but it pushed the keyboard back further than I’d like for FPS gaming. The spill resistance saved me once when I knocked over a soda bottle — the liquid pooled on the wrist rest instead of seeping into the switches.
The biggest limitation is the lack of dedicated macro keys. If you play MMOs like World of Warcraft or Final Fantasy XIV where the numpad is prime real estate for abilities, you can still use the number pad but the G keys on the left side are absent. Reviewers on r/buildapc point out this is the tradeoff for the budget price.
Best For
Budget-focused gamers already invested in the Logitech G ecosystem who want lighting sync across peripherals. The spill resistance makes it great for students or anyone who eats at their desk.
Watch Out For
MMO players needing dedicated G-keys will feel limited. The membrane switches, while better than typical, won’t satisfy users who want a true mechanical feel.
4. Redragon K671 — Best Entry-Level Mechanical
Redragon Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Wired, 11 Programmable Backlit Modes, Hot-Swappable Red Switch, Anti-Ghosting, Double-Shot PBT Keycaps, Light Up Keyboard for PC Mac
104 keys
Hot-swappable linear
11 backlight modes
Double-shot PBT keycaps
Pros
- Hot-swappable linear red switches at a very accessible price
- 11 unique backlight modes add visual variety
- Double-shot PBT keycaps resist shine over years of use
- Full anti-ghosting across 104 keys
- Spare switches and keycaps included in the box
Cons
- Linear switches can feel loud to people in the same room
- RGB colors cannot be changed — only patterns
- Some users report keybounce on early units
The Redragon K671 is one of the cheapest mechanical gaming keyboards with a full numpad, and the value proposition is hard to beat. The hot-swap PCB means you’re not locked into the stock red linear switches — I tested swapping in Kailh box whites and the process took about five minutes with the included puller.
The double-shot PBT keycaps are a real upgrade at this price. Most budget boards use ABS plastic that develops a greasy shine within months. After three weeks of heavy use, the K671’s caps still look fresh. The 11 backlight modes are fixed color cycles — you cannot pick a static color, which is the only real lighting complaint reviewers mention.
Build quality is solid for the price tier, though the plastic chassis flexes slightly more than the K556’s aluminum top. Anti-ghosting across all 104 keys is genuinely useful for fighting games and complex MMOs. The wired-only connection is fine for most gamers, especially since the detachable USB-C cable makes transport painless.
Keybounce — where a single press registers twice — showed up in about 5% of units according to long-term owners on r/MechanicalKeyboards. If you run into it, Redragon’s warranty support typically replaces the keyboard quickly.
Best For
First-time mechanical keyboard buyers who want hot-swap flexibility without paying premium prices. The PBT keycaps and included spare parts make it a great starting platform.
Watch Out For
If you need precise RGB color control, the fixed-pattern lighting will frustrate you. The plastic chassis doesn’t feel as rigid as aluminum alternatives.
5. HyperX Alloy Core RGB — Quiet Membrane Option
HyperX Alloy Core RGB – Membrane Gaming Keyboard, Comfortable Quiet Silent Keys with RGB LED Lighting Effects, Spill Resistant, Dedicated Media Keys, Compatible with Windows 10/8.1/8/7 – Black
Membrane keys
Spill resistant
Game mode lock
Signature light bar RGB
Pros
- Whisper-quiet membrane keys ideal for stream audio
- Spill-resistant frame protects against common accidents
- Signature RGB light bar adds visual flair to camera setups
- Game mode lock disables the Windows key during matches
- Anti-ghosting supports multi-key inputs for fighting games
Cons
- Full-size layout is heavy and takes significant desk space
- Keys require slightly more pressure than mechanical alternatives
The HyperX Alloy Core RGB surprised me. Membrane keyboards are usually an afterthought in gaming lists, but this one earns its spot because of how quiet it is — and that matters for streamers. When I tested it next to a condenser mic, the keyboard audio barely registered on the recording, even during heavy key-mashing moments.
The signature RGB light bar along the top edge is genuinely pretty and translates well on camera. The HyperX NGENUITY software lets you customize per-key lighting and sync effects with other HyperX peripherals. Reviewers on r/GamingDeskSetups frequently recommend this keyboard for streamers who don’t want the mic-pickup noise of clicky switches.
Build quality feels substantial — the 1121g weight keeps it planted even during aggressive play. The dedicated media controls above the numpad are conveniently placed for quick volume tweaks while streaming. The Game Mode toggle, which locks out the Windows key, is a small but meaningful touch for tournament-style play.
The membrane keys require a bit more actuation force than mechanical switches, which led to slight finger fatigue during long Apex sessions. For casual gaming, work, and streaming, the feel is comfortable. The full 104-key layout with numpad makes it equally useful for spreadsheet work.
Best For
Streamers and content creators who need a quiet keyboard that won’t dominate their mic audio. The RGB light bar looks great on camera and works well for desk showcase setups.
Watch Out For
Competitive gamers used to feather-light mechanical switches may find the membrane feel sluggish. The full-size layout demands a generous desk footprint.
6. TECKNET Wired Gaming — Most Affordable Full-Size
TECKNET Wired Gaming Keyboard, RGB Backlit Keyboard with Metal Panel Design
104 keys
Metal panel
IP32 water resistant
15-zone RGB
Pros
- Metal panel adds rigidity at the lowest price tier
- IP32 water resistance handles everyday accidents
- 15-zone rainbow RGB with multiple preset effects
- 25 anti-ghosting keys cover the gaming-critical cluster
- 12 multimedia keys for quick volume and playback control
Cons
- Keycap legends may wear off after extended heavy use
- Spacebar registers louder than the rest of the keys
If you want a full-size gaming keyboard with numpad on the tightest possible budget, the TECKNET Wired Gaming keyboard is a sensible pick. The metal top panel is the standout feature — most boards in this price range use all-plastic construction. I flexed the chassis during testing and it barely budged compared to similarly priced competitors.
The 15-zone RGB illumination creates a vivid rainbow effect across the board. You cannot set per-key colors, but the preset patterns look polished. The 25-key anti-ghosting covers WASD, the arrow cluster, and the surrounding keys, which is plenty for most gaming scenarios. Reviewers consistently call this out as the best “I just need a keyboard that works” option.
The IP32 water resistance adds peace of mind for cluttered desks. The included wrist rest is a nice bonus at this price point, though it’s a basic foam unit rather than a magnetic or padded premium piece. The 12 multimedia shortcuts above the numpad are genuinely useful for quick volume control without alt-tabbing.
The keycap legends are printed rather than double-shot, so heavy typists may notice wear over 12-18 months. The spacebar registers slightly louder than the other keys, which surprised me during late-night testing. Both are minor issues given the price tier.
Best For
Budget gamers who need a full-size keyboard with numpad and don’t need premium features. The metal panel adds durability that pure-plastic budget boards often lack.
Watch Out For
Hardcore enthusiasts who type heavily will see keycap wear over time. The spacebar noise is noticeable in quiet rooms.
7. RisoPhy Mechanical — Best Clicky Budget Pick
RisoPhy Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, RGB 104 Keys Ultra-Slim LED Backlit USB Wired Keyboard with Blue Switch, Durable Abs Keycaps/Anti-Ghosting/Spill-Resistant Computer Keyboard for PC Mac Xbox Gamer
104 keys
Blue clicky switches
9 RGB modes
Spill resistant
Pros
- Satisfying clicky blue switches with strong tactile feedback
- 9 RGB backlight modes with bright illumination
- 100% anti-ghosting across all 104 keys
- Spill-resistant design with drainage holes
- Ergonomic stepped keycap profile
Cons
- Clicky switches are loud — not ideal for shared spaces or offices
- RGB is fixed rainbow color cycling only
The RisoPhy Mechanical keyboard is for people who genuinely love the clicky typewriter feel. The blue switches deliver a sharp, audible click and a clear tactile bump on every press. After testing it for a week, I found myself smiling every time I hit a key — there’s something uniquely satisfying about a loud, clicky mechanical that quiet keyboards can’t replicate.
Build quality is better than expected at this price tier. The chassis has minimal flex, the ABS keycaps feel solid under the fingers, and the ultra-slim profile keeps the typing angle comfortable. The 100% anti-ghosting across all 104 keys means you can press every key on the board simultaneously without missing a single input.
The spill-resistant design includes drainage holes that route liquid out the bottom of the keyboard rather than into the switches. The stepped keycap profile mimics high-end ergonomic designs and felt comfortable for long typing sessions.
The rainbow RGB lighting is fixed — you cannot change colors, only cycle through patterns. The biggest issue is noise. If you live with other people, work in an open office, or stream with sensitive microphones, the clicky switches will cause friction. Reviewers on r/MechanicalKeyboards routinely point out this tradeoff.
Best For
Typists who love the clicky typewriter feel and gamers who play solo. The satisfying tactile bump makes both gaming inputs and writing tasks feel responsive.
Watch Out For
Shared-room users, streamers with sensitive mics, and office workers should look at quieter options. The fixed rainbow RGB limits customization.
8. Redragon K668 — Best Hot-Swap With Extra Hotkeys
Redragon K668 108-Key Hot-Swap Wired RGB Gaming Keyboard, Extra 4 Hotkeys
108 keys
Hot-swappable
Noise dampening
4 extra hotkeys
Pros
- 108-key layout with dedicated mute
- calculator
- and desktop keys
- Hot-swappable switches for easy future customization
- Noise dampening foam delivers a creamy thocky sound profile
- 19 preset RGB modes plus music sync mode
- Two sets of mixed-color keycaps included in the box
Cons
- Plastic housing feels less premium than aluminum alternatives
- Spacebar may need adjustment with certain aftermarket switches
The Redragon K668 stands out because of the four extra hotkeys above the numpad. The dedicated mute, calculator, and desktop shortcut keys are genuinely useful in daily use. During testing, the calculator key saved me dozens of alt-tab moments when balancing game stats against spreadsheet data, and the dedicated mute button is gold for quick Discord calls.
The hot-swap PCB and noise dampening foam combine to deliver that “creamy thocky” sound profile the enthusiast keyboard community loves. I swapped in a set of Gateron brown switches and the sound stayed deep and satisfying. The 19 RGB preset modes include a music sync option that pulses to whatever’s playing on your system.
The two included keycap sets — one in a mixed colorway and one in solid colors — let you change the look without buying aftermarket caps. The 108-key layout adds the four hotkeys on top of a standard 104-key foundation. Anti-ghosting covers the entire layout, which is rare in this price tier.
The plastic housing is the only real weakness. It does not feel cheap, but compared to the K556’s aluminum top, the K668 has more flex under pressure. The spacebar can rattle slightly if you install heavier aftermarket switches, though the included lubed stabilizers help minimize this.
Best For
Productivity-focused gamers who use the numpad for both gaming and work tasks. The dedicated calculator and desktop keys save real time during mixed-use sessions.
Watch Out For
Players who prioritize premium build feel should consider the K556 instead. Heavy switch swaps may require stabilizer tuning.
How to Choose the Best Gaming Keyboard With Numpad
Choosing between gaming keyboards with numpads comes down to five key decisions: layout, switch type, connectivity, software, and extra features. Here’s how to think through each one based on what our team learned during six weeks of testing.
Full-Size vs 96% vs 98% Layouts
True full-size keyboards (104 keys) include the entire numpad, function row, arrow cluster, and navigation keys. They take up the most desk space but offer every key you’d ever need. The 96% layout is slightly more compact, removing some navigation keys while keeping the numpad. The 98% layout splits the difference, sacrificing a bit of width for a tighter footprint.
Most gaming keyboards with numpads in this list use the full 104-key layout. If desk space is a concern, the 96% and 98% form factors are gaining popularity, but they’re rarer in the gaming-specific market. Players who split time between gaming and productivity tend to prefer full-size because every key is exactly where muscle memory expects.
Switch Types: Linear, Tactile, and Clicky
Mechanical switches come in three main flavors. Linear switches (red) press smoothly with no bump or click — the favorite for FPS gamers who need fast, repeatable inputs. Tactile switches (brown) have a small bump mid-press that confirms actuation without noise — a versatile middle ground for both gaming and typing. Clicky switches (blue) add an audible click to the tactile bump, satisfying for typists but loud for shared spaces.
For competitive FPS, most pros lean linear. For mixed gaming and typing, tactile hits the sweet spot. If you want a mechanical board but live in a shared space or stream with sensitive audio, consider membrane options like the SteelSeries Apex 3 or HyperX Alloy Core RGB, which deliver near-mechanical feel without the noise.
Polling Rate: 1000Hz vs 8000Hz
Polling rate measures how often the keyboard reports its state to your computer. Standard gaming keyboards run at 1000Hz, meaning one report every millisecond — more than fast enough for nearly all competitive play. Premium boards now offer 8000Hz polling rates, which can reduce input latency in theory but require a high-refresh-rate setup to actually notice the difference.
For most gamers, a solid 1000Hz implementation is plenty. If you’re a top-tier competitive player chasing every millisecond, 8000Hz boards exist but they’re rare in the numpad category. Don’t get fooled by polling rate marketing — execution quality matters more than the headline number.
Wired vs Wireless
Wired keyboards remain the standard for competitive gaming because they eliminate wireless latency and battery anxiety. Every board in this roundup is wired, which makes sense given that numpad-equipped gaming keyboards lean toward the performance-first category. If wireless is a must, check out our wireless keyboards guide for dedicated options.
That said, modern 2.4GHz wireless gaming keyboards can match wired latency when implemented well. Bluetooth is generally too laggy for competitive gaming. If you go wireless for the desk-clean look, make sure the board supports a 2.4GHz dongle rather than Bluetooth-only.
Hot-Swappable Switches
Hot-swap PCBs let you change switches without soldering. This is huge for anyone who likes to experiment with switch types or wants the option to replace a single faulty switch without throwing out the whole board. The Redragon K556, K671, and K668 all feature hot-swap sockets, which makes them excellent long-term investments.
For first-time mechanical keyboard buyers, hot-swap gives you room to grow. You might start with the stock switches and discover six months in that you want linear instead of tactile. With hot-swap, that’s a five-minute swap with no soldering iron required.
Software and Macro Programming
Companion software varies wildly across brands. SteelSeries Engine, Logitech G Hub, and Razer Synapse are polished and reliable. Redragon’s software is functional but takes longer to learn. HyperX NGENUITY has improved significantly in recent versions. If you rely heavily on per-key RGB customization or complex macro profiles, software quality matters.
For MMO players who want to bind abilities to numpad keys, look for boards with on-board memory that saves profiles directly to the keyboard. This way your macros travel with the board even if you switch computers or use it on a console.
Build Quality and Materials
Aluminum top plates add rigidity and weight — the Redragon K556 feels noticeably more planted than the K668 plastic chassis. Heavier keyboards tend to stay put during intense gameplay, which matters for low-DPI mouse users who need stable aim. If you travel with your keyboard or have a small desk, lighter plastic builds may actually suit you better.
For long-session comfort, an included wrist rest makes a meaningful difference. The SteelSeries Apex 3’s magnetic wrist rest is the best included option in this roundup. If your pick doesn’t include one, budget for a separate rest.
For more on switch and layout options across different form factors, our mechanical keyboards guide and ergonomic keyboards guide cover the broader landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which keyboard has the best number pad?
The best keyboard with a number pad depends on your priorities. For gaming with numpad, the Redragon K556 pairs an aluminum body with hot-swap switches and a full 104-key layout. For pure productivity, the SteelSeries Apex 3 adds a magnetic wrist rest and IP32 water resistance. Both earn high ratings from thousands of long-term owners.
What is the best gaming keyboard with a number pad?
The best gaming keyboard with a number pad is the Redragon K556. It combines an aluminum top plate, hot-swappable brown switches, 20 RGB modes, and full anti-ghosting across all 104 keys. Reviewers consistently praise its build quality and switch feel at its price tier.
Why don’t gaming keyboards have numpads?
Most gaming keyboards skip the numpad to save desk space and allow wider mouse movement during FPS games. Many pro gamers prefer tenkeyless (TKL) layouts for that reason. However, full-size gaming keyboards with numpads remain popular among MMO players, streamers, and anyone who splits time between gaming and productivity work.
Is a 60% keyboard better for gaming than a 75% keyboard?
60% keyboards are popular for competitive FPS because they leave more room for mouse movement and reduce hand travel distance. However, 75% keyboards offer arrow keys and a function row without sacrificing too much space. The choice depends on your game genre and whether you need arrow keys or function row shortcuts in-game.
What polling rate do I need for gaming?
For nearly all gaming, a 1000Hz polling rate (1ms response) is more than enough. Premium boards now offer 8000Hz, but the difference is only noticeable in top-tier competitive play with high-refresh-rate monitors. Focus on switch quality and anti-ghosting implementation rather than headline polling rate numbers.
Final Verdict
After testing eight gaming keyboards with numpads across gaming, productivity, and streaming workloads, the Redragon K556 earns our top recommendation. Its aluminum build, hot-swappable brown switches, and consistent quality control give it a real edge over plastic-chassis alternatives. For budget shoppers, the TECKNET delivers a metal panel and IP32 resistance at the lowest price in the roundup. Streamers who need quiet operation will love the SteelSeries Apex 3, while typists who want that classic clicky feel should look at the RisoPhy Mechanical.
Whatever you pick from this list of the best gaming keyboards with numpad, you’re getting a board that delivers competitive performance without forcing you to give up the productivity benefits of a full number pad. Check our wrist rest guide to pair your new keyboard with the right support accessory.