As people transition to work from home life for good, many realize the importance of a high-quality keyboard. It offers a more pleasant typing experience and efficient data entry. For some jobs, a numeric keypad is essential for proper workflow. However, most laptops and keyboards with built-in number pads don’t offer the most ergonomic setup. Those who need quick access to numbers, calculations and even word processing shortcuts should consider adding a standalone numpad to their setup.
A top option is the Perixx PeriPad 303B, which offers dependable Gateron Low Profile switches that provide a quiet and satisfying mechanical experience.
What to know before you buy a numeric keypad
Mechanical vs. membrane construction
Most keyboards and number pads use a silicone membrane which creates resistance against the tap of your fingers. However, mechanical input numeric keypads are more durable and water-resistant than membrane configurations. These can be much more satisfying and comfortable than membrane-based devices. If you use your numpad for several hours every day, it’s worth considering one with mechanical switches.
Numeric keypad backlighting
In an ideal world, touch typing would come with ease, so no one would ever need to look at their keyboard. In reality, it’s difficult to type blindly with perfect accuracy. And most people need to look down to check their positioning. If you need to enter long strings of data for your job, it’s important to avoid typos. A backlight can help minimize such mistakes. Some backlit keyboards let you change the backlight color at will, but pads come in a single color.
Numeric keypad features
Mechanical switch types
Generally speaking, there are three types of switches used in keyboards. Manufacturers group these into red, brown and blue switches. Red switches are usually linear and don’t offer any tactile feedback or defined clicking sound. Brown switches have a small bump when pressed which lets you know when the keystroke registers. Blue switches have a distinct clicking noise. For high-speed data entry, many users prefer either low-noise, tactile brown switches or linear red switches. A lot of typists find blue keyboards too loud, so if you’re working in a crowded office, it’s best to avoid them.
Wired vs. wireless connectivity
Most numpads connect to computers via USB, either Type A or Type C. However, there are a number of wireless numpad models available, which help cut down on cable clutter. Bluetooth-enabled models are convenient since there’s no dongle required. However, Windows doesn’t always work well with Bluetooth devices and can sometimes cause a delayed response. If you use Windows OS, you may want a 2.4GHz number pad that connects with a USB dongle. This 2.4GHz connectivity has no noticeable latency and is generally very reliable.
Extra numeric keypad keys
Numeric keypads contain more than just numbers. Nearly every keypad has mathematical functions, an enter key, a backspace key and a numlock toggle switch. Some offer additional controls like page up, page down, home and other navigation keys. These are especially useful for ultra-compact laptops with small arrow keys.
Number pads with built-in USB hubs
Most laptops only have a few USB ports to spare. So if you need to connect multiple devices to your computer, look for a numeric keypad with additional USB ports. Typing doesn’t use a huge amount of bandwidth, so devices that connect through a numpad’s USB hub should work just fine.
Numeric keypad cost
You can get a quality number pad for as little as $15. If you want a numeric keypad with extra features, the most expensive ones go up to about $50.
Numeric keypad FAQ
Are numeric keypads good for gaming?
A. Only a few modern games utilize the keypad. However, if you want a one-handed gaming keyboard, there are several available. The Redragon K585 is one relatively affordable example, and the Razer Tartarus Pro comes with high-tech and low-latency optical switches.
Are numeric keypads programmable?
A. Not typically. While there are a few dependable programmable numeric keypads, most mimic the preset inputs of a keyboard exclusively. Programmers, gamers and power users looking for fully programmable keyboards with small form factors should consider this one from Koolertron. It offers plenty of customizable keys that you can adjust as needed.
Which numeric keypad should I get?
Best of the best numeric keypad
Perixx PeriPad 303B: available at Amazon
Our take: Premium construction and mechanical switches from a top name in ergonomic data-entry devices.
What we like: The aluminum faceplate, soft white backlight and solid construction make this a good choice for use in professional settings. It’s quiet and offers copy and paste shortcuts on the top row, as well as common numlock function buttons. If you’d prefer a numpad with more finance functions, the Qisan Mechanical is another great choice.
What we dislike: Its lack of currency, backspace and tab keys make it less than ideal for some applications.
Best bang for your buck numeric keypad
Aodoor Mini: available at Amazon
Our take: A straightforward, wireless model at a low cost.
What we like: It’s highly affordable with a relatively low profile and a 2.4 GHz wireless dongle for easy connection.
What we dislike: It’s not the most durable choice. It also has a somewhat mushy membrane for resistance, which is less satisfying than mechanical switches.
Honorable mention numeric keypad
Levkey Aluminum: available at Amazon
Our take: Designed for MacBook users, this keypad adds a number pad and expands the arrow and navigation keys.
What we like: With a whopping 34 keys, this is one of the most comprehensive options and a great choice for Apple users. The premium alloy body and Bluetooth connectivity will help keep your desk free of clutter.
What we dislike: It’s pretty expensive for what it provides.
Chris Thomas is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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