Do you love the satisfying click and clack of mechanical keyboards but find yourself wishing for that extra number pad? You’re not alone! Many keyboard enthusiasts face a tough choice: get the compact feel of a tenkeyless board, or have the full functionality of a numpad. It can be confusing to pick the right one, especially with so many brands and features out there.
Choosing a mechanical keyboard with a numpad can feel like a puzzle. You want that great typing feel, but you also need the convenience of quickly punching in numbers for work or gaming. You might wonder about different switch types, how to know if it’s durable, or even what makes one numpad keyboard better than another. It’s a lot to think about!
But don’t worry! This post is here to help. We’ll break down what makes a mechanical keyboard with a numpad great. You’ll learn what to look for, understand different options, and discover how to find the perfect fit for your desk. Get ready to find a keyboard that feels amazing and helps you get things done faster!
Our Top 5 Mechanical Keyboard With Numpad Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Mechanical Keyboard With Numpad Detailed Reviews
1. RK ROYAL KLUDGE R98 Pro Wired Mechanical Keyboard
Rating: 9.0/10
The RK ROYAL KLUDGE R98 Pro is a 96% wired mechanical keyboard that brings together gaming performance and everyday usability. It features a creamy sound and feel, a handy number pad, and a cool volume knob. This keyboard is designed to be comfortable and customizable for both gamers and people who type a lot.
What We Like:
- It has a 98-key layout that keeps the number pad and arrow keys, saving desk space but still giving you all the important buttons.
- The keyboard uses five layers of foam inside. This makes typing sound really satisfying and creamy, which is great for gaming and typing.
- You can easily swap out the switches on this keyboard. It comes with pre-lubed linear cream switches that are super smooth and sound pleasant.
- The MDA profile keycaps feel great under your fingers and are made from durable PBT material that won’t fade.
- A detachable aluminum volume knob lets you control sound easily. Four indicator lights show you what’s on (like Caps Lock) at a glance.
- You can customize the keyboard using the RK online driver. This means you can change key functions, set up macros, and adjust RGB lighting.
- It has over 20 RGB lighting modes for a cool visual experience.
- The keyboard works with both Windows and Mac computers.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many RGB modes, some users might want even more advanced customization options directly on the keyboard without the software.
- The “creamy” sound and feel are subjective, so some users might prefer a different typing experience.
This RK ROYAL KLUDGE R98 Pro keyboard offers a fantastic blend of features for its price. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a comfortable, customizable, and great-sounding mechanical keyboard.
2. RK ROYAL KLUDGE S98 Mechanical Keyboard w/Smart Display & Knob
Rating: 8.8/10
The RK ROYAL KLUDGE S98 Mechanical Keyboard is a powerhouse of features packed into a compact 96% layout. It boasts a unique smart display that shows off custom GIFs, the time, connection status, and even your operating system layout. The handy knob lets you control volume, brightness, and RGB effects with a simple twist. Plus, you can connect it in three ways: Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, or USB-C wired. This keyboard is built for comfort and a great typing experience.
What We Like:
- The smart display is super cool! You can show your own pictures and see important info at a glance.
- The knob makes it easy to change settings like volume and lights.
- You have lots of ways to connect it – Bluetooth, wireless dongle, or wired.
- It sounds amazing! The special foams make typing feel creamy or thocky, and it’s much quieter.
- You can swap out the switches easily to make it your own.
- The keycaps are made of durable PBT plastic and the letters won’t wear off.
- The top-mount design feels solid and reduces noise.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 96% layout might take a little getting used to if you’re used to a full-size keyboard.
- Software support is mentioned, but we’d love to see more details on its capabilities.
This keyboard offers a premium typing experience with a lot of personalization options. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a feature-rich and great-sounding mechanical keyboard.
3. Redragon Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Wired
Rating: 9.1/10
Level up your gaming and typing with the Redragon K671 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard. This wired keyboard brings a brilliant splash of color to your desk with 11 different backlight modes. You can easily adjust the brightness and speed to match your mood or the time of day. The keys are super clear, making it easy to see them, even when you’re gaming late at night. Plus, it’s designed for a smooth and fast typing experience, which is great for both gaming and getting schoolwork done.
What We Like:
- Awesome 11 backlight modes to create the perfect vibe.
- Adjustable light speed and brightness for comfort.
- Hot-swappable red switches for a smooth and easy typing feel, perfect for fast games.
- Includes extra switches and keycaps so you’re always ready.
- Full anti-ghosting means all your key presses register, no matter how fast you play.
- 12 multimedia shortcuts for quick access to useful functions.
- Macro editing lets you customize keys for efficient work and gaming.
- Comes with a 24-month warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The backlight colors cannot be changed through the software, only the patterns and brightness.
This Redragon keyboard offers a lot of cool features for gamers and anyone who wants a better typing experience. It’s a solid choice for making your computer setup more fun and functional.
4. Redragon K668 RGB Gaming Keyboard
Rating: 9.2/10
The Redragon K668 RGB Gaming Keyboard is a fantastic choice for gamers and anyone who loves a cool-looking, great-feeling keyboard. It has 108 keys, including four extra shortcut keys for more convenience. The RGB lighting is super vibrant with many different modes, and it even has a music sync mode to make your desk look like a party!
What We Like:
- You can easily swap out the red mechanical switches for different ones if you want.
- The keyboard has special foam inside to make typing sound quieter and crisper.
- It has anti-ghosting, so it registers all your key presses even when you hit many at once.
- The RGB lighting is really colorful and has lots of cool preset modes.
- You can adjust the keyboard’s height with its two-stage feet for comfy typing.
- It comes with two sets of mixed-color keycaps so you can customize its look.
- You can use software to create your own lighting effects and set up shortcuts.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the red switches are quiet, some users might prefer a different feel.
- The mixed-color keycaps might not be everyone’s style.
This keyboard offers a lot of features for its price, making it a solid upgrade for your setup. You’ll enjoy its customizable options and immersive lighting.
5. EPOMAKER TH99 Tri-Mode Wireless Mechanical Keyboard with 8000mAh Battery
Rating: 9.2/10
The EPOMAKER TH99 is a fantastic mechanical keyboard that mixes work and play. It looks sleek and modern, and it’s built to last. This keyboard has a lot to offer for both gamers and office workers.
What We Like:
- It has a sleek and modern design.
- The keyboard feels really stable with its weight and silicone pads.
- The gasket-mount structure and sound-dampening layers create a satisfying, creamy typing sound.
- You can customize the RGB backlight with 102 per-key LEDs.
- It has a full Numpad and 8 function keys, making it great for work.
- The PBT keycaps are tough and resist wear.
- It connects wirelessly via Bluetooth 5.0 and 2.4Ghz with very little delay.
- The 8000mAh battery lasts a super long time.
- It works with both Mac and Windows easily.
- It’s hot-swappable, meaning you can change the switches easily.
- The low latency and 1000Hz polling rate are great for gaming.
- It has NKRO and anti-ghosting for accurate input.
- The Cherry profile keycaps and adjustable kickstand make typing comfortable.
What Could Be Improved:
- The software for customization might take a little getting used to.
- While the “Sea Salt Silent” switches are quiet, some users might prefer a more audible click.
Overall, the EPOMAKER TH99 is a versatile and high-quality keyboard that delivers on both performance and user experience for a wide range of needs.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Perfect Mechanical Keyboard with Numpad
Thinking about getting a mechanical keyboard with a numpad? You’re in for a treat! These keyboards offer a satisfying typing experience. They also give you that handy number pad for all your calculations and shortcuts. Let’s dive into what makes a great mechanical keyboard with a numpad.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep an eye out for these important things.
1. Switch Type: The Heart of Your Keyboard
Mechanical keyboards use individual switches under each key. These switches give you that clicky or smooth feel.
- Linear Switches: These are smooth from top to bottom. They don’t have a bump. Gamers often like them because they are fast. Popular examples are Cherry MX Red or Gateron Red.
- Tactile Switches: These give you a little bump when you press the key. You can feel when the key press registers. They are good for typing and gaming. Cherry MX Brown or Gateron Brown are common tactile switches.
- Clicky Switches: These give you a bump and an audible click. They are very satisfying for typists. Cherry MX Blue or Gateron Blue are popular clicky switches.
2. Build Quality: How it’s Made
A well-built keyboard lasts longer and feels better.
- Frame Material: Look for keyboards with a sturdy metal frame, like aluminum. Plastic frames can feel cheap.
- Keycaps: These are the tops of the keys. PBT plastic keycaps are tougher and don’t get shiny like ABS plastic. They also resist wear better.
3. Numpad Layout: Standard is Best
Most mechanical keyboards with numpads use a standard 104-key layout. This means the numpad is just like the one on a regular keyboard. This makes it easy to use right away.
4. Connectivity: Wired or Wireless?
- Wired: Offers a stable connection. It’s great for gaming where every millisecond counts.
- Wireless: Gives you more desk space. Many wireless keyboards have good battery life.
5. Backlighting: For Style and Function
Some keyboards have lights under the keys.
- Single Color: Simple and effective.
- RGB: You can choose any color. This lets you personalize your setup.
Important Materials
The materials used in a keyboard make a big difference in how it feels and lasts.
Keycaps
- PBT Plastic: This is a very durable plastic. It doesn’t wear down easily. It feels a bit rougher.
- ABS Plastic: This is a common plastic. It’s cheaper but can become shiny over time. It feels smoother.
Switches
The switches themselves are made of plastic and metal. The quality of these parts affects how the switch feels and sounds.
Frame
- Aluminum: Strong and gives a premium feel.
- Plastic: Lighter and often cheaper.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a keyboard great or not so great.
Good Quality Factors
- Solid Construction: A keyboard that doesn’t flex or creak.
- High-Quality Switches: Switches that feel consistent and reliable.
- Durable Keycaps: Keycaps that won’t wear out quickly.
- Good Stabilizers: These help larger keys (like the spacebar) press down evenly.
Reduced Quality Factors
- Wobbly Keys: Keys that feel loose.
- Cheap Plastic: A frame or keycaps that feel flimsy.
- Inconsistent Switches: Some keys feeling different from others.
- Poorly Made Stabilizers: Making larger keys feel mushy or uneven.
User Experience and Use Cases
Who uses mechanical keyboards with numpads, and why?
For the Typist
If you type a lot for work or school, a mechanical keyboard with tactile or clicky switches can make typing more enjoyable. The numpad is perfect for entering numbers quickly.
For the Gamer
Gamers love the responsiveness of mechanical switches. Linear switches are often preferred for fast-paced games. The numpad can be used for in-game commands or macros.
For the Creative Professional
If you work with spreadsheets, data, or design software, the numpad is incredibly useful. It speeds up data entry and number manipulation.
A mechanical keyboard with a numpad is a fantastic tool. It offers a better typing feel and the convenience of a dedicated number pad. Choose the switches and materials that best fit your needs and enjoy a more satisfying computer experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What’s the biggest benefit of a mechanical keyboard with a numpad?
A: The biggest benefit is the satisfying typing feel and the quick number entry with the numpad. It makes typing more enjoyable and efficient.
Q: Are mechanical keyboards loud?
A: Some mechanical switches are loud, like clicky switches. Others, like linear switches, are much quieter. You can choose the switch type that fits your preference.
Q: Can I swap out the keycaps?
A: Yes, most mechanical keyboards let you swap out the keycaps. This lets you change the look and feel of your keyboard.
Q: What does “switch type” mean?
A: Switch type refers to the mechanism under each key. It determines how the key feels and sounds when you press it. Common types are linear, tactile, and clicky.
Q: Is a metal frame better than plastic?
A: A metal frame, like aluminum, is usually stronger and feels more premium. Plastic frames are lighter and can be more affordable.
Q: What is PBT plastic for keycaps?
A: PBT plastic is a durable material for keycaps. It resists wear and doesn’t get shiny as easily as ABS plastic.
Q: Do I need RGB lighting?
A: RGB lighting is a style choice. It lets you customize the colors of your keyboard’s backlighting. It’s not necessary for function but adds a cool look.
Q: How do I know if a keyboard is good quality?
A: Look for a sturdy frame, consistent switches, and durable keycaps. Keys should feel stable, and the keyboard shouldn’t flex when you type.
Q: Can a mechanical keyboard with a numpad help me type faster?
A: Yes, many people find they type faster and with fewer errors on a mechanical keyboard. The numpad also speeds up number entry.
Q: Are mechanical keyboards worth the extra cost?
A: For many people, yes. The improved typing experience, durability, and customization options make them a worthwhile investment for those who spend a lot of time typing.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Florence Disha, the creator behind HomesMend.com. With a passion for making every house a home, I share my personal experiences, tips, and expertise to help you transform your living spaces. Whether it’s practical advice, creative ideas, or tried-and-true solutions, my goal is to inspire and guide you in creating a home that feels just right. Let’s make every corner of your space truly yours!