Best Macro Keypads for Video Editing in 2026
Compare three macro keypads for video editing, from labeled shortcut keys to rotary dials, and choose the right controller for your everyday editing workflow.
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Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publication and are subject to change.
The Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 is the best macro keypad for video editing for most editors: its 15 labeled keys keep frequent commands visible. The Xencelabs Quick Keys adds a wireless dial, while the Loupedeck Live S offers two dials for those who accept its discontinued hardware line.
Macro keypads for video editing compared
A shortcut controller complements your keyboard and mouse. Map a key to a command already supported by your editor, such as splitting a clip or selecting a tool, then reserve the most accessible controls for actions repeated throughout a session. We compared documented hardware and configuration options, not hands-on editing performance. Application integrations and operating-system requirements change, so check the current software and plugins for your exact editor before buying.
| Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 | Best overall | View |
| Xencelabs Quick Keys | Best wireless dial | View |
| Loupedeck Live S | Best for two dials | View |
Elgato Stream Deck MK.2: a visible command palette
Elgato Stream Deck MK.2
The MK.2 earns the overall recommendation because its 15 customizable LCD keys make a generous set of commands visible without memorizing an unlabeled layout. An editor can label separate keys for trimming, playback and exporting, then use folders or multi actions for workflows that need more room. The detachable USB-C cable and removable fixed-angle stand make it straightforward to position beside a keyboard. It is a good fit if you alternate between editing, recording and administrative work and want the same physical panel to show different actions. The tradeoff is that this model has no rotary dial: timeline navigation or continuous adjustments still depend on another control or on assigned key presses. Setup also takes thought, and a plug-in's particular features depend on the software version and editor.
Pros
- Fifteen LCD keys show named commands at a glance
- Folders and multi actions expand a shortcut layout
- Detachable USB-C cable and removable stand simplify positioning
Cons
- No dial for rotating through a timeline
- The stand uses a fixed angle rather than continuous adjustment
Xencelabs Quick Keys: shortcuts and a wireless dial
Xencelabs Quick Keys
Quick Keys is the pick for editors who want a compact hand control away from a cable. It offers eight shortcut buttons, an OLED display showing their assignments, and five sets per application, for up to 40 button assignments. Its dial has four configurable modes, so a user can switch between different assigned operations instead of dedicating the entire device to one task. It connects by USB cable or its wireless dongle, giving a laptop editor a choice of placement. The OLED labels help when a set changes, but only eight shortcuts are physically available at a time, so larger layouts require switching sets. The dial's practical effect depends on the shortcuts or integrations available in your editing software; it does not automatically provide precise native control of every slider.
Pros
- Wireless dongle or USB connection gives desk placement options
- OLED labels follow five sets of eight shortcut buttons
- Four dial modes let one rotary control serve different tasks
Cons
- Only eight shortcut buttons are directly accessible per set
- Wireless use needs the receiver and battery management
Loupedeck Live S: more hands-on controls
Loupedeck Live S
The Live S suits an editor who wants both a visual touch surface and two physical rotary controls. Its 15 touchscreen buttons, two pressable dials and four round RGB buttons can be assigned in Loupedeck software, letting different shortcut types sit together on one panel. The dials provide a physical alternative to repeated button presses where a supported action can be assigned. It earns its badge specifically for that two-dial layout, not for having the largest ecosystem. There is a significant purchase caveat: Loupedeck ended sales of its hardware line, and the older 5.8 marketplace is discontinued. Current Loupedeck software lists Live S support, but check present compatibility, available plugins, seller warranty and stock before committing. It connects by USB, so it is less flexible than the wireless Quick Keys.
Pros
- Two pressable dials can hold separate assigned actions
- Fifteen touchscreen buttons display a visual control layout
- Four RGB buttons add physical controls beside the screen
Cons
- Hardware line sales have ended, making seller support important
- The legacy 5.8 marketplace is discontinued; compatible software is essential
How to choose and configure a controller
List the commands you actually repeat in a typical project. Put cutting, playback and selection on the first page and group less frequent export or workspace commands elsewhere. Give keys recognizable labels, then try the layout on a small project before adding complex sequences. A long macro may behave differently when a dialog is open, so keep a conventional shortcut available as a fallback.
A dial is useful only if your editor exposes the action you want through a compatible integration or assignable shortcut. For the MK.2, prioritize seeing many commands; for Quick Keys, consider whether carrying a dongle and changing sets is acceptable. With the Live S, check software support and warranty first. None of these devices replaces the editor, improves footage automatically or guarantees the same integration on every operating system.
If you move between computers, check whether their shortcut assignments match. A different keyboard layout or a custom setting in the editor can change the result. Try each action individually in a safe project before combining steps, making it easier to identify a problem if an unexpected dialog appears or the intended track is not active.
FAQ
Will these keypads work with my video editor?
They can trigger configured keyboard shortcuts, but the depth of integration varies by editor, operating system and software version. Before ordering, find the controller's current compatibility list and look for the specific plugin or shortcut you need. A program with customizable shortcuts may still be usable without a dedicated plugin.
Is a dial necessary for timeline editing?
No. A normal keyboard and mouse can navigate a timeline, and labeled keys can invoke playback or navigation shortcuts. A dial can be convenient for an assigned operation, but its behavior depends on the integration. If most of your work involves discrete commands, the MK.2's visible keys may be more useful.
How many shortcuts should I set up first?
Start with a handful you already use, such as play, split and undo, and group them where your hand naturally rests. Add further actions only after checking that each one works in the intended editor and focus state. Both folders and sets can accommodate a larger workflow later.
Prices and availability are accurate as of publication and may change.