Hi guys how are you? Today I wanted to talk a lot about how to optimize the workflow for video editors, this profession that requires the best possible configuration to be able to perform well
In this article, I’m going to share my complete approach to building a keyboard workflow that actually makes video editing smoother, faster, and more enjoyable. I’m not talking about buying the most expensive gear out there. Nope. This is about choosing the right keyboard, configuring it smartly, mastering shortcuts, and customizing your setup like a pro — even if you’re editing from a laptop in your bedroom.
So let’s get into it. Because once you experience a smooth, fully-optimized keyboard workflow, you’ll never go back to the default setup again.
Choosing the Right Keyboard for Editing 🎬
When you’re sitting at your desk for 8 to 10 hours editing footage, the feel of the keyboard beneath your fingers matters more than you might think. A clunky or unresponsive keyboard can really mess with your flow.
Mechanical keyboards are often the go-to for editors, and I totally get why. The tactile feedback, the satisfying clicks, and the responsiveness?
It just feels right. Personally, I prefer blue switches for the tactile bump and audible click, but I know others who swear by silent reds or linear browns. You can read more about the differences in this post.
But if mechanical isn’t your thing, membrane keyboards can still work — especially newer models with soft feedback and ergonomic design. Want to go deep into that world? Check this out.
Here’s a list of key features to look for in a keyboard for video editing:
✅ Essential Keyboard Features for Editors
- Dedicated media keys (play, pause, skip)
- Programmable macro keys
- Backlighting for night editing
- Ergonomic wrist support
- Durability — especially for mechanical switches
- Low input lag — especially if you use wireless options
Don’t forget to visit this article where I talked about low latency keyboards. Even though it’s gaming-focused, it totally applies here too.
Want a full buying guide? You’ll love this detailed walkthrough: How to choose the best keyboard for your needs.
Configuring Your Keyboard Like a Pro 💻
Once you have your ideal keyboard, the magic really begins. You see, it’s not just about owning a cool keyboard — it’s about making it work for you.
The first thing I always do is remap keys for my favorite editing software. Whether you’re using Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or DaVinci Resolve, the goal is to have every function you use daily accessible from your fingers without thinking.
Here’s what I recommend remapping:
🔁 Smart Key Remaps
- J/K/L – Standard playback, but reverse/forward can be mapped to macro keys
- Ripple Delete (Shift+Delete) – Remap to one macro key
- Zoom In/Out on Timeline – Assign to custom keys
- Cut (C), Select (V), Razor (B) – Make them even more accessible
And trust me — this saves so much time. In fact, I wrote a detailed piece on optimizing gaming keyboards for performance that applies here: Optimize your keyboard for competitive gaming — just replace “gaming” with “editing” in your brain 🤯.
The Importance of Shortcuts and Custom Macros ⚡
If you’re not using shortcuts, you’re wasting time. Period. I was the same way until I realized that every big-name editor has a custom workflow full of personalized shortcuts.
Shortcuts take a bit of time to learn, but once they become second nature, you’ll edit twice as fast. Want to go further? Combine them with macros.
🎯 My Favorite Macro Ideas for Editing:
- Cut + Ripple Delete + Move to Next Clip – One-button transition
- Import media + Create New Bin – Set up projects fast
- Multi-Camera Sync + Nest – Super powerful for documentary editors
- Fade In/Fade Out + Volume Adjust – Great for YouTubers
Macro keys are invaluable, and if your keyboard doesn’t support them natively, software like AutoHotKey or Stream Deck macros will save you.
Need more ideas? I broke down keyboard psychology and preferences right here — it helps you understand how to customize your setup based on your natural flow.
Final Touches: Ergonomics and Atmosphere 🌙
One thing people overlook when optimizing their workflow is comfort. Editing for long hours puts pressure on your hands, neck, and shoulders — and your keyboard plays a big role in that.
I use a split keyboard with a wrist rest for ergonomic support. It helps reduce wrist fatigue. You can learn more about ergonomics here, and believe me, it makes a difference!
Also, don’t underestimate the power of aesthetic. RGB lighting not only looks cool but helps during late-night editing sessions. If you love cool visuals like I do, check out this list of the best RGB keyboards.
🌟 Final Pro Tips
- Always back up your keybindings – You’ll thank yourself later
- Test setups before big projects – Avoid surprises mid-edit
- Switch it up sometimes – Don’t get stuck in a comfort rut
- Use templates – Save your shortcut layout for each project type
📌 Conclusion
Creating the perfect keyboard workflow for video editing isn’t about copying what others do. It’s about building something uniquely yours, that supports your creativity, boosts your speed, and lets you focus on the story you’re trying to tell.
I believe that everything I said will help a lot anyone who wants to feel better when editing a video.
And remember — if you want to go even deeper into custom keyboards, check this awesome article from the site: How to build a custom mechanical keyboard for under $100. It’s one of my favorites!
If you enjoyed this article, don’t forget to comment below — what keyboard do YOU use to edit? And hey, share it with your fellow editors too, especially the ones still editing with the default laptop keyboard 😅
👉 For more articles like this, visit my blog: Keyboards Technology!
And if you want to learn more about how keyboards affect productivity in general, check out this external read on Wikipedia: Computer keyboard — it’s packed with useful info.
