Custom Keyboard Layouts and Macros for Creatives

So, how do you understand what makes a keyboard truly work for a creative? I mean, for real, if you’re a video editor, designer, music producer, coder, or even just someone who loves multitasking, you know how annoying it is to repeat the same commands over and over again.

At Keyboards Technology (https://tecladostecno.com), I’ve already explored a ton about what makes keyboards unique, like the best switches for rapid typing and gaming and how keyboard preferences reveal your personality.

But today’s topic is even more specific—and trust me, if you’re a creative mind, you’re gonna love this one.

🧠 Why Creatives Need Custom Layouts and Macros

Let’s be real: creative software is loaded with shortcuts. Adobe Photoshop, Premiere Pro, Blender, FL Studio, DaVinci Resolve… you name it.

Learning the software is one thing, but using it efficiently? That’s where custom layouts and macros come into play.

In my own experience editing videos, I used to waste so much time clicking menus. But once I mapped my most-used commands like “cut,” “split,” or “export” to specific keys, I felt like I leveled up. It’s not about being lazy—it’s about being smart with your time.

I’ve even set mine to open Photoshop, create a new project, and select my brush tool, all with one tap. Sounds crazy? Maybe. But it’s totally doable—and it’s fun as heck.

Want to see some weird and wonderful keyboards? Check out the most unique keyboards ever created on my blog.

💡 Examples of Creative Professions That Benefit from Macros:

• Video editors: Cut, split, ripple delete, move timeline
• Designers: Zoom, layer adjustment, brush switch
• Music producers: Start/stop track, mute/unmute, pattern change
• 3D artists: Switch tools, render, object rotate
• Writers: Save draft, insert citation, bold/italic toggle

And hey, comment below what you do creatively and what macros you’d love to have! I really wanna know how you all use this power.

🎯 How to Create a Custom Layout Like a Pro

Okay, here’s the fun part. Building your own custom layout might seem nerdy at first, but once you start, it gets addictive.

I recommend starting simple—like just remapping your Caps Lock key to something useful. (I personally made mine a macro trigger!)

To do this, you’ll need software. Many big keyboard brands offer native software:

• Razer – Synapse
• SteelSeries – GG
• Keychron – VIA/QMK
• Corsair – iCUE
• Glorious – Core

These platforms let you drag and drop functions, record macros, and test your layout instantly. I’m a huge fan of VIA because it’s open-source and gives you insane freedom.

If you want a full guide, you can check out this article on building a keyboard under $100.

🔧 Step-by-step: Setting Up a Macro

1. Open your keyboard software (VIA, Synapse, etc.)
2. Select the key you want to modify
3. Choose ‘macro’ or ‘custom command’
4. Record the sequence (Example: Ctrl + C, Alt + Tab, Ctrl + V)
5. Save and test it out in your app

Don’t forget to check this article for keyboard ideas: The best keyboards for sound editing and music production

📋 Best Keyboards for Macro Customization

Now let’s talk hardware. Not all keyboards are created equal when it comes to customization. I’ve tested quite a few, and here’s my shortlist of the most macro-friendly models in 2025:

These keyboards are fully loaded, and most of them are hot-swappable too! That means you can change the switches if you’re picky about feel and sound.

Oh—and if you’re curious about switch feel, you must check out The Science Behind Key Switches. That article blew up on my site!

See also: Wikipedia on Computer Keyboards

🧩 Extra Features That Make a Difference

Macros are awesome. But you know what makes the experience even better? These features:

🟢 Layers

Let you switch between different key setups. I have one for work, one for gaming, and one just for video editing. It’s like having three keyboards in one.

🔵 OLED Displays or Indicator Lights

They show you what layer or mode you’re on. Some even let you display images or gifs!

🟡 Volume Knobs and Dials

Super useful for music and video production. One twist and I’m adjusting levels like a pro.

🔴 Dedicated Macro Columns

A few keyboards (like the BlackWidow or Elgato Stream Deck) have extra columns just for macros.

For ergonomic help, you might want to check out How ergonomic keyboards can prevent wrist pain

See More

• 
  SteelSeries vs Logitech: Best Gaming Keyboard Showdown
• 
  Custom Keyboard Layouts and Macros for Creatives
• 
  Keyboard Sound Test Trends: Why Everyone Is Obsessed

Final Thoughts from Me

Honestly, creating your own keyboard layout is one of the best productivity hacks I’ve ever discovered.

It’s not just about looking cool (even though yes, your desk will look awesome)—it’s about saving time, reducing stress, and feeling like you’re in control.

I know this can sound a bit geeky, but I promise: once you try your first macro, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner.

And hey, if you get creative with it, maybe even share your layout ideas down in the comments. Let’s learn from each other!

👉 If you liked this article, don’t forget to share it with your creative friends and leave a comment telling me what macro you’d love to set up!

And of course, check out more at Keyboards Technology, especially these articles:

• The best keyboards for different professions
• The role of keyboards in competitive esports
• The most responsive keyboards for competitive play