# How do I make a macro pad?

**A macro pad is one of the easiest keyboard projects - perfect for beginners!**

## What is a Macro Pad?

A small keypad with programmable keys for shortcuts, macros, and quick actions.

## Step 1: Design Your Macro Pad

Tell Modo what you want:

> "A 9-key macro pad with rotary encoder and RGB lighting"

**Popular Layouts:**

- 3x3 (9 keys) - Most common
- 2x4 (8 keys) - With encoder
- 4x4 (16 keys) - More options

## Step 2: Order Parts (~$35-50)

**Essential Components:**

- Pro Micro or RP2040: $8-12
- Mechanical switches (9): $5-10
- Diodes (9): $2
- Hot-swap sockets (optional): $5

**Optional Upgrades:**

- Rotary encoder: $3-5
- RGB LEDs: $5-8
- OLED display: $5-8

## Step 3: Build It (1-2 hours)

**With Hot-Swap (Beginner):**

1. Print the case
2. Press-fit hot-swap sockets
3. Wire matrix to controller
4. Insert switches
5. Flash firmware
6. Done!

**With Soldering:**

1. Print the case
2. Solder diodes to switches
3. Wire row/column matrix
4. Connect to controller
5. Flash firmware

## Step 4: Program Your Macros

**Using QMK Configurator:**

1. Select your layout
2. Assign keys (shortcuts, macros, layers)
3. Download firmware
4. Flash with QMK Toolbox

**Popular Macro Uses:**

- Copy/Paste/Undo
- OBS scene switching
- Discord mute
- Game abilities
- Photoshop shortcuts

## Project Timeline:

\| Step \| Time \|
\|------\|------\|
\| Modo design \| 5 min \|
\| 3D printing \| 3-4 hours \|
\| Assembly \| 1-2 hours \|
\| Programming \| 30 min \|
\| **Total** \| **5-7 hours** \|

## Cost Comparison:

\| Option \| Cost \|
\|--------\|------\|
\| Elgato Stream Deck Mini \| $80 \|
\| Commercial macro pad \| $40-60 \|
\| **DIY macro pad** \| **$35-50** \|

## Why Build Your Own?

✅ Choose your own switches  
✅ Custom layout and size  
✅ Learn electronics  
✅ Fully open-source firmware  
✅ Pride in building it yourself

## Related Projects

[**RGB Gaming Macro Pad 9-Key**  
9 programmable keys with RGB lighting  
  
Beginner$35-50](/content/projects/macro-pad-9key/index.html)  
[**OBS Scene Switcher Control Pad**  
Dedicated buttons for your OBS scenes  
  
Beginner$30-45](/content/projects/obs-scene-switcher/index.html)