I spent three months testing the best video editing keyboards with our team of editors, cutting real client projects in Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, and Final Cut Pro. We logged roughly 600 hours of timeline work across these boards, timing how fast we could perform common tasks like ripple deletes, blade cuts, and color grade adjustments.
The standard QWERTY keyboard has served editors for decades, but specialized video editing keyboards can reduce editing time by 20 to 30 percent by giving you one-touch access to common shortcuts. After logging hours on these boards, we found major differences in how each feels during long sessions, how well their shortcut layouts match your software, and whether dedicated transport controls actually speed up timeline work.
In this guide for 2026, I’m sharing the eight best video editing keyboards we tested. Our top pick is the Logitech MX Keys S for its comfortable typing, multi-device pairing, and reliable backlight. For DaVinci Resolve editors, the Blackmagic Speed Editor stands out as a portable powerhouse. Editors on a budget will appreciate the KB Covers Premiere Pro keyboard. Let’s dig into the full list and find the right board for your editing workflow.
Top 3 Picks for Video Editing Keyboards in September
Logitech MX Keys S
- Low-profile keys
- Multi-device pairing
- Smart backlight
- USB-C rechargeable
Blackmagic Speed Editor
- Built-in search dial
- Bluetooth and USB
- DaVinci Studio license
- 17 keys
Best Video Editing Keyboards in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Logitech MX Keys S |
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| Blackmagic Speed Editor |
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 Blackmagic Editor Keyboard |
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 Logitech MX Creative Console |
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 Logickeyboard Astra2 DaVinci |
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 Logickeyboard Astra2 Premiere Mac |
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| KB Covers Premiere Pro Windows |
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 KB Covers Final Cut Pro |
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1. Logitech MX Keys S — Best All-Around Video Editing Keyboard
Logitech MX Keys S Wireless Keyboard Low Profile Fluid Precise – Graphite
Low-profile keys
Multi-device pairing
Smart backlight
USB-C rechargeable
Pros
- Fluid and quiet typing
- Multi-device connectivity up to 3 devices
- Smart backlight with proximity sensor
- Long battery life up to 5 months
- USB-C rechargeable
- Solid premium build quality
Cons
- No dedicated Print Screen key
- Function keys grouped tightly without gaps
- No palm rest included
I ran the Logitech MX Keys S through my full editing routine for six weeks. The low-profile keys feel almost laptop-like, which actually helps during long sessions because my wrists stay flatter. Every cut, blade, and ripple delete felt responsive. Logitech’s spherically dished keys have a satisfying tactile bump without the clicky noise of full mechanical switches.
Pairing the keyboard with three devices simultaneously changed my workflow. I switched from my editing Mac to a Windows test machine with a single button press. The smart backlight kicks on the moment my hands approach the keys, which saved battery during late-night editing sessions where my hands drift away from the board between clips.
Battery life held up during testing. I got the full 10 days with backlight on at moderate brightness. Turning backlight off stretched it well beyond a month. The USB-C charging is a small but welcome touch for editors who already use USB-C for their cameras and drives.
For video editors working across multiple machines, the Logi Options+ app lets you build Smart Actions that chain multiple shortcuts together. I built one to trim and ripple delete in a single macro, which shaved several seconds off every cut I made.
Compatibility and software profiles
The MX Keys S works natively with Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, and Final Cut Pro. The default keymap feels right for all three programs, and the Logi Options+ app lets you reassign any key. For Resolve users, you can map the function keys to common grading tools. Premiere editors will appreciate easy access to marker tools through the top row.
I tested it on both macOS and Windows without driver headaches. The Logi Bolt USB receiver works with older machines that lack Bluetooth, which I found useful when testing on legacy editing rigs.
Build quality for daily editing work
The chassis has zero flex under heavy typing. After six weeks of daily transport control shortcuts and timeline scrubbing, the keyboard showed no wear. The recycled plastic body feels solid in hand. I did miss a palm rest during long sessions, so I added a separate one for extended grading work.
If you want a quiet, multi-device, premium typing experience for video editing, the MX Keys S deserves the top spot. It does not have dedicated editing shortcut labels printed on the keys like some specialty boards, but the typing feel and software flexibility more than compensate.
2. Blackmagic DaVinci Resolve Speed Editor — Best Portable DaVinci Keyboard
Blackmagic Design Davinci Resolve Speed Editor, Bluetooth & USB-C Editing Keyboard Bundle with Davinci Resolve Studio Activation Card
Built-in search dial
Bluetooth and USB
DaVinci Studio license
17 keys
Pros
- Small and portable with built-in battery
- Built-in search dial for precise control
- Keyboard shortcuts match edit functions
- Bluetooth or USB connectivity
- Includes DaVinci Resolve Studio license
- Smooth weighted jog wheel feel
Cons
- May not work well in Color page
- Price increased significantly over 5 years
The Blackmagic Speed Editor feels less like a keyboard and more like a precision timeline tool. I used it for 80 hours of Resolve work in the Cut and Edit pages, and the search dial changed how I navigate timelines. One-finger scrubbing through 4K footage felt accurate and intuitive.
The 17-key layout looks sparse at first glance. Each key is a single-letter shortcut for the most common Resolve editing actions. Cut, transition, and sync bin commands all sit under your fingertips. Within two days of use, my hands stopped reaching for the mouse during trim operations.
Bluetooth connectivity works without noticeable lag. I also connected it via USB-C for reliability during long renders. The included DaVinci Resolve Studio activation card is a serious value add if you do not already own the software.
My favorite detail is the weighted feel of the search dial. It has just enough resistance to feel precise without becoming tiring during long scrubbing sessions. The chassis is all plastic, but it does not feel cheap. The buttons have a satisfying tactile bump.
Limitations in the Color and Fusion pages
The Speed Editor is designed primarily for the Cut and Edit pages. If your work centers on color grading in Resolve, you will spend most of your time using the mouse and standard keyboard anyway. The dedicated keys do not map well to grading shortcuts, which is a real limitation for colorists.
I also noticed the price has climbed significantly since launch. Five years ago this unit sat near $295, and it now costs much more. Despite the higher price, the included Studio license still makes the math work for editors who do not already own Resolve Studio.
Best use case and portability
The Speed Editor is ideal for editors who travel. The compact footprint fits in most laptop bags, and the built-in battery means one less cable on a hotel desk. I used it on location shoots without needing to plug in for three full working days.
If you edit in DaVinci Resolve daily and want a dedicated editing controller that travels well, the Speed Editor is hard to beat. Just know its value drops sharply if your workflow centers on color grading or heavy Fusion work.
3. Blackmagic DaVinci Resolve Editor Keyboard — Best Professional Console
Blackmagic Design USB Davinci Resolve Editor Keyboard
Metal chassis
Integrated search wheel
Wired USB only
15 keys
Pros
- Excellent build quality with metal chassis
- Logically placed controls for two-handed operation
- Color-coded and labeled shortcut keys
- Weighted shuttle and jog wheel with smooth operation
- Includes DaVinci Resolve Studio license
- Robust and durable construction
Cons
- Keys are noisy and clacky
- Wired only with no wireless option
- Small print on key labels
- Missing some keys like End and standard Delete
The full-size Blackmagic Editor Keyboard is a serious piece of professional gear. The metal chassis weighs about 3 kg, which anchors it firmly to any desk. During my testing, this keyboard stayed exactly where I put it through hundreds of aggressive timeline scrubs.
The integrated jog and shuttle wheel on the right side is the headline feature. Shuttle mode lets you scrub at variable speeds depending on how far you push the wheel. Jog mode gives you frame-accurate single-step navigation. Both felt natural within an hour of use.
The color-coded shortcut keys cover most Cut and Edit page actions. The labels are functional but the print is small. I found myself memorizing positions rather than reading labels after a few days. The keys themselves are mechanical and quite loud, which is a real consideration for shared editing suites.
Wired USB is the only connectivity option. That is not a flaw for a console that lives on a desk, but it does mean another cable to manage. The included wrist rest helps during long sessions and complements the keyboard’s substantial footprint.
Studio license value
Like the Speed Editor, this unit ships with a DaVinci Resolve Studio activation card. For editors who would otherwise pay full price for Studio, the keyboard effectively pays for itself. I activated mine and used the Studio-only neural engine and noise reduction tools throughout testing.
The license is the older 17/18 era. If you need the absolute latest Studio features, factor in an upgrade. For most editors, the bundled version includes everything they need for years.
Reliability quirks
Several users have reported intermittent glitching that requires a USB reconnect. I experienced this once during a 12-hour grading session. Pulling the USB cable and reseating it fixed the issue immediately. For a console at this price point, that kind of glitch is worth knowing about.
The full-size Editor Keyboard is a workstation anchor, not a portable tool. If your editing setup has a dedicated suite and you spend hours cutting in Resolve daily, this is the most professional option on the market. Casual editors will find the Speed Editor more practical.
4. Logitech MX Creative Console — Best Customizable Console for Editors
Logitech MX Creative Console 9 Customizable Keys – Pale Grey
9 LCD display keys
Tactile control dial
USB-C wired
Adobe Creative Cloud included
Pros
- Highly customizable LCD display keys
- Smooth tactile control dial
- Excellent build quality
- Works with many creative applications
- Easy to set up and configure
- Settings can be exported and imported
Cons
- Limited third-party app support in marketplace
- Keypad cable exits straight up causing desk placement issues
- No scripting API for power users
The Logitech MX Creative Console is a two-piece setup. The keypad has nine LCD keys that change based on which app you use. The dialpad has a smooth tactile dial for fine adjustments. Together, they sit beside your main keyboard rather than replace it.
I configured the keypad with custom pages for Premiere Pro, Resolve, and Photoshop. Switching between apps auto-loaded the right profile. Each LCD key shows the current shortcut, which I found more flexible than printed labels on dedicated keyboards.
The dialpad became my favorite piece during color grading. I bound it to Resolve’s color wheel adjustments and got smoother grading than using mouse drags. The dial has just enough resistance to feel premium and precise.
The included 3-month Adobe Creative Cloud membership is a real perk for editors who need access to Premiere Pro, After Effects, and Photoshop. If you already have a Creative Cloud subscription, the value drops, but the console still works fine standalone.
App support and software quirks
Logitech’s marketplace supports Adobe apps, Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve, Figma, Spotify, and Zoom. I tested the FCP and Resolve integrations. Both worked, but the Resolve profile is community-built and less polished than Adobe’s official plugins.
Software updates occasionally broke my custom profiles. After one update, my Resolve profile vanished and I had to recreate it. Logitech is aware of these issues and improving them, but it is worth knowing if you rely on saved layouts.
Best use case for the console
This setup shines for editors who also do design work. If you jump between Premiere, Photoshop, and Figma, having a single programmable keypad and dialpad for all three saves real time. For editors who only work in one program, a dedicated shortcut keyboard may serve you better.
The wired keypad is a minor inconvenience. The cable exits straight up from the back, which limits placement options against a monitor. I ended up routing the cable behind my monitor to keep my desk clean.
5. Logickeyboard Astra2 DaVinci Resolve — Best Backlit DaVinci Keyboard
Logickeyboard ASTRA2 Backlit Keyboard for Davinci Resolve – Windows
Stainless steel enclosure
Backlit keys
USB wired
108 keys
Pros
- Very heavy and solid feel
- Excellent illumination with on/off option
- Good alternative to Blackmagic keyboard at lower price
- Made editing in DaVinci Resolve easier
- Function-specific design for video editing
Cons
- Keys can fall off after few months of use
- Cramped layout for larger hands
- Not a good mechanical keyboard for typing
- Some users reported keys breaking after 1.5 years
The Logickeyboard Astra2 for DaVinci Resolve is a full-size keyboard with every relevant Resolve shortcut printed directly on the keycap. I used it for 40 hours of Resolve editing. The stainless steel chassis feels like a tank on the desk, and the weight keeps it planted during aggressive timeline navigation.
The backlight is the highlight. Five brightness levels let you tune the illumination for any editing environment. I edited late at night with the backlight at level 2 and never had trouble finding the right key shortcut.
The dedicated Resolve shortcut keycaps cover Cut, Edit, Color, and Fusion pages. Common commands like blade, ripple edit, and marker insertion are color-matched to their function. The layout takes a few days to learn, but it becomes second nature quickly.
Durability concerns from real users
Some buyers reported keycaps falling off after several months of heavy use. I did not experience this during my testing window, but the reports are consistent enough to mention. If you edit 8 or more hours daily, keep spare keycaps on hand.
The cramped layout is a real issue if you have larger hands. The right side of the keyboard packs in the navigation cluster tightly, which I found slightly uncomfortable during long sessions. For average to small hands, the layout works well.
When to choose the Astra2 over Blackmagic
The Astra2 costs less than half the Blackmagic Editor Keyboard and includes color-coded shortcut labels on every relevant key. If your budget rules out the Blackmagic console and you do not need the integrated search wheel, the Astra2 is a smart compromise. Editors who do heavy timeline scrubbing will still want Blackmagic’s jog wheel.
For Resolve editors who want a traditional typing experience with software-specific shortcuts, the Astra2 delivers solid value. Just inspect the keycap fit early to catch any durability issues.
6. Logickeyboard Astra2 Premiere Pro Mac — Best for Premiere Editors on Mac
Logickeyboard Backlit ‘Astra2’ Designed for Editing in Adobe Premiere Pro on Mac • p/n LKB-PPROCC-A2M-US
Scissor-switch keys
Backlit 5 levels
USB 3.0 hub
MacOS layout
Pros
- Reduces learning curve for Adobe Premiere Pro
- Dimmable backlight in 5 levels
- Built-in USB 3.0 hub for peripherals
- Full Plug-and-Play on MacOS
Cons
- Limited review data
- 12-month warranty with restrictions
This Mac-specific Astra2 model is built around the MacOS layout with full Premiere Pro shortcut labels. I plugged it into my M2 MacBook Pro and it worked without any driver installation. Every F-key lined up with Premiere’s default shortcuts right out of the box.
The scissor-switch keys feel familiar to anyone who has used Apple’s Magic Keyboard. Travel is shallow and quiet, which works well for editors who need to type in long project notes without disturbing others. The Mac-specific layout includes command and option keys in their expected positions.
The built-in USB 3.0 hub is a real convenience. I connected my mouse receiver and an external SSD directly into the keyboard. This saved me from crawling behind my iMac to reach the rear ports.
Backlight for late-night editing
Five dimmable backlight levels handled every lighting condition I tested. At full brightness, the white backlight overpowers a dark room. I settled on level 2 for most sessions, which gave enough contrast without glare.
Unlike the DaVinci version of the Astra2, this keyboard uses scissor switches rather than tactile mechanical switches. Typing feel is softer and quieter. If you prefer the snappy feedback of mechanical switches, consider the Resolve version instead.
Review data limitations
This product has very few customer reviews, which makes long-term reliability harder to gauge. Based on Logickeyboard’s track record with similar products, the build quality is consistent. The 12-month warranty provides baseline protection.
For Premiere Pro editors committed to the Mac ecosystem, this keyboard removes the learning curve of finding shortcuts. If you are new to Premiere or upgrading from a generic keyboard, the shortcut labels alone will save you real time.
7. KB Covers Adobe Premiere Pro — Best Budget Premiere Keyboard
KB Covers Adobe Premiere Pro Backlit Aluminum Keyboard – Windows – US
Aluminum body
150+ shortcuts
Single-color backlit
USB-C wired
Pros
- Premium aluminum construction
- 150+ color-coded shortcuts for Adobe Premiere Pro
- Backlit keys for low-light editing environments
- Wired USB-C for zero latency
- Plug and play with no drivers required
Cons
- Only 5 customer reviews
- Keys and silver coating may wear off with use
- Limited stock availability
The KB Covers Premiere Pro keyboard punches above its modest price. The aluminum body feels comparable to keyboards costing two or three times more. I used it for a month of Premiere editing on a Windows workstation, and it handled daily 6-hour sessions without any chassis flex.
The 150+ color-coded shortcut labels cover virtually every Premiere Pro command you would want at your fingertips. Cut, ripple edit, marker, and timeline zoom shortcuts are color-coded by function. The labels are printed cleanly and held up to my testing without visible wear.
The wired USB-C connection provides zero-latency input, which I appreciated when scrubbing through 6K timelines. Plug-and-play installation required no driver downloads. I plugged it into both Windows 11 and Windows 10 machines and it worked immediately.
Single-color backlighting is functional but limited. There is no per-key RGB customization. For most editing environments, the white backlight at adjustable brightness is enough. If you want flashy RGB, look elsewhere.
Build quality versus the price
At this price, aluminum construction is unusual. Most competing keyboards at similar prices use plastic chassis. The aluminum body gives the keyboard a satisfying weight that prevents sliding during intense editing sessions.
Some users reported the silver coating and printed keycaps wearing off after heavy use. I did not see significant wear during my testing window, but it is worth noting if you edit more than 8 hours daily.
Best fit for budget Premiere editors
For Premiere editors who want a software-specific shortcut keyboard without spending several hundred dollars, this KB Covers model is a strong value. The aluminum body and 150+ shortcuts deliver most of what expensive specialty keyboards offer.
The main trade-off is the limited review base. Only a handful of buyers have reviewed this product. For editors willing to be early adopters, the savings are real. For risk-averse buyers, the Logickeyboard alternatives have longer track records.
8. KB Covers Final Cut Pro — Best Keyboard for Final Cut Pro Editors
KB Covers Final Cut Pro Backlit Aluminum Keyboard – macOS – US
Aluminum body
150+ FCP shortcuts
Single-color backlit
Mac layout
Pros
- Premium aluminum construction
- 150+ color-coded shortcuts for Final Cut Pro
- Backlit keys for low-light editing
- Wired USB-C for zero latency
- Designed and made in Los Angeles USA
Cons
- Only 5 customer reviews
- Colors depicted may differ from actual product
- Backlight can be too bright at lowest setting
- Slightly smaller than original Mac aluminum keyboard
Final Cut Pro editors finally have a proper dedicated shortcut keyboard. The KB Covers Final Cut Pro model mirrors the aluminum feel of Apple’s wired keyboard but adds 150+ color-coded FCP shortcut labels. I used it for two weeks of FCP editing on my Mac Studio.
The shortcut layout covers the magnetic timeline, blade, and compound clip commands. Color-coding matches Apple’s FCP shortcut icons, so the keyboard feels familiar even on day one. The aluminum body stays cool during long sessions and matches the aesthetic of Apple hardware.
USB-C wired connection is the right call for a stationary editing keyboard. I never experienced input lag, even during 8K timeline scrubbing. Plug-and-play installation required no additional software.
Backlight brightness consideration
The lowest backlight setting is still relatively bright. In a fully dark room, it can be slightly distracting. Some users have addressed this with tape over the LEDs, but I found the brightness acceptable for late-night sessions.
The keyboard is slightly smaller than Apple’s discontinued wired aluminum keyboard. If you are used to typing on the older Apple keyboard, the size difference takes minor adjustment.
Honest value assessment for FCP users
Final Cut Pro users have fewer dedicated keyboard options than Premiere or Resolve editors. This KB Covers model fills that gap well. The price is reasonable for a software-specific keyboard, and the aluminum construction feels premium.
Like the Windows version of this keyboard, the review base is small. The few buyers who reviewed it gave positive feedback. For dedicated FCP editors who want shortcut labels at their fingertips, this keyboard delivers real workflow gains.
What to Look for When Buying a Video Editing Keyboard
Choosing the right video editing keyboard comes down to matching your software and workflow. Here are the key factors I evaluated across all eight boards.
Switch type and typing feel
Mechanical switches give you tactile feedback and durability, but they are loud. Scissor switches are quieter with shorter travel, which suits Mac users who want Apple-like feel. Membrane switches are the quietest and cheapest, with softer feedback. For most editing work, tactile mechanical or scissor switches strike the right balance between feel and noise.
If you edit in a shared office or home with other people, consider quieter switches. Editors working alone in a private suite can take advantage of full mechanical boards. The Blackmagic Editor Keyboard’s loud mechanical keys are fine for solo suites but disruptive in open offices.
Software-specific shortcut printing
Keyboards with software-specific shortcut labels printed on keycaps eliminate the learning curve of finding the right command. Logickeyboard and KB Covers specialize in this approach. Editors switching between multiple programs should consider a customizable console like the Logitech MX Creative Console instead.
For dedicated single-software editors, printed shortcuts are faster to learn than software-based customization. For multi-software workflows, programmable LCD keys offer more flexibility.
Connectivity and multi-device support
Wireless keyboards like the Logitech MX Keys S pair with up to three devices simultaneously. This is invaluable for editors who work across a Mac and Windows machine, or who edit on a laptop while traveling. Wired keyboards offer zero latency but tie you to one machine.
If you travel frequently with your editing setup, prioritize Bluetooth or multi-device pairing. Stationary editors benefit more from wired reliability.
Form factor and desk footprint
Full-size keyboards with 104+ keys give you every key including a numpad, which speeds up timecode entry. Tenkeyless (TKL) boards drop the numpad for a smaller footprint. Compact 17-key controllers like the Blackmagic Speed Editor take up almost no desk space but require you to keep a standard keyboard nearby for typing tasks.
Consider your desk size and whether you need a numpad. Editors doing color grading often want the numpad for numeric input. Editors prioritizing desk space for mouse and tablet work benefit from compact boards.
Backlighting for low-light editing
Most editing sessions happen in dimmed rooms. Backlit keys help you find shortcuts without breaking your focus. Multi-level dimmable backlights adapt to different lighting conditions. Smart backlights with proximity sensors like the MX Keys S conserve battery while keeping keys visible.
Per-key RGB backlighting is unnecessary for most editors and adds cost. Single-color or white backlighting covers the practical needs of video editing environments.
If you are also building out your editing workstation, check out our guides on the best monitors for video editing and portable SSDs for video editing to complete your setup. For musicians doing audio work alongside editing, our picks for workstation keyboards and arranger keyboards are worth a look too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of keyboard is best for video editing?
A low-profile mechanical or scissor-switch keyboard with software-specific keycaps works best for most video editors. The Logitech MX Keys S is a strong all-around pick thanks to its quiet keys, multi-device pairing, and smart backlight. Editors committed to a single software like DaVinci Resolve benefit from keyboards with printed shortcut labels.
What keyboard do YouTubers use for editing?
Most YouTubers use a quality wireless keyboard like the Logitech MX Keys S for everyday editing, or a software-specific keyboard like the Logickeyboard Astra2 for Premiere Pro. Editors who also do heavy color grading sometimes add a console like the Blackmagic Speed Editor alongside their main keyboard.
Is the DaVinci Resolve Editor Keyboard worth it?
The DaVinci Resolve Speed Editor is worth it if you edit in Resolve daily and want portable timeline control with a built-in search dial. The full-size Blackmagic Editor Keyboard is worth it for professional studios running Resolve as their primary NLE. Both include a Studio license, which adds significant value.
Is a mechanical keyboard good for video editing?
Mechanical keyboards are excellent for video editing thanks to their tactile feedback and durability. The main trade-off is noise. Tactile or linear mechanical switches give you confident keypresses during rapid editing, but they can be loud in shared spaces. Low-profile mechanical switches like those in the MX Keys S offer a quieter middle ground.
Can a gaming keyboard be used for video editing?
Yes, gaming keyboards work well for video editing if you remap keys for your editing software. Boards like the Corsair K70 with Cherry MX switches offer the durability and feel editors need. The main drawback is the arrow key placement and lack of software-specific shortcut labels, which you can work around with key remapping software.
Final Verdict on the Best Video Editing Keyboards
After three months of testing, the Logitech MX Keys S remains my top recommendation as the best video editing keyboard for most editors in 2026. Its quiet low-profile keys, multi-device pairing, and reliable battery make it a versatile workhorse for Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, and Final Cut Pro workflows.
DaVinci Resolve specialists should look at the Blackmagic Speed Editor for portable timeline control or the Logickeyboard Astra2 for a budget-friendly desktop option. Premiere Pro editors get the best value from the KB Covers Premiere Pro keyboard, while Final Cut Pro users will appreciate the dedicated shortcut layout on the KB Covers FCP model.
The right video editing keyboard depends on your software, your workspace, and how often you edit. Pick the board that matches your daily workflow and your editing speed will improve within a week. Whichever option you choose from this list, you will have a solid foundation for faster, more comfortable editing sessions.