This is my custom 9-key macropad project.
I designed the PCB in KiCad, created a simple case in Fusion 360 ,,
and wrote the firmware using KMK on a Seeed XIAO RP2040..

Even though this is my first time doing PCB and CAD together, I wanted some background lighting so I added RGB on the back of the pcb.

Here is a visual overview of all the parts I used:

I wanted shortcuts that I use constantly, either for coding or just daily use. Here’s the logic behind each row::

1. Volume Down – quick sound adjustment
2. Mute – useful during calls or when someone walks in
3. Volume Up – because everything is too quiet sometimes

These three are simple, universal, and felt right as the “top bar.”

4. Open Terminal – I open terminal windows constantly
5. Open YouTube – background videos/music while I work
6. Open VS Code – my main coding environment

These shortcuts save me a ton of time. Instead of searching or alt-tabbing, I can just tap a key..

7. Screenshot – I take screenshots very often (errors, memes, notes)
8. VS Code Terminal Toggle – I switch terminals repeatedly while coding
9. Open KiCad – since I'm always tweaking my PCB design, having this shortcut made sense

I chose shortcuts based on what I genuinely use dozens of times a day.
This macropad ended up improving my workflow more than I expected..