Special name for keyboards that only have a few keys

keyboardterminology

Background

I am building a custom embedded computer system and need only a few keys to be accessible by the users. I could attach a button board and program that in but was thinking it would be easier to just use and/or mod a 5 key keyboard. I have seen them before but cannot seem to find them online; it could be 6 keys as well preferably in a row.

Research

The closest thing I've found is chorded keyboards which are similar to what I'm looking for but rather expensive.

Question

Does anyone know what you call a keyboard that has only a few keys on it?

Updates

In response to the comments here are some clarifications:

  • My project is a portable bluethooth and FM radio speaker.
  • The embeded system is the Raspberry Pi Zero using the Zero4U to add USB ports.
  • Bluetooth is added with a tiny USB dongle as well as the FM receiver.
  • I need 6 keys preferably, 5 could work, in a row is the best.
  • Something like the Cooler Master DIY Micro Keyboard is what I think I'll do.
  • Googling Micro Keyboard or Macro Programmable Keyboard gives the best results.

I have found some awesome resources and ideas because of your answers. I will add these when I have time in an answer to help everyone else. I will also leave this question open for a bit to encourage more answers. This has become a great resource so please keep adding.

Best Answer

From https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_keyboard :

A keyboard with few keys is called a keypad.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keypad:

A keypad is a set of buttons arranged in a block or "pad" which usually bear digits, symbols and usually a complete set of alphabetical letters. If it mostly contains numbers then it can also be called a numeric keypad.

If you have a few more keys, you could call it a 40%:

40% – Extremely small form factor with only the bare minimal of dedicated keys required to function. No alphanumeric keys, F-row or numpad. Many standard key operations will be hidden under multiple function layers. Some keys will be of a non-standard size.

Or alternatively, you could call it Apple Keyboard 2018.

Example:

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