Looking for a quick way to remember essential keyboard shortcuts? These mouse pads combine functionality with learning, featuring printed shortcuts for popular software right where you need them. Here are the best shortcut reference mouse pads available:
1. Excel Master Pad by KeyDeck
This mouse pad is a spreadsheet wizard’s best friend, featuring over 100 essential Excel shortcuts organized by category. The shortcuts are printed in a clean, easy-to-read format against a white background.
Highlights:
- Color-coded sections for formulas, navigation, and formatting
- Includes both Windows and Mac shortcuts
- Premium cloth material with non-slip base
- Water-resistant coating
- Size: 12″ x 16″ (larger format for better readability)
2. Adobe Creative Suite Pad
Perfect for designers, this pad includes shortcuts for Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign in a three-section layout.
Highlights:
- Tool-specific shortcuts clearly organized
- High-contrast dark theme design
- Smooth surface optimized for graphic work
- Stitched edges for durability
- Size: 14″ x 10″
3. ProTools & Ableton Live Production Pad
Ideal for music producers and audio engineers, featuring shortcuts for both ProTools and Ableton Live.
Highlights:
- Dual-sided design (ProTools on one side, Ableton on the other)
- Includes mixing and editing shortcuts
- Large size for studio desks
- Oil-resistant surface
- Size: 15″ x 17″
4. Visual Studio Code Developer Pad
A comprehensive reference for developers using VS Code, including debugging and Git commands.
Highlights:
- Organized by function type
- Includes terminal commands
- Anti-fatigue thick padding
- Heat-transfer printed shortcuts
- Size: 11″ x 13″
5. Final Cut Pro Editor’s Pad
Specifically designed for video editors using Final Cut Pro, with timeline and tool shortcuts.
Highlights:
- Timeline operation shortcuts
- Effect and transition commands
- Premium microfiber surface
- Ergonomic thickness
- Size: 13″ x 15″
6. DaVinci Resolve Color Grading Pad
Focused on color grading and editing shortcuts for DaVinci Resolve users.
Highlights:
- Node-based workflow shortcuts
- Color wheel quick commands
- Professional black design
- Waterproof coating
- Size: 12″ x 14″
7. Blender 3D Artist Pad
Essential shortcuts for 3D modeling and animation in Blender.
Highlights:
- Modeling and sculpting shortcuts
- Animation timeline commands
- Extra thick padding for comfort
- Durable stitched edges
- Size: 13″ x 13″
8. Microsoft Office Suite Pad
Covers shortcuts for Word, Excel, and PowerPoint on a single pad.
Highlights:
- Most-used shortcuts for all three programs
- Clean, professional design
- Non-slip rubber base
- Machine washable
- Size: 12″ x 15″
9. Logic Pro Music Production Pad
Comprehensive shortcuts for Logic Pro X users.
Highlights:
- MIDI editing shortcuts
- Mixing console commands
- Premium cloth surface
- Oil-resistant coating
- Size: 14″ x 16″
10. Universal macOS Commands Pad
General macOS shortcuts that work across multiple applications.
Highlights:
- System-wide shortcuts
- Finder commands
- Minimal design aesthetic
- Premium materials
- Size: 11″ x 14″
Choosing the Right Shortcut Pad
When selecting a shortcut reference mouse pad, consider:
- Software specificity: Choose a pad that matches your most-used programs
- Size: Ensure it fits your workspace while remaining readable
- Material quality: Look for durable materials that won’t wear off with use
- Design clarity: Make sure the shortcuts are easily readable while working
- Thickness: Consider whether you prefer a thinner or thicker pad
Most of these pads range from $15-30 and can significantly reduce the time spent looking up commands. They’re particularly valuable for beginners learning new software or professionals switching between multiple programs regularly.