Backlit Pico RGB Keypad by PIMORONI for Raspberry Pi Pico — compact illuminated keypad

PIMORONI Backlit Pico RGB Keypad is a compact illuminated keypad designed specifically for use with the Raspberry Pi Pico. The module combines tactile mechanical-style keys with individual RGB backlighting to provide visible, customizable key feedback in low-light and compact installations. It connects directly to the Pico and is intended for embedded projects, prototypes, control panels and custom input interfaces where small size and visual signalling are required.

Advantages

The keypad provides per-key RGB illumination for clear visual cues and customizable colour feedback. Its compact footprint reduces space requirements on prototypes and control panels while maintaining a tactile key feel for reliable manual input. Direct compatibility with the Raspberry Pi Pico simplifies wiring and integration into Pico-based projects. The illuminated keys improve usability in dim environments and help to indicate status or mode through colour changes.

Suitable for

• Embedded projects and Pico-based prototypes
• Custom control panels and small operator interfaces
• Retrofits and compact enclosures with limited space
• Interactive installations requiring visual key feedback

Key specifications

• Form factor: compact keypad designed for low-footprint integration
• Key type: tactile mechanical-style switches with clear actuation feedback
• Illumination: individual RGB LEDs per key for multi-colour backlighting
• Interface: designed for direct connection to Raspberry Pi Pico GPIO
• Power: low-voltage operation supplied from the host microcontroller
• Mounting: board-level module suitable for panels or enclosures

How to use

Mount the keypad in your enclosure or on a development board and connect its pins to the Raspberry Pi Pico according to the manufacturer's pinout. Use existing Pico libraries or example code that supports keyboard scanning and RGB LED control to read key presses and set per-key colours. Configure debounce and scanning intervals in software to match your application’s responsiveness requirements. Keep signal and power wiring short to reduce noise and ensure reliable key detection and LED illumination.

Usage recommendations

For reliable operation, run the keypad from the Pico’s regulated 3.3V supply and use library routines that handle key scanning and RGB LED updates. Test lighting levels and colour profiles in the final enclosure to ensure visibility. Where long-term mechanical wear is a concern, consider switch actuation force and expected lifecycle when choosing the keypad for high-frequency input tasks.