YUNZII has introduced the AL21 Wireless Aluminium Mechanical Numpad, giving compact keyboard users a dedicated number pad without requiring them to move to a full-size layout. Priced at $49.99, the AL21 combines a CNC-machined aluminium case, tri-mode wireless connectivity, hot-swappable switches, programmable controls, and RGB lighting in a compact 20% layout.
Separate mechanical numpads have become increasingly useful for users who prefer 60%, 65%, 75%, or TKL keyboards but still need quick access to dedicated number keys. Rather than keeping the numpad permanently attached to the main keyboard, the AL21 can be positioned independently, allowing users to adjust their desk layout based on work, gaming, or other tasks.
The YUNZII AL21 supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless, and wired USB connectivity. The numpad can connect with up to five devices, allowing users to switch between a PC, laptop, tablet, or smartphone without reconnecting the device each time. Power comes from a 1,500mAh battery, which YUNZII says can provide approximately 90 hours of use with the RGB lighting turned off. With the backlight enabled, battery life is rated at around 10 hours. Charging takes approximately three to four hours. The AL21 also supports full N-Key Rollover, ensuring that multiple simultaneous key presses can be registered.
The compact 20% layout keeps the AL21 small enough to fit alongside a compact keyboard while retaining the core functionality expected from a dedicated numpad. Its CNC-machined aluminium case uses a sandblasted finish with an oil-free coating, giving the accessory a more premium construction than many conventional plastic number pads.
YUNZII has also included a multifunction control knob. Users can rotate it to adjust system volume or RGB brightness, while the knob can also function as an ESC key. This adds another layer of control without increasing the physical size of the numpad. The numpad supports both 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches through its hot-swappable sockets, allowing users to change switches without soldering. This means owners can choose different linear or tactile switches depending on their preferred typing feel and sound.
Internally, the AL21 uses a gasket-mounted structure combined with multiple layers of sound-dampening foam. The design is intended to reduce vibrations and internal resonance while providing a softer keypress compared with a more rigid mounting system. The AL21 also supports browser-based customization through YUNZII’s web driver. Users can remap individual keys, record and assign macros, customize RGB lighting, and configure different functions for productivity software, games, or other applications. The RGB system includes nearly 20 preset lighting effects, along with options for creating personalized effects.
For productivity users, the programmable keys can be assigned to spreadsheet shortcuts, calculations, and frequently used commands. Gamers can use the additional keys for macros or in-game functions, while keeping the main keyboard and mouse positioned independently. The separate layout may also appeal to users looking to create a more flexible desk setup without adding a larger full-size keyboard.
The YUNZII AL21 also features PBT keycaps, which are designed to offer better resistance to wear than standard ABS keycaps. Combined with customizable RGB lighting and multiple color options, users can match the numpad with an existing mechanical keyboard or build a separate color theme around their desk setup.
- Compact 20% mechanical numpad layout
- CNC-machined aluminium case
- Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless, and wired USB connectivity
- Support for connecting up to five devices
- 1,500mAh battery
- Up to 90 hours of use with RGB disabled
- Approximately 10 hours of use with RGB enabled
- Hot-swappable support for 3-pin and 5-pin switches
- Gasket-mounted internal structure
- Multiple layers of sound-dampening foam
- Multifunction knob for volume, RGB brightness, and ESC control
- PBT keycaps
- Full N-Key Rollover support
- Browser-based key remapping and macro programming
- Nearly 20 preset RGB lighting effects
- Price: $49.99
At $49.99, the YUNZII AL21 enters the mechanical numpad market with a feature set more commonly associated with compact custom keyboards. Tri-mode connectivity, a CNC aluminium chassis, hot-swappable switch support, gasket mounting, programmable keys, and RGB controls give the AL21 a broader role than basic number input. For users who want to keep a compact keyboard while adding a separate set of customizable keys, the AL21 offers a flexible alternative.
