Compatible Keyboards

ST Hotkey Trader™ is designed to work with a wide range of hardware keyboards and input devices that are recognized by Windows. This flexibility allows users to choose a device that matches their workflow, desk setup, and execution preferences — whether for high-frequency trading, spread trading, or discretionary market execution.

Standard USB and Bluetooth Keyboards

In principle, the application does not require any custom hardware and is compatible with all standard USB and Bluetooth keyboards supported by Windows. Traders can assign specific trading commands to individual keys or key combinations using the configuration interface within the Sender application.

However, most users prefer using programmable macro keyboards for more efficient control and fewer input errors. These devices allow for physical labeling, dedicated layout configurations, and easier muscle memory development. ST Hotkey Trader™ works seamlessly with such devices, provided they are recognized as standard input devices in Windows.

X-keys® Devices

ST Hotkey Trader™ is fully compatible with X-keys® keyboards from P.I. Engineering, including the XK-24, XK-60, XK-80, XK-96, and XK-128 models. These programmable macro keypads are widely used by professional traders for their durability, tactile feedback, and customizable key layout. X-keys® devices function as regular keyboards and integrate directly with the Sender application without additional drivers or middleware. A variety of hardware keys (for example 2x1 format or 4x4 format) can be purchased and the hardware keyboards can be customized by the user. Keyboard label files are provided so the user can either print ready-made labels or make his his own.  

Each model allows for physical key labeling and can be tailored to specific trading workflows. We provide pre-built configuration files for all three models, making it easy to get started with a ready-to-use layout or adapt it to your own strategy.

Device Compatibility

ST Hotkey Trader™ recommends and provides support only for the X-Keys® hardware series by P.I. Engineering. These programmable keypads provide reliable and consistent input through standard Windows keystrokes and are recommended for optimal performance and long-term use.

Although the software may function with other macro-capable input devices—such as the Elgato Stream Deck, gaming keyboards, or HID-compatible foot pedals—these are not officially supported. Users choosing to work with unsupported hardware do so at their own discretion and should ensure the device can send standard keystrokes directly to the Windows system.

X-Keys® devices come with free configuration software called MacroWorks, which allows users to program each key according to their specific trading requirements. This software provides a flexible interface for assigning keystrokes, commands, or macros to any key on the device. We offer technical support for all configurations involving X-Keys® and are happy to assist users in setting up their layouts for optimal performance with ST Hotkey Trader™.

The following X-Keys® hardware models are commonly used with ST Hotkey Trader™. Each device is programmable using MacroWorks software and varies in size and key count to suit different trading setups:

The following X-Keys® hardware models are commonly used with ST Hotkey Trader™. Each device is programmable using MacroWorks software and varies in size and key count to suit different trading setups:

Recommendations

Although ST Hotkey Trader™ can technically work with any device capable of sending standard keystrokes, we only provide official support for setups using X-Keys® hardware by P.I. Engineering. These devices are well-suited to trading environments that demand speed, accuracy, and reliability. X-Keys® keyboards allow for clear visual labeling, physical separation of command groups, and fully customized layouts — features that help reduce input errors and support consistent execution under live trading conditions.

Please note: We do not sell hardware keyboards. Devices such as the X-Keys® series can be purchased directly from P.I. Engineering or one of their authorized global distributors. However, we provide ready-made configuration files and key cap label files ready for printing to help users get started quickly, typically within minutes. Our technical support team is also available to assist with customizing individual setups to meet specific trading requirements.

Examples