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MinimalPad Studio comes in two versions. They configure the same pad and write to the same place — the pad’s own memory — so a key you set in one shows up in the other.

Studio for Mac

macOS 14 or later. A native app that finds your pad on its own, saves as you work, and switches the pad’s keys to match the app in front of you.

Studio for browser

Windows, Linux, and macOS. Runs in Chrome or Edge with nothing to install.

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The short answer

  • On a Mac? Use Studio for Mac. It does everything the browser version does and adds app profiles, which is the feature most people buy the pad for. It also has keys that open an app, and shortcut libraries for 31 apps.
  • On Windows or Linux? Use Studio for browser. It’s the full configurator, and it’s the only option on those systems.
  • Setting up someone else’s computer, or just want a quick change? The browser version needs no install, so it’s handy anywhere.

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Side by side

App profiles need MinimalPad firmware 0.3.0 or newer, Open app keys 0.5.0 or newer, and changing the dial 0.6.0 or newer. Studio for Mac carries the current firmware and can install it for you — see Updates.

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Can I use both?

Yes, but not at the same moment. Only one app can hold the pad’s USB connection, so quit or disconnect one before you connect the other. If Studio for Mac says the port is busy, close the browser tab that has the pad connected. Both write to the same pad, so there’s nothing to sync or export. Changes you make in the browser appear in the Mac app the next time it reads the pad, and the other way round.
If you rename a layer in the browser version while Studio for Mac has a profile on it, Studio for Mac flags that profile as needing repair. It tells you what to fix — see Layers.

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What neither can change

Firmware macros — sequences of keys with delays — and behaviours your firmware wasn’t built with need a rebuild and reflash. See Advanced customization.