Newbie to CAD/FreeCAD - productivity tools - macropad for control?

Hi there, I just downloaded FreeCAD. Zero CAD experience, trying to just familiarize myself with controls/tools and I've opened one of the example part design templates.

To start I feel like it would be useful if I could use something like a macropad to handle the directional/rotation control of the model. I have a macropad, 9 assignable keys and rotary knob. The keys have multple layers (3 maybe 4) and the rotary knob has 2 with a click to toggle

I'm wondering if this is something that folks use/find useful and if any tips for macropad setup? For normal computer usage I've been trying to move away fr my mouse and I'm more keyboard focused, but I do still have those as options (trackball mouse, normal mouse). The keyboard I use now has a built in pointer stick with mouse buttons as well.

Just familiarizing myself with the program and basics, and initially i just feel like my movement/rotation of the model could be made a lot more efficient.

For context I'm on Linux (Arch) and I've some interest in creating some designs for a mechanical keyboard case idea that I had. I've got access to a 3d printer but could potentially have something machined

Appreciate any tips, thank you in advance!