A recording head is disclosed that includes electrical pads on multiple surfaces. The recording head includes a substrate portion abutting a deposited portion. The deposited portion includes an air bearing surface (ABS) (or bottom surface), an end surface, and at least one other surface. The end surface is the surface traditionally used by head designers for electrical pads. In accord with the invention, one or more electrical pads are included on the other surfaces of the deposited portion (i.e., a surface other than the end surface). Electrical pads may also be included on the end surface.