10 Best Budget Gaming Keyboards – 2024 Buying Guide

Since we’re a gaming-related website and everyone likes cheap yet”good enough” stuff, today’s article is all about the best budget gaming keyboards. So, following our previous article concerning the finest budget gaming mouse in the universe, let’s see about the second most significant PC peripheral to get a gamer running low on money. Why is a computer keyboard so significant, you asked?

Well, that is an easy one: if you’re serious about gambling, and we bet you are since you’re reading this guide, you must learn that a high quality gaming keyboard will enhance your gameplay and boost your effectiveness, not to mention nice sense of utilizing high end (ok, we’re exaggerating a little ) equipment when doing your favorite thing.

Furthermore, in the event that you previously own a cool gaming rig for which you paid top dollars, or, why notone of these odd gaming keypads, it would make zero sense to utilize a bland office keyboard for your binge gaming sessions or anything in between.

Like most gambling peripherals (the best gaming keyboards comes immediately to mind), the competition for the crown of best gaming keyboard has warmed up significantly in the last few years. Not only are we seeing a swarm of new manufacturers entering the area, present builders are pumping out and an increasing number of decks in a bid to maintain that crucial market share.

While this is terrible news for Logitech and Razer, it’s good news for customers. A rising tide lift all ships, as they say, and the general quality at the top end has improved significantly in gaming keyboards, especially for decks. Prices have largely stabilized and dipped too, so you no longer need to remortgage your home to receive your hands on an excellent board with some premium features.

Where do you start your search for the best budget gaming keyboard? Your first decision is a big one: do you like the clicky, tactile gratification of a few of the best mechanical keyboards, or even you also one of these rare maniacs that loves the softness of an old school membrane deck?

Should you go the (correct, true, and noble) path and land onto a mechanical keyboard, you then will need to consider which switch is for you. Have a peek at Tom and Ansong’s superb guide for a thorough breakdown, but on the surface you’re deciding between loud, clicky, and tactile (Razer Greens, Kailh/Cherry MX Blues), linear and silent (Cherry MX Reds, Razer Yellows), or a hybrid of both (such as Razer Orange switches or Cherry MX Browns). Where mechanical keyboards are concerned it is worth it to do your assignments.

How to Choose the Best Budget Gaming Keyboards

That is the question that drives any respectable gamer: the way to get the most out of your hard-earned bucks? Don’t worry, you’ve landed in the ideal location, and here is TL;DR variant: read the entire article. Joke aside, deciding upon the best budget gaming computer keyboard is relatively simple.

First, you need to determine how much you are going to invest on a gaming keyboard: about $50, under $100, you understand where this is going. Also consider this: it might make zero sense to pay $100 to get a cool keyboard just to play with League of Legends sometimes.

The second thing to contemplate is membrane vs mechanical switches. The more ambitious gaming keyboards are going full-mechanical nowadays, and obviously, more costly. But, you might find older-generation gaming keyboards containing quality mechanical switches for under $100, provided that’s your cup of java.

Broadly speaking, appropriate mechanical switches have a nicer/firmer texture and they are more reliable than membrane variants. Lower end/cheaper gaming keyboards utilize mushy plastic membranes instead of mechanical buttons, but that’s hardly a deal-breaker if you are not a maniac.

As a fun factoid, you have to find out that Germans are God’s chosen engineers, and besides creating the best cars in the world, they’re also supporting the legendary Cherry MX keys, which collectively create for the gold standard in the mechanical-switch industry.

Mechanical switches aside, you’ll have to pick between two chief types of keyboard layout: you will find generic-looking gaming keyboards, all-purpose models of sorts which look like regular office keyboards, and they’re perfect for RTS, FPS, MOBA or any other action/adventure variety.

On the other hand, if you’re into MMO gaming, then you should go to get an MMO-centric keyboard that’s designed with as much as 18 extra-keys to get micro-management fanatics. Nota bene: when the distance in your desk is severely restricted, look for a slim/tenkeyless computer keyboard, you’ll thank us later.

Then, the fancy lightning factor springs to mind, also here you may select between one color, full RGB lighting, and none at all. Truth be told, illumination (or the absence thereof) on a gaming computer keyboard is hardly a deal-breaker in our publication, so don’t sweat it too much in this respect. Last, look for that Gestalt item, i.e. if you previously have a gaming mouse out of, state Logitech, it would make sense to buy a Logitech gaming keyboard to meet your installation, i.e. there is something called software synchronicity or unified gaming applications, and that stands true for large brands like Logitech, SteelSeries or Razer.

1. Logitech G213

 

Our first pick for now comes from Logitech. Even if this keyboard is comparatively affordable, don’t allow the”affordability” to blind you from the truth: the G213 is one of the company’s best sellers and for good reason, since it could be best called”membrane for the masses” with RGB on top.

Even in the event that you wont get these glorified Cherry MX mechanical buttons, this Logitech keyboard is pretty damn’ good, because it comprises Logitech’Mech-Dome’ switches and committed media controls, not to mention the fact that it’s spill-resistant (coffee anyone?) And boasts entirely RGB backlit keys. Another thing we like about the G213 is that it weighs almost two pounds. You know that saying: thick is great, heavy is reliable, if it doesn’t work, you could always hit your opponent with it.

Bottom line, if you are on a tight budget, the Logitech G213 ticks all of the vital boxes also makes for a fantastic gaming keyboard.

• Height: 218 mm
• Width: 452 mm
• Depth: 33 mm
• Weight: 1000 g
• Connection Type: USB 2.0
• USB Protocol: USB 2.0
• USB Speed: Full Speed
• Indicator Lights (LED): Yes
• Backlighting: RGB (5 Zone)
• Cable Length (Power/Charging): 1.8 M

2. HyperX Alloy Core RGB

 

HyperX are famous for crafting kick-ass gaming paraphernalia, and also their budget Alloy Core RGB stands true for this”standard” of types, making for a quiet and comfy, not to mention spill-resistant gaming keyboard. Considering the price-point, it is fairly clear that you won’t acquire high-end mechanical switches, as the Alloy Core RGB retails for about”fiddy bucks” give or take, but nevertheless, you’ll get a lot of bang for your proverbial”dolla” asked.

To make it short and sweet, the HyperX Alloy Core RGB comes with a very simple and clean layout, and it comes with high-quality membrane keys, but truth be told, among its main attributes is being very decorative. Basically, if you are a fashion-conscious gamer on a strict budget, the Alloy Core RGB has got your name on it, and even when it comes to performance, HyperX did not pull any punches with this particular budget gaming keyboard.

The membrane switches perform dubiously well, being exceptionally responsive and accurate, and so far as entry-level gambling keyboards go, this is among the best out there.

• Type: Membrane
• Backlight: RGB (5 Zones Multi-color Customization)
• Light effects: 6 LED modes and 3 brightness levels
• Connection type: USB 2.0
• Polling rate: 1000Hz
• Anti-ghosting: Multi-key anti-ghosting
• Media control: Yes
• Game Mode: Yes
• Spill resistance: tested up to 120ml of liquid
• OS compatibility: Windows® 10, 8.1, 8, 7
• Type: Attached, braided
• Length: 1.8m
• Width: 443.20mm
• Depth: 175.31mm
• Height: 35.68mm
• Weight (Keyboard and cable): 1121g

3. Razer Cynosa Chroma

 

Next in line, we’ve got the Razer Cynosa Chroma, which incidentally makes for the best-selling membrane gaming keyboard in the USA. And that’s one of the reasons for which it created it on our best budget gaming keyboard list.

Now, if you’re wondering why Americans are buying this gizmo in massive numbers, here is a shortlist of reasons: first, it now retails for approximately fifty dollars; yes, we are speaking about a Razer gaming merchandise, which is very wonderful. Next, it comes with individually backlit keys featuring customizable Chroma RGB lighting, together with a spill-resistant layout and programmable macro performance.

Otherwise, check out this: the Razer Cynosa Chroma can execute up to 10 commands simultaneously as it features built in ten-key rollover anti-ghosting. On top of this, the membrane switches support up to 80 million keystrokes, i.e. if strength is important on your book, the Cynosa Chroma has you covered in this regard.

• Brand Name: Razer
• Series: RAZER USA LTD
• Item model number: RZ03-02260200-R3U1
• Hardware Platform: PC
• Operating System: Microsoft Windows
• Item Weight: 2.09 pounds
• Product Dimensions: 18.2 x 6.1 x 1.2 inches
• Item Dimensions L x W x H: 18.24 x 6.07 x 1.22 inches

4. SteelSeries Apex 150 RGB Gaming Keyboard

 

SteelSeries is another big name in the gambling equipment business, and their Apex 150 RGB keyboard is proof of concept, i.e. if you’re looking for a comparatively inexpensive (some may say dirt cheap) gaming computer keyboard with RGB lighting which is splash resistant and provides dedicated media control keys, well, this is it.

Obviously, since we are talking”fiddy dollars land”, you can’t expect mechanical switches and high-end/premium stuff, but the Apex 150 RGB has it where it counts: grade membrane switches with 20 million clicks (ensured, so keep tabs on this ) life-span, good tactile feel, quick reaction times and, very important for shared dormitories, silent operation.

• Material: Plastic
• Anti-ghosting: 24 keys
• Illumination: RGB (five zone)
• Weight: 1.1 kg/ 2.35 lbs
• Dimensions (height/width/depth): 6.1×18.2×1.7 inches
• Cable Length: 5.9 ft (1.8m)
• Switch Type: Membrane (20 million clicks)
• Layout: Standard

5. CORSAIR K55 RGB Gaming Keyboard

 

Next in line we have yet another interesting alternative, now from Corsair, and yes, we’re discussing a trendy looking budget gaming computer keyboard which currently retails for a tad under $50. To describe it in a few phrases, the CORSAIR K55 RGB punches far above its weight (in dollars), i.e. it offers features which are literally sudden considering the cost.

Underneath the hood, you will find 3 RGB lighting zones (there is no per-key lighting this time, for instance reasons), but then again, this innovation is nicely implemented and the colours have a cool glow and figure out how to fill up space quite nicely. Despite being made of vinyl, the K55 does not feel or look cheap, because it is hardy and oozes quality. There is a dedicated button for this, a listing button placed at the top, and using it’s super-easy.

• Brand: Corsair
• Series: K55
• Model: CH-9206015-EU
• Keyboard Backlighting: RG LED Backlit
• Macro Keys: 6 Dedicated G-Keys
• Report Rate: Up to 1ms
• Matrix: Up to 8 Key Rollover
• On-Board Memory: Yes
• Media Kes: Dedicated (Mute, Volume Down/Up, Stop, Prev, Play/Pause, Next)
• Wrist Rest: Full Length Detachable Soft Rubber Wrist Rest
• Win Lock: Yes
• Features: Dynamic Lighting: Three-zone backlighting for immersive lighting effects
• Programmable: 6 Fully programmable macro keys
• Multimedia Controls: Directly access your audio without interrupting your game
• Quiet Keys: minimum noise and satisfying feel
• Multi-key Anti-ghosting: Simultaneous commands register the way you intdended
• Detachable Soft Rubber Wrist Rest: Additional comfort to support marathon gaming sessions
• Windows Key lock Mode: Ensures interruption-free game
• Keyboard Tilt Adjustment: Enable comfort for long play sessions
• Dimensions (LxWxH): 480.2 x 166.3 x 34.6 mm
• Keyboard Size: Standard
• Cable Type: Tangle-Free Rubber
• Keyboard Layout: EU
• Weight: 822g

6. Redragon K556

 

Together with the Redragon K556 we are entering uncharted land, i.e. mechanical switches in a gambling computer keyboard which retails for only a bit more than fifty bucks. It’s difficult to think, but the Redragon K556 managed to make a gaming keyboard featuring so-called mechanical brown switches and a high quality aluminum base, and of course RGB LED backlighting, at an impossibly low price-point. How can they do it? We have no idea, but at least on paper, the Redragon K556 seems awesome.

How about real life? Well, to start with, the keyboard is pretty heavy and well built, and it is backed by an 18-month manufacturer’s guarantee, hence there are no unpleasant surprises in the workmanship department.

The mechanical switches are the equivalent of the Cherry MX Brown, and truth be told, they are surprisingly good. Overall, the K556 is a good gaming keyboard, and offers quite a lot in an incredibly low cost. Our information is: definitely worth trying.

• Keyboard Interface: USB
• Design Style: Gaming
• Normal Keys: 104
• Keyboard Color: Black
• Backlit: Yes
• Mouse Included: No
• Style: Multi-color LED
• Size: Black / Standard

7. Cougar CORE EX Hybrid Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

 

Here we come with a relatively unknown firm that boasts a hybrid gaming keyboard which retails for a lot less than $50. As its name suggeststhe Cougar CORE EX is trying to fill the difference between economical membrane switches and mechanical stuff through what has been pompously advertised as hybrid mechanical switches. What is that, you asked? Well, we do not know, but it sounds just like the missing link or something else.

We’re only kidding, but truth be told, the Cougar CORE EX is an intriguing gaming console, which works surprisingly well in real-life scenarios, which makes for a cheap no-nonsense virtually mechanical keyboard with great functionality, decent gaming performance and impressive manageability. Hell, you get RGB lighting for under $40.

• Brand: COUGAR
• Model: Deathfire-EX
• Keyboard Interface: USB
• Design Style: Gaming
• Mechanical Keyboard: Yes
• Key Switch Type: Hybrid Mechanical
• Keyboard Color: Black
• Backlit: Yes
• Dimensions: 1.69″ x 17.64″ x 5.51″
• Type: Wired
• Mouse Included: Yes
• Mouse Interface: USB
• Mouse DPI: 2000 dpi
• Hand Orientation: Right
• Mouse Grip Style: All
• Tracking Method: Optical
• Scrolling Capability: 1 x Wheel
• Mouse Color: Black
• Operating System Supported:
  Windows 7
  Windows 8
  Windows 10
• Features: Hybrid Mechanical Switch
• Anti-Ghosting Key Technology
• 8 Backlight Effects / 8 Colors Backlight
• WASD & Arrow Keys Exchange
• Key Shortcuts: Non-slip Rubber Stand 2000 dpi Precision Gaming Sensor Technology, On-the-fly DPI, Polling Rate Adjustment
• 1000Hz Polling Rate / 1ms Response Time
• Driver-Free

8. AmazonBasics Mechanical Feel Gaming Keyboard

 

Today’s article wouldn’t have been complete without an in-house made Amazon product, hence in regards: the AmazonBasics Mechanical Feel Gaming Keyboard. As far as motivated marketing goes, this product will surely put a smile on your face, because after all, who can anticipate mechanical alterations in a thirty dollar computer keyboard with AmazonBasics written around it?

We are just being mean, since this gambling keyboard isn’t bad in any way, as it’s built to last and permits you to program custom macros through AmazonBasic’s proprietary gaming software. The switches feel pretty good and offer adequate tactile feedback, being rated at 10 million life cycles. On top of this, the AmazonBasics Mechanical texture boasts its anti-ghosting technology, which lets you press no less than nineteen keys at the same time.

Finally, the cherry on top so to speak, the keyboard includes customizable backlighting, i.e. you can quickly switch between three color profiles, given that’s your thing.

• Name of brand: AmazonBasics
• Item weight: 1.15 pounds
• Dimensions of the item: 18.03*5.58*1 inches
• Color: Black
• Dimensions of product: 18*5.6*1 inches

9. VicTsing OL205040US

 

Finally, we provide you with a different dirt-cheap mechanical computer keyboard. Evidently, VicTsing is a Chinese company that, amazingly enough, managed to hit the planet using a mechanical computer keyboard that retails for a bit over thirty bucks. What do you get for that kind of cash? Well, a gambling keyboard loaded with mechanical switches and crimson retro-illumination.

Now, most of you are already logging and sold in to their Amazon accounts, ready to order. But is it worthwhile? For casual gaming, the VicTsing thing is more than adequate, having responsive keys along with great tactile feedback.

The keyboard also comes with anti-fading/anti-ghosting technologies, which comes useful for avid players, hence if you’re searching for an entry-level and very affordable mechanical computer keyboard, you can’t go wrong with VicTsing.

• Brand Name: VicTsing
• Item model number: OL205040US
• Hardware Platform: PlayStation, PC, Laptop
• Item Weight: 2.2 pounds
• Product Dimensions: 18.7 x 8.1 x 2.4 inches
• Item Dimensions L x W x H: 18.7 x 8.07 x 2.44 inches
• Color: Black

10. Das Keyboard 4 Ultimate

 

The sphere of mechanical keyboards is a huge one, so you would be forgiven for not instantly knowing the’Das’ brand of keyboards. The business launched all the way back in 2005 with a variety of basic-but-effective mechanical keyboards which have grown more and more feature-heavy and desirable over time.

The Das Keyboard 4 Ultimate is really a minimalist keyboard that intends to provide consumers a smooth, pleasing typing experience in a good looking board blissfully free flashy lights and superfluous attachments you’ll discover on several gaming keyboards.

‘Think you’re a professional gamer, huh? Why don’t you PROVE it?!’ That is exactly what the Das Keyboard 4 Ultimate all but yells at you.

The idea behind sterile keyboards such as the Computer Keyboard 4 Ultimate is that you’re so on it with your computer keyboard commands and shortcuts, you don’t have to look to determine where your WASD keys are. You intuitively understand, as your muscle memory and typing accuracy is that good.

Apart from being a computer keyboard for touch typers just, how does the Das Keyboard Ultimate 4 cuisine? There’s no key wobble whatsoever and those buttons practically fire the keys back in you, allowing you to develop a serious head of steam. NKRO support means that should you ever scramble to perform proper important combos during heated matches, the Computer Keyboard 4 Ultimate should help out when you falter.

True to the minimalist, no-nonsense approach, the Das Keyboard Ultimate 4 does not support RGB lighting. Because, of course, if you are a proper gamer, then you’re not interested in these frivolities.

The good news is, as well as this all-black, no letters keyboard, there is also a more pliable Professional edition, which is precisely the same, except for there is all the lettering and indicating you would anticipate. Therefore, if you wanted to buy that instead of the proper, hardcore version, you could. We won’t tell anyone, we guarantee.