Gaming keyboards are an essential component of any gaming setup, offering enhanced responsiveness, durability, and aesthetics compared to regular keyboards. However, high-end gaming keyboards can be expensive, often exceeding $100. Fortunately, there are plenty of budget-friendly options that still deliver impressive performance and features without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a gaming keyboard under $50, you’ll be pleased to know that you don’t have to compromise on quality or functionality.
When shopping for a budget gaming keyboard, there are several factors to consider. The type of switches plays a crucial role in the overall experience. Mechanical switches provide tactile feedback and greater durability, while membrane switches are quieter and more affordable. Additionally, backlighting is an important feature for gamers who play in dimly lit environments. While some budget keyboards come with RGB lighting, others offer single-color LED backlighting. Anti-ghosting and N-key rollover are also key aspects to consider, ensuring that multiple keypresses register accurately without input lag.
Build quality is another vital factor. A sturdy keyboard with durable keycaps will last longer and withstand extensive gaming sessions. Some models also come with extra features like dedicated media controls, programmable keys, or a spill-resistant design, enhancing usability and longevity. The size and layout of the keyboard can also impact comfort and space management, with tenkeyless (TKL) models being a great option for those who need more desk space.
In this guide, we will explore some of the best gaming keyboards under $50, evaluating their features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision. Whether you prefer a mechanical keyboard for precise key response or a quieter membrane keyboard with RGB lighting, we’ve got options that cater to different gaming preferences. Let’s dive into the top-budget gaming keyboards available today.
What to Look for in a Budget Gaming Keyboard
Before diving into our top picks, let’s discuss what makes a good budget gaming keyboard. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Switch Type: Mechanical keyboards offer better feedback and durability, but membrane keyboards can still provide a good experience at a lower cost.
- Backlighting: RGB or single-color backlighting enhances aesthetics and improves visibility in low-light conditions.
- Anti-Ghosting & N-Key Rollover: Ensures accurate key registration when multiple keys are pressed simultaneously.
- Build Quality: A sturdy keyboard with good keycap durability is essential for long-term use.
- Extra Features: Media controls, programmable keys, and wrist rests add to the gaming experience.
Top Gaming Keyboard Under $50
Redragon K671 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Redragon K671 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
This keyboard by Redragon secures 1st position on my list, as it provides some premium features like hot-swappable red switches. The Redragon Mechanical Gaming Keyboard offers a range of features tailored for both gamers and typists, all at an affordable price point.
Equipped with hot-swappable red switches, the keyboard delivers smooth and responsive keystrokes, ideal for rapid key presses in gaming scenarios. The anti-ghosting feature ensures that multiple key presses are registered accurately, preventing input conflicts during complex commands. The double-shot PBT keycaps provide a premium feel and are designed to resist wear, maintaining their texture and appearance over time.
While the keyboard excels in performance, it lacks onboard memory for storing multiple profiles, which might be a consideration for users who switch between different setups frequently.
The keyboard boasts 11 programmable backlit modes, allowing users to personalize their lighting effects to match their gaming environment or aesthetic preferences. However, the accompanying software is noted to be somewhat basic and may not offer the depth of customization found in higher-end models. It features 12 multimedia key shortcuts that allow you to quickly access media/calculator/volume control.
Designed primarily for PC users, the keyboard offers seamless integration with Windows operating systems. While it can function with Mac systems, some features or key functions might not be fully supported, so Mac users should verify compatibility with their specific requirements.
Verdict
The Redragon Mechanical Gaming Keyboard stands out as a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on essential features. Its robust build, responsive switches, and customizable backlighting make it a strong contender for gamers and typists seeking quality without a hefty price tag. Potential buyers should consider the basic software and lack of certain premium features, but overall, it offers excellent value for its cost.
RisoPhy Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
RisoPhy Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Being a runner-up, this keyboard offers some decent specifications for a good gaming experience. The RisoPhy Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a full-sized, 104-key keyboard designed to cater to both gamers and typists seeking a balance of performance and affordability.
This keyboard features an ultra-slim profile with a modern aesthetic, making it suitable for various desktop setups. The construction includes durable materials, ensuring longevity and resilience during extensive use. Additionally, the keyboard is spill-resistant, providing an extra layer of protection against accidental liquid exposure.
Equipped with responsive blue mechanical switches, the RisoPhy keyboard offers tactile feedback with an audible click, enhancing typing accuracy and providing a satisfying user experience. These switches are particularly favored by users who prefer a pronounced keystroke response. The keyboard also supports anti-ghosting, ensuring that multiple key presses are registered accurately, which is essential during intense gaming sessions.
The keyboard boasts RGB LED backlighting with multiple lighting modes, allowing users to customize the visual effects to match their preferences or gaming environment. The brightness and speed of the lighting effects are adjustable, providing a personalized experience.
Designed for versatility, the RisoPhy Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is compatible with various devices, including PCs, Macs, and gaming consoles such as Xbox. It connects via a USB-A interface, ensuring a stable and responsive connection across different platforms.
Verdict
The RisoPhy Mechanical Gaming Keyboard (B09TR4Y91J) offers a compelling package for those seeking a reliable and customizable keyboard without breaking the bank. Its combination of durable construction, tactile blue switches, and versatile compatibility makes it a noteworthy option for both gamers and professionals.
SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming Keyboard
SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming Keyboard
The SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming Keyboard is a budget-friendly option that combines essential gaming features with practical design elements.
Constructed with a durable plastic frame, the Apex 3 offers a robust build quality. Its full-size layout includes 104 keys and a premium magnetic wrist rest that attaches securely, providing ergonomic support during extended gaming sessions. The keyboard is designed with IP32-rated water resistance, offering protection against accidental spills.
The Apex 3 utilizes whisper-quiet rubber dome switches, making it suitable for gamers who prefer a quieter typing experience. However, these switches have a longer pre-travel distance and higher actuation force compared to mechanical switches, which may result in a less responsive feel. Additionally, the keyboard’s latency is higher than average for wired keyboards, which could be a consideration for competitive gamers.
Featuring 10-zone RGB illumination, the Apex 3 allows users to customize lighting effects through the SteelSeries Engine software. While it doesn’t offer per-key lighting customization, the available zones provide ample personalization options to enhance the gaming ambiance.
The keyboard includes dedicated media controls, such as a clickable volume roller and media buttons, enabling easy access to multimedia functions. The magnetic wrist rest offers added comfort, and the water-resistant design adds a layer of durability against accidental spills.
Verdict
the SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming Keyboard offers a solid set of features for its price point, making it a viable option for gamers seeking a quiet and durable keyboard with essential functionalities. However, those requiring high responsiveness and advanced customization may need to consider higher-end models.
KLIM Chroma Wireless Gaming Keyboard
KLIM Chroma Wireless Gaming Keyboard
The KLIM Chroma Wireless Gaming Keyboard offers a blend of functionality and aesthetics, making it a notable choice for both gamers and general users. This keyboard features a sleek design with vibrant RGB backlighting, enhancing any setup with dynamic lighting effects. Its lightweight yet robust construction ensures durability, and the water-resistant feature provides added protection against accidental spills.
Equipped with membrane keys, the KLIM Chroma delivers a near-silent typing experience, suitable for late-night sessions without disturbing others. The keys have a short travel distance, promoting quick and responsive typing. While it boasts a 2ms response time in wired mode, the wireless mode offers an 8ms response time, which may be a consideration for competitive gamers.
The keyboard offers approximately 10 hours of continuous use with backlighting enabled. It features an auto-sleep function to conserve battery life when not in use. The wireless connectivity provides freedom of movement, and the plug-and-play setup ensures ease of use without the need for additional drivers.
The KLIM Chroma is compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, Mac, and Linux. It comes with a 5-year warranty, reflecting the manufacturer’s confidence in its durability. However, some users have noted that the RGB lighting is not customizable, and the keyboard’s lightweight design may feel less sturdy to some.
Verdict
The KLIM Chroma Wireless Gaming Keyboard offers a balance of style and performance at an affordable price point. While it may not meet the demands of hardcore gamers seeking mechanical switches and customizable features, it serves as a reliable and aesthetically pleasing option for general use and casual gaming.
AULA F2088 Typewriter Style Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
AULA F2088 Typewriter Style Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The AULA F2088 Typewriter Style Mechanical Gaming Keyboard combines retro aesthetics with modern functionality, offering a unique experience for both gamers and typists.
This keyboard stands out with its vintage typewriter-inspired round keycaps, providing a distinctive steampunk appearance. The keycaps are double-shot injection molded, ensuring clear backlighting and durability. The aluminum alloy panel adds to its robust build, while the matte-finish texture helps reduce fingerprints and smudges. Additionally, the keyboard includes a removable wristrest for enhanced comfort during extended use.
Equipped with mechanical blue switches, the AULA F2088 delivers tactile feedback with a crisp click sound, making it suitable for both gaming and typing. The anti-ghosting feature ensures that simultaneous keystrokes are registered accurately, which is essential during intense gaming sessions.
The keyboard features customizable RGB backlighting with multiple lighting effects, allowing users to personalize their setup. A dedicated media control knob provides quick access to volume adjustments and lighting modes, adding convenience for users who frequently switch between tasks.
Verdict
the AULA F2088 Typewriter Style Mechanical Gaming Keyboard offers a blend of nostalgic design and modern features at an affordable price point. While it may not cater to everyone’s preferences, especially those seeking a quieter or more compact keyboard, it provides a distinctive and enjoyable experience for users who appreciate its unique style and functionality.
KOORUI Wired Gaming Keyboards
KOORUI Wired Gaming Keyboard
The KOORUI Wired Gaming Keyboard with Red Switches offers a blend of performance and aesthetic features tailored for both gamers and professionals.
This keyboard features a full-size layout with 104 keys, ensuring comprehensive functionality for various applications. The dual-color injection-molded keycaps enhance durability and provide clear, fade-resistant legends. A dedicated volume knob allows for quick and precise audio adjustments, adding to user convenience. The keyboard’s design includes a support stand at the bottom, which can be adjusted to provide a comfortable typing angle, reducing wrist strain during extended use.
Equipped with hot-swappable red mechanical switches, the keyboard delivers a smooth and quiet typing experience, favored by users who prefer linear keypresses without tactile bumps. The hot-swap feature allows for easy customization, enabling users to replace switches without soldering. Full-key anti-ghosting technology ensures that all keystrokes are registered accurately, even during intense gaming sessions where multiple keys are pressed simultaneously.
The KOORUI keyboard boasts 26 RGB backlighting modes, offering a vibrant visual experience. Users can personalize their setup by selecting from various lighting effects and colors, creating an immersive environment that matches their preferences.
Designed for versatility, the keyboard is compatible with multiple operating systems, including Windows, MacOS, and Linux. Its plug-and-play functionality ensures easy setup without the need for additional software or drivers.
Verdict
The KOORUI Wired Gaming Keyboard with Red Switches offers a compelling combination of functionality, customization, and user-friendly features. Its design caters to both gaming enthusiasts and professionals seeking a reliable and versatile keyboard solution.
CHONCHOW Full Size Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
CHONCHOW Full Size Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The CHONCHOW Full-Size Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with Red Switches is designed to enhance the gaming experience with its robust features and user-friendly design.
This keyboard offers a full-size layout with 104 keys, including a numeric keypad, catering to both gaming and professional needs. The RGB backlighting provides vibrant illumination, enhancing visibility in various lighting conditions. The keyboard’s dimensions are 17.05 x 4.96 x 1.46 inches, and it weighs approximately 2.14 pounds, ensuring a sturdy presence on your desk.
Equipped with red mechanical switches, the CHONCHOW keyboard delivers a smooth and responsive typing experience, favored by gamers for its quick actuation and quieter operation compared to other switch types. The anti-ghosting feature ensures that multiple keystrokes are registered accurately, which is crucial during intense gaming sessions.
This wired USB keyboard is compatible with various platforms, including Xbox, PS4, PS5, Mac, PC, and laptops, offering versatility for different gaming setups.
Verdict
the CHONCHOW Full-Size Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with Red Switches offers a range of features suitable for gamers and professionals seeking a reliable and versatile keyboard. Its combination of a full-size layout, RGB backlighting, and responsive switches makes it a noteworthy option in its category.
TECKNET Gaming Keyboard
TECKNET Gaming Keyboard
The TECKNET RGB Gaming Keyboard is a full-sized, wired keyboard designed to enhance both gaming and everyday computing experiences.
Constructed with a robust all-metal panel, this keyboard ensures durability and a premium feel. It features 105 keys, including 12 multimedia keys for quick access to various functions. The wrist rest provides ergonomic support, reducing strain during extended use. Additionally, the keyboard boasts an IP32 rating for water and dust resistance, offering protection against accidental spills.
Equipped with 25 anti-ghosting keys, the TECKNET keyboard ensures that multiple key presses are registered accurately, a crucial feature for intense gaming sessions. The whisper-quiet keys provide a silent typing experience, making it suitable for both gaming and office environments.
The keyboard offers 15-zone RGB illumination with customizable lighting modes, allowing users to personalize their setup to match their preferences. While it doesn’t support per-key RGB customization, the available zones provide ample flexibility for creating an engaging visual experience.
Verdict
the TECKNET RGB Gaming Keyboard offers a solid combination of durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal at an affordable price. It’s well-suited for gamers and professionals seeking a reliable keyboard with essential features and customizable lighting.
Razer Ornata V3 X Gaming Keyboard
Razer Ornata V3 X Gaming Keyboard
The Razer Ornata V3 X Gaming Keyboard is designed to offer a balance between functionality and comfort, catering to both gamers and professionals.
This full-sized keyboard features low-profile keys that provide a sleek appearance and a comfortable typing experience. The inclusion of an ergonomic wrist rest ensures added support during extended use. Additionally, the keyboard is equipped with a spill-resistant design, offering protection against accidental liquid exposure.
The Ornata V3 X utilizes silent membrane switches, delivering a quiet typing experience suitable for shared or quiet environments. However, these switches have a longer pre-travel distance, which may result in a less responsive feel compared to mechanical switches. The keyboard’s latency is adequate for casual gaming but might not meet the responsiveness required for competitive play.
Featuring single-zone Chroma RGB lighting, the keyboard allows users to customize lighting effects through Razer’s Synapse software. While it doesn’t support per-key RGB customization, the available lighting options provide a visually appealing experience.
Verdict
The Razer Ornata V3 X Gaming Keyboard offers a combination of comfort and essential features, making it a viable option for users seeking a reliable keyboard for everyday use and casual gaming. However, those requiring high responsiveness and advanced customization may need to consider other models.
Orzly Gaming Keyboard
Orzly Gaming Keyboard
The Orzly RX-250 Hornet Edition Gaming Keyboard is a versatile and budget-friendly option designed for gamers and professionals alike.
This full-size, 104-key wired membrane keyboard features a robust all-black design. It offers 19-key rollover and anti-ghosting technology, ensuring accurate keystroke registration during intense gaming sessions. The keyboard is compatible with various platforms, including PC, PS4, PS5, laptops, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.
Equipped with rainbow backlit keys, the RX-250 provides three different lighting modes and four brightness levels, allowing users to customize their visual experience. The clear, uniform keycap backlighting enhances visibility in low-light conditions.
The keyboard utilizes fast, responsive, and quiet membrane switches, making it suitable for both gaming and office work. Built-in drainage ports offer protection against accidental spills, enhancing the keyboard’s durability.
Verdict
The Orzly RX-250 Hornet Edition Gaming Keyboard offers a compelling blend of functionality, aesthetics, and affordability. It’s well-suited for gamers and professionals seeking a reliable keyboard with essential features and customizable lighting.
Best Budget Gaming Keyboard Under $50 – Buying Guide
Gaming keyboards can make a significant difference in your gaming performance, offering faster response times, customizable lighting, and macro keys. However, high-end gaming keyboards can be expensive. If you’re on a budget, don’t worry—you can still find a quality gaming keyboard under $50. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before making your purchase, including key features, types of switches, connectivity, and the best models available within your budget.
Why Choose a Gaming Keyboard Under $50?
You might think that a gaming keyboard under $50 would lack quality or essential features, but many affordable options deliver excellent performance. Here are some reasons to consider a budget gaming keyboard:
- Cost-Effective: Affordable without compromising on essential gaming features.
- Decent Build Quality: Many budget keyboards offer durable plastic or metal frames.
- Customizable RGB Lighting: Even budget keyboards now offer customizable lighting effects.
- Anti-Ghosting and N-Key Rollover: Essential for gaming precision and key registration.
- Membrane and Mechanical Options: Depending on your preference, you can find both types within this price range.
Key Features to Consider in a Budget Gaming Keyboard
1. Keyboard Switch Type: Membrane vs. Mechanical
One of the most crucial aspects of a gaming keyboard is the switch type. Here’s what you need to know:
Membrane Switches
- Use a rubber dome under the keys.
- Quieter but slightly less responsive.
- More affordable and commonly found in budget keyboards.
- Suitable for casual and beginner gamers.
Mechanical Switches
- Uses individual mechanical switches under each key.
- Offers better tactile feedback and faster response times.
- Usually more durable (50+ million keystrokes lifespan).
- Some budget gaming keyboards feature “mechanical-feel” or hybrid switches.
2. Backlighting & RGB Customization
RGB lighting is not just about aesthetics; it can also improve visibility in low-light environments. Budget gaming keyboards may offer:
- Single-Color Backlighting: Fixed lighting in one color.
- RGB Zones: Some areas of the keyboard can be customized with different colors.
- Per-Key RGB Customization (Rare in this price range but possible with some brands).
3. Anti-Ghosting & N-Key Rollover
These features prevent key presses from “ghosting” (not registering when multiple keys are pressed simultaneously). Look for:
- 6-Key Rollover (Good for most budget keyboards).
- Full N-Key Rollover (Rare in this range but ideal for fast-paced gaming).
4. Build Quality & Durability
A sturdy build ensures longevity. Keyboards in this price range typically offer:
- Plastic Frames: Durable and lightweight.
- Metal Top Plates: Adds extra durability.
- Water-Resistant Designs: Helps protect against accidental spills.
5. Connectivity Options: Wired vs. Wireless
While wireless gaming keyboards exist under $50, wired options offer better latency and are preferred for gaming.
- Wired Keyboards: More reliable, no input lag.
- Wireless Keyboards: Convenient but may introduce latency issues.
6. Extra Features & Customization
- Dedicated Media Controls: Allow you to adjust volume and playback easily.
- Programmable Macros: Useful for MMO and strategy games.
- Software Support: Enables customization of lighting and macros.
Conclusion
Finding a great gaming keyboard under $50 is possible if you know what to look for. Whether you prefer mechanical or membrane, RGB lighting, or macro features, there are plenty of solid options available. By considering factors like switch type, build quality, and anti-ghosting capabilities, you can find a budget-friendly keyboard that enhances your gaming experience. Happy gaming!
