8 Best Budget Gaming Keyboards 2023
Gaming keyboards are a lot different from the normal keyboards that we usually use in our homes and offices. For those of you who love gaming, you will find these keyboards extremely helpful for yourself.
There are so many advantages of having a gaming keyboard. First of all, It features those amazing RGB lights which give a splendid look to the keyboard. It will help you in adding beauty to your gaming room which makes the gaming even more fun. Apart from a charming look, these keyboards have comfortable styles and mostly having different mechanics which makes the gaming more easy and fun.
However, buying a keyboard within a specific price range can be an overwhelming task, especially if the budget of the buyer is low. Though you shouldn’t worry at all because we did some research and found some good keyboards for you.
Quick Look at Cheap/Budget Gaming Keyboards
Cheap Keyboards Under $50
Budget Keyboards $50 – $100
CORSAIR K55 RGB PRO
The Corsair K55 RGB PRO is a competent entry-level gaming keyboard that offers decent features at a budget-friendly price. While the build quality of the keyboard is only adequate, it has good ergonomics with a detachable wrist rest and one incline setting.
The build quality of the Corsair K55 RGB PRO is passable. The body and backplate are made of plastic and are quite flexible, while the glossy plastic finish on the top of the board is prone to showing fingerprints and scratches. The laser-etched ABS keycaps feel somewhat cheap and can become shiny from finger oil, with a slightly slippery texture.
However, users with larger hands may find the wrist rest too short. The rubber dome switches provide average typing quality, and the keys have a noticeable wobble while typing.
The keyboard has dedicated media and macro keys, and the companion software offers plenty of customization options. The iCUE software allows users to assign key bindings, set macros, adjust lighting, and change the polling rate.
It also has a feature to save settings to onboard memory and use them on computers that don’t have the software installed.
The backlighting of the keyboard is a bit of a letdown as it lacks individually-lit keys and only has five lighting zones. The white light has noticeable blue hues. Nonetheless, the keyboard has very low latency that offers a responsive feeling experience, even for competitive gamers.
Corsair’s iCUE software offers a wide range of customization options, allowing users to assign key bindings, set macros, adjust lighting, and change the polling rate. The polling rate can be set to 125Hz, 250Hz, 500Hz, or 1000Hz, and settings can be saved to onboard memory for use on computers without the software installed.
In conclusion, the Corsair K55 RGB PRO is an excellent choice for those looking for a budget-friendly keyboard with gaming features. Its low latency and companion software make it a great pick for gamers who don’t want to spend a lot of money on a keyboard.
SteelSeries Apex 3
The SteelSeries Apex 3 is a great gaming keyboard for those on a budget. Its build quality is impressive despite its low price tag, and it even comes with a magnetic wrist rest for added comfort during long gaming sessions.
The build quality of the SteelSeries Apex 3 keyboard is impressive, considering its budget price. It has a fully plastic frame that has a slight amount of flexibility, and the keycaps are made of ABS plastic with a soft finish.
While the overall build quality isn’t as good as other keyboards in the Apex lineup, the keyboard is advertised as being water and dust resistant with an IP32 rating.
Although it uses rubber dome switches, its typing experience is still pleasant and not tiring, although some users may find the keys mushy and lacking tactile feedback.
Unfortunately, the keyboard’s latency is slightly higher than other wired keyboards, and its rubber dome switches have a long pre-travel distance, resulting in less responsiveness.
As a membrane keyboard, it may not be as responsive as mechanical gaming keyboards due to its longer pre-travel distance. Nonetheless, its typing experience is better than comparable keyboards like the Razer Cynosa Chroma.
The RGB backlight is zone-lit, and while it isn’t as customizable as individual key backlighting, there are still many options available through the SteelSeries Engine software.
The SteelSeries Apex 3 has dedicated media controls and hotkeys for easy customization of the backlight and macros. The SteelSeries Engine software is user-friendly and allows for customizations, but the lack of onboard memory can make it challenging to switch between devices.
Overall, the SteelSeries Apex 3 is an excellent option for those seeking a budget-friendly gaming keyboard with an excellent typing experience, media controls, and easy customization options.
However, those who prioritize responsiveness and individual key backlighting may want to consider other options.
Also Read: Keyboards with Programmable Macro keys
Also Read: Corsair K65 RGB MINI Review
Also Read: Best 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboards
Redragon K552 Mechanical
The Redragon K552 KUMARA RGB is a mechanical gaming keyboard that offers a solid performance at an affordable price. It features Outema Blue switches that provide a satisfying clicky and tactile feedback, which is excellent for typing and gaming.
The keyboard’s TenKeyLess design makes it compact and portable, with a simple and functional layout that is easy to use.
One of the standout features of the Redragon K552 KUMARA is its impressive build quality. Despite its low price, the keyboard has a sturdy and durable construction, with a mix of hard plastic and metal that feels heavy and robust.
The keycaps are doubleshot ABS, and the keys are stable and responsive, with no signs of flex. However, the spacebar has a slight wobble, which may be a minor issue for some users.
In terms of ergonomics, the Redragon K552 KUMARA has one incline setting and a fairly tall profile, which may require a wrist rest for optimal comfort. However, it doesn’t come with one, so you’ll need to purchase it separately.
The keyboard’s TenKeyLess design also means that you’ll have more space on your desk for other gaming accessories.
The Redragon K552 KUMARA features full RGB backlighting, which is a great feature for gaming in dark rooms. However, there is no official software support, so customization is done on the keyboard itself. You can cycle through 18 lighting effects and set individual key colors, but the color mixing is poor, which means there’s a fair amount of color bleed between keys.
This may not be an issue for some users, but if you’re looking for more precise RGB lighting control, you may want to consider a keyboard with companion software.
Unfortunately, the Redragon K552 KUMARA is pretty barebones when it comes to extra features. It lacks certain features common with more premium mechanical keyboards, such as companion software that allows you to program keys, set macros, and more precisely adjust RGB lighting settings.
However, given its budget price, it’s still a good option for those looking for a basic mechanical keyboard with admirable performance.
In conclusion, the Redragon K552 KUMARA RGB is a good entry-level mechanical gaming keyboard that offers excellent build quality, impressive RGB lighting, and satisfying clicky tactile switches at an affordable price.
It may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive gaming keyboards, but it provides a solid performance that is perfect for gamers on a budget.
Check out these gaming desks with keyboard tray.
HyperX Alloy HX-KB5ME2-US Core RGB Membrane
The HyperX Alloy Core RGB has some limitations and compromises that make it unsuitable for certain users. One major drawback is its rubber dome switches, which have a high pre-travel distance and can feel unresponsive compared to mechanical switches.
This can make it challenging to type quickly and accurately in fast-paced games. Additionally, the keyboard doesn’t have any dedicated macro keys, which can be a deal-breaker for MMO gamers who require a high degree of customization.
Another limitation of the HyperX Alloy Core RGB is its lack of software support and onboard memory. This means that users can’t save profiles or customize the keyboard’s settings beyond the basic RGB backlighting presets.
While the keyboard’s backlighting is great for gaming in a dark room, the customization options are limited to preset colors and effects, which may not be enough for some users.
On the other hand, the HyperX Alloy Core RGB does have some strengths that may appeal to certain users. Its quiet typing noise makes it suitable for noise-sensitive work environments, and its compatibility with most desktop operating systems makes it a practical choice for office work.
Additionally, the keyboard has a full row of dedicated media keys at the top, which can be convenient for controlling music or video playback.
Despite these strengths, the HyperX Alloy Core RGB may not be the best option for serious gamers or users who value more customization options and better build quality. The market offers plenty of other options for gaming keyboards with mechanical switches, programmable keys, and dedicated software for customization.
For example, the Corsair K55 RGB is a similar keyboard that offers dedicated software for customization and onboard memory for saving profiles. The SteelSeries Apex 3 is another option that offers better build quality and tactile hybrid mechanical switches.
In conclusion, if you are looking for the cheapest option then the HyperX Alloy Core RGB can be a good choice with some limitations and compromises. It may suit certain users’ needs, but it’s not the best option for everyone.
| Key Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Dimension | 17.40 x 6.90 x 1.40 inches |
| Interface | Wired |
| RGB | RGB radiant lighting |
| Switches | Membrane Keyboard |
Cooler Master CK552
Cooler Master’s CK552 keyboard has been designed with an aesthetic that is both simple and stylish. The minimalist rectangular shape, with the left and right edges sloped slightly outward, gives it a timeless, stripped-down style that is sure to impress.
The brushed metal backplate also adds to its premium look, and the simple sans-serif typeface used on the keys complements the overall design. With its RGB lighting, the CK552 can easily fit in at the office or home and would look great in either environment.
The CK552 is an entry-level keyboard that punches above its weight in terms of design and appearance, and it is perfect for those who want a stylish and high-end keyboard without breaking the bank.
While the CK552 is an entry-level keyboard, it does lack some of the frills that are present on more expensive keyboards. For instance, there is no wrist rest included, but Cooler Master sent the WR530, a large rubber wrist rest that pairs fine with the CK552, as a separate item.
This means that the CK552 is not quite as budget-friendly as it first appears. Additionally, the CK552’s cable is thin and fragile-feeling, which is perhaps the biggest drawback. The keyboard does not feature detachable cables, and the rubber cable feels like it may not hold up to much abuse.
One of the main benefits of the CK552 is its ability to offer a lot of control without the need for software. The keyboard has many secondary and tertiary commands that allow users to adjust lighting, effects, macro recording, key remapping, and profile management.
This is a fantastic feature for those who are tired of every peripheral being tied to a software utility. However, the bevy of secondary commands does leave the CK552 looking a bit cluttered. The CK552’s backlighting is vibrant, with excellent color accuracy.
The Cherry MX-style backlighting features a single RGB LED placed at the top of each key and refracted through a translucent switch chassis.
Overall, the Cooler Master CK552 keyboard is an excellent budget keyboard that offers a lot of value for its price. It has a premium look and feel and offers a lot of control without the need for software.
While it does have some drawbacks such as the lack of a wrist rest and a fragile-feeling cable, these are minor issues in the grand scheme of things. If you are looking for a high-end keyboard without breaking the bank, the Cooler Master CK552 keyboard is definitely worth considering.
Logitech G613 LIGHTSPEED
The Logitech G613 wireless gaming keyboard is a solid choice for gamers who want a wireless keyboard with good performance. The keyboard uses Logitech’s proprietary Romer-G tactile mechanical switches, which have a short pre-travel distance and a low actuation force.
This makes the keyboard feel responsive and good for gaming. However, some users might find the switches a bit mushy and lacking in tactile feedback, which could affect typing performance if you tend to make typos.
The keyboard’s wireless design is a major selling point, as it allows for a clutter-free desktop setup. You can use it either with the included USB receiver or via Bluetooth, which offers flexibility in terms of device compatibility. However, keep in mind that the keyboard operates on disposable batteries, so you’ll need to keep extras on hand.
One downside of the Logitech G613 is that it lacks backlighting, which can be problematic if you play games in low-light conditions. The keyboard also has a non-removable wrist rest, which some users might find comfortable, but others might find too bulky or restrictive.
The Logitech G613 does come with some useful features, such as dedicated media keys and a column of programmable macro keys, which are great for MMO players. It also has a window-lock mode to prevent accidental minimizing during gameplay, and you can switch between connected devices with the push of a button.
Overall, the Logitech G613 is a solid wireless gaming keyboard with good performance and useful features. However, the lack of backlighting and the non-removable wrist rest might be drawbacks for some users.
Logitech G413 Backlit
The Logitech G413 is a mechanical keyboard that comes with tactile Romer-G switches, which provide a smooth bump and a good overall typing experience. However, it has a limited color scheme and only offers red backlighting, which could be a downside for some users who prefer a full RGB lighting setup.
That being said, the keyboard is fairly well-built and compatible with the G HUB software that allows users to customize settings such as macros on function keys.
While the Logitech G413 is a good mechanical keyboard, it does lack certain features that are commonly found on higher-end keyboards. For instance, it doesn’t have a wider variety of available key switches, nor does it offer full RGB lighting.
The build quality of the Logitech G413 is similar to that of the Logitech G512 Special Edition, with a plastic frame and a brushed aluminum plate on top. It feels solid and has very little flex, but the incline feet can feel a bit loose.
The keys also tend to wobble slightly, although this is not usually noticeable while typing. Unfortunately, the doubleshot ABS keycaps can feel a bit cheap and wear out quickly with regular use. Some of the keys may even seem slightly crooked and not properly aligned.
On the positive side, the Logitech G413 has a great red backlight. All the keys are individually lit, and you can choose from a variety of effects that can be set using the software. You can also easily adjust the brightness level with five different settings. If you’re looking for a keyboard with multi-color backlighting, you may want to check out the NPET K20.
The Logitech G413 also has a few nice extra features, such as media hotkeys and a USB passthrough on the right side of the board. Unfortunately, only the function keys are macro-programmable. If you’re looking for a budget model that lets you set macros to any key on the board, you might want to check out the Redragon K582 SURARA RGB.
However, the Logitech G413 does offer the ability to lock the Windows button to prevent your games from minimizing accidentally.
Overall, the Logitech G413 is a solid gaming keyboard with smooth Romer-G switches, a well-built design, and red backlighting. However, it may not have all the features that some users are looking for, such as full RGB lighting or a wider variety of key switches.
Razer Ornata Chroma
The Razer Ornata Chroma is a great gaming keyboard that offers a unique typing experience. The keyboard uses mecha-membrane switches that combine the soft touch of a membrane switch with the clicky and tactile feedback of a mechanical switch.
This combination provides a typing experience that feels like a hybrid between a regular mechanical keyboard and a chiclet keyboard. The switches are also designed to be more durable and responsive, making them a great choice for gaming.
The keyboard is decently built and features full RGB lighting that can be customized using the Razer Synapse software. This software allows for easy customization of the backlighting of every key and the ability to create profiles.
While the build quality is good, the keyboard is made of plastic that doesn’t feel as premium as some other gaming keyboards. However, it does come with a comfortable wrist rest that makes the overall typing experience much more enjoyable.
One downside to the Razer Ornata Chroma is that it is a fairly large keyboard, and it takes up more space on your desk if you use the detachable wrist rest. Additionally, the keyboard doesn’t have dedicated media keys, so you’ll have to use the function keys to control your music while gaming.
However, the Windows key lock can be set to be always off, always on, or to trigger whenever playing a game, which prevents accidental game minimizing.
In summary, the Razer Ornata Chroma is a great gaming keyboard that offers a unique typing experience with its mecha-membrane switches. The keyboard is well-built and features full RGB lighting that can be customized using the software.
While the keyboard is a bit larger than some other gaming keyboards and doesn’t have dedicated media keys, it is still a great choice for gamers who want a comfortable and responsive keyboard with a unique typing experience.
| Key Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Razer |
| Dimension | 18.24 x 6.67 x 1.30 inches |
| Interface | Wired |
| RGB | Chroma RGB |
| Switches | Mecha-Membrane |
| Warranty | Full refund within 30 days for damaged of dead units |
Final Words
We tried our best to pick the most highly performing products for our users. Our main purpose is to narrow down your search space and help you in picking the right keyboard for yourself. Even if you are short on cash, you can still get a good performance gaming keyboard for yourself.
