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Top 10 Affordable Mechanical Keyboards for Your Typing Pleasure
Keyboard enthusiasts and budget-conscious buyers, rejoice! We’ve compiled a roundup of our top picks for cheap mechanical keyboards, bringing reliable quality and affordable pricing right to your fingertips. Whether you’re a seasoned typist or a newcomer to the mechanical keyboard scene, our list has got you covered.
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Reviews
RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK920 Affordable Full-Size Mechanical Keyboard
The RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK920 offers a captivating rainbow keyboard experience with 24 light modes and 5 levels of brightness adjustment. Its friendly brown switch design ensures a tactile yet low-noise typing experience. This full-size mechanical keyboard boasts 12 multimedia shortcuts, granting you the power to do more with fewer key presses.
Additionally, the win lock function safeguards against accidental key presses during gaming. With a QWERTY layout, 104 fully-equipped keys, and a modern, ambidextrous hand orientation, this keyboard is a delightful addition to any workspace.
Keychron V1 Wired Low Profile Mechanical Keyboard with Hot-Swappable Keys
I recently decided to try the Keychron V1 mechanical keyboard, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer in my daily life. Not only did it look sleek and modern with its compact design, but it also delivered on all the customization options I could ask for. The ambidextrous layout was a welcomed feature, and the hot-swappable keychron K Pro red switch compatibility added a personal touch to my keystrokes.
One standout feature for me was the sound absorbing foam, which significantly reduced the noise and vibrations of my typing, creating a much quieter and more peaceful environment for my work. Another highlight was the inclusion of all the necessary tools for maintenance, making it easy for me to replace keycaps or switches as needed.
However, I did encounter a small issue with the space bar – it was a bit unstable and loud. But as someone who enjoys customization, this hiccup was easily overlooked and quickly fixed with a bit of elbow grease. Overall, the Keychron V1 lived up to my expectations, offering both ease of use and an attractive design that was comfortable to use.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a reliable, customizable, and visually appealing mechanical keyboard, the Keychron V1 is definitely worth considering. With its sturdy build and attention to detail, it’s bound to make a positive impression on anyone who gives it a try.
Affordable White Royal KLUDGE Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The Royal KLUDGE RK61 60% white keyboard is an excellent choice for gamers and minimalists alike. With an ultra-compact design featuring 61 keys, it’s perfect for keeping your desktop organized and uncluttered. One of the highlights is the inclusion of both white and brown switches, providing a smooth and responsive typing experience.
The wireless connectivity ensures you can move around without any hassle, and the rechargeable battery offers a convenient power source. Additionally, the RGB lighting adds an attractive touch to your workspace.
Overall, this keyboard delivers a satisfying key feel and is well-loved by users who have opted to mod it, making it a top-notch choice for gaming enthusiasts.
GameStop Wired Mechanical Keyboard - Affordable, Durable & Stylish
Experience the perfect blend of style and functionality with this GameStop 94% Arctic Blue Wired Mechanical Keyboard. Featuring hot-swappable Brown mechanical switches, customizable RGB lights, and a compact design that saves 20% of space compared to a full-size keyboard, this keyboard provides the ultimate typing experience.
Not only is it ideal for gaming, but also for everyday usage. With its sleek design and vibrant RGB lights, it’s not just a functional tool but also an eye-catching art piece that showcases your unique personality.
The package comes with a stem and keycap removal tool, a detachable USB Type-C cable, and a quick start guide. If you’re in the market for an inexpensive mechanical keyboard, this GameStop exclusive is definitely worth considering.
Affordable Backlit Gaming Keyboard by Inland
The Inland RGB Backlit Wired Gaming Keyboard offers a fantastic blend of affordability and functionality, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers. Its 87-key anti-ghosting design prevents multiple-key presses from interfering with each other, ensuring smooth gameplay.
With its customizable RGB LED backlight, you can create a unique gaming experience that suits your style. However, it’s important to note that it only supports Mac OS X 10.13, which might limit its compatibility for non-Apple users. Despite this, the Inland Mechanical Gaming Keyboard delivers solid performance for a budget price.
GameStop 60% Brown Switch Mechanical Keyboard - Affordable and Hot Swappable
Introducing the GameStop 60% Wired Mechanical Black Hot Swappable Keyboard with Brown Switch - your ultimate companion for work, play, and everything in between. This sleek, stylish, and oh-so-satisfying keyboard is perfect for gamers, typists, and creatives alike, thanks to its compact design, lightweight portability, and durable construction. With endless possibilities for customization, this keyboard truly stands out from the crowd.
Its hot-swappable switches and customizable RGB lights allow you to create a keyboard as unique as you are, with tactile bumps and audible clicks that glide underneath your fingers. When it’s time to relax, let your creativity shine with its variety of pre-programmed lighting effects, making this keyboard as visually stunning as it is functional. This 60% wired mechanical keyboard is an exclusive product of GameStop and is compatible with PC.
Purchasing this keyboard grants you access to a quick start guide card, stem and keycap removal tool, and replacement switches to enhance your typing experience.
GameStop White Mechanical Keyboard with Hot-Swappable Brown Switches
The GameStop-exclusive White Hot Wired Mechanical Keyboard with Brown Switch has become an essential part of my daily life. It’s sleek, stylish, and surprisingly comfortable to type on - perfect for gamers, typists, and creatives alike. The compact design makes it an easy companion for work and play.
Customization is the name of the game. I love the hot-swappable switches that let me choose my preferred typing style, whether it’s linear or clicky. The customizable RGB lights, too, are a hit - they really add visual flair to an already fantastic keyboard.
However, the build could have been a tad better, as I’ve encountered a few issues in the past. My fingers might slip now and then, and I wish the connectors were a tiny bit sturdier. But overall, the 60% Keyboard is a solid choice for those looking for a unique and customizable mechanical keyboard at an affordable price.
XISOGUU Budget Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - Compact, Wireless with Stylish Stands
The XISOGUU Wireless 61% Mechanical Keyboard offers a unique blend of convenience and performance, catering to both everyday use and gaming needs. With its 3-mode connectivity, you can seamlessly switch between Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz, and wired Type-C modes, ensuring a reliable and stable connection with your smartphone, laptop, and tablet.
The keyboard’s compact 68-key layout, combined with its ultra-slim build, makes it an ideal choice for FPS gamers looking for more space to maneuver their mouse. Its hot-swappable PCB design allows for effortless customization, letting you replace switches without the hassle of soldering.
Connect up to three devices via Bluetooth and easily switch between them at a moment’s notice. The reliable and versatile Broadcom Bluetooth 5.1 chipset ensures broad compatibility for home, office, and gaming environments.
Designed with ergonomics in mind, the OKB120 boasts a scientifically stepped keycap design that provides optimal comfort and efficiency. Its full-key anti-ghosting feature ensures smooth and efficient gaming or typing experiences, free from lag.
Embrace the freedom of wireless connection while enjoying the benefits of a high-quality mechanical keyboard with the XISOGUU Wireless 61% Mechanical Keyboard.
Affordable Royal KLUDGE RK84 75% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Switch types, like the Blue Switch, have a satisfying click that lets you know you’ve pressed the right key. It’s a small touch that makes typing on this keyboard feel more tactile and responsive. That being said, the Blue Switch is also a loud click that might bother some people in a shared workspace. Thankfully, you can switch to a red or yellow switch if you need a quieter experience.
The 75% innovative layout is a unique feature that helps you save space while still keeping all the essential keys you need. However, the smaller size can feel a bit cramped at first, and it takes some time to get used to. Despite the cramped design, I found that the keys were easy to locate by touch-typing, and the backlighting made it even more comfortable to type in low-light conditions.
The 2 built-in USB pass-through ports and 1 Type-C Port are useful for connecting other devices directly to the keyboard. It’s a great feature when you’re in need of extra USB ports or require a quick transfer of data. However, I noticed that the charging cable and USB-C cable aren’t the same, which can be a bit inconvenient to deal with.
In terms of wireless connectivity, the RK84 offers stable Bluetooth 5.0 and hassle-free 2.4GHz dongle. The connection stayed strong during my day-to-day use, but there was a noticeable latency when I used the wired mode. I don’t think it’s a deal-breaker, but it’s something to consider if you’re planning to use it for gaming or video editing.
Lastly, the battery life is impressive. With a full charge, the RK84 can last up to 200 hours with backlight off, making it perfect for those long typing sessions. However, the indication of the battery level is a bit lacking, as there’s no visible battery indicator or way to check it without connecting the keyboard to a computer.
Overall, the RK84 is a well-built and feature-packed keyboard with a unique layout that might take some time to get used to. If you’re looking for a mechanical keyboard that’s a bit quieter and more compact, this could be a great option to consider.
Logitech Pop Keys: Space-Saving Cosmos Mechanical Wireless Keyboard
Personalize your workspace by popping some personality on your desk with the Logitech POP Keys. This stylish mechanical keyboard boasts a whimsical candy aesthetic, combining mint, lilac, white, and sunshine yellow for a daydream-worthy look. But, it’s not just a pretty face: POP Keys boasts 8 swappable emoji keys, an emoji menu button, and customizable, expressive functionality through Logitech software.
A satisfying, retro typewriter-like feel comes with multi-device connectivity via Bluetooth or Logi Bolt USB receiver and convenient shortcuts. This space-saving, ergonomic keyboard delivers a satisfying experience with its mechanical feel and comfortable, long-lasting battery performance.
Buyer’s Guide
When on the quest for an inexpensive mechanical keyboard, it’s essential to understand the basics of the product category. This buyer’s guide will help you navigate the maze of features, considerations, and general advice to ensure you find the best fit for your needs.
What is a Mechanical Keyboard?
A mechanical keyboard is a type of computer keyboard that uses individual switches for each key instead of a single membrane. These switches provide tactile feedback and audible clicks, creating a satisfying typing experience that some people prefer over traditional membrane keyboards. Mechanical keyboards are often marketed to gamers and typists who spend long hours using the computer, due to their durability and customizability.
Key Features to Look for in a Cheap Mechanical Keyboard
When shopping for a budget-friendly mechanical keyboard, some essential features to consider include switch type, backlighting, keycaps, and additional functions. Here’s a brief overview of each of these aspects:
- Switch Type: There are various types of switches available, such as linear, tactile, and clicky. Choose a switch type that suits your typing preferences, considering factors such as noise, tactile feedback, and actuation force. 2. Backlighting: If you work in a dimly lit environment or enjoy typing in the dark, look for a keyboard with adjustable backlighting. This feature allows you to easily see the keys while typing. 3. Keycaps: Some keyboards come with customizable keycaps, which can enhance the overall aesthetic and functionality of the keyboard. 4. Additional Functions: Mechanical keyboards often offer programmable keys and other features tailored to gamers or typists, such as macro keys and media controls.
Important Considerations for a Cheap Mechanical Keyboard
When considering a budget-friendly mechanical keyboard, there are a few critical factors to take into account. First, assess the build quality and brand reputation, as cheaper keyboards may not be as durable or reliable as more expensive models. Second, determine your needs and preferences, focusing on the switch type, backlighting, and additional features that matter most to you. Lastly, consider the compatibility of the keyboard with your computer and operating system, to ensure it works seamlessly with your setup.
General Advice for Choosing a Cheap Mechanical Keyboard
To maximize your chances of finding a good cheap mechanical keyboard, research different models, compare prices, and read reviews. Look for keyboards with a solid build quality, positive user feedback, and features that align with your preferences. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek advice from knowledgeable sources like gaming forums or tech enthusiasts. Remember that a cheap mechanical keyboard doesn’t have to compromise on performance or satisfaction, as long as you know what to look for and make an informed decision.
FAQ
What is a mechanical keyboard?
A mechanical keyboard is a type of computer keyboard that uses individual mechanical switches under each keycap. These switches provide distinct tactile feedback and often have an audible “click” when pressed, allowing for fast typing and precise input. Compared to membrane keyboards, mechanical keyboards are more durable and offer better typing experience.
Mechanical keyboards come in various types, including linear, tactile, and clicky switches. Linear switches have a smooth keystroke with no tactile feedback, tactile switches provide a bump when pressed indicating the keypress, and clicky switches have a distinct “click” sound. The choice depends on the user’s preference and the desired typing experience.
Which are the best cheap mechanical keyboards?
The following keyboards offer great value for their price and are considered among the best cheap mechanical keyboards on the market:
- XTRFY M65-A, 2. Cooler Master QuickFire TK, 3. Jelly Key JK68, 4. Anne Pro 2, 5. Qisan Magicforce 68-Key, and 6. MaxKleer 60% Hot-Swappable Keyboard. Each of these keyboards offers different features and switches, so we recommend checking out their specifications before making a purchase.
Remember, the “best” keyboard can vary depending on personal preferences, such as switch type, layout, and aesthetics. It’s essential to read reviews and consider your specific needs before making a decision. Additionally, make sure to check the compatibility of the keyboard with your computer to ensure smooth and seamless usage.
What is the difference between a membrane and a mechanical keyboard?
Membrane keyboards use a thin rubber dome under each keycap to provide tactile feedback. In contrast, mechanical keyboards have individual mechanical switches that allow for more precise and tactile feedback. Membrane keyboards are generally cheaper, quieter, and more energy-efficient, but they can sometimes feel less responsive and less satisfying to type on. Mechanical keyboards may require more space, make more noise, and consume more power, but they provide a more comfortable and precise typing experience for many users.
Another distinction between the two is the switch life, which can vary depending on the type of switch. Mechanical switches tend to have greater durability due to their individual construction, while membrane switches have a shorter lifespan. For a more robust and long-lasting keyboard, a mechanical keyboard is often a better choice.
How can I identify a good cheap mechanical keyboard?
There are a few factors you should consider when looking for a good cheap mechanical keyboard:
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Switch type: Different switches provide different levels of feedback and noise. Determine which type of switch you prefer (linear, tactile, or clicky) and look for keyboards that offer that switch type.
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Quality: Check reviews and ratings for the keyboard’s build quality, switch reliability, and overall customer satisfaction. Look for keyboards that are known for their durability and stability, even at a lower price point. 3. Software support: Some mechanical keyboards offer customizable RGB lighting and macro functions through software. If you’re interested in these features, ensure that the keyboard you choose supports them.
How much should I expect to pay for a good cheap mechanical keyboard?
Good cheap mechanical keyboards can be found in the range of $30 to $100. However, the price can vary depending on the keyboard’s features, layout, and switch type. Some higher-quality keyboards with advanced features may cost more, while others might be more affordable but still offer a satisfying typing experience.
It’s essential to find a balance between the features you want and the price you’re willing to pay. A lower-priced mechanical keyboard might lack some advanced features, but it can still provide a great typing experience and durability compared to membrane keyboards in the same price range. Always consider the trade-offs and do your research before making a purchase.
Are cheap mechanical keyboards worth it?
Yes, cheap mechanical keyboards can be worth it if you’re looking for a durable, comfortable, and precise typing experience. Although they may not have all the advanced features of more expensive mechanical keyboards, they often offer great value for their price. Just like any product, it’s essential to research and read reviews to ensure that the keyboard meets your requirements and satisfies your needs.
If you’re new to mechanical keyboards or unsure about committing to a more expensive option, a cheap mechanical keyboard can be an excellent starting point. Many users find that the benefits of mechanical keyboards far outweigh the minor drawbacks, making the investment worthwhile. Ultimately, the value you get from a cheap mechanical keyboard depends on your individual preferences and needs.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn through qualified purchases.