Gaming keyboards are an essential tool for any gamer, and finding a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on performance is key. Whether you’re a casual player or a competitive gamer, having the right keyboard can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll break down some of the best budget gaming keyboards available today, taking into account features, build quality, and overall value for money.
1. Keychron C2 Pro
Best Overall Budget Mechanical Keyboard
Specifications:
Switch Type: Gateron Mechanical
Connection: Wired
RGB Backlighting: Yes
Size: Full-size (104 keys)
Key Rollover: N-Key Rollover
Reasons to Buy:
Affordable yet high-quality build
Multiple switch options for a customizable feel
Full-size layout with function keys
Great RGB lighting with customizable modes
Excellent typing experience for both gaming and productivity
Reasons to Avoid:
Wired-only connection
No dedicated macro keys
The Keychron C2 Pro is a fantastic budget mechanical keyboard that offers excellent value for money. With high-quality Gateron switches, customizable RGB lighting, and a full-size layout, this keyboard is perfect for those who need a mix of gaming and productivity features. The wired connection ensures a low-latency experience, making it a great choice for competitive gaming. However, if you prefer wireless connectivity, you might want to look at other options.
2. Ajazz AK820 Pro
Best Budget Wireless Gaming Keyboard
Specifications:
Switch Type: Ajazz Custom Mechanical Switches
Connection: Wireless & Wired
RGB Backlighting: Yes
Size: Compact (75%)
Battery Life: Up to 50 hours
Key Rollover: N-Key Rollover
Reasons to Buy:
Dual-mode connectivity (Wired & Wireless)
Compact and stylish design
Customizable RGB backlighting
Hot-swappable switches
Long battery life
Reasons to Avoid:
No dedicated media keys
Compact size may not suit all users
For those who want a wireless gaming keyboard on a budget, the Ajazz AK820 Pro is an excellent option. It offers dual-mode connectivity, allowing you to use it both wirelessly and wired. The keyboard also features hot-swappable switches, meaning you can easily customize the typing feel. With up to 50 hours of battery life, it’s perfect for extended gaming sessions. However, its 75% layout means it lacks a number pad and dedicated media controls, which might not be ideal for everyone.
3. MSI Vigor GK50 Elite
Best Budget Gaming Keyboard for Competitive Gamers
Specifications:
Switch Type: Kailh Blue / Red Mechanical
Connection: Wired
RGB Backlighting: Yes
Size: Full-size (104 keys)
Key Rollover: N-Key Rollover
Reasons to Buy:
Fast, responsive mechanical switches
Durable metal top plate design
Full RGB customization
Excellent build quality
Affordable for a mechanical keyboard
Reasons to Avoid:
Loud clicky switches (Kailh Blue)
No wrist rest
The MSI Vigor GK50 Elite is a top-tier budget gaming keyboard for competitive gamers. It features Kailh Blue or Red mechanical switches, providing either a tactile clicky feel or a smoother, linear response. The metal top plate adds durability, while the RGB backlighting allows for customization. The lack of a wrist rest may be a downside for some, but overall, it’s a great choice for those looking for a fast, durable gaming keyboard.
4. Redragon K552 Kumara
Best Budget Tenkeyless (TKL) Gaming Keyboard
Specifications:
Switch Type: Outemu Blue Mechanical
Connection: Wired
RGB Backlighting: Yes
Size: Tenkeyless (87 keys)
Key Rollover: N-Key Rollover
Reasons to Buy:
Affordable price for a mechanical keyboard
Compact design, great for small desks
Responsive and clicky switches
Customizable RGB lighting
Durable construction
Reasons to Avoid:
Loud switches may not be ideal for shared spaces
No wrist rest
For those who prefer a tenkeyless (TKL) keyboard, the Redragon K552 Kumara is a solid budget option. It provides mechanical switches with a tactile and clicky feel, making it perfect for gamers who love the satisfying feedback of a mechanical keyboard. The compact design saves space on your desk, and the RGB lighting can be customized to match your gaming setup. The only downside is that the switches are quite loud, which might not be ideal for shared spaces.
5. Corsair K55 RGB Pro
Best Budget Membrane Gaming Keyboard
Specifications:
Switch Type: Membrane
Connection: Wired
RGB Backlighting: Yes
Size: Full-size (104 keys)
Key Rollover: 8-Key Rollover
Reasons to Buy:
Affordable price
Quiet typing experience
Dedicated media and macro keys
Spill-resistant design
Customizable RGB lighting
Reasons to Avoid:
Membrane switches lack mechanical feel
Limited key rollover
The Corsair K55 RGB Pro is an excellent option for those who prefer a quiet membrane keyboard while still enjoying gaming features like RGB lighting and macro keys. It’s spill-resistant, making it a great option for gamers who like to keep drinks at their desk. While it lacks the tactile feel of mechanical switches, it’s still a solid choice for those who want a budget gaming keyboard with extra functionality.
6. SteelSeries Apex 3
Best Water-Resistant Budget Gaming Keyboard
Specifications:
Switch Type: Membrane
Connection: Wired
RGB Backlighting: Yes
Size: Full-size (104 keys)
Key Rollover: 24-Key Rollover
Reasons to Buy:
Water-resistant design
Silent and soft typing feel
Customizable RGB lighting
Dedicated media controls
Comfortable wrist rest included
Reasons to Avoid:
Membrane switches feel less responsive than mechanical ones
Non-detachable wrist rest
The SteelSeries Apex 3 is one of the best water-resistant gaming keyboards on the market, making it a great choice for gamers who need extra durability. The membrane switches provide a silent typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a quieter gaming session. Additionally, it comes with a comfortable wrist rest, enhancing ergonomics. If you need a reliable, water-resistant keyboard on a budget, this is a great option.
Conclusion
When it comes to budget gaming keyboards, there are plenty of fantastic options to choose from, depending on your preferences and gaming needs. If you’re looking for an affordable mechanical keyboard, the Keychron C2 Pro is a great choice. Those who need wireless functionality will love the Ajazz AK820 Pro. If competitive gaming is your focus, the MSI Vigor GK50 Elite is an excellent option.
For a compact setup, the Redragon K552 Kumara offers a tenkeyless design, while the Corsair K55 RGB Pro and SteelSeries Apex 3 cater to gamers who prefer membrane keyboards. No matter your preference, these budget gaming keyboards provide an excellent balance of performance, durability, and affordability, ensuring you get the best bang for your buck.