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Top 6 Best Budget Keyboard 2025
For anyone using a computer, a keyboard is a critical asset. It remains the principal medium for engaging with your device whether you are typing documents, surfing the web, or gaming. With numerous choices out there, settling on the appropriate one can be quite daunting. This article zeroes in on economical keyboards, which strike a fine balance between cost efficiency and practicality.
When it comes to budget keyboards, there are a few critical things to consider. First and foremost is the build quality. You don’t want a keyboard that feels cheap or flimsy, as it won’t be comfortable to use and won’t last as long. Additionally, you’ll want to look for a keyboard with a good layout and key feel. The keys should be responsive and comfortable to type on, and the layout should be intuitive and easy to use.
Another key consideration is the type of keyboard. There are several different types, including membrane, mechanical, and hybrid. Membrane keyboards are the most common and affordable, but they can feel mushy and unresponsive. Mechanical keyboards, on the other hand, are more expensive but offer a satisfying tactile feel and improved durability. Hybrid keyboards offer a compromise between the two, with a membrane base and mechanical switches for the keys.
With these factors in mind, we’ve tested and researched the best budget keyboards on the market to help you make an informed decision. We’ve looked at a range of options, including membrane, mechanical, and hybrid keyboards, and evaluated them based on build quality, key feel, and overall value. In the following sections, we’ll break down our top picks and what makes them stand out.
Best Budget Keyboards
We understand the importance of having a reliable and high-quality keyboard, whether you’re a gamer, a writer, or simply someone who spends a lot of time on their computer. However, not everyone has the budget to splurge on an expensive keyboard. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best budget keyboards that don’t sacrifice quality for affordability. These keyboards offer a great typing experience, durability, and some even have additional features like backlighting and programmable keys. Check out our top picks below.
Macally Ultra Slim USB Wired Keyboard
If you’re looking for an affordable keyboard that works with both Mac and Windows, the Macally Ultra Slim USB Wired Keyboard might be a good option.
Pros
- The keyboard is ultra-thin and lightweight, making it easy to carry around and store.
- It’s compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems, so you can use it with a variety of devices.
- The keyboard has 20 Apple shortcut keys and multimedia shortcuts for Windows PC, making it easy to control your device.
Cons
- The keyboard is wired, which might be a downside for some users who prefer wireless keyboards.
- Some users might find the keyboard too flat and lacking in ergonomic features.
- The keyboard is not backlit, which might be an issue for users who work in low-light environments.
In our experience, the Macally Ultra Slim USB Wired Keyboard is a decent budget option for those who need a keyboard that works with both Mac and Windows. The keyboard is easy to set up and use, and the keys have a good amount of resistance and tactile feedback. However, the keyboard is quite flat and lacks ergonomic features, which might be a downside for some users who spend a lot of time typing. Additionally, the lack of backlighting might be an issue for those who work in dimly lit environments.
Overall, we recommend the Macally Ultra Slim USB Wired Keyboard for those who need a basic keyboard that works with both Mac and Windows. It’s affordable, easy to use, and has a good selection of shortcut keys. However, if you’re looking for a more ergonomic or feature-rich keyboard, you might want to consider other options.
MageGee Portable 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
We highly recommend the MageGee Portable 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard for those in search of a budget-friendly keyboard with impressive features.
Pros
- The compact layout of the keyboard is perfect for saving space while still providing all necessary keys, including separate arrow keys and F-keys.
- The mechanical blue switch provides a satisfying tactile feedback for both typing and gaming, with a crisp paragraph feeling and strong mechanical feeling.
- The classic blue LED backlit is customizable, with multiple illuminated LED light effects, allowing for a personalized gaming experience.
Cons
- The keycap puller included in the package may break easily.
- The keyboard may feel a bit cheap due to its lightweight design.
- The keyboard does not have volume buttons.
The MageGee Portable 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a great option for those who want a compact keyboard without sacrificing functionality. The mechanical blue switch provides a satisfying typing experience, and the customizable LED backlit adds a fun touch to gaming sessions. However, the keycap puller included in the package may break easily, and the keyboard may feel a bit cheap due to its lightweight design. Overall, this keyboard is a great value for its price.
In addition to its impressive features, the keyboard also has full anti-ghosting capabilities, with all 68 keys being no conflict. The ergonomic suspension double-color injection keycap and double kickstand feet adjustable typing angle make it both practical and beautiful. The keyboard is also compatible with Windows, Linux, and Mac, making it a versatile option for all users.
Overall, the MageGee Portable 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a great choice for those looking for a budget-friendly keyboard with impressive features.
Logitech G413 TKL SE Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly mechanical gaming keyboard, the Logitech G413 TKL SE is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The PBT keycaps are heat- and wear-resistant, making this keyboard more durable than others in its price range.
- The tactile mechanical switches provide a satisfying typing experience and are perfect for gaming.
- The black-brushed aluminum top case with white LED lighting looks sleek and stylish.
Cons
- The 6-key rollover anti-ghosting performance is not as good as some higher-end gaming keyboards.
- The FN key media controls can be a bit confusing to use at first.
- The keyboard is corded, which may not be ideal for some users.
We’ve been using the Logitech G413 TKL SE for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The tactile mechanical switches feel great and are perfect for gaming, and the PBT keycaps are a nice touch that makes this keyboard more durable than others in its price range.
The black-brushed aluminum top case with white LED lighting gives the keyboard a sleek and stylish look that we really like. The keyboard is also compact, which is great if you have limited desk space.
One downside to the keyboard is that the 6-key rollover anti-ghosting performance is not as good as some higher-end gaming keyboards. Additionally, the FN key media controls can be a bit confusing to use at first.
Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly mechanical gaming keyboard that looks great and performs well, the Logitech G413 TKL SE is definitely worth considering.
iLovBee i61 Mechanical Keyboard 60 Percent, Wired Hot Swappable Compact RGB Gaming Keyboard, 61 Keys Mini Keyboard with Red Switch for PC/Mac Gamer, Software Supported, Grey-White
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly mechanical keyboard with hot-swappable switches, the iLovBee i61 Mechanical Keyboard is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The keyboard is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around and save more space on your desktop.
- The wired connection provides a more stable and responsive experience when compared to wireless keyboards.
- The RGB lighting is customizable, allowing you to adjust the brightness and color of the backlight according to your preference.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the switches are a bit pingy and scratchy.
- The keycaps are not shine-through, which may make it difficult to see the lettering in low-light situations.
- The case is a little empty, even with the foam that was included.
The iLovBee i61 Mechanical Keyboard is an excellent option for gamers and typists who are looking for a budget-friendly mechanical keyboard that offers hot-swappable switches. The keyboard’s compact size and lightweight design make it convenient to carry around, and the wired connection provides a more stable and responsive experience. Additionally, the RGB lighting is customizable, allowing you to personalize the backlight according to your preference.
One potential drawback of the iLovBee i61 Mechanical Keyboard is that some users have reported that the switches are a bit pingy and scratchy. Additionally, the keycaps are not shine-through, which may make it difficult to see the lettering in low-light situations. Finally, the case is a little empty, even with the foam that was included.
Overall, we believe that the iLovBee i61 Mechanical Keyboard is an excellent budget-friendly option for gamers and typists who are looking for a mechanical keyboard with hot-swappable switches. If you’re looking for a keyboard that is easy to carry around, provides a stable and responsive experience, and allows you to customize the backlight, the iLovBee i61 Mechanical Keyboard is definitely worth considering.
havit Mechanical Keyboard
We highly recommend the havit Mechanical Keyboard for those who want a budget-friendly keyboard with great features.
Pros
- The compact design saves desk space while still including a numpad that can be locked and unlocked with the press of a button.
- The colorful PBT keycaps have a great touch experience and are durable, making them perfect for both gaming and work.
- The red switches provide a satisfying typing experience for both office work and gaming.
Cons
- The numlock function is not available for Mac OS and Chrome OS systems, which may be a downside for some users.
- The letters and numbers on the most commonly used keys may wear off with extended use.
- The lack of backlighting may be inconvenient for those who work in dimly lit environments.
The havit Mechanical Keyboard is a great choice for those who want a compact keyboard without sacrificing functionality. The PBT keycaps are durable and provide a great touch experience, making it perfect for both gaming and work. The red switches provide a satisfying typing experience for both office work and gaming. However, the lack of backlighting and numlock function for Mac OS and Chrome OS systems may be a downside for some users. Overall, we believe that the havit Mechanical Keyboard is a great budget-friendly option for those who want a high-quality keyboard.
Womier WK61 Mechanical Keyboard
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly mechanical keyboard that offers customization options, the Womier WK61 is worth considering.
Pros
- The theme style and frosted wall make the keyboard look unique and stylish.
- The 2-in-1 silicone pad provides a comfortable typing experience and absorbs hollow sound.
- The keyboard is hot-swappable, so you can easily replace the switches without soldering.
Cons
- The keyboard doesn’t come with a wrist rest, which may be uncomfortable for some users during long typing or gaming sessions.
- The keycaps are a bit thin and may wear out quickly.
- The software for programming macros and RGB lighting can be a bit confusing to use.
We’ve found that the Womier WK61 is a great option for those who want a mechanical keyboard that’s both affordable and customizable. The theme style of the keyboard is eye-catching, and the frosted wall adds a nice touch to the RGB lighting. The 2-in-1 silicone pad is a nice addition that provides a comfortable typing experience and absorbs hollow sound.
One of the best features of the Womier WK61 is that it’s hot-swappable, which means that you can easily replace the switches without soldering. This makes it easy to customize the keyboard to your liking, and it’s a great way to try out different switch types without having to buy a new keyboard.
However, there are a few downsides to the Womier WK61. The keyboard doesn’t come with a wrist rest, which may be uncomfortable for some users during long typing or gaming sessions. Additionally, the keycaps are a bit thin and may wear out quickly, especially if you use the keyboard frequently.
Finally, the software for programming macros and RGB lighting can be a bit confusing to use. It may take some time to figure out how to program the keyboard to your liking, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a great way to add some personality to your setup.
Overall, we think that the Womier WK61 is a great budget-friendly mechanical keyboard that offers customization options and a unique design. If you’re looking for a keyboard that’s both affordable and customizable, the Womier WK61 is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best budget keyboard, there are several features to consider to ensure that you get the most value for your money. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your decision:
Keyboard Layout
The layout of the keyboard is an important factor to consider. There are different keyboard layouts available, such as the standard QWERTY layout, ergonomic layout, and gaming layout. The layout you choose will depend on your personal preference and intended use.
Key Switches
The type of key switches used in a keyboard can affect the typing experience. There are different types of key switches, such as mechanical, membrane, and scissor switches. Mechanical switches are known for their tactile feedback and durability, while membrane switches are quieter and more affordable. Scissor switches are known for their low profile and are commonly used in laptops.
Connectivity
The connectivity of the keyboard is another important factor to consider. Most keyboards connect to a computer via USB, but some may also have wireless connectivity options. Wireless keyboards are convenient but may have latency issues, while wired keyboards offer a more stable connection.
Additional Features
Some keyboards come with additional features, such as backlit keys, multimedia keys, and programmable keys. Backlit keys can be useful for typing in low light conditions, while multimedia keys allow for easy control of audio and video playback. Programmable keys can be customized to perform specific functions, such as opening applications or executing macros.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when choosing the best budget keyboard for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top features to look for in a budget mechanical keyboard?
When looking for a budget mechanical keyboard, there are a few key features to keep in mind. Firstly, make sure it has a sturdy build quality and durable switches. Secondly, look for a keyboard with customizable RGB lighting and programmable keys. Lastly, ensure that the keyboard has a comfortable and ergonomic design for extended use.
Which budget wireless keyboard offers the best value for daily use?
For daily use, we recommend the Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard. It offers a compact and portable design, easy switching between devices, and a long battery life. Additionally, it has a comfortable typing experience and is compatible with various devices.
How do I choose a budget keyboard that’s suitable for programming?
When choosing a budget keyboard for programming, look for one with a tactile feedback mechanism, such as Cherry MX Brown switches. Additionally, a keyboard with programmable keys and customizable macros can be useful for programming. Lastly, look for a keyboard with a comfortable and ergonomic design to reduce strain during long coding sessions.
Can you recommend a budget mechanical gaming keyboard with high performance?
Yes, we recommend the Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard. It features durable mechanical switches, customizable RGB lighting, and anti-ghosting technology. Additionally, it has a compact design and a detachable USB cable for easy portability.
What are some highly-rated budget mechanical keyboards available in 2023?
Some highly-rated budget mechanical keyboards available in 2023 include the HyperX Alloy FPS Pro, the Corsair K63 Compact Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, and the Razer BlackWidow Lite Mechanical Keyboard. These keyboards offer a great balance between performance and affordability.
Are there any budget wireless mechanical keyboards that don’t compromise on quality?
Yes, the Anne Pro 2 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a budget-friendly wireless mechanical keyboard that doesn’t compromise on quality. It features customizable RGB lighting, a compact design, and durable Gateron switches. Additionally, it has a long battery life and is compatible with various devices.
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