Popular for both gaming and productivity, mechanical keyboards have a distinct feel. When using a mechanical keyboard, each keystroke provides tactile feedback and results in a satisfying click. Just a few minutes of using a mechanical keyboard is enough to sell most gamers and computer users on the improved responsiveness. The problem is that the average mechanical keyboard is much more expensive than its plastic counterpart. However, that does not mean that a good mechanical keyboard has to cost an arm and a leg. Keep reading to see our picks for the top budget-friendly mechanical keyboards to buy in 2024.

Thing to Consider When You Buy a Mechanical Keyboard

Ask any computer user who has made the switch to a mechanical keyboard and they will most likely tell you that they are unlikely to change back anytime soon. This is for 2 reasons. First, mechanical keyboards are very smooth and satisfying to use. Second, because mechanical keyboards are made to last, they probably won’t need to buy a replacement for the next several years.

All the keyboards on our list below provide users with the responsive experience they expect from a mechanical keyboard. Remember, you are likely to have your mechanical keyboard for several years, so it’s important to take a few minutes now and make sure you find an option that has the right features for you.

Switch Type

Every mechanical keyboard has a different type of switch used for its keys. We go into detail about this at the bottom of our article.

The most famous type of switch is the Cherry MX brand, which is subdivided into Blue, Black, Brown and Red type switches. Blues are the noisiest, most ‘clicky’ switches, with the most tactile feedback, whereas Reds have no sound whatsoever, and have a minuscule actuation force (i.e., no resistance on the keys as you depress them). If they’re not using Cherry MX switches, mechanical keyboards will use a broad equivalent instead. In general, although not as a rule as it is a personal preference, Cherry MX Blue switches are good for typists and productivity, while Cherry MX Red switches are good for gaming.

Number Pad

Especially for users that plan on using their computer for work as well as gaming, a number pad on the right side of the keyboard is usually a must-have. Some gamers choose mechanical keyboards without the number pad in order to save desk space. These keyboards are often called 10 keyless keyboards.

Design

Not only are mechanical keyboards fun to use, but they can also elevate the look of your battle station. Some gamers believe style features like programmable color-changing lighting is worth spending a few extra dollars for.

Durability

All the mechanical keyboards on our list are durable, but some have been tested to extreme limits. Some of the keyboards below have been laboratory-tested to handle millions of clicks.

Convenience

Some keyboards offer additional convenience features like removable cords and OLED displays that can display information during play.

Media Controls

Most users like their keyboard to have controls that can control their computer’s volume and other media controls like fast forward and rewind. While most keyboards have secondary media functions that can be used by pressing the function key in combination with another key, some include dedicated buttons for media control.

Anti-Ghosting

When you press multiple keys at once, some of the keys may not register on cheaper keyboards. The insufficiency is defined by gamers as “ghosting.” If you take gaming seriously, then you want to spend money on anti-ghosting keys.

Now that you have an understanding of the key things to look out for, let’s go over the best low-cost, high-performance mechanical keyboards on the market today.

Best Cheap Mechanical Keyboards Under $50

1. Best Mechanical Keyboard Under $50: Redragon K552 KUMARA Mechanical Keyboard

Specifications

• Switch Type: Custom (Cherry MX Red Equivalent)
• Number of Keys: 87
• Number Pad: No
• Media Keys: Secondary

Design Features
The Redragon K552 KUMARA is small, but it’s a great option for both gaming and typing. Its custom switches are Cherry Red equivalent. The high-quality switches will ensure a long lifespan for the Redragon K552 KUMARA.

The double-shot injection molded keycaps are designed to allow proper red backlighting so that you will never miss a keypress, which is a nice addition considering how affordable the keyboard is for a mechanical version. Users can adjust the brightness setting of the backlight too.

The K552 KUMARA keyboard incorporates a metallic plate for the foundation of the keys. It, alongside the aircraft-grade aluminum base, makes the keyboard very durable. All the keys are anti-ghosting, and it includes ten multimedia keys.

Convenience
The Redragon K552 KUMARA is compact. There are only 87 keys, meaning you get to keep the mouse close by for both gaming and typing purposes. Even though the USB is not detachable, you can pack it without the risk of damage. However, the unit is a bit heavier than most 10 Keyless designs, which is an issue if you are planning on going to lots of LAN parties.

Overall
The Redragon K552 KUMARA is a reliable keyboard from a great brand. It is comfortable to type and game on. The space-saving model does not sacrifice any performance features. The red backlighting is an incredible feature on a mechanical keyboard this affordable.

2. EagleTec KG011 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Specifications

• Switch Type: Custom (Cherry MX Blue equivalent)
• Number of Keys: 104
• Number Pad: Yes
• Media Keys: Secondary

Design
The EagleTec KG011 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard features an aircraft-grade aluminum body and a sturdy ABS base plate. As a result, you can expect to invest in a keyboard that will withstand a lot of abuse and last for a while. The keycaps of the model offer double-shot injection molding which displays the backlight uniformly while preventing fading of the letters.

The keyboard is also comfortable for general typing due to the custom-built blue switches. The KG011 has commendable tactile feedback and an audible click when the key actuates. It will save you typing time and also help you type more precisely.

The EagleTec KG011 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is not one of those keyboards that will have keys that start to stick barely a year after purchasing it brand new. The mechanical switches are built to withstand consistent, heavy use in offices.

Convenience
All 104 keys are fully anti-ghosting. The keyboard also supports N-key rollover that is applicable to gaming. It can withstand common liquid spills. All you need to do is wipe down the keyboard as soon as possible after an accident happens at work or home. The WASD and arrow keys are interchangeable while the WIN key can get disabled during gaming. These features allow the EagleTec KG011 to function well if you are a gamer.

Verdict
The EagleTec KG011 is not dedicated to gaming, but it has a few features for that purpose. Instead, it performs excellently at typing and office work. The keyboard is durable with a base plate and anti-spill protection.

3. Redragon K551 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Specifications

• Switch Type: Custom (Cherry MX Blue equivalent)
• Number of Keys: 104
• Number Pad: Yes
• Media Keys: Secondary

Design
With a non-slip surface, the Redragon K551 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard features curved keys in an ergonomic layout that make this an excellent budget choice for both gaming and office work. Each key is backlit by its own red LED and is attached to the aluminum plate backing with custom-designed switches. The keys offer medium resistance and make a satisfying click sound when pressed.

The Redragon K551 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard features N-Key rollover ensuring that every keypress is accurately registered, no matter how many keys are pressed at the same time. The keyboard attaches to a PC with a gold plated high-speed USB cable to guarantee instant input responsiveness. There are six levels of brightness as well as a “breathing” mode for the lights.

Convenience
This mechanical keyboard offers secondary media functionality in the F-keys when the function button is pressed. This allows Windows or Mac users to mute, adjust the volume, or change media tracks with the press of a button. Even though the keyboard has a compact design, it still features a full number pad, making it useful for productivity.

Overall
Even though it lacks many of the bells and whistles of a more expensive keyboard, the Redragon K551 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard offers a very satisfying user experience at a very low price point. Some users may want to spend a few extra dollars for a model with multi-colored lights.

4. AUKEY Mechanical Keyboard

Specifications

• Type of Switch: Custom (Cherry MX Blue equivalent)
• Number of Keys: 104
• Number Pad: Yes
• Media Keys: Secondary

Design
Each of the six rows of keys on the AUKEY Mechanical Keyboard is brightly backlit with a different color. This create an attractive rainbow effect that brings a lot of style to any PC setup. There are 9 preset lighting effects that allow users to personalize the look of the keyboard. This keyboard not only looks great, but it also performs really well. It features N-key rollover and feels very responsive when gaming or typing.

The Otuemu Blue switches are responsive and click every time they are pressed. The keys are made to last and have been tested to have a lifespan of 50 million presses each. The keyboard is also spill-proof and abrasion-resistant. The connecting cord is hard-wired to the keyboard and is nearly five feet long, so users who need a little bit more flexibility with positioning may also want to add an extension cord.

Convenience
In addition to being able to control your computer’s media using the secondary keys on the top of this keyboard, there are also easy function keys for controlling the LED lights on the keyboard. There are 8 convenient lighting presets for players. Some presets are for popular game genres while some others are for specific games like League of Legends. Switching between the different modes is effortless.

Overall
Thanks to the high-quality Otuemu Blue switches and its distinctive look, it is easy to recommend the AUKEY Mechanical Keyboard to any gamer or computer user who is looking for a good deal on a mechanical keyboard that is built to last.

5. PICTEK TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Specifications

• Type of Switch: Custom (Cherry MX Blue equivalent)
• Number of Keys: 87
• Number Pad: No
• Media Keys: Secondary

Design
The PICTEK TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a compact, budget-friendly keyboard that looks great and is designed for superior performance while gaming. The keys are designed using an ergonomic key structure and the individual lights behind each key make each character glow. While the keyboard does not offer full N-key rollover, the keyboard has been designed with ghosting in mind, and has been wired to avoid conflicts between the keys.

Each LED light can only display one color, but the attractive color choices and rainbow design give this keyboard an impressive look. There are 27 different backlighting modes, many of which highlight specific keys or groups of keys for specific games. There are also 5 levels of brightness. This is one of the least expensive mechanical keyboards we reviewed, in part because it does not include a number pad.

Convenience
The PICTEK TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a convenient, plug-and-play option that does not require any additional software or any time-consuming setup. With 27 built-in lighting modes, illuminated control schemes for most popular games like Fortnite and League of Legends are easy to access. There are 12 multimedia keys that allow one-touch control of volume, movies, and music on your system when used with the function keys

Overall
The PICTEK TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is one of the least expensive mechanical keyboards on the market. Incredibly compact and fun to look at, it is a tremendous value. This mechanical keyboard is a great budget pick for a second keyboard for bringing to LAN parties or gaming tournaments, but the absence of a number pad and a single color scheme make it an underwhelming choice for daily use.

Best Cheap Mechanical Keyboards Under $100

1. Best Mechanical Keyboard Under $100: Logitech G610 Orion Red Backlit Mechanical Keyboard

Specifications

• Type of Switch: Cherry MX Red
• Number of Keys: 104
• Number Pad: Yes
• Media Keys: Dedicated

Design
The Logitech G610 Orion is a full-size keyboard that is oriented towards gaming. It is smooth and comfortable to use because of the Cherry MX Red switches that are effortless to press. Therefore, it is quick and easy to key in commands. The lack of clicks also provides no distractions while gaming.

The keyboard allows you to create macros using the function keys for gaming purposes. The unit also has media keys and a gaming mode key that disables the Windows key. Volume adjustment is by a large volume wheel next to the playback controls.

The white LED backlighting is very intuitive. You can change the color effects and the brightness of every key. It helps aid players with its ability to be customized with different spells and profiles that you create in the game. All the lighting customization effects can get saved and synced with all Logitech devices, not just your own keyboard!

Convenience
It is super easy to control your profiles after you create them using the Logitech G software. The software assists you with setting up a specific profile for a certain game. It stops you from having to create the profile every time you play.

Overall
The Logitech G610 Orion is not an average pick. The keyboard delivers intuitive personalization and gaming features. It is a terrific companion for gaming due to its capacity to create macros and other customization such as lighting effects.

2. SteelSeries Apex 5 Hybrid Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Specifications

• Type of Switch: Hybrid
• Number of Keys: 105
• Number Pad: Yes
• Media Keys: Secondary

Design
The SteelSeries Apex 5 Hybrid Mechanical Gaming Keyboard includes several features that can’t be found in any other budget mechanical keyboard. The most interesting is the customizable OLED smart display that makes it easy to configure and switch keyboard lighting profiles. It can also be used to display information from the game that you are playing, as well as incoming messages from Discord.

Each key operates on a hybrid mechanical switch that is durable and makes a satisfying tactile click when pressed. This keyboard is exceptionally durable, made from an aircraft-grade aluminum alloy. Each key is lit by a dynamic RGB LED that is capable of displaying countless colors. Up to five onboard profiles can be saved in the keyboard’s memory and can be quickly switched while in use. The SteelSeries Apex 5 Hybrid Mechanical Gaming Keyboard also features reactive typing effects.

Convenience
Because of the onboard OLED display, the SteelSeries Apex 5 Hybrid Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is one of the easiest keyboards to configure. The ability to customize the display to show information from a game or from messaging services is very convenient. This keyboard also comes with a premium magnetic wrist-rest that will keep you comfortable during a long workday or an all-nighter while gaming.

Overall
The SteelSeries Apex 5 Hybrid Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a great choice for gamers who don’t mind spending a few extra dollars for premium features. The OLED display makes the keyboard easy to configure and adds extra convenience during use.

3. Razer Ornata Chroma Gaming Keyboard

Specifications

• Switch Type: Hybrid
• Number of Keys: 104
• Number Pad: Yes
• Media Keys: Secondary

Design
Razer is the #1 selling brand of computer gaming peripheral and the Ornata Chroma is their budget-friendly mechanical keyboard. The keyboard uses a unique type of switch called “High-Performance Mecha-Membrane.” This means that the keys provide satisfying and tactile feedback, but also provides a soft cushion when pressed.

The Razer Ornata Chroma is one of our favorite looking mechanical keyboards as well. Its individually backlit keys sync with popular games for a tremendously immersive experience. There is also support for fully programmable macros. This allows users to set any key or combination of keys to execute whatever commands they want. The included Synapse software makes this customization easy.

Convenience
Thanks to the comfortable foam wrist-rest, the Razer Ornata Chroma Gaming Keyboard is comfortable during long sessions of gaming as well as typing, emailing, or chatting. We were especially impressed by how convenient the wrist-rest is to attach and remove from the keyboard using the magnets lining the front edge. This keyboard is one of the most plug-and-play options we reviewed, generating light shows that are well synchronized to many games without any customization needed.

Overall
With a price tag approaching our $100 limit, the Razer Ornata Chroma Gaming Keyboard is one of the most expensive options on our list. However, the excellent responsive feel of the patented Mecha-Membrane keys and beautiful lights make this a great choice for gamers who want a premium mechanical keyboard without breaking the bank

4. HyperX Alloy FPS Pro

Specifications

• Type of Switch: Cherry MX Red
• Number of Keys: 87
• Number Pad: No
• Media Keys: Secondary

Design
The HyperX Alloy FPS Pro uses a mini-USB cable to connect to your computer. While the cord that comes with it does a good job, we appreciate the option to swap it out with a longer cord when necessary. This keyboard has an exposed steel frame and uses Cherry MX Red switches. There are 6 lighting presets with dynamic lighting effects that make this keyboard look awesome.

This keyboard is designed for gamers, users who do lots of typing will probably want to opt for a larger keyboard with a number pad. At only 14 inches wide, the HyperX Alloy FPS Pro can save a lot of space, which is especially helpful for players who want to make as much room as possible for their mousepad.

Convenience
The HyperX Alloy FPS Pro was made with FPS players in mind, and the portability of this keyboard reflects that. Perfect for taking to a tournament or a LAN party, the compact design and detachable cable make it very easy to connect the HyperX regardless of the PC setup you are using. The compact design of this keyboard also allows users to position it in a variety of ways that would not be possible with a full-width keyboard.

Overall
The HyperX Alloy FPS Pro is a great looking, high-performing compact keyboard at a great price. It is far better suited for gaming than productivity.

5. Best Wireless Keyboard Under $100: Corsair K63 Wireless Mechanical Gaming

Specifications

• Type of Switch: Cherry MX Red
• Number of Keys: 88
• Number Pad: No
• Media Keys: Dedicated

Design
The Corsair K63 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a 10 Keyless model with wireless functionality. Yes, you get to have all the freedom you need when it comes to moving from one desk to another or gaming from the comfort of your couch. It does not suffer input delays and dropouts despite its low retail price.

The unit connects wirelessly via 2.4GHz band with a 1ms response time. You will discover that you nearly forget it is a wireless keyboard because of its flawless operation and connection. The Cherry MX Red switches give you precise performance because of their superfast actuation force.

All the 87 keys have key rollover and are full anti-ghosting. You get additional media keys on the top side of the keyboard. These keys are vital, since you control music from the couch and have to frequently get up from your sofa to change the volume on the computer.

Convenience
The Corsair K63 presents blue backlighting. The keyboard has options for changing the brightness from dim to bright according to your individual preference. It also has a key to lock the Windows key so that you don’t keep toggling between the two when gaming.

The accessory also provides 15 hours of battery life. It is a portable unit that is easy to pack and use on the go. It is dependable for hours of gaming. Additionally, your data is protected from privacy instructions because of the 128-bit AES Encryption.

Verdict
Now you can ditch the wire and play from your favorite position in the house. The Corsair K63 brings you freedom, convenience, and a practical solution. You get to enjoy long hours of gaming with superior connectivity. The keyboard also has a good range. Your computer does not need to remain close to you for seamless gaming thanks to the Bluetooth 4.2 adapter.