1. Redragon K552 KUMARA
One of the most well-known budget-friendly gaming keyboards is the Redragon K552 KUMARA. This mechanical keyboard offers a full RGB backlighting setup, which is a huge perk for gamers who love vibrant lights, all while keeping the price under $40.
The K552 uses Redragon’s custom mechanical switches, which provide a clicky, tactile feel similar to Cherry MX Blue switches. This makes it perfect for those who enjoy responsive feedback while typing or gaming. Despite its low cost, the K552 is built to last, with a solid, metal-alloy frame that ensures durability. It also has anti-ghosting and key rollover features, making it an excellent option for fast-paced gaming.
The only downside to the K552 is that it doesn’t have dedicated media controls, which may be a dealbreaker for some. However, given its affordability and excellent performance, the Redragon K552 is a great value for gamers on a budget.
2. SteelSeries Apex 3
The SteelSeries Apex 3 is a great choice for gamers who want a reliable gaming keyboard but don’t want to break the bank. Although it’s technically a membrane keyboard, it uses SteelSeries’ proprietary "Whisper-Quiet" membrane switches, which provide a quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches while still offering decent feedback for gaming.
The Apex 3 is equipped with full RGB lighting, which can be customised through SteelSeries’ Engine software, allowing you to set up various effects and profiles. The keyboard also boasts an IP32 water resistance rating, meaning it’s protected from spills and light rain, making it an excellent choice for those who want a durable, low-maintenance keyboard.
For those who game for long hours, the Apex 3 is comfortable to use, thanks to its ergonomic design and soft-touch keycaps. While it doesn’t have mechanical switches, the Apex 3 still offers great value and durability, making it one of the best affordable gaming keyboards for under $50.
3. Razer Cynosa V2
The Razer Cynosa V2 offers a great entry into the world of gaming keyboards without the steep price tag of Razer’s high-end models. It features Razer’s membrane switches, which are designed to feel like mechanical keys, but with a quieter typing experience. The Cynosa V2 also offers a full RGB backlighting system, which is customisable through Razer’s Chroma RGB software, providing endless possibilities for lighting effects.
In terms of build quality, the Cynosa V2 is solid, with a sleek plastic design that doesn’t feel flimsy. The keyboard comes equipped with dedicated media controls, including a volume roller, which is a nice touch for a keyboard in this price range. Additionally, the keyboard features anti-ghosting and 10-key rollover for smoother gaming performance.
Although the membrane switches may not appeal to hardcore gamers who prefer the tactile feedback of mechanical switches, the Cynosa V2 provides excellent value for gamers who want the Razer experience at a budget price.
4. Corsair K55 RGB
The Corsair K55 RGB is another great option for those looking for an affordable gaming keyboard. This keyboard uses membrane switches, which provide a quieter and softer feel compared to mechanical keys but still deliver a satisfying typing experience. What sets the K55 apart is its excellent customisation options, including fully customisable RGB backlighting, which allows you to create a personalised lighting setup.
The K55 also comes with six programmable macro keys, which can be mapped to various gaming commands or media functions. The keyboard’s durable build is backed by a 2-year warranty, which is a testament to its long-lasting quality. It also features anti-ghosting technology, which ensures that multiple keys can be pressed simultaneously without issues, making it an excellent choice for gamers who require precision and reliability.
Despite its membrane switches, the Corsair K55 RGB is packed with features that make it a solid choice for gamers who need a budget-friendly keyboard.
5. Logitech K845 Mechanical Keyboard
The Logitech K845 is one of the more affordable mechanical keyboards on the market. This keyboard features a solid, aluminum frame with a simple, minimalist design. The K845 is available with different switch options, including Romer-G tactile switches, which offer a balanced feel between quiet typing and responsive gaming feedback.
For those who enjoy a traditional mechanical keyboard feel, the K845 offers excellent value, with durable keys that can withstand millions of key presses. The keyboard also includes customisable lighting options, which enhance the overall aesthetics. However, the K845 lacks some advanced features like dedicated macro keys or media controls, but for those who want a reliable mechanical keyboard without the hefty price tag, the Logitech K845 is an excellent choice.
Conclusion
When it comes to affordable gaming keyboards, you don’t have to sacrifice quality or performance to stay within budget. The options listed above all provide great value, offering mechanical switches, solid build quality, and customisable lighting — all without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a casual gamer or looking for an entry-level keyboard, these affordable gaming keyboards deliver excellent performance at an affordable price point.
While some of these keyboards may not come with the premium features found in more expensive models, they all provide essential gaming features such as anti-ghosting, key rollover, and durability. Ultimately, the best affordable gaming keyboard for you will depend on your preferences and gaming needs, but rest assured that any of the keyboards listed above will serve you well in your gaming endeavors without burning a hole in your wallet.