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Ready to Buy the Right Budget Keyboard for You?
Savvy techies will never let a tight budget hold them back from decking out a PC setup. The keyboards we've collected here aren't the finest money can buy, but that's not why you're here. They're all solid performers we can recommend if you're strapped.
If you're looking to fully deck out your work or battle station on the cheap, also check out our frugal picks for computer mice and budget monitors. And if you're searching for other budget gear, see our picks for the best budget laptops and cheap gaming laptops.
How Much Money to Spend on a Cheap Keyboard?
What makes for a budget keyboard, price-wise? The sweet spot is around $50—but if that seems high, know that if you shop carefully, you can go as low as $20 and still come away with a usable typing experience. A low price doesn't mean a keyboard can't be a good performer, as our list of favorites demonstrates.
To keep these keyboards in budget territory, manufacturers must make some concessions. For example, an affordable wireless keyboard may use disposable AA or AAA batteries rather than an internal battery pack you recharge. Or you may not have a choice of key switches, the physical mechanisms under each key that determine travel time, sound, and overall typing comfort. (Most won't be mechanical in this price range.) Also expect a lack of robust utility software, which allows for things like macro customization.
As a result, a budget keyboard is not for everyone. Serious esports players will likely scoff at the lack of game-improving features and customization options, while productivity hounds may roll their eyes at the absence of macros or automated commands. And plenty of people who care about desk aesthetics will bemoan the less-than-stylish designs of most cheap options.
But if you're shopping for a cheap keyboard because you've got a hard line capping your budget, most of these cons won't be deal-breakers. On the contrary, you'll be able to overlook many of them given a keyboard's price. And if you shop carefully, you can find a few models that strike a perfect balance between cost and features.
I just won a set of keycaps and I’m now planning on swapping out my keyboard at work with a mechanical keeb. Any super cheap recommendations? Ideally under $75
Unsure if this post belongs here, but oh well. Have you got any recommendations on mechanical keyboards under 50 bucks, preferably under 35. I'm not asking for mutch functionality, just a decent response time and polling keyboard with ok tactile or linear switches, 75% or lower, although 75 is what I would like. No needs for aesthetics or wireless. Need it for improving a laptop setup and some light esports games.
I did watch some content around this like hippio tech's video on cheap Amazon keyboards, but I'm still undecisive. Maybe there is a better option out there now.
And any subs to post to would be appreciated. To whoever reads this, have a nice day.