Cheapest mechanical keyboards: Best Budget Mechanical Keyboards for 2023

Best 8 Budget Mechanical Keyboards Review [Updated 2023]

Although mechanical keyboards usually cost more than their membrane counterparts, plenty of budget options are available that don’t break the bank.

In this blog, we’re going to review the eight best budget mechanical keyboards you can buy right now.

TL;DR – Top Cheap Mechanical Keyboards

• HyperX Alloy Origins Core: The best budget gaming keyboard overall. It comes in various sizes and switch types to fill multiple roles. 
• Redragon K552: The best cheap gaming keyboard that ticks many boxes at an affordable price. 
• Royal Kludge RK61: Our top pick for Mac users looking for their first mechanical keyboard with a detachable cable. 
• SteelSeries Apex 5: A full-sized keyboard boasting hybrid mechanical switches and an ergonomic design.
• Keychron K2 Version 2: The best budget wireless keyboard with Bluetooth connectivity.  
• Logitech K845: The best, full-sized clicky keyboard for typists.
• Das Keyboard Model S: A remarkable, full-sized keyboard for programmers. 
• Razer Huntsman Mini: A compact keyboard with Razer optical switches and near-zero latency.

• TL;DR – Top Cheap Mechanical Keyboards
• What Are the 3 Types of Mechanical Keyboards?
• What Does Percentage in Mechanical Keyboard Mean?
• Is Buying a Mechanical Keyboard Worth it?
• Reviewing the Best Affordable Mechanical Keyboards in 2022
  • HyperX Alloy Origins Core – Best Mechanical Keyboard Overall          
  • Redragon K552 – Best Mechanical Keyboard Under $100
  • Royal Kludge RK61 – Best Budget Mechanical Keyboard for Mac
  • SteelSeries Apex 5 – Best Budget Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
  • Keychron K2 Version 2 – Best Budget Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
  • Logitech K845 – Best Budget Mechanical Keyboard for Typing
  • Das Keyboard Model S – Best Budget Mechanical Keyboard for Programming
  • Razer Huntsman Mini – Best Mini Mechanical Keyboard
• Comparing the Top Cheap Mechanical Keyboards in 2023
• How to Choose a Mechanical Keyboard
  • 1. Switches
  • 2. Actuators
  • 3. Size
  • 4. Polling Rate
• Frequently Asked Questions About Mechanical Keyboards
  • What is the Difference Between Mechanical and Non-Mechanical Keyboards?
  • What is the Cheapest 60% Mechanical Keyboard?
  • What is the Best Budget 75% Keyboard?
  • How Much Should You Spend on Your First Mechanical Keyboard?
  • How Long Do Mechanical Keyboards Last?
  • What is the Most Clicky Keyboard?
  • What Keyboard Does Tfue Use?
  • What Keyboard Does Ninja Use?
  • What Keyboard Does FaZe Clan Use?
• Conclusion

What Are the 3 Types of Mechanical Keyboards?

Mechanical keyboards come with a wide variety of switches, each one with a unique sound and tactile feel. These can be categorized into linear, tactile, and clicky. 

• Linear switches offer an even, smooth motion and are the quietest of all mechanical switches. 
• Clicky switches are the opposite of linear switches. These require greater actuating force and produce a satisfying clicky sound with each press and a slight bump during key travel.
• Tactile switches are the middle ground between clicky and linear switches. Just like clicky switches, they bump during key travel. However, they’re also silent, like linear switches.

What Does Percentage in Mechanical Keyboard Mean?

Percentages in mechanical keyboards refer to the number of keys found on the device.

• 100% keyboards come with a dedicated numeric keypad and the standard key count, i.e., 104 keys.
• TKL (Tenkeyless) and 75% keyboards drop the numeric keypad but retain the function and navigation keys.
• 65 and 60% keyboards also get rid of the navigation keys, as well as the function keys row found atop standard keyboards.
• 50 and 40% keyboards further reduce the number of keys located on top of a QWERTY key layout.

Is Buying a Mechanical Keyboard Worth it?

Yes. Mechanical keyboards are 100% worth it. They offer several advantages over membrane keyboards, e.g., a greater tactile feel, ‘clicky’ button feedback, superior durability, and keyboard customizability.

So, is a mechanical keyboard worth the hype? Yes!

Reviewing the Best Affordable Mechanical Keyboards in 2022

As you may know, there’s no shortage of mechanical keyboards in the market – a single “mechanical keyboard” search on Amazon reveals hundreds of search results! – making it impossible to test out every product.

So, we asked Reddit’s vast community for its opinions on the best budget mechanical keyboards. As part of our research, we scoured popular subreddits, including r/MechanicalKeyboards, r/Keyboards, r/BuildaPC, r/Razer, and r/HyperX (to name a few), popular social media groups, and a few Discord servers (notably MechKeys and Keeb Hangout).

Based on live interaction, polling results, and expert opinions, 19 keyboards (all under the $150 price mark) stood above the rest.

Our Testing Methodology

Each keyboard was evaluated according to metrics like ease of typing, gaming performance, and programming to assess performance, tactility, key travel, and sound feedback.

Countless testing hours later, the following are 8 of the best budget mechanical keyboards in 2023:

HyperX Alloy Origins Core – Best Mechanical Keyboard Overall          

HyperX Alloy Origins Core is the best budget mechanical keyboard for its price, and this nomination is very well deserved. 

For starters, Alloy Origins Core is available in three sizes: Full size, Tenkeyless (~75%), and 60%, so it doesn’t matter how big or small your computer desk is; you can pick what’s right for you. For reference, we bought the Tenkeyless model for this review. 

Instead of relying on the ‘traditional’ CherryMX mechanical switches, HyperX utilizes its own custom switches within the Alloy Origins Core mechanical keyboard. Buyers can choose from one of three switch options: HyperX Aqua, HyperX Red – Linear, and lastly, HyperX Blue.  

For this review, we ordered the keyboard with HyperX Red – Linear switches, which we found comparable to CherryMX Reds. There’s no bump in the key travel, and the overall key operation is smooth and quiet, producing the right amount of ‘click.’ 

Despite the budget-friendly price tag, the HyperX Alloy Origins Core is a sturdy piece of hardware using an aircraft-grade aluminum body; the chassis is rigid and doesn’t bend or creak. 

Overall, the HyperX Alloy Origins Core is a great all-around keyboard. 

HyperX Alloy Origins Core

9.4

• HyperX Mechanical Switches rated for 80 million keystrokes
• Full aircraft-grade aluminum body
• Ultra-compact, portable design with detachable cable
• Dazzling RGB lighting with dynamic effects
• Advanced customization with HyperX Ngenuity software

Redragon K552 – Best Mechanical Keyboard Under $100

Redragon’s K552 is a compact, Tenkeyless keyboard that offers a great user experience at an affordable price.  

The K552 Kumara has two different models, red and black, and only comes in a Tenkeyless configuration with 87 keys. For this review, we ordered the white keyboard (it has a sleek look and is the more attractive option, in our opinion). 

Thankfully, the Redragon K552 has the option of red, blue, and brown switches, allowing you to choose a keyboard that blends with your overall PC color theme.

In testing, we were impressed by this budget keyboard’s performance. And even though it lacks Cherry MX switches, the existing ones come surprisingly close to the real deal in terms of overall feel and tactility. 

The K552 is the best option for people with less than $100 to spend on a mechanical keyboard.

Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

9.4

• Tenkeyless compact mechanical gaming keyboard Redragon k552 tkl small compact with dust proof mechanical red switches Linear switches quiet click sound fast action with minimal resistance without a tactile bump feel
• Rainbow LED RGB backlit mechanical USB gaming keyboard 19 different lighting effects and game modes 2 user defined modes 6 colors multiple brightness level breathing speed precision engineered keycaps offering crystal clear uniform backlighting
• Ergonomic designed steel series mechanical game keyboards high-quality durable metal-abs construction with plate-mounted mechanical keys and switches that stand up even during the most testing marathon gaming sessions

Royal Kludge RK61 – Best Budget Mechanical Keyboard for Mac

Mac users looking to upgrade their standard Apple keyboards can consider the Royal Kludge RK61.  

Royal Kludge RK61 is a compact 60% keyboard that comes in two color variants: White and Black. The former is popular with Mac users because it perfectly matches the white theme of Apple products. 

As for the switches, the Royal Kludge RK61 offers three options: red, blue, and brown – the brown buttons provide the same tactility as blue switches and the quiet functionality of Red switches. 

Surprisingly enough, the switches on the Royal Kludge RK61 are hot-swappable, and you can easily replace them with a keycap puller.

The RK61 performed up to par in our tests. We faced no issues pairing the keyboard with our M1 Macbook, and after a bit of tweaking, it felt like using an official Apple keyboard product.

RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61

9.4

• Mini 60% Keyboard: RK61 mini 60% gaming keyboard is a ultra-compact layout with 61 keys makes you a neat desktop with your organized gears on, even folks have nothing to do with Minimalist will dive into its tiny practical design. Tips you might want to know is that keyboard without numpad is most FPS gamers’ choice, more spaces left for mouse movements. This mechanical keyboard is definitely a good choice for a Christmas gift🎅
• Red Switch: Linear Switch, meaning that the force at the beginning and the end of each stroke is nearly identical. The result is a feel that most perceive as “smoother” and “faster” makeing them especially popular among gaming enthusiasts. Red Switch is the best fit switch using in Office.
• RK61 RGB Keyboard: This 60% rgb keyboad has 18 RGB backlight modes, 8 monochrome backlight modes and 1 full color backlight. These modes will give you more enjoyable when you gaming or typing at night.

SteelSeries Apex 5 – Best Budget Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

For gaming, mechanical switches aren’t always the best choice. However, that doesn’t mean membrane keyboards are best suited for gaming, either; the sweet spot lies somewhere in between.

The SteelSeries Apex 5 is a ‘hybrid’ mechanical keyboard that offers the perfect middle ground between mechanical and non-mechanical keyboards and covers all the right bases.  

In terms of design and features, the keyboard comes with a 100% key layout and includes RGB backlighting that you can control via the SteelSeries software. There’s also a magnetic, detachable wrist rest that adds to the appeal of this hardware.

Buyers have two switch options: the ‘Hybrid Blue – Tactile & Clicky’ and ‘Whisper Quiet – Tactile & Silent.’ We went with the Tactile & Silent keys and enjoyed the experience.

The SteelSeries Apex 5 doesn’t disappoint with its build quality, either. The keyboard has an aircraft-grade aluminum alloy frame that’s remarkably sturdy and built to last.

Suffice it to say; this keyboard is the weapon of choice of several veteran eSports teams!

SteelSeries Apex 5 Hybrid

9.4

• Hybrid mechanical gaming switches – The tactile click of a blue mechanical switch plus a smooth membrane
• OLED smart display – Customize with gifs, game info, discord messages, and more. OS-Windows, Mac OS X, Xbox, and PlayStation. USB port required
• Aircraft-grade aluminum alloy frame – Manufactured for unbreakable durability and sturdiness

Keychron K2 Version 2 – Best Budget Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

Wireless connectivity is a rarity in budget keyboards in general and budget mechanical keyboards in particular. So, it’s little surprise that most budget wireless keyboards come with membraned keys. 

However, the Keychron K2 Version 2 is an exception; as it comes equipped with wireless Bluetooth connectivity and quality mechanical switches.

In terms of size, the Keychron K2 Version 2 features a 75% key layout with 84 buttons. Also, the switches come in Gateron red, blue, and brown colors. For this test, we went with the Blue switches. 

These switches were nice, loud, and tactile, and the input latency was minimal despite the Bluetooth connectivity.

The verdict: a fantastic wireless keyboard for people on a budget.

Keychron K2 Version 2 Wireless

9. 4

• A 75% layout (84-key) RGB backlight compact Bluetooth mechanical keyboard. The ultimate tenkeyless keyboard that retains shortcut and arrow keys. Aluminum frame.
• Connects with up to 3 devices via Bluetooth 5.1 and switch among them easily. With high reliable and broad compatibility Broadcom Bluetooth chipset, the K2 is best to fit home, office and light gaming use while connecting with your smartphone, laptop and iPad. It also has wired mode with USB Type-C connection.
• With a unique Mac layout, K2 has all necessary Mac function keys, while compatible with Windows. Extra keycaps for both Windows and Mac operating system are included.

Logitech K845 – Best Budget Mechanical Keyboard for Typing

The Logitech K845 is an excellent full-sized mechanical keyboard if you only want to type. And because this list focuses on cheap products, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better option than Logitech K845 in this price range. 

Regarding switches, the Logitech K845 is available in TTC blue, brown, and red, as well as cherry blue and red.

As expected from a Logitech product, the K845 showcases high-quality adjustable tilt legs, an aluminum top case, and a flexible USB cable. 

On the flip side, the keycaps appear to be made of cheaper PBT material, but you can’t be super picky from a budget-oriented keyboard. 

To conclude, the K845 is a good low-priced mechanical keyboard for typing.

Logitech K845 Mechanical Illuminated Keyboard

9.4

• An adjustable 4-8 degree tilt and slim front lets you type at a comfortable angle.
• Choose between Red, Blue, or Brown switches for the right level of sound and tactile key feedback.
• White backlighting in 5 patterns lets you be productive your way — even in the dark.

Das Keyboard Model S – Best Budget Mechanical Keyboard for Programming

The Das Keyboard Model S is a full-sized, wired mechanical keyboard perfect for programming thanks to its spaced-out keys and spacious ergonomics. 

Being a keyboard aimed squarely at professionals, the Das Keyboard Model S only comes in black. As for the mechanical keys, the Model S features standard Cherry MX Blue switches for that loud, satisfying clicky sounds and above-average tactility. 

The build quality is remarkable. The keys are gold-plated for minimal latency, and the keycaps are laser-etched for fading resistance. 

Overall, Das Keyboard Model S is our favorite keyboard for professionals looking for a solid, durable mechanical keyboard.

Das Keyboard Model S

9.4

• HIGH PERFORMANCE AND HIGH QUALITY WITH SUPER AWESOME FEEL – This high-performance, mechanical keyboard feels amazing on your fingertips and offers two distinct tactile experiences – click and soft. Your fingers will love it. Now includes media controls for quick access to the most common media functions.
• PREMIUM TACTILE EXPERIENCE – Best-in-class Cherry MX Blue mechanical key switches provide tactile and audio feedback so accurate it allows you to execute every keystroke with lightning-fast precision. Enjoy the tactile experience you love from a mechanical keyboard, with just enough sound to satisfy you – and not annoy your coworkers!
• UP TO 50 MILLION KEYSTROKES – Laser-etched keycaps for maximum durability are paired with Cherry MX Blue switches, giving your new mechanical keyboard life up to 50 million keystrokes. High-performance, gold-plated switches provide the best contact and typing experience because, unlike other metals, gold does not rust, increasing the lifespan of the switch

Razer Huntsman Mini – Best Mini Mechanical Keyboard

The Razer Huntsman Mini is a compact gaming keyboard that features Razer’s signature optical switches. 

It is set according to the 60% keyboard standard (no numeric keypads or navigation keys), making it larger than most keyboards you see on laptops. As for colors, it’s available in Classic Black and Mercury White. 

As mentioned earlier, the Razer Huntsman Mini uses Razer’s proprietary optical switches. You’ve got three options to choose from: ‘Clicky Optical Switch,’ ‘Analog Optical Switch,’ and ‘Linear Optical Switch.’ 

Gamers may opt for linear optical switches, while professionals and typists would benefit more from the tactility of ‘analog’ and ‘clicky’ optical switches. 

If trimming things down to the bare minimum is your thing, the Razer Huntsman Mini is the keyboard of choice.

Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Gaming Keyboard: Fast Keyboard Switches – Clicky Optical Switches – Chroma RGB Lighting – PBT Keycaps – Onboard Memory – Classic Black

9.4

• Faster Than Legacy Mechanical Switches: Razer Optical switches use light-based actuation, registering key presses at the speed of light (30% shorter actuation distance than other clicky switches at 1.5 millimeter) with satisfying, clicky feedback
• Ultimate Personalization and Gaming Immersion with Razer Chroma: Fully syncs with popular games, Razer hardware, Philips Hue, and gear from 30 partners; supports 16.8 million colors on individually backlit keys
• Quality, Aluminum Construction: Covered with a matte, aluminum top frame for increased structural integrity

Comparing the Top Cheap Mechanical Keyboards in 2023

Model	Size	Switch  Type	Rating (/10)
HyperX Alloy Origins Core	100, 65, 60%, TKL	Mechanical	9. 5
Redragon K552 Kumara	TKL	Mechanical	9.5
Royal Kludge RK61	60%	Mechanical	9.5
SteelSeries Apex 5	100%	Hybrid	9.0
Keychron K2 Version 2	75%	Mechanical	9.0
Logitech K845	100%	Mechanical	9.0
Das Keyboard Model S	100%	Mechanical	8.5
Razer Huntsman Mini	60%	Optical	8.5

How to Choose a Mechanical Keyboard

Choosing the proper mechanical keyboard can be confusing for beginners, given the myriad of online and offline products available. Here’s a list of essential features you should consider before purchasing.

1. Switches

The most crucial factor to keep in mind is the switch type. Each switch type (clicky, linear, and tactile) has pros and cons, so the choice boils down to personal preference. For example, clicky and tactile switches are ideal for typing but may feel too clunky for gaming – choose wisely!

2. Actuators

Mechanical keyboards come with two types of actuators: optical and mechanical. Mechanical actuators rely on direct contact between the switch and the PCB, whereas optical switches rely on light beams, resulting in lower input latencies (up to 30 ms).

3. Size

Another factor to consider in your mechanical keyboard purchase is the size (scroll up to the start of this blog to know what mechanical keyboard percentages mean).

For office work, a 100% keyboard is ideal. However, if you have a small desk, you’re better off buying a smaller keyboard without a dedicated numeric keypad or navigation keys.

4. Polling Rate

Just like gaming mice, the polling rate has a significant impact on performance. Most mechanical keyboards offer a polling rate of 125 Hz, which is good enough for regular, everyday usage. However, gamers should opt for a 500 Hz or faster polling rate keyboard.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mechanical Keyboards

Here are a few mechanical keyboard FAQs.

What is the Difference Between Mechanical and Non-Mechanical Keyboards?

Non-mechanical keyboards use a membrane layer with rubber domes. Each time a key is pressed, the rubber dome underneath the keycap depresses and sends an electrical signal to the PC. Over time, these rubber domes lose their elasticity and may register incorrect characters.

On the other hand, mechanical keyboards rely on mechanical switches with spring-loaded mechanisms that offer a superior tactile feel to membrane keyboards. That’s why mechanical keyboards are ideal for those who value tactility and precision.

What is the Cheapest 60% Mechanical Keyboard?

Of all the budget keyboards currently available, the Razer Huntsman Mini is our favorite mini, 60% keyboard. It’s a compact, affordable keyboard that features decent build quality for the price and can be used for a wide range of scenarios.

What is the Best Budget 75% Keyboard?

The Keychron K2 Version 2 is the best budget 75% keyboard that’s inexpensive and offers a pleasant typing experience, especially considering its price.

How Much Should You Spend on Your First Mechanical Keyboard?

Our team of experts believes that one shouldn’t spend more than $150 on their first mechanical keyboard. These are specialized pieces of hardware; each offers a different tactility, click response, key travel, and customizability experience. First-hand experience is needed before going deeper into mechanical keyboards.

How Long Do Mechanical Keyboards Last?

Mechanical keyboards generally have a long lifespan and can function as intended for up to 10 years of heavy usage. The main reason is that mechanical switches last much longer than membrane buttons.  Cherry MX switches, e.g., have a lifespan of 100 million clicks, whereas cheap switches can last for 40 to 50 million clicks, on average.

What is the Most Clicky Keyboard?

The most clicky (or clickiest, for lack of a better word) keyboard you can get your hands on right now is the Logitech K845. It’s available with TTC blue switches that produce crisp and loud sounds with excellent tactile feedback.

What Keyboard Does Tfue Use?

Popular Twitch and YouTube streamer Tfue uses a custom mechanical keyboard that allegedly cost $3,500. The keyboard was custom-built by YouTuber Nathan Kim of ‘Taeha Types’, who specializes in luxury keyboards.

What Keyboard Does Ninja Use?

Ninja uses the Ducky One 2 Mini keyboard. As the name suggests, the Ducky One 2 Mini is a compact 60% keyboard popular among veteran eSports players.

What Keyboard Does FaZe Clan Use?

FaZe Clan uses the SteelSeries Apex 5 keyboard. Apex 5 is a hybrid mechanical keyboard that uses mechanical switches layered on top of a rubber membrane to reduce tactility.

Conclusion

Unlike membrane keyboards that more or less offer the same level of overall feel and typing experience, mechanical keyboards come in various ‘flavors.’ 

Not only do we have three major types of mechanical switches (linear, tactile, and clicky), but each has its subtypes, and all have their pros and cons.

Most of our testers agreed that HyperX Origins (with Red Switches) is the jack of all trades regarding work, gaming, and general everyday usage. However, it’s not loud enough to annoy others nor too quiet to lack that ‘mechanical’ feel.

Best budget mechanical keyboards | Digital Trends

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By

Kunal Khullar

May 6, 2022

Investing in the best mechanical keyboard can bring a huge improvement to the way you type or game on your PC. Available in all sorts of shapes and sizes, these keyboards usually cost a fortune. But there are quite a few options that are suited for someone who wants to buy their first mechanical keyboard or maybe someone who doesn’t want to spend a lot of money.

Now whether you are looking for a new gaming keyboard or just something that offers great tactile feedback while typing, there is one for everyone! Our top pick has to be the EVGA Z15 which is a full-size keyboard offering a bunch of features including the ability to swap key switches. Similarly, if you are looking for something that is compact, do have a look at the Keychron K12.

EVGA Z15

Best full-size mechanical keyboard on a budget

Jump to details

Logitech K845

Best budget mechanical keyboard for productivity

Jump to details

HyperX Alloy Origins Core

The best tenkeyless mechanical keyboard on a budget

Jump to details

Keychron K12

A versatile 60% mechanical keyboard on a budget

Jump to details

Logitech G613 Lightspeed

Best wireless mechanical keyboard for gaming and productivity

Jump to details

Redragon K552

Best ultra-budget mechanical keyboard

Jump to details

EVGA Z15

Best full-size mechanical keyboard on a budget

Pros

• Low-click latency
• Custom RGB lighting
• Hot-swappable switches
• Macro-programmable keys

Cons

• ABS keycaps
• Questionable logo size
• No USB passthrough

Why should you buy this: It is the most feature-packed budget mechanical keyboard.

Who’s it for: Serious gamers and for those who want a mechanical keyboard that is packed to the brim.

Why we picked the EVGA Z15:

EVGA is better known for making graphics cards, but the company also sells peripherals including keyboards and mice. The Z15 is a great keyboard and our pick for the best mechanical keyboard on a budget as it comes with a wide range of features. Now it isn’t the cheapest one compared to other products on this list, but it has a solid metal top-plate, hot-swappable key switches, customizable per-key RGB lighting, a volume wheel, and the ability to set macros to almost any key. The keyboard also comes with one of the fastest polling rates of 4000Hz, while the Kailh Speed switches have a low actuation point making your keystrokes even faster. The keyboard also comes with dedicated RGB software, a bundled wrist-rest, multimedia keys, and a warranty of three years which is more than most keyboards on the market.

For about $75, this is the best mechanical keyboard on the market, but there are a few gripes that we have. The Z15 features ABS keycaps which are not the best as they become shiny after prolonged use, while the keycap font is also something that might not appeal to all. Another point of concern is that huge belt-buckle style EVGA logo sitting on top, it just looks out of place. Apart from that, the keyboard is pretty solid and should last you for a long time.

EVGA Z15

Best full-size mechanical keyboard on a budget

Logitech K845

Best budget mechanical keyboard for productivity

Pros

• TTC and Cherry MX switch options
• Simple design approach
• White backlighting in 5 patterns

Cons

• No customization software
• Non-detachable cable

Why should you buy this: It is a no-frills mechanical keyboard that gets the job done without any fancy gimmicks.

Who’s it for: Working professionals looking for a simple and straightforward mechanical keyboard for typing.

Why we picked the Logitech K845:

Logitech is a reliable brand when it comes to PC peripherals and the K845 is a simple, no-frills mechanical keyboard that gets the job done. It features a clean design with a dark grey finish and a full-size 104-key layout. It also comes with white backlighting so you can work in the night/dark if that is something you prefer. The keyboard isn’t really loaded with extra features, and in our opinion, it is well suited for professional spaces or home offices for everyday productivity. Logitech offers the keyboard with TTC key switches or you can pay a little extra and go for Cherry MX. Both are available in linear red, clicky blue, and tactile brown switches, and while TTC should be really good, expect the Cherry MX to be more reliable. With no macro keys or support for any dedicated software, all the settings (including lighting) can only be accessed manually. If you are looking for a mechanical keyboard on a budget and don’t care about the fancy features, then this is the one for you.

Logitech K845

Best budget mechanical keyboard for productivity

Jacob Roach / Digital Trends

HyperX Alloy Origins Core

The best tenkeyless mechanical keyboard on a budget

Pros

• Aluminum body
• Per-key RGB lighting
• Removable USB-C Cable
• Programmable macros

Cons

• Ngenuity software needs more work
• ABS keycaps
• No wrist rest

Why should you buy this: It is one of the best budget mechanical keyboards with a tenkeyless layout.

Who’s it for: Gamers looking for a tenkeyless mechanical keyboard on a budget.

Why we picked the HyperX Alloy Origins Core:

The HyperX Alloy Origins Core is a great mechanical keyboard that doesn’t cost a bomb, yet feels quite premium. It features a tenkeyless layout which means it doesn’t include a number pad, thus accommodating less space on your desk. It features a solid aircraft-grade aluminum body while the feet at the bottom offer three different levels of adjustment for the perfect angle while typing. HyperX gives you the option to choose between linear, tactile, or clicky switches, and while they aren’t Cherry MX, they feel pretty good to use. It also comes with per-key RGB lighting, onboard profile storage, macro support, and a detachable USB-C cable.

The lack of a wrist rest, and dedicated media buttons, are a letdown, and we really wish that the company didn’t use ABS keycaps as they get shiny and slippery with all your finger oils. Other than that, the HyperX Alloy Origins Core is well worth the asking price of $70.

HyperX Alloy Origins Core

The best tenkeyless mechanical keyboard on a budget

Keychron K12

A versatile 60% mechanical keyboard on a budget

Pros

• Great build quality
• Hot-swappable key switches
• Multi-device connectivity
• Support for both Windows and macOS

Cons

• Additional cost for RGB model
• Keys cannot be programmed
• No dedicated software

Why should you buy this: It is one of the best 60% mechanical keyboards with wireless connectivity.

Who’s it for: For the ones looking for a compact, multi-purpose mechanical keyboard on a budget.

Why we picked the Keychron K12

Keychron started off as a Kickstarter project and today offers an impressive range of keyboards offering a wide variety of layouts ranging from 60% to 100%. They make some of the best value for money keyboards and one such product is the Kerychron K12, a 60% keyboard with a lot of potential. First of all, it is wireless and can be paired with up to three devices at once via Bluetooth. There are a variety of customization options including a solid aluminum frame with RGB backlighting instead of the standard white backlight, and the option of getting the keyboard with hot-swap key switches. By default, you can get the keyboard with Gateron G Pro mechanical or Keychron’s optical switches. The keyboard supports both Windows and MacOS and even comes with additional keycaps corresponding to the operating system that you intend to use. The USB-C port can be used for wired operation or charge the 4000mAh battery that should last for around 2 months (8hrs of daily usage) with the backlight off.

Keychron K12

A versatile 60% mechanical keyboard on a budget

Logitech G613 Lightspeed

Best wireless mechanical keyboard for gaming and productivity

Pros

• Lightspeed wireless is impressive
• Multi-device pairing
• Great battery life
• Switches perform well

Cons

• Non-removable wrist rest
• No backlighting

Why should you buy this: It is the best wireless mechanical keyboard available at a low price point.

Who’s it for: Gamers looking for the best performing wireless keyboard with mechanical switches.

Why we picked the Logitech G613 Lightspeed

The G613 Lightspeed is an impressive gaming keyboard featuring Logitech’s Romer-G tactile switches. It is fairly old but still holds relevance in the market as it is priced well and offers Bluetooth along with proprietary 2.4Ghz based ‘Lightspeed’ connectivity. This means you can pair multiple devices with the keyboard and don’t have to worry about cable clutter. It has a rigid plastic build that doesn’t feel cheap while the Romer-G key switches offer a very short pre-travel distance making them great for gaming. You also get a row of additional macro keys and multimedia controls which can be quite handy. It uses standard AA batteries and is claimed to last for about 18 months, which is pretty impressive. We wish the built-in wrist-rest was removable as the entire keyboard takes up a lot of space on the desk. Also, there is no backlighting for the keys, which can be a dealbreaker for certain customers.

Logitech G613 Lightspeed

Best wireless mechanical keyboard for gaming and productivity

Redragon

Redragon K552

Best ultra-budget mechanical keyboard

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Rugged build quality
• Decent RGB lighting

Cons

• Keycaps are not the best

Why should you buy this: It is the best entry-level mechanical keyboard.

Who’s it for: For those who want to get their first mechanical keyboard at an ultra-low budget.

Why we picked the Redragon K552

Available for as low as $35, the Redragon K552 is perfect for someone who wants to buy their first mechanical keyboard on a tight budget. It features a tenkeyless design having a total of 87-keys and is available with blue, red, or brown key switches. The build quality is surprisingly good and robust for a keyboard at this price and you get RGB backlighting with 19 different modes and six brightness levels. The adjustable feet at the bottom are flimsy, but get the job done.

The Otemu key switches aren’t the most premium when compared to Cherry MX, but one can’t really complain at this price. Coming down to the keycaps, they are probably the weakest part of the keyboard, made of ABS plastic with pad-printed legends. Expect these to quickly develop a shine on top due to finger oils while the legends shouldn’t last long.

Still, for $35, even if this keyboard only lasted you a few years, you’d easily get your money’s worth.

Redragon K552

Best ultra-budget mechanical keyboard

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a mechanical keyboard?

The distinct feature of a mechanical keyboard is its high-quality key switches. They are faster, more responsive, and have a more satisfying actuation than rubber dome membrane keyboards. That makes them better for typing and gaming, or a combination of the two. Most mechanical keyboards are also built to a higher standard, with better quality materials.

Although they’re typically more expensive than membrane or scissor-switch boards, they don’t have to be, as the above list shows.

What are the different types of mechanical key switches?

Mechanical keyboards come with mechanical key switches that are available in different types depending on various factors like actuation point, travel distance, and the type of feedback. Although switches from different manufacturers are quite different, there are primarily three types of mechanical switches:

• Linear switches are smooth and easy to depress as there is no tactile bump while bottoming out. These switches are usually preferred by gamers as they are easy to press and are usually quiet. The most common linear switches are marketed as red or black.
• Tactile switches come with a noticeable bump that offers feedback before bottoming out and sometimes forces the user to apply additional actuation force. These key switches are usually preferred by typists as one can easily make out each keypress, though gamers can also benefit from the notable actuation. Common tactile key switches are marketed as brown or clear.
• Clicky switches are similar to tactile switches but make additional noise when they hit the bump during the keypress. They can get quite loud and thus are only preferred by users who prefer audio feedback while typing or someone who usually works in a quiet room all by themselves. The most common clicky switches are marketed as blue and green.

There are also optical switches which are often lumped together with the above options. They tend to vary dramatically by manufacturer but offer an even faster actuation if you want it.

For more information, check out our guide to mechanical switch types.

Are there any disadvantages of mechanical keyboards?

Mechanical keyboards are usually more expensive when compared to rubber dome keyboards. Having said that, there are quite a few affordable keyboards that offer slightly cheaper mechanical key switches. Certain users might also find typing on a mechanical keyboard to be more difficult or slower as the keys are usually raised higher. Another point of concern can be noise, as tactile and clicky key switches tend to be noisier than membrane boards.

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Best cheap mechanical keyboards under $40

2023 By : Geoffrey Carr | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-06-30 10:45

Mechanical keyboards are all enthusiasts and gamers out of rage. If you’ve been using a rubber dome or scissor keyboard for your entire life, buying a new keypad can be intimidating, not to mention a significant expense. Even the cheapest models from mainstream vendors start at around $80 and also fit hundreds of RGB lights and programmable add-ons – a lot of testing to turn down something you’re not sure you’ll like.

To this end, we have put together a collection of inexpensive mechanical keyboards. These all come from relatively unknown brands with cheaper components than most enthusiast models, but they give you a good place to start if you want to explore the wider world of mechanical keyboards. Best of all, they’re $40 or less each, so testing them won’t cost you more than a standard keyboard.

Why are these keyboards so cheap

First, let’s get a little tired of your expectations. It’s obviously not as high quality as some of the more expensive keyboards, but we were surprised how good they are. Some of it has to do with overall build quality, but the big factor is the switches inside.

Individual key switches are what make mechanical keyboards unique: their intricate spring and slider design gives keys a much longer, more satisfying “feel” than rubber dome keyboards, which is why typists and gamers love them so much. The German corporation Cherry has been producing patented MX switches for over 30 years, and while they are not the only switches found on mechanical keyboards, they are the de facto standard.

Since the patent for Cherry MX switches has expired, competitors have made “clone” switches that are typically sold to keyboard manufacturers for much less. These switches share the same basic features as Cherry MX switches, including cross-shaped stems that are compatible with the same keys, and different colors to match different types of switches. Key Difference: These clone switches are mass-produced in China with (supposedly) less tight tolerances, giving them a looser, more wobbly feel than the real article. However, they are much preferred by bargain hunters, as genuine Cherry MX switches or equivalent cost about a dollar per switch, instantly putting keyboards out of the impulse buy range.

In addition, these keyboards lack more advanced features such as programmable RGB backlighting (or backlighting in some cases), detachable USB cables, and other such niceties. Sometimes you can find one of these features, but you rarely find them on the same board.

Cherry MX switches come in different colors, each coded to quickly explain the different variables of the switch itself: the strength of the spring, the “bump” or lack of it at the point where the stroke occurs, and whether the key makes a beep “press” when it pressed. Other manufacturers copied the color matching scheme along with the design of Cherry MX switches, so we violated the guidelines below in these lines.

If a lot of these mechanical keyboard jargons sound like another language to you, check out our explainer on all the different mechanical keyboard terms.

Best cheap keyboard with blue switches: Redragon K552-M KUMARA

Blue switches are generally preferred by typists due to their low actuation power and loud “click” with every keystroke. Oddly, the Redragon board ($30) is clearly aimed at “gamers” who prefer a linear switcher for quick keystrokes (see below). However, this model is one of the cheapest on the market at just $30. More expensive models may be equipped with a variety of LED lighting options, but they all feature the same blue click switch. (Amazon’s listing for Redragon says it uses “Cherry MX Green” key switches, but that seems to be a bug – they are definitely Blue clones.) The switches themselves come from Outemu, a generic “clone” switch supplier. While the stems are slightly looser with a stiffer center spring than standard Cherry MX Blues, they give an acceptable approximation. Tenkeyless (also known as “TKL”) markup for most users who don’t do fast data entry is plenty, but there’s also a full-size version with a Redragon VARA numeric keypad ($40) for those who prefer it. Standard key sizes mean that aftermarket keyboards can be installed. The Redragon comes with a free plastic key to remove them, but the USB cable is fixed in place.

The board feels a bit metal in the case (if not a full metal plate), which is something of a luxury at this price point and gives it more stability and stability than other budget keyboards. The keys aren’t particularly attractive, with standard ABS plastic and stamped legends that wear out quickly with constant printing. The case has a significant lip around the edges, which will make cleaning difficult, but Cherry-style stabilizers will save you some headaches when replacing longer keyrings. The Redragon board can be used with rainbow, all-red, or multi-color RGB lights for a bit more cash.

If you don’t like the look of the Redragon, you have a few more options with blue switches:

• This Eagletec model ($40) is slightly larger, has a full metal plate, and (for a few extra bucks) has options for blue LEDs or sampling on a white and silver color scheme with the same Outemu blue switches.
• You can also grab this keyboard for $33 although it is available from several different vendors with their printed logos: TOMOKO, Mpow and Pictek. You can find full size versions, ten minus versions, and backlit versions – just make sure you review all three brand names to cover all your bases.
• If you prefer a smaller layout, the Qisan Magicforce (described in more detail below) is available in a $40 blue switch option.
• Another small alternative is the DREVO 84 keyboard ($40), which includes white backlighting, double-click keys, and a choice of blue, brown, red, or black (like red, but stiffer) switches. Its custom layout takes a bit of getting used to, and finding a full set of keys can be tricky, so we don’t recommend it for beginners.

Best cheap keyboard with “brown” switches (and small form factor): Qisan Magicforce Mini

Brown switches use tactile impact to give physical feedback and a light spring like blue switches, but without the crisp “click” sound. They are a popular alternative, sort of an intermediate between noisy blue switches and smoother linear designs. The Qisan Magicforce Mini ($40) is a great way to test these out and is often recommended as a starting point for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. (If you prefer gold, this version is the same price with a different color plate.) Outemu Brown switches are quite a few Cherry or Gateron Browns replicas with a satisfying hit on much less volume than the Blues. The keycaps feel a bit flimsy and standard typing won’t last forever – a big drawback with some odd choices for volume and media keys on a feature level, but overall it’s hard to find a better little mechanical keyboard for just forty bucks. The smaller format is well thought out: it uses the popular 60% layout (freeing the function bar), but adds back a full cluster of arrows and Delete, Paste, and Pride-up keys to rely less on the function layer. You’ll still want to use a larger keyboard if you use F1-F12 a lot, but for everyone else it’s an elegant compromise. The very thin aluminum plate doesn’t affect stability much, but the detachable microUSB cable, small size and light weight make it travel friendly. And like the Outemu switches above, the ones on this keyboard also come with Cherry-style stabilizers for easy key exchange with the included dongle. There’s a backlit Magicforce keyboard as well as full-size options, but they’re much more expensive and work around 70 dollars. You can also get smaller versions with either blue or red switches for the same price for $40 if you prefer those. But for other cheap brown-switched boards, there are a few others:

• If you want a keyboard with gleaming LEDs, the Velocifire TKL01 ($30) gets you one with “Brown” switches and a slightly larger string.
• A good compromise between the two is the TKL78 ($30), also from Velocifire, which uses a “75%” layout with a full feature line, but a shorter layout with an arrow cluster overflowing with the right modifier area.

The

• DREVO 84 Keyboard ($40) includes white backlighting, double-tap keys, and a choice of blue, brown, red, or black (like red, but stiffer) switches. Its custom layout takes a bit of getting used to, and finding a full set of keys can be tricky, so we don’t recommend it for beginners.

Best Cheap Red Switch Keyboard: LESHP Illuminated Keyboard

Red switches are the most common among gaming-specific keyboards because they combine a relatively light spring with a linear sliding motion. There is no tactile impact or audible “click” when you press a key, it’s just a smooth up and down motion. It’s especially hard to find red clone buttons on cheaper boards, which tend to come with brown or blue switches for wider appeal. Luckily, the oddly named LESHP keyboard includes them for just $40. The LESHP tip is aesthetically the least exciting of our three recommendations: while the build is lightweight plastic with exposed screws, the black casing is clearly trying to disarm the Razer BlackWidow’s design. This comparison doesn’t help the “rainbow” LEDs, which, despite their appearance, are not true RGB – each row only lights up one color (although an all-red version is available). At least the keys are ABS plastic doubleleshot, meaning the backlit legends won’t wear out with use. The media legends and lighting control functions are simply printed, but they are on non-alphanumeric keys, meaning they will likely last for a while. extra strength. The key switches are from JWH and are fairly loose compared to genuine Cherry keys, although that’s not necessarily a bad thing for game design. The backlighting is quite dim even at the brightest setting, but the layout is completely standard (not always set on a gaming keyboard), and Cherry-style stabilizers mean easy keypad replacements. If the multicolored LESHP doesn’t blow your fancy, you might like these alternatives:0024

The

DREVO also sells a more traditional ten-keyboard board in the same style, but only with stiffer $37 black switches.

Inexpensive upgrades for your new cheap

keyboard If you’ve experienced the mechanical lifestyle and decide you’re a fan, you can go and spend more money on a board with more features like programmable layouts, custom designs, RGB lighting, etc. D. But you can also upgrade the board you already have, keeping the overall cost but getting a nice look.

• Add new keys : All boards recommended above use standard Cherry-style stems and standard key layouts, so any set of replacement keys will work with them. You can get a new fitting set pretty cheap, or upgrade them with thicker PBT plastic, or even try a different profile like DSA or G20 for a different feel on your fingers.
• Creating Custom Keyboard Keys : For the ultimate in keyboard customization, there are several vendors that will let you choose the color and style of typing on individual keyboards, or even upload your own illustrations for custom typing (like I did with my Overwatch set in the picture above). Keyboards WASD and MaxKeyboard are two options.
• Remove ugly logos : sometimes the branding on these cheap boards is… less stylish. There are several options, if the logo printed on the case is not to your liking, it can be removed from the plastic with a little rubbing alcohol, sugar cubes or acetone. Just make sure you test each method on the back of your keyboard before rubbing the logo on a strong material like acetone can especially ruin cheaper finishes.
• Silent O-Ring Keyboard : If the noise of your mechanical keyboard bothers you (or your colleagues), these tiny plastic O-rings can help dampen the sound. They’re especially useful if you’re a strong typist who wrings out keys every time you press them.
• Get Protective Case: Some people love their mechanical keyboard so much they take it with their laptop to type on the go. There are sleeves specifically designed to protect the keys and body of your keyboard in your laptop bag or backpack. Just check the dimensions to make sure it’s big enough for your keyboard.

With the right upgrade, you will live a high life without high cost.

Best cheap mechanical keyboards under $40

Mechanical keyboards are in vogue

computer enthusiasts and gamers. If you’ve used a rubber dome or scissor switch keyboard your whole life, buying a new clicky keyboard can be daunting, not to mention a significant expense. Even the cheapest models from mainstream vendors start at around $80 and go up to hundreds for RGB lighting and programmable add-ons – a lot of money to throw at something you don’t necessarily like.

CONNECTED WITH:

If you haven’t tried a mechanical keyboard yet, you’re missing out.

To this end, we have put together a collection of very cheap mechanical picks for the keyboard. They are all made by relatively unknown brands with cheaper components than most enthusiast models, but they make a good starting point if you want to explore the wider world of mechanical keyboards. Best of all, they cost $40 or less each, so trying them out won’t cost you much more than a standard keyboard.

Why are these keyboards so cheap?

First, let’s moderate your expectations a bit. They are obviously not as high quality as some of the more expensive keyboards, but we were surprised at how good they are. Some of this has to do with the overall build quality, but a big factor is the switches inside.

Individual key switches make mechanical keyboards unique: their complex spring-and-slider design makes the keys much longer and more pleasant to the touch than rubber dome keyboards, which is why they are so popular with typists and gamers. The German Cherry Corporation has been making their patented MX switches for over 30 years, and while they are not the only switches found on mechanical keyboards, they are the de facto standard.

Since the patent for Cherry MX switches has expired, competitors have made “cloned” switches that are usually sold to keyboard manufacturers for a much lower price. These switches share the same basic features as Cherry MX switches, including cross-shaped stems that are compatible with the same keys, and different colors to match different types of switches. Key Difference: These clone switches are mass-produced in China to (supposedly) less tight tolerances, making them weaker and more wobbly than the originals. However, they are much preferred by bargain hunters as genuine Cherry MX switches or their equivalent cost around a dollar per switch, putting the keyboard instantly out of the impulse buy range.

Also, these keyboards tend to lack more advanced features like programmable RGB backlighting (or even backlighting, in some cases), detachable USB cables, and other such little things. Sometimes you may come across one of these features, but you will rarely find them all on the same board.

CONNECTED WITH:

An explanation of all those obscure terms associated with a mechanical keyboard

Cherry MX switches come in a variety of colors, each coded to quickly explain various parameters of the switch itself: spring force, “bump” or lack of it at the travel registration point, and whether the key beeps “click” as it is pressed. Other manufacturers have copied the color matching scheme along with the Cherry MX switch design, so we have broken the guidelines below in this regard.

If a lot of mechanical keyboard jargon sounds like another language to you,

check out our explainer

under all mechanical keyboard conditions.

Best cheap blue switch keyboard: Redragon K552-M KUMARA

Typists generally prefer blue switches due to their low actuation force and loud “click” with each keystroke. Then it’s strange that

redragon board

($30) is clearly aimed at “gamers” who prefer a linear switch for quick keystrokes (see below). However, this model is one of the cheapest on the market at just $30. More expensive models may come with different LED lighting options, but they all feature the same blue switch. (Amazon’s listing for Redragon says it uses “Cherry MX Green equivalent” key switches, but that seems like a mistake – they are definitely blue clones. )

The switches themselves are supplied by Outemu, a common supplier of “cloned” switches. While the stems are slightly wider with a stiffer center spring than the standard Cherry MX Blues, they give a reasonable approximation. The keyless layout (also known as “TKL”) is convenient for most users who don’t do fast data entry, but there’s also a full-sized version with a numeric keypad called

Redragon VARA

($40) for those who prefer it. Standard key sizes mean that aftermarket keycaps can be installed. The Redragon comes with a free plastic cap removal tool, but the USB cable is fixed in place.

The board appears to have some metal in the casing (if not an all-metal plate), which is something of a luxury at this price point and gives it more weight and stability than other budget keyboards. The keycaps aren’t particularly attractive, with standard ABS plastic and stamped lettering that wears out quickly with constant typing. The case has significant ridges on the edges, which will make it harder to clean, but the cherry-style stabilizers will save some headaches when replacing longer caps. The Redragon board can be equipped with rainbow, full red, or multi-color RGB lighting for a bit more money.

If you don’t like the look of the Redragon, you have several other options with blue switches:

• This is an Eagletec model.

  ($40) is slightly larger, has an all-metal plate, and (for a few bucks) has blue LED or white-on-silver color scheme options with the same Outemu blue switches.

• You can also take

  this keyboard

  for $33, however, it can be purchased from several branded vendors: TOMOKO, Mpow, and Pictek. You can find

  full size versions

  ,

  keyless version

  , and

  backlit versions

  there – just make sure you search for all three brands to cover all your bases.

• If you prefer a smaller size, Qisan Magicforce (discussed in more detail below) is available in

  blue switch option

  for 40 dollars.

• Another small alternative –

  TREE 84 keyboard

  ($40), which includes white backlighting, dual keycaps, and a choice of blue, brown, red, or black (like red, but tougher) switches. However, its non-standard layout takes some getting used to and the full set of keys can be harder to find, so we don’t recommend it for beginners.

Best cheap brown switch keyboard (and small form factor): Qisan Magicforce Mini

Brown style switches use a tactile bulge to provide physical feedback and a light spring like blue switches, but without the distinct click sound. It’s a popular alternative, sort of the sweet spot between noisy blue switches and a smoother, linear design.

Tae Kisan Magisforce Mini

($40) is a great way to test these out, and is often recommended by mechanical keyboard enthusiasts as a starting point. (If you prefer gold,

this version

same price with different color plate. )

Outemu Brown switches are pretty much exact copies of Cherry or Gateron Browns, with satisfying punch at a much lower volume than Blues. The keycaps feel a little flimsy, and standard typing won’t last forever – a big drawback with some weird volume and media key options on the function layer – but overall, it’s hard to find a better little mechanical keyboard for as little as forty dollars.

The smaller format is well thought out: it uses the popular 60% layout (no feature bar), but adds back a full arrow cluster and Delete, Insert, and Page Up/Down keys for less dependency on feature level. You’ll still want a bigger keyboard if you use F1-F12 a lot, but for everyone else it’s an elegant compromise. The very thin aluminum plate doesn’t contribute much to stability, but the detachable microUSB cable, small size, and light weight make it travel-friendly. And just like the Outemu switches above, the switches on this keyboard also feature Cherry-style stabilizers for easy key changes, with a key tool included.

There are backlit Magicforce keyboards as well as full-size options, but they

much more expensive

in the amount of about 70 dollars. You can also get smaller versions with blue or red switches.

same price $40

if you like it that way. But for other cheap brown-switched boards, several others are available:

• If you need a keyboard with brilliant LEDs,

  Velocifire TKL01

  ($30) will give you these with “brown” switches and a slightly larger build.

• A good compromise between the two –

  TKL78

  ($30), also from Velocifire, which uses a “75%” layout with a full featured row, but a shorter layout with an arrow cluster crammed into the right modifier area.

• IN

  TREE 84 keyboard

  ($40) includes white backlighting, dual keycaps, and a choice of blue, brown, red, or black (like red, but tougher) switches. However, its non-standard layout takes some getting used to and the full set of keys can be harder to find, so we don’t recommend it for beginners.

Best Cheap Red Switch Keyboard: LESHP Backlit Keyboard

“Red” switches are the most common among keyboards specifically designed for gaming, as they combine a relatively light spring with a linear sliding motion. There is no tactile impact or audible click when pressing a key, just a smooth up and down movement. Red-style clone switches are especially hard to find on cheaper boards, which tend to come with brown or blue switches for added appeal. Luckily oddly named

Keyboard LESHP

includes them for only $40.

Board LESHP

aesthetically the least pleasing of our three recommendations: while the chassis is made of lightweight plastic with exposed screws, the black chassis is clearly trying to mimic the design of the Razer BlackWidow. This comparison is not helped by the “rainbow” LEDs, which, despite their appearance, are not true RGB – each row only glows in one color (although

all red version

available). At the very least, the keycaps are made from double-ended ABS, which means the backlit lettering won’t wear out during use. The media legends and lighting feature controls are just printed, but they’re located on non-alphanumeric keys, which means they’ll probably last a while.

LESHP includes full length circuitry and while the six foot cable is not removable it is woven for extra strength. The key switches themselves are made by JWH and are quite wobbly compared to real Cherry keys, though that’s not necessarily a bad thing for game design. The backlighting is rather dim even at the brightest setting, but the layout is completely standard (not always the case on a gaming keyboard), and cherry-style stabilizers mean easy key swapping.

If the multicolored LESHP is not to your liking, you may like the following alternatives:

• Less

  TREE 84 keyboard

  ($40) includes white backlighting, dual keycaps, and a choice of blue, brown, red, or black (like red, but tougher) switches.