Mechanical keyboards are popular for their tactile feel and audible feedback, making them a favorite among typists, gamers, and office workers alike. While keyboards in general have greatly evolved over the years, mechanical ones specifically have maintained their popularity due to their durability, customization potential, and swift response times. When looking for the best mechanical keyboard under $50, there are various factors to consider that play a crucial role in matching your preferences and requirements.
Mechanical keyboards are an excellent choice for enhancing typing speed, productivity, and comfort. They come with individual mechanical switches beneath each keycap, offering a satisfying tactile sensation and quicker actuation compared to membrane keyboards. Additionally, mechanical keyboards often feature customizable keycaps and backlighting options, making them stand out aesthetically and allowing users to create a unique and personalized experience.
When shopping for the best mechanical keyboard under $50, it is essential to pay attention to a few critical aspects, such as switch type, build quality, keycap material, and overall layout. The type of mechanical switch will determine the keyboard’s typing experience, as it comes in various styles catering to different preferences in terms of key resistance, tactile feedback, and noise levels. Moreover, ensuring that the keyboard has a sturdy build and reliable keycaps will ensure its longevity and dependability.
Keeping these factors in mind, we’ve dedicated extensive research and hands-on testing with various affordable mechanical keyboards to help you find the best options that suit your typing preferences and budget constraints without sacrificing performance and quality.
Best Mechanical Keyboards under $50
Discover the top mechanical keyboards under $50 that will enhance your typing experience and boost your productivity. Check out our curated list below.
Havit Mechanical Keyboard and Number Pad
The Havit Mechanical Keyboard is a great choice for someone seeking a compact, high-quality and affordable keyboard with a number pad.
Pros
- Compact design with number pad
- Colorful PBT keycaps
- Red switches suitable for office and gaming
Cons
- No Mac OS or Chrome OS num lock support
- Single color backlighting
- Numpad lights up only when unlocked
As a compact mechanical keyboard with a number pad, the Havit Mechanical Keyboard is perfect for those who need the functionality of a full keyboard without taking up a lot of desk space. The colorful PBT keycaps not only enhance the appearance of your setup but also provide a pleasant touch experience and a long lifespan for the keyboard.
The red switches used in this Havit keyboard are ideal for both office work and gaming, as they offer a smooth typing experience without excessive noise. The ergonomic design and adjustable keyboard kickstands help to reduce wrist strain and ensure a comfortable typing angle.
One drawback of the Havit Mechanical Keyboard is that it does not support the num lock function for Mac OS and Chrome OS systems. This means that the number pad is always active on these operating systems. Additionally, the keyboard features single color backlighting, which may be less appealing to those who prefer a more customizable or dynamic lighting setup. It is also worth noting that the numpad only lights up when unlocked, which can be slightly inconvenient.
Overall, the Havit Mechanical Keyboard is an excellent choice for people who want a compact, affordable, and versatile mechanical keyboard with a number pad. Its unique design, colorful PBT keycaps, and comfortable typing experience make it a valuable addition to any office or gaming setup.
RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 Wireless 60% Mechanical Keyboard
The RK Royal Kludge RK61 is an excellent choice for those who want a compact, wireless, and affordable mechanical keyboard with hot-swappable switches.
Pros
- Triple mode connectivity (Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz, USB-C)
- Hot-swappable switches for customization
- High-capacity battery for long usage time
Cons
- Single-color backlit, not RGB
- May experience Bluetooth connection hiccups
- 60% layout, lacks a dedicated number pad
The RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 is a compact and versatile mechanical keyboard that fits virtually any desk setup. The 60% layout offers ample space for your mouse, making it perfect for gaming and productivity tasks alike. This keyboard is equipped with brown switches that provide a tactile and satisfying typing experience.
One unique feature of the RK61 is its triple mode connectivity, allowing users to connect the keyboard via Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, or USB-C cable. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of devices, from smartphones and tablets to laptops and gaming consoles. Additionally, the built-in 1450mAh lithium battery allows for up to 13 hours of continuous usage with backlighting, and an impressive 360 hours of standby time.
Although the RK61 lacks RGB lighting, it does offer 17 dynamic single-color backlit modes to keep things interesting. The hot-swappable feature also allows users to switch out the brown mechanical switches with other 3-pin or 5-pin switches to further customize their typing experience.
On the downside, some users have reported occasional issues with the Bluetooth connectivity and lag when reconnecting. Furthermore, the 60% layout may require an adjustment period, especially for those used to a full-sized keyboard with a dedicated number pad.
In conclusion, if you’re seeking a reliable, compact, and affordable wireless mechanical keyboard, the RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 is well worth considering. With its versatile connectivity, hot-swappable switches, and long battery life, it’s a great choice for gamers, programmers, and productivity enthusiasts alike.
RisoPhy Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The RisoPhy Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers seeking a reliable, responsive, and attractive mechanical keyboard.
Pros
- Responsive blue switches for accurate and fast typing
- Rainbow backlit with customization options
- Full-size keyboard with anti-ghosting technology
Cons
- Rather loud key clicks, which may not be suitable for office use
- No programmable keys or macro customization
- Not suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience
Upon unboxing the RisoPhy Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, you’ll immediately notice its sleek, classic black design. The ABS keycaps feel sturdy, ensuring durability for long-lasting use.
The typing experience on the RisoPhy Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is superb, with tactile and clicky blue switches that are perfect for those who enjoy a mechanical, responsive feel. The keys provide excellent feedback, which improves accuracy and speed when typing or gaming.
One of the standout features of this keyboard is the customizable rainbow backlight. It offers nine different backlights, five levels of brightness, and light speed adjustments, allowing you to customize the lighting to your preference, even in dim environments. However, be aware that the keyboard is louder than most, so it may not be suitable for use in office settings where noise could be distracting.
With no programmable keys or macro options, this keyboard may not appeal to those who seek such functionality. However, it does include 12 multimedia shortcut keys for easy access to your email, calculator, and media controls.
The RisoPhy Mechanical Gaming Keyboard also sports an ergonomic design with stair-up keycaps and foldable rear kickstands, providing a comfortable typing experience by reducing hand fatigue. The keyboard is non-slip and spill-resistant, preventing potential damage from accidents.
Overall, the RisoPhy Mechanical Gaming Keyboard offers great value for money by providing responsive blue switches, customizable lighting, and a comfortable ergonomic design, making it an excellent choice for gamers on a budget.
MageGee Portable 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The MageGee MK-Box is a versatile and compact mechanical keyboard perfect for gaming and office work under 50 dollars.
Pros
- Compact 68-key layout with arrow and F-keys
- Mechanical blue switches with distinct click sound and tactile feedback
- Customizable single-color LED backlight with multiple effects
Cons
- Not hot-swappable
- May not suit users with large hands
- Hollow sound when typing
The MageGee MK-Box offers a great balance between functionality and size, featuring a compact 68-key layout that includes arrow keys and F-keys. This layout leaves enough room for a number pad while maintaining a small footprint, making it suitable for gaming or work environments where space is limited.
Equipped with mechanical blue switches, the MageGee MK-Box provides a crisp and tactile typing experience, accompanied by a loud click sound. This makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy the classic mechanical keyboard feel. Additionally, the keyboard offers customizable blue LED backlighting, allowing you to personalize your setup with various lighting effects.
One downside of this keyboard is that it is not hot-swappable, which may limit customization options for some users. Additionally, the compact layout might not be suitable for individuals with larger hands and may require time to adjust. Lastly, the keyboard can produce a hollow sound when typing, which may be a downside for users who prefer a quieter typing experience.
Overall, the MageGee Portable 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is an affordable and versatile option for those looking for a compact mechanical keyboard under 50 dollars. Despite a few drawbacks, its functional layout, distinct mechanical feel, and customizable backlighting make it a solid choice for gaming and office use alike.
RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable, compact gaming keyboard with impressive features at an affordable price.
Pros
- Compact 60% layout, ideal for gamers and minimalists
- Hot-swappable red switches for smooth and quiet typing experience
- Stunning RGB backlighting with customizable options
Cons
- May take time to adjust to smaller size
- Function mode might be tricky for some users
- Some keys might require getting used to for new users
The RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 mechanical gaming keyboard is an ultra-compact 60% layout, perfect for gamers who value desk space and minimalism. Its smaller size does not sacrifice functionality, as it includes all the essential keys you need for gaming or typing.
One of the best features of this keyboard is its hot-swappable red switches, providing a smooth and quiet typing experience. This makes it ideal for both office workers and gamers who want a keyboard with minimal noise. Additionally, the red switches offer a fast action with minimal resistance, making it perfect for gaming.
The keyboard also boasts a gorgeous RGB backlighting system, with 18 RGB backlight modes and 8 monochrome settings. Through the RK ROYAL KLUDGE software, you can customize backlit colors and effects, offering a more enjoyable experience during nighttime gaming or typing sessions. The single key color control gives you even more customization options.
While the compact size is a selling point for many, it may take some time to adjust to the 60% layout if you are new to this type of keyboard. The function mode might also be complicated for some users, and certain key combinations might require a learning curve before you become fully comfortable.
Overall, the RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 offers an excellent combination of performance, customization, and affordability, making it an ideal choice for gamers or office workers searching for the best mechanical keyboard under $50.
Logitech G413 TKL SE Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The Logitech G413 TKL SE is an affordable, high-quality mechanical gaming keyboard, perfect for gamers looking for durability and performance without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Tactile mechanical switches
- PBT keycaps for durability
- Sleek black-brushed aluminum top case with white LED lighting
Cons
- No fully customizable RGB lighting
- No dedicated macro keys
- Wired connectivity eliminates wireless freedom
You’ll notice the premium feel and construction of the Logitech G413 TKL SE Mechanical Gaming Keyboard as soon as you start using it. Made with a black-brushed aluminum top case and white LED lighting, this keyboard not only looks great but also delivers reliable performance with its tactile mechanical switches and heat- and wear-resistant PBT keycaps.
The tenkeyless design provides a more compact footprint, perfect for gamers with limited desk space or those who prefer a minimalistic setup. The FN key with 12 media controls ensures you can easily control volume, skip tracks, and adjust settings on the fly without the need for extra software.
While the Logitech G413 TKL SE does lack fully customizable RGB lighting and dedicated macro keys, its focus on durability, performance, and sleek design make it a great choice for gamers looking for a reliable mechanical gaming keyboard under $50. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned player, the G413 TLK SE offers a fantastic experience at a budget-conscious price-point.
Redragon K582 SURARA Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The Redragon K582 SURARA is a solid choice for both work and play, offering a great balance of performance and value.
Pros
- Professional Red Switches for smooth, responsive typing
- 100% anti-ghosting with 104 keys for accurate key presses
- Dynamic RGB backlight with customization options
Cons
- Some users report keys failing after a short time
- Software & customization may require technical knowledge
- Not as quiet as other mechanical keyboards
The Redragon K582 SURARA is an affordable mechanical gaming keyboard that delivers a satisfying typing experience, whether you’re typing lengthy documents or playing competitive games. The professional Red Switches are linear, top-to-bottom switches that require less force and provide a smooth, responsive feel.
One of the key features of this keyboard is its 100% anti-ghosting feature with 104 keys. This ensures that you can execute multiple key presses simultaneously without missing or dropping inputs. This is especially important for gaming when every keystroke counts.
Adding to the overall appeal, the dynamic RGB backlight is customizable, with six themes and eighteen models to choose from. This keeps the look of your keyboard fresh and adds a touch of style to your setup. Plus, the brightness can be easily adjusted to suit your environment.
Although the Redragon K582 SURARA has a lot going for it, there are some potential issues to consider. Some users reported keys failing after a relatively short period, which could be frustrating for those who rely on their keyboards for work or gaming. Additionally, while the software and customization options are a plus, they may require some technical knowledge to get the most out of.
In conclusion, the Redragon K582 SURARA is a solid mechanical gaming keyboard under $50 that offers a satisfying typing experience, versatile customization options, and decent anti-ghosting capabilities. However, it may not be the quietest or most durable option on the market.
Buying Guide
Key Switches
One of the most important aspects to consider when choosing a mechanical keyboard under $50 is the type of key switches it uses. There are three main types: linear, tactile, and clicky. Each has its pros and cons, so consider your typing preferences and the environment in which you’ll be using the keyboard.
- Linear switches: Smooth keypress with no tactile bump or audible click. Great for gaming.
- Tactile switches: Provides a bump when actuated, allowing for better typing accuracy, but can be louder.
- Clicky switches: Similar to tactile switches with an additional audible click during actuation, delivering strong audio-visual feedback.
Build Quality and Durability
When looking for a budget mechanical keyboard, you want to ensure that you’re getting a product that is not only affordable but also well-built and durable. Look for keyboards that have a solid construction, such as a metal backplate, and high-quality keycaps.
Backlighting and Customization
Another feature to consider is backlighting. While not crucial, having an illuminated keyboard can be beneficial when working in low light conditions. Some budget mechanical keyboards also offer RGB lighting with customizable effects, which can enhance your overall computing experience.
Additional Features
Finally, consider any additional features that may be useful to you. Some examples include:
- Programmable macros: Useful for streamlining repetitive tasks and customizing workflow.
- Dedicated media keys: Allow easy control of media playback and volume.
- Key rollover and anti-ghosting: Ensures accurate keypress registration during fast typing or gaming sessions.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when selecting the best mechanical keyboard under $50 that meets your needs and preferences.
