Mechanical keyboards have become a staple for typists, gamers, and professionals who prioritize precision and a satisfying typing experience. Unlike their membrane counterparts, mechanical keyboards use individual mechanical switches under each key to provide tactile feedback and often a distinctive clicky sound, enhancing the overall user experience. With a wide array of features such as N-key rollover, programmable keys, and customizable backlighting, mechanical keyboards can be tailored to a user’s specific needs.
However, a common misconception is that mechanical keyboards are a luxury with a price to match. While higher-end models can be costly, the market has expanded to include an array of affordable yet reliable options. For those on a budget, finding the best mechanical keyboard under 50 is not only possible but can also offer a significant upgrade from traditional keyboards. These cost-effective options enable more people to access the robust build quality and responsive typing experience that mechanical keyboards provide.
When shopping for the best mechanical keyboard under $50, it’s crucial to consider the type of switches used, build quality, key layout, and additional features like backlighting. Each of these factors contributes to the performance and longevity of the keyboard. The switch type will dictate the feel and sound of each keystroke, while build quality ensures that the keyboard can withstand heavy usage. The right layout should accommodate your work or gaming needs, and extra features can enhance usability in low-light conditions or personalize your setup.
Our team has conducted thorough research and hands-on testing with numerous mechanical keyboards to determine the best options under $50. Our findings are geared towards helping you get the best bang for your buck without compromising on quality or functionality.
Best Mechanical Keyboards Under 50
After extensive research and testing, we’ve curated a list of the best mechanical keyboards available for under $50. These selections strike an impressive balance between affordability and performance, offering a tactile and responsive typing experience without breaking the bank. Each option provides distinctive features, such as build quality, switch type, and design, to cater to various preferences and uses. Whether you’re a gamer, a writer, or a casual user, our recommendations aim to enhance your typing efficiency and comfort.
Redragon K630 Dragonborn
If compact size and tactile feedback are priorities for your gaming setup, this is a bang-for-the-buck choice.
Pros
- The tactile blue switches offer satisfying clicks and quick response.
- Versatile RGB presets allow for full customization of your gaming atmosphere.
- A 60% size keyboard that creates more room for mouse movement, ideal for FPS games.
Cons
- The clicky switches can be loud, which might not be suitable for shared spaces.
- Being wired only, it lacks the flexibility of a wireless connection.
- Without a dedicated number pad, certain tasks can require more steps.
The Redragon K630 Dragonborn lives up to the hype of an affordably priced yet quality mechanical keyboard. Using it extensively, the tactile feedback of the blue switches provided a satisfying click with each keypress – something we typists and gamers crave for an authentic mechanical keyboard experience.
Transitioning to customization, we found the RGB presets to be a delightful addition. The ability to adjust brightness and flow speed on the fly made the keyboard not just a tool, but a part of the gaming setup that evolves with the mood and the game being played.
Another aspect where this keyboard shines is the thoughtful design catering to the FPS gamers. The compact size, a 60% keyboard, is a huge advantage, giving us ample room to navigate the mouse without any obstruction. This feature has significantly enhanced our gaming sessions, letting us dive into action without reservation.
However, the loud clicks of the blue switches could be a con for some, especially if a quieter or shared environment is where the keyboard is to be used. Additionally, the absence of a wireless option slightly limits where one can enjoy gaming. Finally, for those who rely on a number pad for productivity, the smaller size necessitates some adjustment.
All things considered, the Redragon K630 Dragonborn strikes an impressive balance between functionality and affordability. For gamers and typists looking for a mechanical keyboard with firm tactile feedback and vibrant RGB customization without breaking the bank, this one’s a worthy candidate.
Redragon Compact RGB
We recommend the Redragon Compact RGB for those who need an affordable, feature-packed mechanical keyboard that doesn’t compromise on performance or portability.
Pros
- Compact and easy to carry around
- Customizable backlighting and keys
- Hot-swappable switches enhance longevity
Cons
- Software may be tricky to find and use
- Limited to 68 keys, which might not suit everyone
- Driver customization only available on Windows
In our experience, the Redragon Compact RGB strikes a balance masterfully between a small footprint and a highly functional keyboard. Its compact size is perfect for decluttered setups or for those of us constantly on the move. Swapping between gaming sessions and typing tasks, the linear feedback from the red switches feels smooth, reducing the strain on your fingers during prolonged use.
The customization options bring a level of personalization usually found in more expensive models. Setting up macros is a breeze, allowing us to enhance our workflow efficiently. Furthermore, the RGB lighting isn’t just eye-candy—it’s quite functional in dim environments, with numerous modes to fit our mood or setting.
However, downloading the software needed for programming can be a bit of a hunt, and the keyboard’s limited to what Windows can offer. Some users might also miss the numpad or additional function keys found on larger keyboards. Despite these minor inconveniences, we can’t overlook the additional keycap set included, ready for us whenever a fresh look is desired.
For anyone seeking a solid mechanical keyboard without emptying their wallet, we found that the Redragon Compact RGB is a strong contender that gets the job done and then some.
RK ROYAL KLUDGE R87
We believe the RK ROYAL KLUDGE R87 is a stellar choice for budget-conscious gamers seeking a compact yet functional mechanical keyboard.
Pros
- The key responsiveness is impressive, offering a smooth typing experience.
- Its compact design frees up desk space, ideal for smaller work areas.
- Brilliant RGB backlighting adds flair to any gaming setup.
Cons
- Lack of a numeric keypad may deter users who rely on this feature.
- Some may find the white color requiring more maintenance to keep clean.
- There’s a learning curve for customization via the software.
After spending some time with the RK ROYAL KLUDGE R87, it’s clear that it aims to deliver a premium feel without the hefty price tag. The tasteful white chassis gives it a modern and sleek appearance that stands out on any desk. Typing on it reveals the true charm of the pre-lubed yellow switches; keystrokes are quiet and silky, which we find a welcome departure from the cacophony often associated with mechanical keyboards.
The compactness of this 75% layout keyboard pleasantly surprised us. We appreciated the extra space it left for our mouse, which could be a godsend during intense gaming sessions where every inch of movement counts. Moreover, the anti-ghosting feature ensures that every command is registered accurately, no matter how frantic the action gets.
The dazzling RGB lighting is hard to overlook. With a generous array of built-in modes, we found the customization potential to be vast, allowing for a personalized touch. It lit up our workspace with an ambient glow that not only looked spectacular in darker settings but also added to the immersive gaming experience.
In summary, the RK ROYAL KLUDGE R87 balances performance with aesthetics in a way that’s rare at this price point. It’s a compact, customizable, and silent workhorse that punches above its weight, rendering it a tempting option for gamers and typists alike.
RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61
If you’re looking for an affordable mechanical keyboard that punches above its weight in performance and aesthetics, the RK61 is a solid pick.
Pros
- Triple mode connectivity (Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz, USB-C)
- Compact design saves desk space and increases portability
- Hot-swappable keys offer customizability and easy maintenance
- Beautiful RGB backlighting enhances the aesthetic and user experience
Cons
- A 60% keyboard layout may require an adjustment period for some users
- Red switches can be a bit loud for noise-sensitive environments
- No dedicated numeric keypad may be a deal-breaker for users who frequently input numbers
After spending some time with the RK61, we’ve come to appreciate its compact size. It’s a dream for gamers who are tight on space or often find themselves on the go. The reduced footprint allows for more mouse movement, which can be pivotal in fast-paced gaming sessions. Even in your daily tasks, you’ll notice the additional space is quite handy.
The hot-swappable red switches are a joy to use. Typing feels fluid and responsive—a must for those long gaming sessions or extensive typing marathons. Plus, being able to swap out switches without soldering is a convenience that can’t be overstated, especially if you’re curious about trying different types of switch feels.
Night owls and ambiance lovers will adore the customizable RGB backlit keys. They’re not just about looking good; the various backlight modes can help you see your keys better in low-light environments. And with the software, tailoring the light show to your preferences is both fun and easy.
Despite the allure, there are a couple of aspects to consider. Its compact nature means no dedicated numeric keypad, which takes some getting used to. And although we love the feel of the red switches, they do create a distinct sound that might not fit quiet office environments or late-night gaming when others are trying to sleep. However, these are small compromises considering the keyboard’s price point and feature set.
Redragon K617 Fizz
We think the Redragon K617 Fizz is a stellar purchase for its price point, offering durability and features usually found on more expensive keyboards.
Pros
- The compact design is great for tight spaces
- Vibrant RGB lighting enhances gaming and typing experience
- Hot-swappable switches offer customization
Cons
- Limited to a 60% keyboard layout which may not suit everyone
- No wireless connectivity option
- The plastic build may not appeal to those preferring a metal frame
When I first got my hands on the K617, the aesthetic appeal was immediately apparent. The pink and white keycaps are distinctive and provide a refreshing twist on the typical gaming keyboard look. This makes it particularly appealing for gamers or typists looking to add a dash of color to their setup.
Typing on the Redragon K617 Fizz is a real treat. The linear red switches offer a soft and quiet key travel, which is perfect for both gaming marathons and long work sessions where you don’t want to disturb others. Its performance is responsive, assisting in a smooth and error-free typing experience.
As someone who values desk space, the 60% compact layout is a big plus. This space-saving design has allowed me to move my mouse more freely without bumping into the keyboard — an often overlooked but game-changing attribute for those who game or work in a limited area. The customizable RGB backlighting and macro support via Redragon software further sweeten the deal, allowing for a personalized touch based on your preferences or mood.
Redragon K631 Keyboard
If you’re in search of an affordable mechanical keyboard that doesn’t compromise on functionality, this is a stellar pick.
Pros
- Versatile hot-swappable switches compatible with 3-pin or 5-pin
- Compact design with a dedicated arrow key section
- Vibrant RGB lighting with customizable effects
Cons
- Might feel too lightweight for some users
- Limited to a wired connection
- The material of the keycaps may not appeal to everyone
The Redragon K631 has just landed on our desk, boasting a sleek white and grey profile that breathes modernity into our setup. Its space-saving 65% layout, featuring 68 keys, is a dream for gamers needing extra mouse room or those of us with smaller desks.
After spending some serious gaming sessions with this board, the hot-swappable red switches are truly quiet yet responsive, making every keystroke a subtle tactile pleasure. The typing experience feels consistent and comfortable, perfect for long hours of work or intense gaming marathons.
RGB illumination on the K631 adds an impressive flair, with an array of lighting modes to cycle through right on the keyboard—no software needed. Although the vibrant colors are a sight to behold, the music sync feature truly sets the atmosphere, pulsating to the beat of our favorite tunes. Despite a couple of drawbacks, the K631 offers a balanced experience, making it a solid contender in the budget mechanical keyboard market.
Redragon K613
If you’re seeking a compact and responsive mechanical keyboard on a budget, the Redragon K613 is a solid contender that we’ve found delivers on performance and portability.
Pros
- Ideal for compact setups due to its space-saving 60% design
- Offers tactile, clicky feedback which enhances both typing and gaming experiences
- Features an impressive array of LED rainbow lighting options
Cons
- The blue switches are loud, which may not be ideal for noise-sensitive environments
- Some users might find the 60% size limiting due to fewer keys
- Keycap edges could be smoother to prevent discomfort during extended use
Upon unboxing the Redragon K613, the first thing that struck us was its sleek and compact form factor. With a 60% layout, this mechanical keyboard felt made for gamers and typists looking to maximize desk real estate without sacrificing responsive keystrokes.
The tactile feedback from the blue mechanical switches was immediate and satisfying. Each keypress delivered a noticeable click sound that we found to be quite pleasing, though it’s worth noting this might not be ideal in a shared or quiet space.
The LED rainbow backlighting caught our eye with various customizable modes, which added an aesthetically pleasing touch to our gaming setup. The option to adjust brightness levels and breathing speed allowed us to personalize the ambiance to our liking.
On the downside, the lack of dedicated function keys on the Redragon K613 took some getting used to. While a compact keyboard is great for space-saving, adapting to the smaller size can be an adjustment, particularly for those who rely on a full set of keys.
Additionally, while the switches offer a nice clicky feel, the keycaps themselves could benefit from smoother edges. During marathon gaming sessions, the sharper edges became more noticeable, reminding us that comfort is key when it comes to long-term use.
Overall, we believe the Redragon K613 is an excellent choice for the price. It packs many of the desirable features of more expensive models into an affordable and portable package. Its few drawbacks are minor when considering its price point, and with a little time, adapting to its layout is a breeze.
Redragon K632 Keyboard
We believe this Redragon K632 is a worthwhile pick if you’re on the hunt for a sleek, portable, and efficient mechanical keyboard under $50.
Pros
- Feather-light and space-saving design, making it ideal for travel.
- Offers on-the-fly macro keys and a dedicated media control for convenience.
- Robust software support for extensive customization.
Cons
- Limited to a 60% keyboard layout which may not suit everyone’s preference.
- With only 61 keys, may lack certain functionalities traditional keyboard users are accustomed to.
- Low profile red switches might feel different from standard mechanical switches for some users.
The Redragon K632 has been a delightful companion for our on-the-go computing tasks. Its ultra-thin construction doesn’t just make it transportable; it allows for a very fluid typing experience that won’t take up too much space in your bag or on the desk. The compact design is a boon for minimalists and for those who appreciate a bit more room to maneuver their mouse.
Customization is a breeze with this keyboard, thanks to its powerful software support. Its backlighting modes are a joy to tinker with, and the ability to reassign keys or record macros without any software is a significant advantage for both gaming and productivity tasks. Plus, the dedicated media controls have been wonderfully handy for us when it’s time to unwind with some music or video.
One aspect that might not be to everyone’s taste is the feel of the low-profile red switches, which we found to be quite distinctive compared to traditional mechanical switches. The keyboard’s size and switch type presented a short adjustment period for our team, which is something to keep in mind depending on your past experiences with mechanical keyboards.
Redragon K503 Keyboard
We believe the Redragon K503 Wireless Gaming Keyboard is an excellent choice for gamers and typists looking for an affordable yet durable wireless keyboard with satisfying LED-backlit aesthetics.
Pros
- Long battery life with flexible wired or wireless use
- Customizable RGB backlighting to suit your gaming setup
- Comfortable design with an integrated wrist rest for extended use
Cons
- The membrane keys may lack the tactile response of mechanical switches
- Only 25 keys are anti-ghosting, which might not suffice for high-level gaming
- Limited Mac OS support could be a drawback for Apple users
The Redragon K503 caught our attention with its robust build and wireless capabilities that don’t compromise on responsiveness. Its dual-mode connection promises unfaltering gaming sessions, a claim that holds up impressively in real-world use. The RGB lighting is not just for show; it comes with multiple modes and levels that provide both utility and a visual feast, all without being a drain on the battery.
Using this keyboard for marathon typing sessions reveals its ergonomic benefits. The wrist rest and splash-proof design display an attention to user comfort and practicality that’s highly valued. However, as frequent gamers, we did notice that the membrane keys, while whisper-quiet, lack the clicky feedback of true mechanical switches – a small trade-off for the keyboard’s lower price point.
Typing on the K503, the key presses are smooth, and the multimedia keys add a layer of convenience for day-to-day use. It supports most Windows operating systems, but we noticed that Mac users might not experience full compatibility, a hiccup worth mentioning. Overall, for under $50, the Redragon K503 offers features that go toe-to-toe with pricier keyboards, proving to be a solid choice in its price bracket.
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.
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.
Buying Guide
Understanding Your Needs
Before investing in a mechanical keyboard, we need to assess our usage patterns. General users and gamers have different requirements, such as responsiveness for gaming versus comfort for typing.
Key Switches
Key switches are central to the mechanical keyboard experience. They define the feel and sound of typing.
- Linear switches offer smooth keystrokes.
- Tactile switches provide a bump mid-press for feedback.
- Clicky switches give an audible click for typists who enjoy that sound.
Build Quality
For under $50, finding sturdy build quality is crucial. We should focus on:
- Keycap material, which affects durability
- Backplate construction—metal backplates are more durable than plastic ones
- Overall build, which helps with stability and longevity
Additional Features
Various features enhance the functionality:
- Programmable keys for shortcuts
- Backlighting, which is helpful in low-light conditions
Connectivity
We have to choose between:
- Wired keyboards for reliability and no need for charging
- Wireless keyboards for a cleaner desk setup
Layout and Size
Keyboards come in different sizes:
- Full-sized, with numpad
- Tenkeyless (TKL), without numpad
- Compact layouts, for reduced footprint
| Layout | Size | Ideal Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Full | 100% | Data entry, office work |
| TKL | ~80% | General use, some gaming |
| Compact | <75% | Gaming, limited space |
Comfort
Finally, we should consider:
- Wrist rests can be important for comfort during long sessions.
- Adjustable feet help in finding an ergonomic typing angle.
