Mechanical keyboards are the gold standard for gaming and typing. They allow you to perform every keystroke with lightning-fast precision, while offering tactile and audio feedback. For many years, mechanical keyboards have been targeted at gamers who appreciate their superior tactile feedback compared to membrane keyboards. They are becoming increasingly popular for typing because of their durability, accuracy, and comfort – especially when compared to cheaper membrane models that tend to break easily over time.
You can find many mechanical keyboards under the $50 price tag today! In this review we researched four of the best cheap mechanical keyboards that are currently on the market.
Table of Contents
1. Logitech G910 Orion Spectrum mechanical keyboard
Let’s start our comparison of the best mechanical gaming keyboards with the number 1 seller on all e-commerce stores: the Logitech G910 Orion Spectrum. Inexpensive digital keyboard, it wins all the votes with customers thanks to its excellent quality/price ratio.
In terms of ergonomics, for starters, it has five pads and two detachable wrist rests. These are unfortunately a little fragile compared to the rest of the keyboard which still weighs more than 1.5 kg. On the other hand, the chassis is solid and has a very elegant matte shade for this type of product.
For customization, the Logitech G910 Orion Spectrum has 9 buttons to program according to 3 different profiles. So, depending on the game, you will have access to 27 commands. To finish with the main thing, typing on the keyboard is excellent, intuitive, relatively quiet and very well thought out with its slightly hollow keys.
Current Best Price on Amazon: $119.00
Price History on Amazon
| Months | Lowest Price on Amazon |
|---|---|
| Oct 2022 | $89.99 |
| Nov 2022 | $89.99 |
| Dec 2022 | $89.99 |
| Jan 2023 | $102.00 |
| Feb 2023 | $102.00 |
| Mar 2023 | $157.50 |
2. Corsair K100 AIR Wireless RGB Mechanical Keyboard
Current Best Price on Amazon: $229.99
Price History on Amazon
| Months | Lowest Price on Amazon |
|---|---|
| Oct 2022 | $279.99 |
| Nov 2022 | $279.99 |
| Dec 2022 | $279.99 |
| Jan 2023 | $279.99 |
| Feb 2023 | $249.99 |
| Mar 2023 | $229.99 |
3. Cooler Master CK552 Mechanical keyboard
The Cooler Master CK552 is a budget mechanical keyboard that delivers value for money with performing Outemu switches and a feature rich software. However, its build quality and features aren’t as premium as the price tag suggests.
- Outemu switches
- Nice design
- Detachable USB cable
Current Best Price on Amazon: $79.99
4. Razer BlackWidow V3 mechanical keyboard
The second reference in our comparison of the best mechanical keyboards, the Razer BlackWidow is available for less than 60 euros, which makes it one of the cheapest keyboards on the market. But does that mean it’s poor quality?
At first glance, with its minimalist and dark design, you might think so. However, on closer inspection, there are several good points such as the integration of a frameless design which facilitates maintenance and a beautiful backlight. When it comes to typing, Razer keyboards are among the loudest and this one is no exception.
It is therefore not the best keyboard in terms of discretion. For customization, performance has been pushed to the maximum with the possibility of setting each key independently or by group. As for ergonomics and comfort, despite the lack of wrist rests, users do not feel any discomfort even after several hours of gaming. According to testers, the Razer BlackWidow is one of the best cheap mechanical keyboards . An opinion that we validate in this comparison.
Current Best Price on Amazon: $98.25 $139.99 -30%
5. Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 mechanical keyboard
Let’s finish our comparison with the Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 mechanical keyboard. New improved version of the Corsair K70, the keyboard is available in 5 different versions. If they each have their own characteristics, they all have this elegant design specific to products from Corsair.
The aluminum plate, the keys without plastic covers around them (frameless design) and the quality backlighting immediately make a good impression. Additionally, the Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 is much less bulky than many of its competitors. Its use is therefore very ergonomic, especially since its wrist rests are comfortable and it can be raised to adapt it perfectly to your preferences.
Current Best Price on Amazon:160.67
6. SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Current Best Price on Amazon: $130.39
Whether you opt for the Apex Pro TKL or its full-width version, the Apex Pro, you shouldn’t be the least bit disappointed with your acquisition. Not only are the two keyboards at the level of quality of other SteelSeries products – at the top, in short – but they also introduce some well-regarded new features. The presence of a pass-through USB port or a small wheel are very practical, but it is of course the OmniPoint switches that make all the difference. Still, despite their quality, they struggle to justify such a high price. At more than 130 dollars, the Apex Pro are to be reserved for the wealthiest among us.
Conclusion
We hope this review has helped you find the best cheap mechanical keyboard in your price range. It’s important to ask yourself these questions when shopping for a keyboard: “What kind of features do I want?” and “How much am I willing to spend?” The answer will determine which model is right for you. In general, you should look for a good mix of speed, comfort, accuracy (with clicky keys) and durability (so it lasts longer than other more expensive models). If all four criteria sound good to you then there are plenty of options out there!
What types of mechanical keyboards are there?
Mechanical keyboards are already part of a subcategory of gaming keyboards. But we can also divide them into three other kinds of keyboards which differ in their switches (keys) and their sensitivity to touch. All the keyboards presented in this comparison are linear, tactile or clicky.
Linear switches are the traditional shape found on both membrane keyboards and some mechanical keyboards. Here, you press the button and the spring immediately goes back into place, once the finger is removed.
Mechanical keyboards with linear switch
Better for playing fluidity, this type of sensitivity is the most widespread and has the advantage of being perfectly silent. It will give you optimal performance for FPS.
Mechanical keyboards with tactile switch
On this type of keyboard, you feel a certain resistance when you press a key. This “bump” is the activation point of the key.
The touch keyboard is particularly interesting for experienced players and those who are more RPG oriented and want to master every aspect of their game, and be able to retract at the last moment in the event of a bad choice. It is also very pleasant for gamers who like to “feel” their keyboard when they strum on it.
Clicky numeric keypads
These latest keyboards push the concept of touchscreen keyboards even further. Each key has a metal barrier that allows you to know precisely its activation point. Noisy and difficult to handle at first, they offer unique sensations for purists.
How to choose the best cheap mechanical keyboard?
You may be wondering, “How do I choose the best cheap mechanical keyboard?”
Well, we’re here to help. We have done all of the searching and research for you! Below are our top picks for the best cheap mechanical keyboards in 2022. We will be updating this list from time to time get the latest best budget friendly mechanical keyboards on the list. If you want to suggest a keyboard that should be on the list, please do not hesitate to write in the comment section as we always check and reply comments.
