There’s a reason people continue to search for the best budget mechanical keyboards online—and a lot of that has to do with the convenient familiarity of soft-clicking sounds.
Whether you’re a gamer or professional creative, nothing can replicate the typing experience mechanical keyboards provide. Thankfully, there is no shortage of affordable picks one can turn to online.
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Despite the massive growth of silent and magic keyboards, the bliss mechanical keyboards bring is unmatched.
From wireless finds to corded contenders, you’re sure to resonate with a mechanical keyboard that not only fosters nostalgia upon every click but more so helps you become the efficient leader you set out to be.
We’ve reviewed the best budget mechanical keyboards for you below.
10+ Best Budget Mechanical Keyboards in 2023
- Cooler Master CK552 — The best budget mechanical keyboard in 2023 overall (Editor’s Choice)
- EVGA Z15 — The best affordable budget mechanical keyboard
- Redragon K552 — The best value budget mechanical keyboard
- Logitech K845 — The best budget mechanical illuminated keyboard
- Anne Pro 2 — The best budget wireless mechanical keyboard
- Havit KB487L — The best budget full-size mechanical keyboard
- Redragon K630 — The best budget mechanical keyboard for gaming
- MSI Vigor GK50 Elite — The best ergonomic budget mechanical keyboard
- HyperX Alloy FPS Pro — The best basic budget mechanical keyboard
- EVGA Z20 — The best budget mechanical keyboard with a palm rest
- Logitech MK270 Mechanical Keyboard — The best budget mechanical keyboard with durable keys
What is the Best Budget Mechanical Keyboard in 2023?
The best budget mechanical keyboards can offer a great experience at an incredibly affordable price. To us, the best budget mechanical keyboard is the Cooler Master CK552.
Interested in some of our other top choices? Check out our comparison table below.
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10+ Best Budget Mechanical Keyboards in 2023
1. Cooler Master CK552 (Editor’s Choice)
The best budget mechanical keyboard in 2023 overall
Type: Full-sized | Dimensions: 18.11 x 5.31 x 1.61 inches | Backlight: RGB
The Cooler Master CK552 is a gorgeous full-sized mechanical keyboard. Housed in a sturdy aluminum case, this pick is built to last. If that isn’t impressive enough, its RGB backlights allow for efficient professional work and gaming, as well!
Featuring a complete number pad, customizable controls, and durable mechanical switches, there’s a lot to love and enjoy here—definitely well worth its price in our opinion.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Sturdy aluminum design | ➖ May be too large for some |
| ➕ Adjustable lighting |
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Latest Price on Amazon:
- Gateron Red mechanical switches: Offer rapid response times for quick in-game action.
- RGB Backlighting: Per-key LEDs with multiple lighting modes and effects to highlight all your dominating kill streaks
- Brushed aluminum design: Curved top plate, Floating keycaps, and minimalistic design built with functionality in mind
- On-the-fly controls: Make real-time adjustments to lighting and macros with No software necessary
- Easy-to-use software: Map 16.7 million colors to any key, customize lighting modes, and fine-tune macros
2. EVGA Z15
The best budget mechanical keyboard
Type: Full-sized | Dimensions: 18.58 x 5.94 x 1.5 inches | Backlight: RGB
The EVGA Z15 is a competent full-size mechanical keyboard that’s designed to help you complete all of your tasks.
Sporting clicky switches and customizable RGB lights, this find comes with five dedicated and programmable Macro E keys and volume scroll wheels, making it the perfect pick for professional editors and designers too!
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Great USB connectivity | ➖ Can be expensive |
| ➕ Wonderful backlight |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Hot swap sockets allow you to customize the feel of your Z15 RGB keyboard with Kailh's 3pin mechanical switches. Featuring Kailh Speed Silver switches with N-key rollover to ensure that you get...
- Powered by a 32-bit Arm Cortex-M33 core USB microprocessor supporting 4,000Hz polling rate.Offering the most advanced gaming keyboard experience, 4K Hz is 4x more responsive and inputs can be more...
- Per key RGB lighting with 14 pre set lighting effects, customizable via the UNLEASH RGB software
- Volume Scroll Wheel, and Multimedia Keys. Full control at the touch of your fingers
- Detachable magnetic palm rest
3. Redragon K552
The best value budget mechanical keyboard
Type: Tenkeyless | Dimensions: 13.94 x 4.86 x 1.46 inches | Backlight: RGB
Arguably one of the most stunning tenkeyless offerings on the list, the Redragon K552 is perfect for gaming, among others.
You can also customize each key color, too, allowing you to adjust its overall aesthetic to your liking!
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Attractive price point | ➖ Limited support with macOS |
| ➕ Adjustable RGB backlight |
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Latest Price on Amazon:
- 87 Key Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with Custom Blue Switches for longevity with greater durability and responsiveness offering clicky medium resistance audible loud click sound crisp precise tactile...
- LED RGB Backlit Mechanical Gaming Keyboard 18 different RGB lighting modes, 9 different colors, 5 backlight brightness levels, breathing speed. Precision engineered keycaps offering crystal clear...
- Anti Ghosting, ALL 87 keys are conflict free n-Key Rollover for ultimate Gaming performance. 12 Multimedia keys, Non-Slip Ergonomic, splash-proof Design with adjustable typing angle, High-Speed USB...
- Compact TKL Tenkeyless Ergonomic Designed Computer Keyboard Durable Metal-ABS Construction with Plate-mounted mechanical keys and switches that stand up during marathon FPS gaming sessions
- PC Gaming Keyboard Compatibility Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP, Limited Mac OS keyboard support. Works well with all major Computers Brands and Gaming PC
4. Logitech K845
The best budget mechanical illuminated keyboard
Type: Full-sized | Dimensions: 435 x 127 x 27.8 inches | Backlight: White
The Logitech K845 is reminiscent of traditional keyboards one sees in offices. Featuring a regular black aesthetic with white backlighting, this contender is straightforward, eliminating any opportunity to present extra bells and whistles.
If you’re looking for a nostalgic full-sized keyboard that performs as promised, this is perfect for you!
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Great build quality | ➖ A tad expensive |
| ➕ Ergonomic design |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 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.
- A modern and durable aluminum design gives you all the mechanics of a gaming keyboard in a sleek premium package that lasts
- A full-size keyboard featuring a number pad and FN keys — all in a surprisingly compact footprint.
5. Anne Pro 2
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The best budget wireless mechanical keyboard
Type: Tenkeyless | Dimensions: 11.18 x 3.82 x 1.57 inches | Backlight: RGB
The Anne Pro 2 is a beautiful tenkeyless keyboard, designed primarily for gaming, and easy to use anywhere else it’s needed.
From creative work, basic admin duties, and whatever else you can think of, the Anne Pro 2 has the option to be wireless, too, making this a fantastic pick for those on the go.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Wireless | ➖ Can have issues with Mac |
| ➕ 16 Macro keys |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Minimalistic design doing more with less. Requires less hand movement while still being able to access all the functionalities.
- Compact and Portable . It saves desk space and easy to carry around. Fits right in backpack. Perfect for home, work and on the go.
- Decent bluetooth connectivity enables wireless connection up to 4 devices and switch seamlessly back and forth.
- Revamped obinskit starter software simplifies the way to set up your own key layout, lighting and to create macros.
- The “Magic Fn” on the Caps Lock button makes it easier to utilize the F1-F12 keys while gaming.
6. Havit KB487L
The best budget full-size mechanical keyboard
Type: Full-sized | Dimensions: 14 x 4.9 x 0.6 inches | Backlight: White
The Havit KB487L is a great entry-level mechanical keyboard for professionals and creatives of all kinds.
Sporting 8 multimedia keys and a black-and-orange aesthetic, this contender is easy to use, light on the fingers, and packs just enough nostalgia for you to enjoy typing away on.
One of the cheaper finds among its contemporaries, there’s much to like about this clicky fellow.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Ergonomic design | ➖ No available multimedia keys |
| ➕ Great price point |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 【Compact Keyboard with Numpad】Unlike bulky full-sized layout, this 85% keyboard saves more desk space but keep the numkeys which is essential. Press Fn+Backspace to lock/unlock the numkeys (Note:...
- 【Colorful PBT Keycaps】 Constructed from unique and high-quality durable PBT keycaps, Havit mechanical keyboard has excellent touch experience and long serving time. Colorful keycaps can bring a...
- 【Red Switches Keyboard for Different Needs】Perfect for office typing or playing games. Havit HV-KB487L wired keyboard frees up your desk during work, after working sessions, you can enjoy the...
- 【Ergonomic Comfort】The design of this mechanical gaming keyboard is based on ergonomics, the two keyboard kickstands provide comfortable angle for typing and effectively reduces the burden on the...
- 【Wide Compatibility】This 89 key mechanical keyboard is compatible with Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows XP, Windows VISTA and other systems. Cautions: For Mac OS and Chrome OS system, the...
7. Redragon K630
The best budget mechanical keyboard for gaming
Type: Tenkeyless | Dimensions: 11.81 x 5.12 x 1.18 inches | Backlight: RGB
A compact tenkeyless mechanical keyboard, the Redragon K630 offers a terrific option for mid-career creatives and everyday gamers.
Available with free-define software, this find allows users to edit backlight settings and customize keys in no time! Its no-slip stand makes for a great addition too!
If that isn’t impressive enough, its price point should help you decide as this one’s already one of the most affordable in its category.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Customizable | ➖ Customizations are limited though |
| ➕ Affordable |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 60% Layout In Wired: Brand New Redragon 60% design in wired only mode due to popular demand. NKRO 61 keys for ultra-compact and minimalistic design, frees up precious desk space for less clutter.
- Hot-Swappable Brown Switches: Tactile brown switches provide a soft bump but no click, unlike Blue, switches for quiet use. Hot-swappable with other Redragon switches. Made to last with switches rated...
- Vibrant RGB: Up to 11 presets backlighting modes are free to choose by the keyboard itself. Brightness and flowing speed is also adjustable on board. Select your own preferred modes for any playing.
- Pro Software Customizable: Expand your options using the available software to design your own new modes and effects found on redragonshop. Macros with different keybindings or shortcuts for more...
- Dedicated for FPS Gamer: Place the keyboard proper straight on your desktop and no more crooked way for mouse space saving, your mouse will never hit the keyboard any more. Enjoy waving the mouse...
8. MSI Vigor GK50 Elite
The best ergonomic budget mechanical keyboard
Type: Full-sized | Dimensions: 18.26 x 7.4 x 1.92 inches | Backlight: RGB
The MSI Vigor GK50 Elite is a worthy pick. Although it’s a little too clicky for a keyboard with tactile keys, its typing noises are considerably music to the ears if you’re one to enjoy the clacking of keyboard sounds.
While it’s one of the pricier contenders on our list, its gorgeous aesthetic and sturdy build should help you realize its worth. Its matte coating doesn’t leave fingerprint smudges, too, making this a stellar choice for those who snack a lot while working.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Great ergonomic design | ➖ Key sounds may be too much for some |
| ➕ Backlight per key design |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Kailh Blue Switch
- Full RGB backlit
- Brushed aluminum finish
9. HyperX Alloy FPS Pro
The best basic budget mechanical keyboard
Type: Tenkeyless | Dimensions: 14.1 x 5.1 x 1.4 inches | Backlight: Red
The HyperX Alloy FPS Pro is primarily designed for the gamer who’s more comfortable with tenkeyless keyboards.
Sporting a red-backlit aesthetic, this pick is gorgeous, performs as promised, and packs just enough features for any beginning creative to want to optimize.
And as with all of the options on the list, this one’s affordable too! What’s more, if you want this exact mechanical keyboard but with a number pad, you’re free to select that option on Amazon too.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Beautiful aesthetic | ➖ Only one color |
| ➕ Great basic design |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Ultra minimalistic ten keyless (TKL) design ideal for FPS pro
- Cherry MX mechanical key switches
- Portable design with detachable cable
- Game mode 100 per cent anti-ghosting and N key rollover functions
- HyperX red backlit keys with dynamic lighting effects
10. EVGA Z20
The best budget mechanical keyboard with a palm rest
Type: Full-sized | Dimensions: 18.58 x 5.94 x 1.5 inches | Backlight: RGB
The EVGA Z20 comes with five dedicated and programmable macro E keys, stunning RGB backlighting, and a volume scroll wheel.
If you’re looking for a fantastic budget mechanical keyboard with a palm rest, you’re going to like this.
And because this one comes with a number pad, one can easily work on number-driven reports with this contender!
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Comfortable palm rest | ➖ Somewhat expensive |
| ➕ Great media keys |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- TOF Proximity Range Sensor detects user movement to trigger the system awake or to send it to sleep
- Light Strike LK Optical Mechanical switches with a low 1.5 mm travel to actuation, generating 25% faster response time compared to traditional mechanical switches. Featuring Linear switches with N-key...
- Powered by a 32-bit Arm Cortex-M33 core USB microprocessor supporting 4,000Hz polling rate.Offering the most advanced gaming keyboard experience, 4K Hz is 4x more responsive and inputs can be more...
- Per key RGB Lighting with left and right RGB light bars and 14 pre set lighting effects customizable via the UNLEASH RGB software
- Five dedicated and programmable Macro E keys, customizable via the UNLEASH RGB software
11. Logitech MK270 Wireless Keyboard
The best budget mechanical keyboard with durable keys
Type: Full-sized | Dimensions: 20.08 x 6.22 x 1.81 inches | Backlight: RGB
The Logitech MK270 Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo are perfect for working from the office or home so you can forget the touchpad and use these full-size keyboards and their mouse. You can easily connect using the Logitech plug and forget the receiver-just plug it in the USB port to start working straight away.
There is no installation procedure involved in the mechanical keyboard. When you are on the move, you can store the receiver comfortably inside the mouse.
The MK270 uses a wireless 2.4GHz connectivity that provides seamless and uninterrupted use and you can use the mechanical keyboard within the 10m range without keyboard lag. You may use the keyboard for 24 months and the mouse for 12 months without needing to replace the batteries. The Logitech MK270 includes 8 hotkeys that you can program to your most used applications which helps you to improvise your productivity.
The wireless keyboard is spill-resistant, has durable keys, and has strong tilt legs that have an adjustable height. It has on/off switches that allow you to go for months together without the need to change batteries.
The compact wireless mouse is designed that can be used by both left and right-handed users. The smooth cursor allows for ease of navigation on various surfaces.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Can be used by left and right-hand users | ➖ Keyboard and mouse cheap |
| ➕ Includes 8 hotkeys | ➖ Limited Mac support |
| ➕ Wireless connectivity up to 10m distance | |
| ➕ Comfortable typing experience |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Reliable Plug and Play: The USB receiver provides a reliable wireless connection up to 33 ft (1), so you can forget about drop-outs and delays and you can take it wherever you use your computer
- Type in Comfort: The design of this keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the low-profile, quiet keys and standard layout with full-size F-keys, number pad, and arrow keys
- Durable and Resilient: This full-size wireless keyboard features a spill-resistant design (2), durable keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height. Comfortable Mouse: This compact wireless mouse...
- Long Battery Life: MK270 combo features a 36-month keyboard and 12-month mouse battery life (3), along with on/off switches allowing you to go months without the hassle of changing batteries
- Easy to Use: This wireless keyboard and mouse combo features 8 multimedia hotkeys for instant access to the Internet, email, play/pause, and volume so you can easily check out your favorite sites
How to Choose the Right Budget Mechanical Keyboard
Keyboards can be a dime a dozen so knowing what to look for when you are in the market for a mechanical keyboard is key. To us, there are a few simple things you should focus on when choosing a quality budget mechanical keyboard.
Size and layout
When shopping for the best budget mechanical keyboard, one has to consider whether or not the pick they want to purchase sports a number pad. For many creatives, a tenkeyless keyboard—meaning one that doesn’t come with a number pad—doesn’t impact their work all that much.
But when you’re one to ring in numbers for digit-centric projects and sheets, you’re most likely going to need one. As a result, the biggest factor you should consider is this one. In other words, knowing the answer to, “how greatly do I need a number pad?” helps determine what mechanical keyboard is best for you.
Switches
There are three types of switches users should know about in this department:
- Linear Switches feel smooth you click them. They generally don’t make that loud of noise and they feel more comfortable using.
- Tactile switches have an apparent bump on each character, signaling that you’ve successfully pressed it once you push down a key.
- Clicky switches are nearly identical to tactile switches, only they, as the name implies, create louder clicks as you press each button.
Backlight
Although this isn’t particularly a make or break for a lot of users, a keyboard’s backlight allows one to be efficient, especially when one needs ample lighting to function at their most optimal and comfortable.
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10+ Best Budget Mechanical Keyboards in 2023
All in all, the best budget mechanical keyboards in 2023 are all fantastic tools that are designed to help both gamers and creatives become their most efficient.
Whether you’re a seasoned designer or a serious gamer, we hope our roundup of the best picks in this category has helped you streamline your search.
Whatever your purpose is for checking this list out, we hope you enjoyed this feature. Keep artsy and stay creative!
