Budget Keyboards That Won't Hurt Your Bank Balance
- Budget Keyboard For Mac Keyboard
- Logitech Keyboard For Mac
- Mac Keyboards For Sale
- Musical Keyboard For Mac
The PICTEK TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a compact, budget-friendly keyboard that looks great and is designed for superior performance while gaming. The keys are designed using an ergonomic. The Apple Magic keyboard is flatter than the original Apple wireless keyboard, it has very low profile keycaps and the battery life is great. The Magic keyboard will work with Mac OS X 10.11 or later and iOS 9.1 or later.
If you're like many tech enthusiasts, you may struggle with escaping the mindset that a low price equals low quality when it comes to purchasing a budget keyboard. However, in many cases, budget keyboards are just as good, if not better, than their premium counterparts.
Best Cheap Keyboard Comparison 2020
Model | Image | Features | Price |
---|---|---|---|
1. DBPOWER Mechanical Gaming Keyboard | Anti-ghosting 104 keys mechanical keyboard No driver needed | $$ | |
2. Pictek 104 Keys Anti-ghosting Mechanical Gaming Keyboard | Anti-Ghosting 104 Keys. N-Key Rollover | $$ | |
3. HAVIT HV-KB389L RGB Backlit Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard | Unique Side RGB Backlit 104 anti-ghosting keys design | $$ | |
4. TOMOKO 87 Key Mechanical Keyboard | N-Key Rollover. With anti-ghosting 87 keys Blue Switches. Provide you�ÛÏclicky�Û� tactile feedback | $ | |
5. Rosewill Mechanical Gaming Keyboard | Cherry MX Brown Mechanical Key Switches 2 Built in High-Speed USB 2.0 Hub | $$$ | |
6. Tt eSPORTS Poseidon Z Blue Switch Illuminated Keyboard | Tt certified blue switch Fully back-lit function | $$ |
6 Excellent Budget Keyboards For 2020
Now that you know what to expect from a budget mechanical gaming keyboard and some history behind some of the top budget brands, you're ready to choose a budget mechanical gaming keyboard of your own. Below, we've assembled six of the best budget gaming mechanical keyboards, each one guaranteed to give you a similar performance as one of the leading models.
1. DBPOWER Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
While most budget mechanical gaming keyboards are short on features, the DBPOWER Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is the exception to this rule. This gaming mechanical keyboard boasts 12 multimedia keys, six different backlight colors with multiple brightness settings for each, an alloy aluminum chassis and an ergonomic design.
This budget gaming mechanical keyboard is completely waterproof, so you don't need to worry about spilling your Mountain Dew all over it. As a plug-and-play device, you don't need to install any drivers or software before using this mechanical gaming keyboard: Just plug the DBPOWER Mechanical Gaming Keyboard into any available USB port on your PC and you're ready to game. The DBPOWER Mechanical Gaming Keyboard works with a variety of operating systems, including Windows 10, Mac OS and even legacy operating systems such as Windows XP.
2. Pictek 104 Keys Anti-ghosting Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The Pictek 104 Keys Anti-ghosting Mechanical Gaming Keyboard puts an emphasis on durability, as this keyboard is both waterproof and dustproof. For gamers who like to give their hardware a deep clean, each of the key caps on this mechanical gaming keyboard are fully removable, which makes it make easier to clean between each one. With only minor maintenance, the Pictek 104 Keys Anti-ghosting Mechanical Gaming Keyboard will last for at least 50 million key presses and uses high-quality material to ensure your keys will never fade. You'll have no problem with this budget mechanical gaming keyboard sliding around your desk as you game thanks to the combination of ABS plastic and metal used in its construction.
3. HAVIT HV-KB389L RGB Backlit Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The HAVIT HV-KB389L RGB Backlit Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard may not look as stylish as other gaming mechanical keyboards, but what it lacks in style, it makes up for in features. This budget mechanical gaming keyboard uses a custom variation of the Cherry MX Brown mechanical switches to give you an edge when it comes to FPS and MOBA games. Unlike other budget mechanical gaming keyboards, the HAVIT HV-KB389L RGB Backlit Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard also includes a small number of programmable keys, a feature usually reserved for high-end gaming keyboards. The ability to lock the Windows key will help ensure that you don't accidentally tab out of your game during an intense multiplayer match.
4. TOMOKO 87 Key Mechanical Keyboard
Mac os x snow leopard. While the TOMOKO 87 Key Mechanical Keyboard may feature fewer keys than your standard mechanical gaming keyboard, it makes up for it with its other features. This budget mechanical gaming keyboard packs the following features into its small frame:
- Custom mechanical switches that sport improved durability
- Anti-ghosting keys
- Robust operating system compatibility
- An ergonomic and water-resistantdesign
- 12 shortcut keys
5. Rosewill Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Unlike other budget mechanical gaming keyboards that use proprietary custom mechanical switches, the Rosewill Mechanical Gaming Keyboard uses official Cherry MX Red switches under each of its keys. That's not the only high-quality feature this budget keyboard offers, as the Rosewill Mechanical Gaming Keyboard also has an N-key rollover function, multimedia keys, shortcut keys, a Windows key lock and a gold-plated USB connector. Lastly, the Rosewill Mechanical Gaming Keyboard has rubber pads attached to its underside, guaranteeing that this keyboard stays put on your desk no matter how hard you mash the keys.
6. Tt eSPORTS Poseidon Z Blue Switch Illuminated Keyboard
As it says in the name, the Tt eSPORTS Poseidon Z Blue Switch Illuminated Keyboard is a budget mechanical gaming keyboard designed for the eSports crowd. This mechanical gaming keyboard uses a custom Tt eSports Certified Mechanical Blue Switch that is both durable and provides quick response times. In fact, the manufacturer even claims these proprietary switches are more responsive than any other type of switches available on the market! With additional features such as multimedia keys, anti-ghosting capability, LED lights under each key and a gold-plated USB cable, it's easy to see why the Tt eSPORTS Poseidon Z Blue Switch Illuminated Keyboard is a perfect fit in the setups of professional gamers worldwide.
Are Budget Keyboards Good for Gaming?
One of the old adages that you hear from a young age is 'you get what you pay for,' which many consumers have taken to mean that if something is a low price, it's that price for a negative reason. For example, some gamers may think that a low-priced mechanical keyboard is one that will quickly fall apart after a few months of use, or that numerous corners were cut to establish a lower price than the competition. However, that couldn't be further from the truth.
Simply put, a cheap keyboard doesn't sacrifice quality to achieve a low price, instead cutting down on extra features. While you'll still get high-quality mechanical switches under each key, a weighted feel and a keyboard constructed out of a durable material, you'll sacrifice features such as a built-in USB hub, customizable backlights, programmable keys and specialized software. If you're the type of gamer who just wants to use mechanical switches to give you an edge when gaming and doesn't mind cutting out extraneous features, an affordable mechanical keyboard is a perfect choice.
One other thing you may notice about budget mechanical keyboards is that unlike the best mechanical keyboards, many of them do not use the industry standard Cherry MX mechanical switches, opting instead for a proprietary design. In many cases, these proprietary mechanical switches function just as well as the Cherry MX switches; in a worst case scenario, you may notice a very slight difference between the two types of switches.
Are There Any Disadvantages To Cheap Gaming Keyboards?
While budget mechanical gaming keyboards are a great fit for the majority of gamers, if you're someone in the eSports professional gaming scene, you may want to consider going with a high-end mechanical gaming keyboard instead. Many of the extra features in a high-end mechanical gaming keyboard, such as macro keys, are a necessary component when it comes to dominating your opposition. While your average gamer who enjoys the occasional multiplayer bout won't necessarily need these added features, when a large cash prize is on the line, you're going to want every extra feature you can get.
As noted before, there are no actual disadvantages between a budget mechanical keyboard and a high-end model when it comes to durability and only a minor gap when it comes to the quality of the mechanical switches. If you're just looking for a mechanical keyboard to play games leisurely or to help you become a better typist, you'll find a budget mechanical gaming keyboard will suit your needs perfectly.
The Best Cheap Keyboard Brands
Brands like Logitech, Razer and Corsair are some of the most well-known brands when it comes to gaming hardware, and these names are likely to be some of the most represented brands on a store shelf. However, when looking at budget mechanical gaming keyboards, you'll notice a wide variety of brands you've likely never heard of, such as HAVIT, Rosewill and DBPOWER. Despite these brands not being household names, many of these companies have decades of experience under their belt at selling high-quality hardware at a low cost, including mechanical gaming keyboards. Below, you'll find a brief profile of three of the most well-known names in the budget hardware sector.
HAVIT
First established in 1998, HAVIT is a Chinese company that services more than 160 countries. While HAVIT specializes in equipment designed primarily for commercial businesses, recently the company has begun to branch out into areas such as mechanical gaming keyboards. By using simple designs and cutting out extra features, HAVIT can provide high-quality hardware at a budget price.
Rosewill
If you're one of the many PC gamers who built their PC from the ground up, Rosewill is likely a familiar name. Rosewill prides itself on offering a variety of high-quality computer parts at low prices and is particularly known for their extensive lineup of computer cases. The engineers at Rosewill are always looking on how to improve their products, such as finding ways to reduce the cost without comprising the quality. Rosewill's mechanical gaming keyboards are some of the best budget-priced keyboards available.
DBPOWER
Based out of the United Kingdom, DBPOWER dabbles in nearly every area of consumer electronics, including PC hardware, drones, phone accessories and even kitchen appliances. DBPOWER offers an extensive warranty on all of their products as they stand 100 percent behind the products that they sell. Similar to Rosewill, DBPOWER is constantly tweaking and innovating its products to offer the best possible products at the lowest prices.
Keyboards are an essential part of any computing devices. They come in two types, physical keyboards, and on-screen keyboards. Here we will be discussing physical keyboards with backlights including both wired and wireless models.
With normal physical keyboards it can be daunting when used in low light conditions. Imagine using a keyboard under low light, not seeing the keys clearly, and this can slow down your typing speed and cause frustration. This simple problem can be solved by opting for a backlit keyboard.
Table of Contents
- What to consider when buying a backlit keyboard – Buying Guide
- Best Backlit Keyboards you can buy
- Some FAQs About Keyboards with Backlight
What are Backlit keyboards
A backlit keyboard is one where the keys are illuminated for easy access. These types are popular among gamers, because of the dark environment they like to play their games. According to DotBeasts these types of devices make use of LED (Light Emitting Diode) for illuminating the keys and are much easier to use than normal devices.
Each individual key may not need a backlight on its own so small LED lights may be placed in strategic positions on the device to provide lighting in a dark condition. For increased ease of use, backlit keyboards come in both wired and wireless types.
When choosing a backlit keyboard, you have a variety of options to choose from. From brand to color and design. Backlit keyboards come in various sizes and colors, which enables the user to pick according to his or her taste.
These computer gadgets have multiple features which might be of interest to potential buyers. Here is a list of features that may be of interest;
- Adjustable colors
- Plug and play
- Special function keys
- Coated keypads
- LED light
- Adjustable LED light
- Lightweight
- Waterproof
What to consider when buying a backlit keyboard – Buying Guide
Connection method
You have two options to choose from when it comes to the connection method of the keyboard.
- Wireless
- Wired/USB
If you are that type that does enjoy mobility while working, you should opt for the wireless keyboard. This gives you the opportunity to change your position while working on big screen or while playing.
You can sit on the couch, with a cup of coffee besides you but the cost for this type of keyboard may be a little high. You can opt for the Wired or USB plug and play type of keyboard if your needs are not more than the basic needs of a normal computer user.
Durability
When buying keyboards, an important feature to look out for is the durability of the keyboard. You don't want a keyboard that can't stand constant usage. Keyboards with Aluminum frames can be a good choice when considering durability and usage.
Color/Light control
Keyboards with light and color controls can be a great acquisition, especially for gamers. Keyboards with these controls can help you remember combat keys while gaming, as you can set a color for a particular key. Maybe color blue for key 'x' which is used to attack or shoot.
User comfort
The comfort of the user must be top priority for such gadgets so soft and tender keys are nice to have. Many keyboards use Keycaps and PerfectStroke to make sure the keyboard does not make noise and is soft on the fingers.
When considering comfort, wireless types help the user to change position easily. An important feature to look out for in keyboards is the hand rest which can be used to rest your hands while taking a typing break.
Here are a few products you can check out whenever you want to buy a new keyboard or replace an old one. These products are selected based on their ease of use, connection method, art, color, led, cord and many other features.
Best Backlit Keyboards you can buy
Logitech K800 Wireless Illuminated Keyboard
Sale Logitech K800 Wireless Illuminated Keyboard — Backlit Keyboard, Fast-Charging, Dropout-Free 2.4GHz Connection- Brightly backlit keys with illuminated characters for easy typing, even in the dark, compatible:Windows XP, Windows Vista , Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10
- Perfect Stroke key system makes every keystroke more comfortable, fluid and quiet. No batteries needed: recharge quickly with the included universal micro USB cable
- Powerful 2.4 GHz wireless connection with one tiny Unifying receiver that stays in your computer. Works with Windows based PCs, including Windows 10 or later. Try moving the keyboard closer to the unifying receiver, or plug the unifying receiver into the receiver extender cable to bring it closer to the keyboard
Last update on 2020-12-07 at 15:30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Logitech is a well-known brand in the computer world. The company manufactures computers and many of its accessories ranging from mouse, keypads to gaming desktop.This product provides lighting in dark environment and uses a wireless connection. The keys on this product are laser etched for increased precision, less distraction and easy typing.
The keyboard can be charged using a micro USB cable. And you can say goodbye to disposable batteries. This keyboard can provide a reliable and constant 2.4GHz wireless connection; you also have the option of using the USB cable.
Pros
- Strong and Durable battery
- Wireless to keep space neat
- You can set your light level
- Rechargeable
- Bright lighted individual keys
- Stylish
- Adjustable character backlighting
Azio Large Print Tri-Color Backlit Keyboard
Azio Large Print Keyboard - USB Computer Keyboard with 3 Interchangeable Backlight Colors (KB505U)- EASY TO SEE KEYS: Large print keys to reduce eyestrain and promote productivity. 4x Larger than conventional computer keyboards
- 3 COLOR BACKLIGHT: Customize the look of your AZIO backlit keyboard with 3 color of LED selections. Select between red, blue, or purple backlight illumination.
- QUICK ACCESS KEYS: Built-In multimedia and quick-access hotkeys to improve productivity.
Last update on 2020-12-07 at 15:30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This model prides itself with large easy to read keys that provide the user with easily accessible spots and reduce errors while typing. It is illuminated to suit any function it would be used for. The large keys on this one reduce eyestrain, improve productivity and make the computer easy to use for people of different ages.The keys are easy to spot and also have a few unique function keys for quick access. This model comes with a backlight of course. It comes with 3 colors backlight, a few multimedia quick access keys and a five feet cord. This keyboard also works on MAC and Linux operating systems
Pros
- Easy to use in darkness
- Easy to spot large keys
- Multimedia/ special function keys
Logitech Illuminated Ultrathin Keyboard
Sale Logitech Illuminated Ultrathin Keyboard K740 with Laser-Etched Backlit Keyboard and Soft-Touch Palm Rest - Black- Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows XP or Windows Vista, USB port
- Laser-etched backlit keys, Manual brightness adjustment
- Elegantly designed, Ultra-thin keyboard profile
Last update on 2020-12-07 at 15:30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is another product from Logitech, the well-known computer accessories company. This brand does not only pride itself on being easy to use at night, but you can also use it during the daytime without any hassle.This unit features backlighted keys, adjustable light which gives the eyes comfort. It has also an advantage over the first two. It has a palm rest which aids in resting your hands while taking little breaks when typing lengthy documents.
The Logitech comes with a manual light adjustment that can be tuned to suit your need for lighting and to make it easy to locate keys on the device. Its laser etched keys enable you to type with less error, thereby increasing productivity. It is ultrathin thereby increasing portability. The keyboard comes with PerfectStroke which makes typing easy, quiet and precise.
Pros
- Compact and elegant design
- Comes with a comfortable soft-touch palm rest
- Soft keys for easy typing
- PerfectStroke keys
Logitech K810 Wireless Multi-Device
Budget Keyboard For Mac Keyboard
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The Logitech K810 comes with Bluetooth wireless connectivity and a carefully backlighted keyboard. It comes with a slim design for easy portability and can make up as a useful device for the home in general.It uses the keycap technology to reduce noise while typing and its Bluetooth connection can cover a whopping 33 meters. This keyboard can be used with a range of devices from computers, smartphones to tablets. It has seven backlight colors and an adjustable backlight.
Pros
- Can be used on various devices
- Comes with a keycap design for a unique experience
- Slim and compact
- Portable
- Great wireless range
- Comfortable typing keys
- Fast connection
Arteck HB030B Portable Wireless Bluetooth Backlit Keyboard
Arteck HB030B Universal Slim Portable Wireless Bluetooth 3.0 7-Colors Backlit Keyboard with Built in Rechargeable Battery, Black- 7 Unique Backlight Color: 7 Elegant LED backlight with 2 brightness level and auto sleep feature to maximize power usage.
- Broad Compatibility: Use with all four major operating systems supporting Bluetooth (iOS, Android, Mac OS and Windows), including iPad 10.2 / iPad Air 3 10.5-inch (2019) / iPad mini 5 (2019) / iPad 9.7 inch iPad 6 2018, iPad 5 2017 / 10.5 inch, 11 inch and 12.9 inch iPad Pro, iPad Air / iPad mini / iPhone / Android Tablets like Samsung Galaxy Tab, Google Nexus / Windows / Mac, etc.
- 6-Month Battery Life: Rechargeable lithium battery with an industry-high capacity lasts for 6 months between charges (based on 2 hours non-stop use per day and backlit off)
Last update on 2020-12-07 at 15:30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This keyboard is small in size and can be used with various devices and operating systems. It has seven backlight colors which are adjustable to suit varying needs of users.The keyboard can automatically turn itself off when left idle for some minutes. It is powered by a rechargeable battery, which can last for a long period of weeks in a single charge. It has a zinc body which makes it relatively light and durable in size and aid portability.
It can be connected to Bluetooth enabled devices and also operates quietly. It is equipped with silent whisper keys, which makes it impossible for the keyboard to make noise in the most silent place. It comes with a slim design which makes it appealing to the eyes.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Can work on many platforms
- Durable rechargeable battery
Azio Vision Backlit USB Keyboard
Azio Vision Backlit Computer Keyboard - Wired USB Keyboard with LARGE PRINT keys and 5 Interchangeable Backlight Colors (KB506)- Easy to see large print keys. 4x Larger than conventional computer keyboards.
- Enjoy 5 Interchangeable backlight colors with adjustable brightness, all built-in this PC keyboard.
- The Vision large key keyboard features dedicated internet, multimedia, and calculator hotkeys to improve productivity.
Last update on 2020-12-07 at 15:30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This keyboard is designed for use in the office or home, the color of the keys can be changed. It uses a long cord for connectivity. This model is easy to setup as it is plug and play, it gets its software installed on the computer as soon as it is plugged in.It has 5 interchangeable colors and large keys. The large keys on this keyboard make typing easy and increase your pace while typing. The quick access keys on the keyboard make it easy to access select functions on your keyboard.
Pros
- Keyboard color can be easily changed
- Quick access keys
- Large keyboard keys
Azio Levetron L70 LED Backlit Gaming Keyboard
Azio Levetron L70 LED Backlit Gaming Keyboard - Black (KB501)- Blue Color Backlight
- Volume Adjustment Knob
- Multi-Key Rollover
Last update on 2020-12-07 at 15:30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Airdrop name mac alexa.
This gadget is designed for gamers; it has all the features a gamer needs. It is intended to be used with zero dependent on external lighting. Each character is uniquely lighted and gives a gamer all he can ever require.The keys are blue-lit which makes the keys easily accessible. It has a volume adjustment knob, which can be easily used, to turn the volume of the computer, up or down. It comes with a detachable hand rest that can be used to rest your hands. It uses a wired/USB cable for connection.
Pros
- Comes with a palm rest
- Can be used to adjust the volume
- Beautifully fused blue backlight
Some FAQs About Keyboards with Backlight
Do All Laptops Have Backlit Keyboards?
Most laptops do have backlit keyboards, but there are a few inexpensive models that do not. In addition, some laptops that are made for businesses do not have backlit keyboards, although you can pay extra to have them added.
It is not a necessary feature if you work mostly during day time.
Logitech Keyboard For Mac
However, it is easy to add this as an optional feature. People often add lighting because it looks nice and helps you find the keys in low light conditions.
Do I Really Need a Backlit Keyboard?
Whether or not you need a backlit keyboard really depends on how you use your computer. If you use it during the day for work most of the time, you do not need to have this feature.
Mac Keyboards For Sale
However, you might consider it if you use your computer at night or in the dark. In addition, gamers love to have backlit keyboards.
Musical Keyboard For Mac
Gaming keyboards often support RGB color, and they look great. This is important to many people, and it is not necessary even if it is a lot of fun. You don't need a backlit keyboard, but most people like to have one.
What Is an Island Style Backlit Keyboard?
Island style backlit keyboards are also called chiclet keyboards. They have chiclet shaped keys, which is distinguished by the square keys with rounded edges.
They are the default standard keys on many different models today. They were also standard on some of the original computer keyboards in the 1970s, but the keys had a tall profile.
Today, they have a low profile. The nice thing about this style is that it is ergonomic and easy to use. For this reason this keyboard is popular for people who use a computer a lot during the day.
Does a Backlit Keyboard Affect Battery Life on Laptops?
If you have a backlit keyboard, it will use more battery than it would otherwise. It uses around two to three percent more battery than keyboards that don't have backlighting.
Laptop batteries come in different sizes, so how much your laptop is affected by backlighting depends on what type of battery you have.
The electronic circuit works along with the rest of your laptop's hardware, and it manages the battery power while it is charging. While the backlit keyboards will drain a small amount of your battery, it isn't going to have a huge effect.
Final Thought on the Best Backlit Keyboard Buying Guide
Backlight keyboards are becoming increasingly popular among computer users; most laptops now come with a backlight. Backlight keyboards can come in handy in a dark environment or emergency situations. There are a lot of things to consider when buying such a computer peripheral.
The backlight may be fixed for individual keys or placed in a strategic point on the frame. When buying such a device you have to consider durability and power. A good keyboard must be durable and be able to withstand constant use.
When buying a wireless keyboard, make sure the battery is strong and rechargeable. An example is the Arteck HB030B Portable Wireless Bluetooth Backlit Keyboard, which can last for over three months in a single charge.