Best Budget Mechanical Keyboards You Can Actually Afford

Mechanical keyboards don’t have to cost a fortune. Whether you’re a gamer, a writer, or just someone who loves a good typing experience, there are plenty of budget-friendly options out there. In this guide, we’ll break down some of the best picks that give you that satisfying click and solid build without the hefty price tag.

Wordrunner: Mechanical Keyboard That Stands Out

Before we dive into the list of budget-friendly keyboards, we want to talk about something a little different.Wordrunner is not the cheapest option out there, but if you take writing seriously, it is worth a look. We built it specifically for writers who need a tool that feels solid and keeps them focused.

Wordrunner has a sturdy aluminum body, tactile switches that feel great under your fingers, and a mechanical 8-digit word counter, Wordometer, that physically tracks your progress in real time. There is also a built-in timer to help you stay on task without needing to check a clock. It connects easily to multiple devices, either wirelessly or with a USB cable, and you can set up the function keys with the shortcuts you use most when writing. It is not loaded with extras you do not need - just the essentials done right for people who write a lot.

If you are curious to see more, Wordrunner is available now throughKickstarter. It is not for everyone, but if you are looking for a keyboard that is designed to last and to keep you in the writing flow, it might be worth checking out.

1. Epomaker HE68

The Epomaker HE68 is a small, space-saving keyboard built for people who want a clean and simple desk setup. It is made to feel responsive and quick, making it a good choice for both gaming and everyday typing. Despite its smaller size, it keeps the keys you actually need, so it doesn’t feel like anything important is missing.

What sets it apart is the way it feels under your fingers - fast and easy to press without being too sensitive. It also adds a little personality to your setup with colorful backlighting you can customize to match your style.

Key Points

• Compact size that saves space without losing key functions

• Quick and responsive feel for faster typing and gaming

• Customizable backlighting for a personal touch

• Solid, sturdy build that feels reliable

• Simple design that fits easily into any setup

Price Point

• Around $59.99

2. Ajazz AK820 Pro

The Ajazz AK820 Pro is a compact keyboard made for people who want a little more functionality without taking up too much space. With a 75% layout, it keeps the essentials like arrow keys and a function row, making it a good balance between size and usability. It's built for comfort and smooth typing, whether you’re working or gaming.

One thing that stands out is the small screen on the keyboard, giving quick updates like battery level and connection status. It also has multiple ways to connect - wired, Bluetooth, or 2.4GHz wireless - so you can switch between devices easily without dealing with a bunch of cables.

Key Points

• 75% layout keeps important keys while saving space

• Small screen for real-time updates and quick info

• Works wired or wireless, depending on what you need

• Soft, cushioned typing feel with reduced noise

• Customizable backlighting with many color options

Price Point

• Around $62.09

3. Redragon K630 Dragonborn

The Redragon K630 Dragonborn is a compact 60% keyboard built for people who want to save desk space without losing the basics. Its smaller size makes it easy to carry around, and it clears up extra room for your mouse to move freely. Even though it’s smaller, it still feels solid and dependable for everyday typing or gaming sessions.

What makes this keyboard stand out is its clean, simple design paired with colorful backlighting that you can adjust to your liking. It comes wired, which helps keep the connection steady and reliable, especially when every second counts during fast-paced games.

Key Points

• 60% layout to save desk space

• Adjustable colorful backlighting

• Wired connection for steady performance

• Quiet or clicky switch options depending on preference

• Lightweight and easy to carry

Price Point

• Around $44.99

4. Royal Kludge RK61

The Royal Kludge RK61 is a compact 60% keyboard designed for people who want something simple and easy to move around. With its small size, it frees up desk space and is easy to carry if you work or game in different places. It connects in two ways - wired, Bluetooth or 2.4GHz wireless - giving you options depending on how you want to set it up.

One of the standout features is the ability to switch between devices quickly, which is handy if you work across a phone, tablet, and laptop. It also has backlighting for a little extra style, though it keeps the look clean and not too flashy.

Key Points

• 60% layout to save space and keep things portable

• Triple connection options: wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz wireless

• Easy switch between up to three devices

• Hot-swappable switches for easy customization

• Compact, lightweight build perfect for travel or small setups

Price Point

• Around $49.99

5. Keychron K6

The Keychron K6 is a compact 65% keyboard designed for people who want to save desk space without giving up important keys. It’s small enough to fit into tight setups but still keeps essentials like the arrow keys. The K6 works wirelessly or with a cable, making it easy to use across different devices whether you're at home, at work, or on the move.

It’s built with a practical layout that feels comfortable even during long typing sessions. The K6 also has a good battery life, customizable backlighting, and the option to swap out switches if you want to personalize the typing feel without too much hassle.

Key Points

• 65% layout saves space but keeps key functions

• Wireless and wired connection options

• Long battery life for extended use

• Adjustable backlighting for different moods

• Hot-swappable switches for easy custom setups

Price Point

• Around $74.00

6. Tecware Phantom 87

The Tecware Phantom 87 is a tenkeyless keyboard that skips the number pad to give you more space for your mouse and a cleaner desk setup. It’s compact without feeling cramped, and it’s built to last with a sturdy frame and quality materials. The design keeps things simple and functional, making it a solid choice for gaming or everyday use.

The Phantom 87 offers colorful backlighting with different modes, giving your setup a little more life without being overwhelming. It also features hot-swappable switches, so you can easily change how the keys feel without needing special tools or skills.

Key Points

• Tenkeyless layout for a more compact setup

• Colorful backlighting with multiple effects

• Hot-swappable switches for easy customization

• Sturdy build with a metal backplate

• Simple design with a clean and practical layout

Price Point

• Around $79.00

7. E-Element Z-88

The E-Element Z-88 is a compact keyboard that offers a straightforward, no-nonsense setup for both gaming and regular use. With its 81-key layout, it keeps things tight and organized, which makes it a good fit for smaller desks or minimal setups. It is built to feel solid and gives you the classic mechanical typing experience without being overly complicated.

This keyboard also comes with rainbow backlighting, which adds a bit of personality without going overboard. It’s easy to set up and start using right away, making it a good choice if you’re looking for something reliable and budget-friendly without a steep learning curve.

Key Points

• Compact 81-key layout for saving desk space

• Solid build quality with a durable feel

• Rainbow backlighting for a bit of extra flair

• Plug-and-play setup, no complicated steps

• Good option for first-time mechanical keyboard users

Price Point

• Around $49.99

8. Havit KB487L

The Havit KB487L is a compact tenkeyless keyboard designed to save space while keeping a practical layout. With 89 keys, it still includes a number pad function, which you can switch on or off depending on what you need. It’s built for people who want a sturdy keyboard for both gaming and everyday typing without taking up too much desk space.

The keyboard uses red switches that feel smooth and are quieter compared to clicky options. It also comes with colorful keycaps made from durable material, which not only improves the look but also feels good to the touch. It's a straightforward keyboard for anyone looking for comfort and reliability.

Key Points

• 89-key compact layout with a number pad toggle

• Smooth and quiet red switches

• Colorful, long-lasting PBT keycaps

• Comfortable typing angle with adjustable stand

• Works with both Windows and Mac systems

Price Point

• Around $79.99

9. Epomaker TH80 Pro V2

The Epomaker TH80 Pro V2 is a 75% keyboard made for people who want a good balance between size and function. It’s compact enough to save space but still has a full set of keys you would miss on smaller keyboards. What makes this model stand out is the small customizable screen that can display things like system stats or simple animations.

This keyboard supports wired and wireless connections, so you can easily switch between different devices without much hassle. It also comes with a gasket-mounted design, making typing feel softer and more controlled. It’s built for those who want a bit of flexibility without adding too much complexity to their setup.

Key Points

• 75% layout that saves space but keeps all key functions

• Customizable screen for personal touches or useful info

• Double connection modes: wired and wireless

• Gasket-mounted for a softer typing feel

• Works on both Mac and Windows systems

Price Point

• Around $99.99

10. Ducky One 2 Mini Pro

The Ducky One 2 Mini Pro is a 60% keyboard made for those who want a small, simple setup without giving up quality. It’s compact and lightweight, which makes it easy to carry and perfect for smaller desks. Even though it’s small, it still feels stable and well-built, making it a good choice for both gaming and general use.

It comes with thick double-shot keycaps and a sound-dampening layer inside to give you a softer, more solid typing experience. The RGB backlighting adds a clean, stylish look without being too flashy. This keyboard is ideal for anyone looking for a balance between function, build quality, and size.

Key Points

• 60% layout for a compact and portable setup

• Thick double-shot PBT keycaps for durability

• Sound-dampening design for a better typing feel

• Clean, adjustable RGB backlighting

• Stable and solid build despite small size

Price Point

• Around $79.00

11. Xinmeng M75 / M75 Pro

The Xinmeng M75 Pro is a compact keyboard built for people who want a cleaner desk setup without losing important keys. They give you a balanced mix of function and size, making them easy to use whether you're working, gaming, or just typing casually.

The M75 Pro adds a small display for a bit of extra info while you type. Both models are built with a volume knob and feel solid under your fingers. You can switch between wireless and wired use depending on what you prefer.

Key Points:

• Compact size with all the main keys

• Pro model has a small, colorful screen

• Easy volume control with a sturdy knob

• Can be used wirelessly or plugged in

• Built to feel solid and comfortable

Price Point:

• Around $49.00

12. Logitech G413

The Logitech G413 is a mechanical keyboard designed for people who want solid performance without all the extra distractions. It sticks to the basics, giving you what you actually need in a simple, durable package. The aluminum top plate gives it a clean and sturdy feel, and the backlit keys keep things visible when you are working or gaming late.

This keyboard also comes with a few handy touches like a USB passthrough for plugging in other devices and media controls built right into the function keys. It is not trying to show off. It is just a solid, straightforward keyboard that does its job well.

Key Points:

• Strong aluminum frame for durability

• Simple backlit keys for easy visibility

• Built-in USB passthrough for convenience

• Media controls without extra software

• Swappable keycaps for gaming

Price Point:

• Around $90.00

Conclusion

Finding a good mechanical keyboard without spending a fortune is more possible than ever. Whether you need something compact for a small desk or a reliable full-size board for daily work and gaming, there are great options out there that balance quality and price. You do not have to settle for loud branding or flashy extras you will never use. A lot of budget mechanical keyboards now focus on what matters: solid build quality, good switches, and a comfortable typing experience. It really comes down to what fits your setup and your needs. Pick the one that feels right and works for how you use it every day.

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