Best Cheap Mechanical Keyboards You Can Actually Rely On

You don’t have to spend a fortune to get a good mechanical keyboard. Whether you’re gaming, typing, or just want a better feel under your fingers, there are awesome budget options out there. In this guide, we’ll show you some of the best cheap mechanical keyboards that deliver great performance without emptying your wallet.

Meet Wordrunner

Before we dive into the list of budget-friendly keyboards, we want to highlight something a little different. Yes, it is not that cheap, but if you are serious about writing and want a tool built specifically for writers, you should definitely check outWordrunner.

We created Wordrunner because we believe writers deserve better than flimsy plastic keyboards or noisy gaming gear. Wordrunner is a mechanical word-counting keyboard, designed from the ground up for writers who care about craft, quality, and focus. With a solid aluminum body, tactile switches, an 8-digit mechanical Wordometer that physically tracks your word count in real time, and a built-in timer to keep you in the flow, it is the kind of tool that does not just work, it inspires. You can connect it to multiple devices wirelessly or via USB, customize the function keys for writing shortcuts, and enjoy a smooth, focused experience without distractions.

No, it is not the cheapest keyboard out there. But we made Wordrunner to be the last keyboard you will ever need, and we truly believe it is worth every penny for serious writers. If you want a professional-grade tool that helps you stay in the zone and get more words down, we think you will love it.

Curious to see more? Head over to theWordrunner Kickstarter to get all the details and secure your spot in one of the early production batches.

1. Ajazz AK820 Pro

The Ajazz AK820 Pro is a compact mechanical keyboard that keeps things simple without giving up the features you actually need. It comes with a small display that shows useful stuff like battery life and connection status, which is a nice touch for anyone who wants a bit more control without digging into settings. With a smaller 75% layout, it saves desk space while still keeping all the important keys.

Typing feels smooth and easy thanks to the way the keyboard is built. It has a slightly softer feel when you press the keys, which helps if you're spending long hours at your desk. Whether you need a keyboard for work, school, or gaming, it gives you the flexibility to go wireless or plug in when you need to.

Top Features:

• Small display screen for quick updates

• Compact layout that doesn’t waste space

• Works wired or wireless depending on what you need

• Softer typing feel for better comfort

• Customizable lighting that works with both Mac and Windows

Price Points:

• $60 - $70

2. Dierya T68SE

The Dierya T68SE is a compact 60% mechanical keyboard designed to fit small desk setups while still giving you the keys you use most. It comes with 68 keys, including separate arrow keys and a "Delete" key, making it more functional than some ultra-compact layouts. The keyboard uses a wired Type-C connection, which is stable and easy to set up.

This model features linear red switches that feel smooth and quiet, which is good for both gaming and late-night work. It also has a basic blue LED backlight with several built-in lighting modes. Overall, the T68SE keeps things simple and effective, offering a good typing and gaming experience without taking up much space.

Top Features:

• 60% layout with 68 keys including arrows and delete

• Linear red switches for a smooth and quiet feel

• Full anti-ghosting for responsive key presses

• Blue LED backlight with adjustable modes

• Compatible with Windows and partially with Mac

Price Points:

• $25 - $35

3. Keychron C2 Pro

The Keychron C2 Pro is a full-size mechanical keyboard that focuses on keeping things practical and easy to use. It’s wired only, which means you don’t have to worry about charging it or losing connection. With a clean design and a comfortable layout, it works well whether you’re typing up documents, coding, or gaming casually.

One of the things people like about the C2 Pro is its flexibility. You can swap out the switches if you want a different feel without needing any tools, and it comes with keycaps for both Mac and Windows right out of the box. It’s a straightforward, no-fuss option for anyone looking for a solid keyboard at a fair price.

Top Features:

• Full-size layout for those who need a number pad

• Hot-swappable switches for easy customization

• PBT keycaps that resist wear and stay comfortable

• Customizable lighting with different RGB effects

• Works smoothly with Mac, Windows, and Linux

Price Points:

• $45 - $60

4. Royal Kludge R65

The Royal Kludge R65 is a compact 65% mechanical keyboard built for people who want to save desk space without losing too much functionality. It has a simple wired connection and a sturdy build that focuses on a better typing experience. With its gasket mount design and extra layers for sound dampening, the keyboard feels soft and sounds quieter compared to standard boards.

One standout feature is the metal volume knob, which adds both style and convenience for controlling your sound. The R65 also supports hot-swappable switches, letting you swap them out easily without needing any tools. It’s a smart choice for anyone who wants a smaller keyboard that still feels solid and customizable.

Top Features:

• 65% layout for a compact but practical setup

• Gasket mount structure for a smoother typing experience

• Hot-swappable switches for easy custom changes

• Durable PBT keycaps that resist wear and feel nice to touch

• Metal volume knob for quick and easy audio control

Price Points:

• $55 - $65

5. Havit KB487L

The Havit KB487L is a tenkeyless mechanical keyboard designed to give you a more compact setup while still keeping the number row and some extra function keys. It’s built for people who want a balance between saving desk space and having important keys close by. The keyboard features colorful PBT keycaps that feel good to type on and hold up well over time.

The switches are quiet and easy to press, making this keyboard a nice pick for both work and casual gaming. It also has a basic ergonomic design with a slight tilt, helping reduce wrist strain during long sessions. It’s a simple, no-nonsense keyboard that gets the job done without overcomplicating things.

Top Features:

• 89-key layout that keeps it compact but functional

• PBT keycaps for a better feel and durability

• Smooth and quiet switches for comfortable typing

• Simple ergonomic design with adjustable tilt

• Works with Windows and Mac systems

Price Points:

• $75 - $85

6. MSI Vigor GK50 Elite

The MSI Vigor GK50 Elite is a full-size mechanical keyboard made with durability and comfort in mind. It comes with Kailh Blue switches, which have a tactile and clicky feel that many people prefer for typing and gaming. The keyboard features a high-low keycap design that helps keep your wrists in a more natural position during long use.

It also stands out with its brushed metal top plate and a clean, modern design. Per-key RGB lighting adds a bit of flair, and you can adjust the colors and effects through software. It’s a solid pick for those who want a keyboard that looks good, feels sturdy, and holds up over time.

Top Features:

• Kailh Blue switches for a clicky and responsive feel

• Ergonomic keycap design to reduce wrist strain

• Durable metal top plate with a fingerprint-resistant finish

• Per-key RGB lighting with customizable effects

• Extra keycaps and keycap puller included for quick swaps

Price Points:

• $70 - $90

7. MageGee MK-Box

The MageGee MK-Box is a compact 60% mechanical keyboard designed for people who want to save space without losing essential functions. It has 68 keys, including arrow keys and function shortcuts, so even though it’s small, it stays practical for everyday use. This keyboard connects through a simple wired setup, and it comes with a detachable USB-C cable for easy storage and portability.

Typing on the MK-Box feels sharp and clicky, thanks to the blue switches, which are popular for their strong tactile feedback. It also features a single-color backlight with multiple lighting modes, so you can add a bit of flair to your desk setup without going overboard. Overall, it’s a budget-friendly option that’s great for both work and casual gaming.

Top Features:

• 60% layout with 68 keys, including arrow and function keys

• Clicky blue switches for a tactile typing feel

• Single-color LED backlight with multiple modes

• Compact and portable design with detachable USB-C cable

• Works with Windows, Mac, and Linux systems

Price Points:

• $25 - $35

8. Royal Kludge RK61

The Royal Kludge RK61 is a 60% mechanical keyboard designed for users who want a compact, portable setup without losing out on useful features. It supports three connection modes - wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz wireless - giving you a lot of flexibility whether you’re working at your desk or on the move. Despite its small size, it still manages to keep important function shortcuts accessible.

The RK61 offers hot-swappable switches, so you can easily change them if you want a different typing feel later. It also comes with RGB backlight and a battery that handles long sessions without constant charging. For people who want something simple, reliable, and compact, it’s a solid option.

Top Features:

• 60% compact design with 61 keys

• Wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz wireless connection options

• Hot-swappable switches for easy upgrades

• Lightweight and portable with a detachable USB-C cable

• RGB backlight

Price Points:

• $45 - $55

9. RisoPhy

The RisoPhy Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a full-size keyboard that aims to combine durability and comfort without going overboard on price. It comes with blue switches, offering a clicky feel that many people like for both gaming and typing. The design also includes a spill-resistant build, which adds a little peace of mind if you're prone to knocking over drinks at your desk.

It features RGB backlighting with different lighting modes and brightness levels, making it easy to personalize the look. Plus, the keyboard is designed with comfort in mind, including foldable feet for an adjustable typing angle and anti-slip pads underneath. It’s a simple, no-frills mechanical keyboard that focuses on delivering a solid typing experience.

Top Features:

• Full-size layout with 104 keys

• Blue mechanical switches for a clicky, responsive feel

• Spill-resistant design to handle small accidents

• RGB backlighting with multiple lighting effects

• Adjustable typing angle with foldable rear stands

Price Points:

• $25 - $35

10. Xinmeng M75

The Xinmeng M75 is a compact keyboard that fits nicely between small and full-size setups. It gives you the important keys you need, like arrows and function keys, without crowding your desk. It’s designed for people who want something practical but still easy to move around if needed.

This keyboard offers a smooth and soft typing experience that feels comfortable for long sessions, whether you’re gaming or working. It lights up with colorful effects that can match your mood or setup. Plus, it connects easily to your devices, with options to plug in or go wireless.

Top Features:

• Compact size with all the essential keys

• Smooth and easy typing feel

• Colorful lighting for a lively setup

• Durable keycaps that hold up over time

• Wired and wireless connection options

Price Points:

• $45 - $55

11. MSI Vigor GK50 Low Profile

The MSI Vigor GK50 Low Profile is designed for people who want a faster and lighter typing feel without the bulky frame of a full mechanical keyboard. It's thinner and more lightweight, making it easy to fit into any setup while still feeling solid and stable.

The keyboard brings a smooth and responsive experience whether you're typing or gaming. It also has bright, colorful lighting that you can adjust to match your style. The design looks sharp but is built tough, resisting smudges and wear from everyday use.

Top Features:

• Slim and easy-to-handle design

• Comfortable low-profile typing

• Bright, customizable lighting on every key

• Solid build with a stylish metal finish

• Handy media and lighting controls

Price Points:

• $70 - $90

12. EagleTec KG010

The EagleTec KG010 is made for people who want a simple, reliable keyboard that feels great to use every day. It has a full-size layout, giving you all the keys you need for work or gaming without any extra bulk. The brown switches are a nice middle ground - they feel responsive but stay quiet, making them a good choice for both typing and casual gaming.

It’s built to last, thanks to a strong aluminum and plastic frame, and the white backlight gives it a clean, modern look. Whether you're working late or playing games, the KG010 is designed to stay comfortable and dependable through hours of use.

Top Features:

• Smooth, quiet brown switches

• Crisp white LED backlight

• Durable aluminum frame design

• Comfortable full-size key layout

• Easy plug-and-play setup

Price Points:

• $40 - $50

13. Redragon K552 Kumara

The Redragon K552 Kumara is a compact mechanical keyboard built for gamers and everyday users who want solid performance without taking up too much desk space. With its tenkeyless design, it keeps things simple and focused while delivering a comfortable and responsive typing experience.

The keyboard features durable mechanical switches and vibrant rainbow backlighting that makes your setup pop. Its metal and ABS frame ensures it stays sturdy through long gaming sessions or workdays. If you need a no-fuss, plug-and-play keyboard that looks great and feels even better, the K552 is a solid pick.

Top Features:

• Compact 87-key layout

• Vibrant rainbow backlighting

• Durable metal and ABS build

• Quiet Outemu red switches

• Plug-and-play USB setup

Price Points:

• $40 - $50

14. HUO JI E-Yooso Z-88

The HUO JI E-Yooso Z-88 is a compact 81-key mechanical keyboard designed for users who want a blend of style and performance. With its sturdy metal and ABS frame, it's built to handle daily use whether you're gaming, working, or studying. The blue mechanical switches offer that classic clicky feel that a lot of users enjoy, giving you both responsiveness and a satisfying typing sound.

Beyond its durability, the Z-88 brings a colorful personality to your desk with customizable RGB lighting. It's hot-swappable too, meaning you can easily replace switches without needing to solder. If you want a reliable and fun mechanical keyboard without the bulk, the Z-88 is an easy choice.

Top Features:

• Hot-swappable blue switches

• Compact 81-key layout

• Bright RGB backlighting

• Durable metal panel build

• Easy-access media shortcuts

Price Points:

• Around $45 - $50

Conclusion

Choosing the right mechanical keyboard can really transform your everyday work or gaming setup. Whether you want something compact, customizable, or just comfortable to type on, there are great budget-friendly options out there. From RGB lighting to hot-swappable switches, each keyboard we looked at offers a little something special without breaking the bank. Think about what features matter most to you, and you’re sure to find one that fits your needs and your budget.

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