The Best Budget Gaming Keyboards Under $50 in 2023

If you’re considering switching from console to PC or upgrading your console game with something a little more precise than a controller, getting a keyboard on a budget is a great choice. Keyboards can get expensive, so if you’re buying one for the first time, you may want something a little easier on the wallet for your first keyboard. Whether you’re looking for something with hefty RGB lighting, full-color customization, something within a specific brand, or just a keyboard that can handle gaming overall, we have you covered with a few select choices.

RELATED: Razer Basilisk V3 Gaming Mouse Buyer’s Guide

There are many things to consider when buying a keyboard for the first time. Some keyboards can sync up with not only your PC but your consoles as well. Do you plan on getting some schoolwork or work tasks done on this keyboard? It may be worth it to consider comfort elements, such as key mapping distance, or if the keyboard comes equipped with a wrist rest. If you’re purchasing a keyboard solely to upgrade your gaming rig, consider some of the budget keyboards we have below by specific and popular brands in gaming gear, such as Redragon and Razer. After all, if you’ve been in the gaming business for as long as they have, you’d have the keyboard-making process down to a science too.

SteelSeries Apex 3 Gaming Keyboard

Best Overall Budget Gaming Keyboard

SteelSeries Apex 3 Gaming Keyboard

$40.97

$49.99

Save $9.02

If you’re looking for the best budget gaming keyboard around, then look no further than the SteelSeries Apex 3. Featuring everything from 10-zone RGB lighting to cable routing underneath the keyboard, there’s little reason not to pick this one out. You also get a magnetic wrist rest, allowing for easy attachment and detachment.

Brand: SteelSeries
Wireless: No
Backlight: Multi-zone RGB
Media Controls: Yes
Num Pad: Yes
Switch Type: Membrane
Number of Keys: 104
Compatible Devices: PC, Xbox
Dimensions: 5.94L x 17.52W x 1.57H inches
Keycaps: ABS
Wrist rest: Magnetic

Pros

Sturdy Plastic Frame
Quiet, Yet Tactile for Pleasant Sound When Gaming and Typing
Multiple RGB Zones

Cons

No Dedicated Media Control Buttons, Only Volume Wheel and Play/Pause
Wrist Rest Is Almost Too Big

$40.97 at Amazon $49.99 at Best Buy

Looking for an RGB, dedicated media controls, and a magnetic wrist rest for comfort? The SteelSeries Apex 3 is quite possibly the best overall budget gaming keyboard, as it combines everything from cable routing to key remapping through software. It doesn’t take up a lot of space, as the frame eliminates a ton of excess space. While these switches are still membrane (which does give them the benefit of waterproofing), they are the closest to sounding like an actual mechanical keyboard, falling somewhere in between the sound of MX Cherry Blues and Gateron Mechanical Yellow Switches (quiet yet tactile).

The multi-zone RGB on this keyboard is beyond excellent as well, as you can control the brightness, mode, and some color patterns all without needing software to do so. Though it’s much easier with SteelSeries software. Truthfully, unless you’re looking for a wireless keyboard or a mechanical one, this is a great gaming keyboard, regardless of budget.

Logitech G213 Prodigy Gaming Keyboard

Best Wired Budget Gaming Keyboard

Logitech G213 Prodigy Gaming Keyboard

$49.99

$69.99

Save $20

The Logitech G213 Prodigy is a gaming keyboard that brings along a customizable RGB lighting system that allows the user to change colors on the keyboard to match the setup or change according to the games. The stand-out feature of individual media control buttons makes this excellent for gaming, as you never need to leave the keyboard to adjust the volume.

Brand: Logitech
Wireless: No
Backlight: Multi-zone RGB
Media Controls: Yes
Num Pad: Yes
Switch Type: Membrane
Number of Keys: 104
Compatible Devices: Gaming Consoles, PC
Dimensions: 8.58L x 17.8W x 1.3H inches
Keycaps: ABS
Wrist rest: Built Into Keyboard

Pros

Works Seamlessly With Other Logitech Products
Dedicated Media Control Buttons
Game Mode to Turn Off Detrimental Keyboard Shortcuts to Prevent Closing Game

Cons

Integrated Wrist Rest Takes Up Too Much Desk Real Estate
Larger Frame to Accommodate Media Control Buttons

$49.99 at Amazon $49.99 at Best Buy

The Logitech G213 is an excellent, wired gaming keyboard that comes out slightly better in terms of key switch feel, RGB lighting, and onboard media controls, making it the best-wired budget gaming keyboard. Unlike the Ornata V3 X, you have multiple zones of RGB lighting for only a couple of dollars more, all of which you can control with Logitech G Hub. You’ll also find the keycaps are full-sized ones, making it feel closer to an actual gaming keyboard, rather than a compromise between office and gaming.

The added media controls are nice, as when you’re gaming, you can quickly lower or raise the volume without having to lift your hands from the keyboard or look for an awkward FN combination. Plus, there’s a dedicated Game Mode button, that disables common shortcuts that would minimize or otherwise close your game mid-session. A bigger issue here with the Logitech G213 Prodigy that’s preventing it from gaining the overall spot is the fact that the plastic wrist rest is not removable, taking up valuable desk real estate, which can be a big no-go for quite a few gamers with limited desk space.

Redragon K503 Wireless Gaming Keyboard

Best Wireless Budget Gaming Keyboard

Redragon K503 Gaming Keyboard

The Redragon K503 is a wireless, RGB gaming keyboard that doesn’t break the bank. This full-sized keyboard has multi-zone RGB lighting both plugged in and wireless and will last anywhere from 30 hours with the RGB on to 300 with the RGB off. Redragon also manages to cram in shortcut and media control buttons onto the frame.

Brand: Redragon
Wireless: Yes
Backlight: Multi-zone RGB
Media Controls: Yes
Num Pad: Yes
Switch Type: Membrane
Number of Keys: 104
Compatible Devices: PC, Limited MacOS Support
Dimensions: 17.48W x 7.87L x 1.18H inches
Keycaps: ABS
Wrist rest: Integrated

Pros

Maintains RGB Even When in Wireless Mode
Really Long Battery Life With RGB Turned Off
Media and Shortcut Buttons

Cons

Rather Flimsy Frame
RGB Turns Off After a Minute When in Wireless Mode (Wakes on Use)

$39.99 at Amazon

At this price point, it’s relatively hard to find a decent wireless gaming keyboard, but Redragon manages to do so with their K503 Wireless RGB Gaming Keyboard. In fact, it even manages to provide multi-zone RGB, quick access buttons for switching tabs and heading to the home screen, and media control buttons. But with wireless connectivity at this price point, you’re going to need to sacrifice a few things.

First is going to be the key switch feel, as this is a silent membrane switch, you’re not going to have the tactile click you might be looking for in a gaming keyboard. On top of that, the RGB lighting only stays in effect when it’s plugged in, as when it’s in wireless mode, the keyboard turns off the RGB until the next use to preserve battery life after about a minute or so. The overall feel of the frame doesn’t leave much to be desired, but honestly, for wireless connectivity and RGB under $50, you’re still making out with quite a decent keyboard.

Roccat Magma Silent Membrane Gaming Keyboard

Best RGB Budget Gaming Keyboard

Roccat Magma Silent Membrane Gaming Keyboard

$39.99

$59.99

Save $20

The Roccat Magma Silent Membrane Gaming Keyboard is a high-quality, RGB-infused gaming keyboard. With more lighting than your standard keyboard, the Roccat Magma Silent Membrane Gaming Keyboard is the perfect budget purchase for anyone who wants the maximum style and minimum price. The Roccat Magma Silent Membrane Gaming Keyboard features a detachable palm rest, providing comfort and flair.

Brand: Roccat
Wireless: No
Backlight: Multi-Zone RGB
Media Controls: No
Num Pad: Yes
Switch Type: Membrane
Number of Keys: 104
Compatible Devices: PC, Consoles
Dimensions: 15.75W x 7.87L x 1.57H inches
Keycaps: ABS
Wrist rest: Detachable Wrist Rest

Pros

More RGB Than Other Options
Well Spaced Out Keys to Avoid Accidental Key Presses

Cons

No Media Control Buttons
No Feet for Height Adjustment

$39.99 at Best Buy $39.99 at Amazon

The Roccat Magma Silent Membrane Gaming Keyboard is a beautiful RGB keyboard that’s designed to look good on your desk. With its larger-than-normal RGB background, the Roccat Magma Silent Membrane Gaming Keyboard makes for a great stylish choice if you’re giving your desk some flair while on a budget. The Roccat Magma Silent Membrane Gaming Keyboard is equipped with silent membrane keys, perfect for keeping things quiet while you type away.

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The Roccat Magma Silent Membrane Gaming Keyboard features a low-maintenance design that allows for a dust-free, water-resistant keyboard. With a detachable palm rest, the Roccat Magma Silent Membrane Gaming Keyboard provides not only an adequate gaming experience but a comfortable one as well. The lights on the Roccat Magma Silent Membrane Gaming Keyboard can connect with other devices, allowing you to sync across your rig with relative ease. And if budget isn’t a question for you, check out our list of the best overall gaming keyboards!

RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Best Compact Budget Gaming Keyboard

RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61

$49.99

$62.99

Save $13

The RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 is a small, 60% compact gaming keyboard that includes everything from RGB to mechanical switches. It’s one of the very few options out there for mechanical keyboards on a budget, but their house brand “RK” blue, brown, and red switches stand out when playing games. This is a hot-swappable keyboard, meaning you can switch out the key switches with ease.

Brand: RK ROYAL KLUDGE
Wireless: No
Backlight: Multi-zone RGB
Media Controls: No
Num Pad: No
Switch Type: RK Blue, Brown, or Red
Number of Keys: 61
Compatible Devices: PC, Xbox
Dimensions: 11.5W x 4.02L x 1.57H inches
Keycaps: ABS
Wrist rest: No

Pros

Small and Compact, Perfect for On-the-Go Gaming
Mechanical Switches for “Clicky” Sound
Comes in Black and White

Cons

Same Price as Full Size Keyboard
Small Size Has a Learning Curve

$49.99 at Amazon

Desk real estate is valuable and having too large of a keyboard can make mouse movements awkward, which is where the RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 comes into play with its compact 60% layout. This tiny yet powerful gaming keyboard is the best compact budget gaming keyboard as it packs mechanical switches, RGB lighting, and hot-swappable switches, making this keyboard a good purchase for the long haul. This keyboard essentially forgoes the majority of the frame that would cover the keycaps, leaving them open and free. Though this will definitely lead to an increase in dirt and grime getting onto the keyboard.

A 60% keyboard tends to forgo the num pad, arrow keys, extra function keys (think Delete or Page Up), and the FN row for all of your basic functions needed to play games. Forewarning, if you’re used to a full-sized keyboard and looking to make the switch to a 60%, give yourself some time to learn the ins and outs of it first before making the decision on whether you like it or not, as there is a learning curve. Though the customization of this keyboard may lead you down a rabbit hole of switching out key caps and key switches and eventually making your own keyboard.

Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Best Budget Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

$38.99

$44.99

Save $6

The Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a backlit mechanical gaming keyboard with RGB lighting and a sturdy build. Produced by Redragon, you can depend on this mechanical gaming keyboard as one of the best in the line. It comes in three switch types and two colors. With rainbow LED RGB backlighting on the Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, you can type or game regardless of the light in the room.

Brand: Redragon
Wireless: No
Backlight: Multi-zone RGB
Media Controls: No
Battery: No
Num Pad: No
Switch Type: Outemu Red, Brown, and Blue Mechanical Switches
Replaceable Keys: Yes
Number of Keys: 87
Compatible Devices: PC, Mac
Dimensions: 1.46H x 13.94W x 4.86L inches
Keycaps: ABS
Wrist rest: No

Pros

Mechanical Switches for Clicky and Tactile Play
Keeps Arrow Keys on Board
Extremely Sturdy

Cons

Cluttered Keycap Designs
No Feet for Ergonomic Support

$38.99 at Amazon

The Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a ten-keyless compact gaming keyboard. With a compact, dust-proof surface, take your gaming to the next level using the precision design behind Redragon’s industry-leading keyboard design. Linear switches allow for minimal resistance, quick input times, and a tactile feel with each key press. The rainbow lighting from the Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard features 19 different lighting effects, as well as 2 different game modes, and 6 different individual colors. Using the software contained locally on the Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, you can define your customization settings easily to match your personal aesthetic needs.

RELATED: Razer BlackShark V2 X Gaming Headset Buyer’s Guide

The ergonomic keys on the Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard are designed with high-quality plastic and metal. Plate-mounted mechanical keys and switches are durable, even during heated gaming sessions and repeated rapid presses. Anti-ghosting technology on all the keys of the Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard helps provide an accurate gaming experience. With its no-slip, ergonomic, splashproof design, the Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is perfect for any first-time setup.

Snpurdiri Wired Gaming Keyboard

Best Customizable Budget Gaming Keyboard

Snpurdiri Wired Gaming Keyboard

The Snpurdiri Wired Gaming Keyboard is a wired compact keyboard with an assortment of customization options you can define before your purchase. With over 12 different base and key pattern styles to choose from, you can find a Snpurdiri Wired Gaming Keyboard that works great with your setup. If you need more space on your desk for other things, the Snpurdiri Wired Gaming Keyboard is perfect with its small, compact layout.

Brand: Snpurdiri
Wireless: No
Backlight: Multi-zone RGB
Media Controls: No
Battery: No
Num Pad: No
Switch Type: Membrane
Replaceable Keys: Yes
Number of Keys: 64
Compatible Devices: PC
Dimensions: 12.56W x 5.2L x 1.97H inches
Keycaps: ABS
Wrist rest: No

Pros

Compact Size Perfect for When You Want to Game On-the-Go
Buttons Still Large Enough Despite Compact Size
Silent Membrance Switches To Avoid Disturbing Others

Cons

Height Is a Little High for Some Users
No Feet for Height Adjustment

$28.99 at Amazon

The Snpurdiri Wired Gaming Keyboard is a keyboard with a lot of options for customization. Not only are the keys replaceable, but the keyboard base itself comes in many different colors. The Snpurdiri Wired Gaming Keyboard’s initial options for key base and keycaps include: White and Black, Pink, Black, White, Black and Red, Cream and Orange, Pink and White, and Wathet and Blue. The compact nature of the Snpurdiri Wired Gaming Keyboard makes it 60% smaller than your average full-size keyboard, making it optimal if you prefer a compact, minimalist style to your PC rig.

The Snpurdiri Wired Gaming Keyboard features stable data transmission with its wired USB type C connection between the keyboard and PC. With the Snpurdiri Wired Gaming Keyboard, you don’t need to worry about latency during your games. The ergonomic design of the Snpurdiri Wired Gaming Keyboard is focused on providing a compact and easily navigable experience for all players. Keys have small mapping distances so that you can press anything quickly and without error.

Razer Ornata V3 X

Best Razer Budget Gaming Keyboard

Razer Ornata V3 X

The Razer Ornata V3 X is a low-profile key cap, membrane gaming keyboard perfect for getting your foot in the door for gaming keyboards. This silent but versatile keyboard is spillproof, allows you to change the color of the backlight, and comes with a detachable wrist rest.

Brand: Razer
Wireless: No
Backlight: Singe-zone RGB
Media Controls: No
Num Pad: Yes
Switch Type: Membrane
Number of Keys: 104
Compatible Devices: PC, Gaming Consoles
Dimensions: 17.46W x 5.68L x 1.23H inches
Keycaps: ABS
Wrist rest: Detachable

Pros

Low-Profile Switches Require Little Pressure to Activate
Detachable Wrist Rest for Price Point Is Good
Doesn’t Move Around on Desk

Cons

Only Single-zone RGB
Sounds a Little Close to Office Keyboard

$39.98 at Amazon $39.99 at Best Buy

With the discontinuation of the Razer Cynosa line, the Razer Ornata V3 X fills the void by coming in as the best Razer budget gaming keyboard under $50. Coming in at just about $40, you have a wrist rest for ergonomic support, access to RGB (even though it’s only static), and the ability to remap your keys as you see fit with Razer’s Synapse software. This can be great for when you need to remap some keys to be more efficient while gaming, which a lot of companies tend to overlook.

The keys themselves are low profile and the switches are membrane with a tactile feel. So they sound a little better than an office keyboard, but not nearly as nice as mechanical. Lower-profile keycaps are excellent for gaming since they’re lightweight and don’t require much pressure to push down as full-sized keycaps would. Plus, you have a rigid frame, cable routing, and a braided cable, making the Ornata V3 X the perfect gaming keyboard while on a budget. If you’re lucky, you can likely find older versions of the Ornata for excellent prices, as well.

Corsair K55 RGB Gaming Keyboard

Best Corsair Budget Gaming Keyboard

Corsair K55 RGB Gaming Keyboard

$49.88

$59.99

Save $10.11

The Corsair K55 is a budget gaming keyboard featuring multi-zone RGB lighting, dedicated media control buttons, and an entire column of macro keys. There’s also seamless integration with Elgato Stream Deck software.

Brand: Corsair
Wireless: No
Backlight: Multi-zone RGB
Media Controls: Yes
Num Pad: Yes
Switch Type: Membrane
Number of Keys: 104
Compatible Devices: PC, Gaming Consoles
Keycaps: ABS
Wrist rest: Detachable

Pros

Perfect for Streaming with Elgato Stream Deck Integration
Included Macrokeys
Macro and Key Lock Buttons for Gaming

Cons

Not Always Under $50
Wire Sits High and Doesn’t Blend in Well

$49.88 at Amazon $59.99 at Best Buy

The Corsair K55 typically makes it to the top of the budget gaming keyboard lists, but that’s if it falls under $50. You’re likely to find the K55 on sale the majority of the year, but it’s not always, which is why it doesn’t get the top spot on this list. Between the detachable rubber wrist rest, multi-zoned RGB, and extra macro keys on the side, this keyboard is an absolute bargain. One thing that stands out about the K55 from others is how much space this full-sized keyboard doesn’t take up, as it squeezes quite a bit onto the frame.

While the frame itself is plastic, you’ll find the keyboard is rather sturdy compared to other options on this list, the closest being the Logitech G213. But that’s what you’ll get for having a slightly higher price tag compared to other budget options. Now, these keys are still membrane-style switches, but the mid-size key caps are an excellent compromise for gaming, rather than being too low for some like the Ornata V3 X, or too high like the Logitech G213.

MORE: 7 Beginner Tips For Choosing The Best Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

FAQ

Q: What are the price ranges for gaming keyboards?

If you’re looking for a budget gaming keyboard, the low-end price ranges from $30 to $60. If you want a higher-end keyboard, they may have price ranges anywhere from $70 to more than $100.

Q: What’s important to consider when buying a gaming keyboard?

There are many aspects to consider when buying a gaming keyboard for the first time. First, consider what kinds of games you’ll play, and what else you’ll do with that keyboard. Do you need a number pad? Do you need RGB lighting? Is quick media control a priority for you? Using some of those basic questions, you can learn what your preferences are and work from there to find the keyboard that fits your style and desk best.

Q: Should I get a wrist rest for my keyboard?

A wrist rest is a tool that can help take the pressure off of your arms and wrists while typing or playing video games with a keyboard. If you use your keyboard for work, having a wrist rest to rely on for long hours of work or study can help make those hours more comfortable.