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10 Best Cheap Gaming Keyboards 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Redragon S101 Gaming Keyboard, M601 Mouse, RGB Backlit Gaming Keyboard, Programmable Backlit Mouse, Value Combo Set [New Version]

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,205
Backlighting
Build Quality
Programmable Keys

Most important from
46637 reviews

Backlighting
Incredible value for gamers on a budget with customizable RGB backlighting and responsive keys.
Build Quality
Solid construction with great tactile feedback for a non-mechanical keyboard.
Programmable Keys
The keyboard and mouse combo is well-built and durable, offering extra functionality with programmable keys.

The Redragon S101 Gaming Keyboard and Mouse Combo offers a solid entry-level option for gamers on a budget. This combo includes an RGB backlit gaming keyboard and an ergonomic gaming mouse, providing good value for those looking to enhance their gaming setup without breaking the bank. The keyboard features seven different RGB lighting modes, adjustable brightness, and a spill-resistant design, making it both visually appealing and functional. The ergonomic wrist rest adds comfort for extended gaming sessions. Additionally, the keyboard includes 25 conflict-free keys with anti-ghosting and dedicated multimedia keys, ensuring smooth and precise controls during gameplay.

The keys are quiet and designed for longevity, although they might not offer the same tactile feedback as higher-end mechanical switches. The mouse is wired and comes with adjustable DPI settings up to 3200 DPI, six buttons (five of which are programmable), and a high-precision sensor for accurate tracking. Both the keyboard and mouse are compatible with multiple Windows operating systems and most major computer brands. While the combo set is great for beginners and casual gamers, more advanced users might find the lack of mechanical switches and some customization options limiting.

The build quality is decent, but it may not withstand heavy wear and tear over time. For its price, the Redragon S101 provides a good balance of features and performance for those new to gaming or looking for an affordable upgrade.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,205
Backlighting
Build Quality
Programmable Keys

Most important from
46637 reviews

Backlighting
Incredible value for gamers on a budget with customizable RGB backlighting and responsive keys.
Build Quality
Solid construction with great tactile feedback for a non-mechanical keyboard.
Programmable Keys
The keyboard and mouse combo is well-built and durable, offering extra functionality with programmable keys.
#2

AULA F75 Pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard,75% Hot Swappable Custom Keyboard with Knob,RGB Backlit,Pre-lubed Reaper Switches,Side Printed PBT Keycaps,2.4GHz/USB-C/BT5.0 Mechanical Gaming Keyboards

Rating
9.8
Switch Type
Backlighting
Build Quality

Most important from
782 reviews

Switch Type
The keyboard produces a smooth, deep thocky sound, making typing an enjoyable experience.
Backlighting
The RGB lighting is beautiful and customizable, adding an appealing aesthetic to the keyboard.
Build Quality
The build quality is impressive, with the keyboard feeling heavy and high-quality compared to other brands.

The AULA F75 Pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard offers a strong package for budget-conscious gamers. Its tri-mode connection capability (Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and USB-C) provides flexibility to connect with various devices like PCs, laptops, tablets, and gaming consoles, making it versatile for different setups. The hot-swappable design is a plus, allowing users to customize and replace switches easily without soldering, which is great for those new to keyboard customization.

The pre-lubed Reaper switches and gasket structure ensure a smooth typing experience and reduced noise, enhancing comfort during long gaming sessions. The 16.8 million RGB backlighting with multiple effects adds a stylish touch and customizable lighting experience to match your gaming mood, while the side-printed PBT keycaps are durable and sweat-proof, enhancing longevity. The build quality is solid, with a focus on reducing noise and providing a stable key feel. The 75% layout conserves desktop space while retaining essential keys, and the multi-function control knob simplifies media and lighting adjustments.

Programmable keys further allow gamers to set up custom functions to improve game performance. However, the keyboard might be heavier and bulkier compared to some other options, which could be a downside for those seeking ultra-portability. The 4000mAh battery is a strong point, ensuring long-lasting usage between charges. Given its features and price point, the AULA F75 Pro is a good fit for gamers looking for a blend of customization, durability, and performance without breaking the bank.

Rating
9.8
Switch Type
Backlighting
Build Quality

Most important from
782 reviews

Switch Type
The keyboard produces a smooth, deep thocky sound, making typing an enjoyable experience.
Backlighting
The RGB lighting is beautiful and customizable, adding an appealing aesthetic to the keyboard.
Build Quality
The build quality is impressive, with the keyboard feeling heavy and high-quality compared to other brands.
#3

Redragon K556 RGB LED Backlit Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, 104 Keys Hot-Swap Mechanical Keyboard w/Aluminum Base, Upgraded Socket and Noise Absorbing Foams, Soft Tactile Brown Switch

Rating
9.6
Switch Type
Backlighting
Build Quality

Most important from
9435 reviews

Switch Type
The tactile brown switches deliver a comfortable, responsive typing experience that's both satisfying and quiet.
Backlighting
RGB lighting offers vibrant customization with multiple modes, though some areas show uneven brightness and the white color leans warm without options to adjust its tone.
Build Quality
A sturdy full metal base gives the keyboard impressive durability and stability, especially for its price point.
Programmable Keys
Software support enables handy macro programming and lighting customization, enhancing the gaming experience without complexity.
Ergonomics
The keyboard is quite tall and heavy, so pairing it with an arm or wrist rest and extending the feet improves ergonomics significantly.

The Redragon K556 is a strong contender in the budget gaming keyboard space thanks to its solid build and versatile features. It sports hot-swappable Brown mechanical switches, allowing you to easily change switches without soldering—a feature rare at this price. The tactile but relatively quiet switches offer comfortable and responsive typing and gaming experience for those who like a soft yet noticeable key press. The keyboard uses a sturdy aluminum base that adds durability and keeps it firmly in place, which is impressive for an affordable model.

RGB backlighting is vibrant with up to 20 preset lighting modes and adjustable brightness, enhancing the gaming atmosphere without overwhelming complexity. Programmability is supported through downloadable software, enabling custom macros and lighting effects, which helps for gaming shortcuts and personalization. Ergonomically, it lacks dedicated wrist rests or adjustable feet, which could matter in longer gaming sessions.

This keyboard suits gamers looking for a reliable, customizable mechanical keyboard with decent build quality and lighting on a budget, but those prioritizing advanced anti-ghosting or ergonomic comfort might want to consider other options.

Rating
9.6
Switch Type
Backlighting
Build Quality

Most important from
9435 reviews

Switch Type
The tactile brown switches deliver a comfortable, responsive typing experience that's both satisfying and quiet.
Backlighting
RGB lighting offers vibrant customization with multiple modes, though some areas show uneven brightness and the white color leans warm without options to adjust its tone.
Build Quality
A sturdy full metal base gives the keyboard impressive durability and stability, especially for its price point.
Programmable Keys
Software support enables handy macro programming and lighting customization, enhancing the gaming experience without complexity.
Ergonomics
The keyboard is quite tall and heavy, so pairing it with an arm or wrist rest and extending the feet improves ergonomics significantly.

Buying Guide for the Best Cheap Gaming Keyboards

Choosing the right gaming keyboard can significantly enhance your gaming experience. When selecting a gaming keyboard, it's important to consider various specifications that can impact your gameplay, comfort, and overall satisfaction. Here are some key specs to look out for and how to navigate them to find the best fit for you.
Switch TypeThe switch type refers to the mechanism beneath each key that registers a keypress. This is crucial because it affects the feel and responsiveness of the keyboard. There are three main types: membrane, mechanical, and hybrid. Membrane switches are quieter and cheaper but may feel less responsive. Mechanical switches are more tactile and durable, offering a variety of feels (like clicky, linear, or tactile) and are preferred by many gamers for their precision. Hybrid switches combine elements of both. Choose based on your preference for key feel and the type of games you play; for example, fast-paced games might benefit from the quick response of mechanical switches.
Key Rollover and Anti-GhostingKey rollover refers to the number of keys that can be pressed simultaneously and still be registered by the keyboard. Anti-ghosting ensures that additional unintended keys are not registered when multiple keys are pressed. These features are important for gaming, especially in fast-paced or complex games where multiple key presses are common. Keyboards can range from 6-key rollover to full N-key rollover. If you play games that require multiple simultaneous key presses, look for a keyboard with higher key rollover and anti-ghosting capabilities.
BacklightingBacklighting is the illumination of the keys, which can be a single color or RGB (multiple colors). This is important for visibility in low-light conditions and can also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your setup. Single-color backlighting is simpler and usually cheaper, while RGB backlighting offers customization options and can sync with other RGB devices. If you often game in the dark or enjoy customizing your setup, consider a keyboard with backlighting that suits your preferences.
Build QualityBuild quality refers to the materials and construction of the keyboard. This is important for durability and comfort. Keyboards can be made from plastic, metal, or a combination of both. Higher build quality often means a longer-lasting keyboard that can withstand intense gaming sessions. If you plan to use your keyboard heavily, look for one with a sturdy build and high-quality materials.
Programmable KeysProgrammable keys allow you to customize key functions and create macros for complex commands. This is important for enhancing gameplay efficiency and convenience. The number of programmable keys can vary, with some keyboards offering dedicated macro keys. If you play games that benefit from quick access to complex commands, look for a keyboard with programmable keys that can be customized to your needs.
ErgonomicsErgonomics refers to the design of the keyboard that ensures comfort during use. This is important to prevent strain and injury during long gaming sessions. Features like wrist rests, adjustable tilt, and key layout can impact ergonomics. If you spend long hours gaming, consider a keyboard with ergonomic features that provide comfort and reduce the risk of strain.

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