If you want to deliver your best possible performance in-game, having a reliable gaming keyboard is necessary. Gaming keyboards provide plenty of advantages, such as a more satisfying feel, better performance, and a more gamer-centric aesthetic. And with more and more manufacturers developing great bang-for-the-buck gaming peripherals, you won’t have to break the bank to get yourself an excellent gaming keyboard!
The market is full of budget gaming keyboards, which could make choosing the right one a daunting task. In this article, we’ll give you our picks for the 10 best budget gaming keyboards that you can buy online. We’ve also included a buying guide, checked by IT specialist JC Rogelio, to help with your purchase decision and some tips on how to clean your new gaming keyboard, so make sure to stick around and enjoy the article!
JC Rogelio is first and foremost a fan of upgrading and modifying computers. Due to his passion, he earned a degree in Information Technology from a university specializing in the field. He is tech-savvy and likes to research computer trends. He was a former employee of a Fortune 500 company in the Philippines and now has over 3 years of experience in the IT/Engineering field in Dubai.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
The products and services listed are ranked independently by the editorial team based on the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide (as of 01-16-2023).
Table of Contents
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
The size of the gaming keyboard refers to how many total keys it has. This is one of the most important aspects to consider since it will have a direct impact on how you will use your keyboard. Choosing a keyboard with an inappropriate size will mean that you’ll either end up with too many unused keys or have a keyboard that’s lacking in functionality.
Full-sized keyboards are the biggest ones and include the alphanumeric and control keys, the function row, navigation keys, and a full-sized numpad. On the other hand, tenkeyless layouts are full-sized keyboards minus the numpad. If you want to go smaller, you could also go for other common options, such as keyboards with 75%, 65%, or even 60% layouts.
Ultimately, the right keyboard size for you will depend on which games you play, as some games require you to use a numpad while others require only the essential WASD keys. Additionally, consider your available desk space, too. A smaller-sized keyboard will be significantly more compact than a full-sized one, making it better for smaller desks.
Most keyboards in the market are either mechanical or membrane. In general, mechanical keyboards are preferred for gaming, as they offer excellent responsiveness, feel, and durability. However, they're usually pricey, and so some low-budget gamers start off with membrane keyboards instead. Read on to learn more!
Mechanical keyboards work through spring-loaded switches which activate when you press them to a certain point. They’re characterized as having a precise and consistent feel with each keypress across the whole keyboard. These keyboards also exhibit a fast response time, since switches record a keystroke halfway before they get fully pressed.
Do take note that there are different types of mechanical key switches which affect the feel and sound of your keyboard. Linears have a smooth and consistent feel as you press them. Tactiles exhibit a small bump as you press the switch. Clickies, on the other hand, are tactiles that have an audible click sound once activated.
There are different types of mechanical keyboards with different key switches to choose from; however, the general consensus is that most mechanical keyboards feel a lot more satisfying to game and type on than membrane ones. Most mechanical switches are also long-lasting. Plenty of mechanical keyboards also allow you to replace their individual switches, so longevity won’t be a problem!
As their name implies, membrane keyboards use plastic membrane sheets with rubber domes as their switches. Most entry-level gaming keyboards use membrane mechanisms due to their affordability. They’re usually thinner and operate more quietly than traditional mechanical keyboards.
Due to the mechanisms they use, membrane keyboards feel a lot squishier and mushier than their mechanical counterparts. Their keys also have to be pressed down a greater distance for keystrokes to be registered. Membrane designs rarely have an n-key rollover, which means they might not be the ideal choice if you tend to press multiple keys at the same time in your games.
Traditionally, most gamers prefer going for wired keyboards due to their responsiveness. However, wireless keyboards nowadays have improved so much that they could also be a viable choice as your main gaming keyboard, especially if you dislike dealing with cables. Check out our in-depth discussion on these two types of keyboards.
Wired gaming keyboards directly connect to your computer through a USB cable, which is responsible for both powering your keyboard and sending input to your computer. Inputs are registered instantaneously with wired keyboards, an essential feature for competitive gamers who want zero input lag. You also won’t have to worry about any signal interference with wired keyboards.
Since wired keyboards have no batteries, you won’t have to go through the hassle of charging them up before using them. However, take note that wired keyboards are more cumbersome to bring around due to their cable. Also, you’ll essentially be tied near your CPU when gaming, since most cables only go as long as 6 feet.
If you do end up going for a wired gaming keyboard, choose one that has a detachable cable. The cable is one of the possible points of failure of a keyboard, so having an easy-to-replace cable is a plus. Keyboards with detachable cables are also easier to bring and keep in your bag.
Wireless keyboards can connect to your device through either Bluetooth or a USB receiver. This means you can game using wireless keyboards even if you’re far away from your CPU. Not only that, but wireless keyboards can also easily connect to your other devices, such as your phone and your tablet. They’re also a great choice if you dislike tangles and cable clutter on your desk.
As with any other wireless peripheral, wireless keyboards are susceptible to signal interference which could affect their precision. Some wireless keyboards might also have a small amount of input latency which could negatively affect your reaction time in-game. And since they use batteries, you’ll have to constantly pay attention to your battery life while gaming.
To ensure that your keyboard will be durable enough for your daily gaming sessions, make sure to check its materials. You can check the materials used for the two main parts of the keyboard: the case and the keycaps.
While cases may be made from either plastic or metal, plastic cases are the most predominantly used ones for budget keyboards. Metal cases usually give off a more premium build quality; however, there are plenty of keyboards with plastic cases that feel nice and solid. Plus, they're much lighter than metal keyboards and will work better if you plan on bringing your keyboard from time to time.
The common plastics used for keyboard cases are ABS, polycarbonate, and acrylic. ABS plastic is an inexpensive yet durable material for most keyboards. Polycarbonate is much tougher than ABS. Acrylic is a rare type of plastic that's transparent, allowing your RGB lights to shine through brightly. Whichever you choose, make sure that the case material is solid and thick for durability.
Keycaps are made of plastic, too. The 2 most common keycap materials used are ABS and PBT. ABS is the more common option due to its affordability. This material allows your RGB to shine through brightly; however, it does tend to become glossy from contact with your skin's natural oils after a short period of time, which is not ideal if you plan to use your keyboard for the long run.
PBT keycaps, on the other hand, are much more durable and don't rub off quite as fast as ABS keycaps. They have textured surfaces that make them much more comfortable for your fingers. However, they are hard to manufacture and are thus expensive, which means you won't see them bundled with budget keyboards as much as ABS keycaps.
RGB lights serve plenty of purposes for a budget gaming keyboard. They give your keyboard a cool look, especially when the lights are out. RGB lights are also usually easily customizable either through software or through your board’s keys, so you can easily mix and match your desk setup’s color schemes for different aesthetics!
Aside from looks, RGB lights can also help you see whether you’re hitting the right keys while gaming. This is especially helpful if you tend to game with the lights out. Just make sure to manage your RGB settings if you plan on getting a wireless keyboard, as RGB will eat through your battery life much quicker.
Many gaming keyboards come with their own software which you can install on your computer. These software are extra helpful if you want to further customize your keyboard’s RGB light color, mode, and speed. Aside from this, most keyboard software also allow you to set macros and shortcuts, which are especially useful for MMO gamers.
Consider the other features that the gaming keyboard offers aside from the ones we've already mentioned. Anti-ghosting and n-key rollover features tell you the maximum number of keys that you can press simultaneously, which is a great feature to have for games involving quick key presses.
To improve ergonomics, some gaming keyboards also include a wrist rest and feet for angle adjustment. Some mechanical keyboards even offer hot-swappable switches, which make replacing your switches much easier should you want to upgrade. And for those who want a keyboard that'll last long, going for a water-resistant keyboard could prove useful!
From ₱2,499
Royal Kludge has been releasing plenty of great mechanical gaming keyboards, and the RK84 is no exception. This keyboard has an 80% layout, which is a tenkeyless stuck in a very compact chassis. Since it's a tri-mode keyboard, you can connect it to your device through either Bluetooth, a 2.4 GHz dongle, or its detachable cable.
Its RGB lights and macros are also easily configurable with the RK software. You also have the choice of getting this with RK switches or the more premium Cherry switches. Aside from that, it's one of the most popular budget keyboards in the custom keyboard scene, so it's a great option if you plan on modding your keyboard in the future!
From ₱2,450
The G213 Prodigy is a feature-filled offering from Logitech. While it's a membrane keyboard, it uses unique mech-dome switches to mimic the tactility and responsiveness of a mechanical keyboard. Its anti-ghosting feature allows you to press up to 10 different keys simultaneously, a useful feature to have for fast-paced games. It's even 4x faster than standard keyboards!
This keyboard comes with all the keys you'll need and more, thanks to its full-sized layout and dedicated media controls. It also has an integrated palm rest and adjustable feet for less fatigue during long gaming sessions. Plus, it'll last you long, given its durable construction and spill-resistant chassis!
From ₱1,595
For those who haven't decided which gaming keyboard to get, the Rakk Kimat XT. LE is a great choice. You won't be missing out on any keys, since it's a full-sized keyboard. It comes with Outemu blue switches, a great choice for those looking for a satisfyingly clicky experience that's suitable for both gaming and typing!
While the case is plastic, it does come with a high-grade aluminum top panel for enhanced durability. You can also choose from 14 different lighting modes and fine-tune them from Rakk's software. Its cable comes braided, too, so it's guaranteed to last for a long time!
From ₱1,920
For those who want a gaming keyboard without the gamer look, the Rakk Pluma is for you. This mechanical keyboard has a simple yet stylish plastic frame that goes great with the two-tone grey and white keycaps. The keycaps are even made out of thick PBT, which is a rare inclusion for keyboards at this price range!
You can connect the Pluma through either a USB-C cable or wirelessly through Bluetooth. When connected wirelessly, it can even save and easily switch between up to three of your devices. Setting your RGB lights and key functions is simple, too, since the Pluma is compatible with Rakk's Fine Tuner Software.
From ₱1,899
This gaming keyboard has all the features that you'd expect from a product under Asus' TUF series. It has a reinforced plastic frame that has up to 300 mL of spill resistance. Its membrane switches are satisfyingly tactile and come with a 19-key rollover for enhanced responsiveness and reliability while gaming.
It has plenty of functionality, too. It has programmable keys that you can set on the fly for quicker actions. The dedicated volume knob is also a nice touch for easy volume adjustment. It even comes with a detachable wrist rest to make gaming much more comfortable. And with the RGB lights on the keys and down its sides, we're sure it'll look great on your gaming setup!
From ₱2,695
The RK100 is proof that you don't have to sacrifice size for functionality. It features the 1800 layout, which is essentially a full-sized keyboard jampacked into a more compact form factor. Thus, it's going to serve you well for both gaming and productivity. Plus, this tri-mode keyboard can be used on all of your devices, from your desktop to your smartphone!
It comes with your choice of RK switches, which are pretty impressive to use right out of the box. You can also use it as an easy-to-access USB port, thanks to its USB pass-through feature. A thing to note is that the RK100 may come with either white or RGB backlight, so make sure to double-check with the seller first before adding it to your cart!
From ₱2,999
The Gamakay K61 allows you to game in style. Its most unique feature is its use of a glazed acrylic case that allows it to show off its 18 different lighting effects and adjustable colors vibrantly. Plus, you can easily save your custom RGB settings through its onboard memory!
From ₱690
This one-handed gaming keyboard from MageGee can offer plenty of advantages for serious gamers. Its compact size allows your mouse to have all the real estate it needs to move around. At the same time, it retains all the essential keys for gaming. Four of the function keys are even programmable, so you can easily create your own custom hotkeys!
Ergonomics-wise, it has a unique curved keycap layout designed and a built-in wrist rest for maximum gaming comfort. It also uses real mechanical switches to ensure that each keypress feels consistent. Aesthetics aren't sacrificed, too, as you get RGB lights with customizable effects and brightness!
From ₱1,295
If you're in the market for an affordable yet compact mechanical keyboard, look no further than the Redragon Fizz. This 60% keyboard keeps all the essential keys that you will most likely use for gaming in a handy form factor. It also comes in different case and keycap color schemes, so you'll be able to find the one that suits your preference the best!
The included red switches make each keypress smooth and effortless, while its foldable feet allow you to adjust its angle for the best possible comfort. Its ABS keycaps are designed to be resistant to fading and fingerprints, too. The Fizz also has a detachable Type-C cable, making it very easy to stash the keyboard in your bag should you want to bring it with you!
From ₱679
The K513 from Fantech can outperform even some of the more expensive gaming keyboards. It's a membrane keyboard that'll offer great performance thanks to its impressive 19-key rollover and anti-ghosting. It looks great, too, thanks to its floating switch design and RGB lights that you can set between 3 different color settings!
Its tenkeyless layout offers a great balance between size and functionality for both gaming and typing. Plus, plenty of useful key mappings have already been set for you. This keyboard also doesn't require you to install any driver, making this a device that's ready to be used right out of the box!
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
Most budget gamers are aware of companies like Fantech and Redragon for their affordable products. However, if you can spend a bit more, you might be happier with Royal Kludge's lineups as they are known to produce keyboards with great tactility, responsiveness, and durability--even their budget ones!
If you're a casual gamer, keyboards below 1,000 php should already suffice. However, the lack of tactile feedback may lead to some unenjoyable experiences. Instead, try to hit the sweet spot of 1,500 to 3,000 php as not only do these keyboards last longer, their haptics are also great for single or competitive play.
Most budget gaming keyboards use Bluetooth or USB-A to connect to devices. That means that as long as your computer has these connections, it will be compatible with the keyboard.
While using a nice and reliable budget gaming keyboard is great, you could easily find yourself on a losing streak if the rest of your gaming gear isn’t up to par. Improve your gaming performance with our top picks for the best budget gaming mice, budget gaming chairs, and gaming monitors!
Author: A. Coseip
Editor: R. Umlas
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
Beauty
Body care, Makeup, SkincareCameras
Camera supplies, Digital cameras, Drones and multirotorsHealth
Beauty supplements, Medical supplies, Feminine careHousehold goods
Air treatment, Bath and shower supplies, BlanketsPCs and laptops
Computer accessories, Computer components, Desktop pcsHome appliances and electronics
Air conditioners and coolers, Air treatment, Blenders, mixers, and food processorsFood and drinks
Alcoholic beverages, Baked goods and desserts, BakingKitchen supplies
Baking tools, Coffee and tea accessories, Food containersClothing
Brands and shops, Men's coats and jackets, Men's innerwearShoes
Men's shoes, Other shoes and footwear, Outdoor footwearAccessories
Bags, Accessories and jewelry, BeltsMom and baby
Baby books and toys, Baby food and snacks, Baby suppliesInterior and furniture
Beds, Carpets and rugs and mats, ChairsHobbies
Animes, Arts and crafts, Board gamesOutdoor
Camping beds and cots, Camping stoves, CoolersDIY and tools
Sports and fitness
Accessories, Badminton, BasketballPets
Cat supplies, Dog supplies, Fish and aquarium suppliesBooks, CDs, and DVDs
Books and magazines, CDs, Linguistics, dictionaries, and phrase booksGames
Console accessories, PC and console gamesCars and motorcycles
Car accessories, Car seats, Car suppliesGifts
Christmas-related gifts, Gifts for kids, Gifts for menHome improvement and tools
Door hardware and locks, Electrical, Gas stovesSmartphones and tablets
Smartphone accessories, Smartphones, StorageBanking and finance
Credit cards, Debit cards, Services and appsInsurance
Car insurance, Life insurance, Medical insuranceAudio
Earphones, Gaming, HeadphonesSmartphone applications
Business apps, Dating apps, Education appsOthers
Others, Merch, Recreation