Introduction
Looking for the best budget gaming keyboard under $50? We’ve rounded up the top picks that deliver performance, durability, and stunning RGB lighting without breaking the bank. Whether you prefer the mechanical feel of the Redragon K552 or the water-resistant design of the SteelSeries Apex 3, there’s a perfect option for every gamer. Plus, we’ll show you where to find the best deals at Walmart, Best Buy, Amazon, and Newegg—especially during major sales events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Let’s dive in!
What to Look For
When looking for a gaming keyboard or gaming mouse, there are a few different options available. Mechanical versus membrane keyboards, wired or wireless set, key rollover and anti-ghosting keyboards. RGB lighting: Is it necessary or just super cool?
Redragon K552
Coming in at number one is the Redragon K552 Mechanical Keyboard. One of the best budget gaming keyboards out for a great price, this keyboard uses a spring and switch for each key, giving it highly responsive keys. This also allows it to register each key stroke separately, no matter how many keys are touched at once. It is not wireless, but you never have to worry about the battery going dead during a match. RGB is included with this keyboard, and for less than $50, this keyboard is a steal.
Check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Redragon-K552-Mechanical-Keyboard-Equivalent/dp/B016MAK38U?th=1
Razer Cynosa Lite
Our runner up, the Razer Cynosa Lite, is a great alternative to the Redragon. The Razer is a membrane keyboard, meaning it uses pressure pads instead of springs and switches. Anti-ghosting is included, so you are able to hit ten keys at once and it will still register each key. RGB is included, but it is not as flashy as my top choice.
Check it out here: https://lnt.com.lb/products/razer-cynosa-lite-essential-gaming-keyboard
SteelSeries Apex 3
The SteelSeries Apex 3 is a quiet choice compared to the other keyboards on this list. You can choose between many different RGB effects, including an under attack reaction RGB. It also comes with a magnetic attachment for your wrist to help with comfortability. Similar to the Razer, the Apex is a membrane keyboard. Its also water-resistant and can withstand the occasional spill.
Check it out here: https://steelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3?srsltid=AfmBOopD3KF5KvotR0P4Te_ISTZtXYLr3MM06SHLrIa-zjvMo0O-jY0O
Corsair K55 RGB Pro
The final keyboard on this list, the Corsair K55 RGB Pro is also our biggest. Another membrane keyboard, the Corsair has 120 keys, plus extra macro keys that are great for programming specific functions. It also has customizable RGB, with six onboard lighting effects and five different lighting zones. It is water-resistant as well as quiet.
Check it out here: https://www.corsair.com/us/en/p/keyboards/ch-9226765-na/k55-rgb-pro-gaming-keyboard-ch-9226765-na?srsltid=AfmBOoqZsqdSOVRFNbrcxLwA5xdIylReCty5FrU2NpDeQ4myIQPHS2sx
Where and When to Find Best Deals on Keyboards
Walmart and Target have affordable options in store, and Best Buy usually has good deals in-store and online. You’re able to pick up and take it home same day. If you enjoy shopping online more than in-person and don’t mind the wait, Amazon has flash sales and the occasional coupon. Newegg has good deals as well. And if you are comfortable with Facebook Marketplace, you can find keyboards in used but great condition if you search hard enough.
Timing when to buy your keyboard can help you get a better deal. Black Friday and Cyber Monday in the month of November can result in some awesome deals. August and September will have discounts because of back to school season. During the Christmas season, retailers will give nice deals as well.
Summary
The Redragon K552 tops our list with its highly responsive mechanical keys and vibrant RGB lighting, making it a steal for the price. The Razer Cynosa Lite offers a quieter membrane alternative with anti-ghosting support, while the SteelSeries Apex 3 impresses with water resistance and unique RGB effects. The Corsair K55 RGB Pro stands out with extra macro keys and customizable lighting. Want the best deal? Shop at Walmart, Best Buy, Amazon, or Newegg, and look out for sales during Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and back-to-school season to score the perfect keyboard at a bargain!
Now that you know the best budget gaming keyboards, which one will you choose? Let us know in the comments!
