The keyboard specially designed for games – one of the most controversial subjects, included in the list of devices gaming peripherals. One side, this is a useful thing, which, obviously, will not prevent lovers from wasting their free time in any online shooter or MMORPG. At the same time, choosing the right product in this segment is very difficult. As a rule, people do not have a specific idea about where and how they will use the gaming keyboard and buy it according to subjective characteristics (for example, much attention is usually paid to design). And later it often turns out that the acquired model does not cope with the tasks set. In this regard, it is important to understand: choose the best option for your hand and style of play, you must first understand their main characteristics and features:
- Principle of operation. There are two main types of similar gadgets: membrane (advantages: affordable price tag, protection from dust and moisture) and mechanical (more reliable and convenient to work with instant response);
- Availability of programmable buttons. One of the most important parameters that allows users to independently configure specific keys to perform certain actions in games;
- Strength. Many poor-quality keyboards are simply not able to withstand the gaming rhythm and load and fall apart literally after a couple of intense sessions;
- Additional functionality. Devices can include a variety of features, like the built-in memory (allows you to save separate configurations for different applications), safe mode (in which a number of keys are locked, whose pressing risks turning into a random game shutdown), own mini-screen and backlight.
We have collected the Best cheap mechanical keyboards for gaming on AliExpress. Products were selected based on the following criteria:
- Best price and quality ratio
- Specifications and ergonomics;
- Reputation and reliability of the seller;
- Customer reviews (total and percentage positive).
Best Mechanical Keyboards for Gaming
Such devices differ from membrane counterparts in the presence of separate switches with metal contacts for each of the keys. This fact significantly raises the price of the device, but at the same time provides the highest level of quality. The reverse side is quite a loud noise from pressing (the sound resembles a typewriter).
MOTOSPEED CK108
The latest model of the game line from MOTOSPEED inside and outside is not much different from its predecessor. The main feature of CK108 is a wider and more convenient configuration and customization of the keyboard. If in CK104 all operations with lighting and other functions had to be performed manually (by pressing the keys in a certain order according to the algorithm from the instruction), then the developers wrote a special software to this gadget (it can be downloaded from the official website of the manufacturer). Using the program, the device’s color scheme is easily configured (any of 16 million colors is available to choose from), and more importantly, macro commands that automate complex and routine sequences of clicks in your favorite games (though this feature does not work everywhere, for example, Mortal Combat 10 has protection against macros).
MOTOSPEED CK104
The full-size CK104 from MOTOSPEED has long been a hit on AliExpress. It is perfect for connoisseurs of classic minimalist peripherals, as well as for gadget lovers with bright and stylish design (due to the huge variety of lighting effects and full customization of RGB lighting). There are no additional keys, however, using the “Fn” function button, you can configure F1-F12 to perform any actions (for example, opening a certain application, adjusting the volume, etc.). The simple “skeletal” design of the keyboard is easy and convenient to clean (besides, hair, wool and other small debris simply have nowhere to accumulate). There are two options to choose from (the blue ones sound much louder than the red ones), and the kit also includes a keykap extractor and instructions in English.
METOO ZERO X51
If you have firmly decided that you want a mechanical keyboard, but are not ready to spend big money, then the ideal solution would be to buy a Zero X51 gadget from ME TOO. In the manufacturer’s shop on Aliexpress site, there are several budget models, the cheapest of them is a shortened version with 87 keys. The buttons are located on a solid aluminum plate, so the keyboard boasts a high degree of durability and reliability, and in general, makes a pleasant impression. The device’s backlighting is quite peculiar – a specific color is assigned to each individual row and cannot be changed at all (however, a wide range of different backlight variations, adjustable in brightness, type and speed, is available, and it is also easy to customize yourself). Numerous customer reviews confirm the good interaction of X51 with computer games and applications. Demand for such an amount more is not necessary.
HAVIT HV-KB432L
Stylish mechanical keyboard, externally and functionally very similar to the above mentioned Motospeed and ME TOO. But HAVIT is much more expensive and, of course, this model wouldn't be in our rating if there was no reason to overpay. Let's start with the design: the device is based on a metal frame, which increases both reliability of the device and comfort of use. Another advantage is a removable stand under the wrist – you quickly get used to it and once you buy a keyboard with such an element, you can not understand how you could do without it.
Otherwise, everything is traditional and at the same time very dignified: the customizable RGB backlighting includes 14 different variations and is controlled by a special key combination. There is support for macros (so far the software for writing them is available only for Windows) and game mode (with a locked Win button), and in addition, the KB432L is easy to clean (the keys are quickly removed without any complex manipulations and additional tools).
AJAZZ AK33
Another mechanical keyboard that you can order on Aliexpress. It has 2 types of switches to choose from – black or blue. Black is more suitable for games and almost without noise. There are 87 keys in total, but the keyboard itself is not full-sized. The claimed resource of summons is 50 million times.
It is characterized by a relatively lightweight of 610 grams and is compatible with all Windows systems. The main materials used were aluminum and ABS plastic. No backlashes, creaks and other bright flaws are not observed.
Motospeed K87S
In the market of budget mechanical keyboards, the Chinese company Motospeed has firmly established itself since 2008, and is still in the top in terms of sales. Its current representative in our top is the K87S, a “shortened” version of the classic K87. This keyboard is made of aluminum alloy and is equipped with Outemu switches, not Cherry MX, of course, but also not really a no-name. Transparent symbols on the keys are very convenient – with the backlight on (the K87S has very wide customization options) it is very convenient to work and play in any light. Also, anti-ghosting works on all keys, that is, when several keys are pressed at the same time, all of them will be registered by the system without creating problems: the function is quite common in modern keyboards, but often affects a limited number of keys.
HEXGEARS GK707
The HEXGEARS GK707 gaming keybord model has received Kailh switches, reinforced caps, RGB backlighting and IP56 waterproof protection. Switches are promised 80 million cycles and there are black, white, red and brown to choose from.
ZUOYA
Each user of the mechanical keyboard knows how different the switches are. For convenience, they are painted in different colors, but it's not just their appearance, but their work. This game keyboard is universal as it uses switches of three kinds at once: red, blue and grey.
Red switches are applied to the most frequently used keys in games. Blue on other buttons, and grey on a ruler F and a side part. By the way, there is no digital block here. The model is as compact as possible, without frames and inserts. The manufacturer has removed even keys with figures and also has completely refused from multimedia keys. We can't say that it is convenient, but someone needs such a device. The keyboard also has its own software where you can adjust the backlight. There are more than a hundred modes available, including monochrome modes with constant operation and full shutdown.
HAVIT 87
Not every gamer has a large workstation where you could put a huge gaming keyboard with a bunch of additional keys. Especially for them, HAVIT developed the best mechanical keyboard model in a compact form factor. At the same time, there are multimedia buttons here, but they are in the F-line. In order not to interfere with additional functions in the game, the manufacturer uses a lock system of its own design.
The price of the device is quite democratic.There are red switches, and in retail networks such models are much more expensive.
DURGOD Taurus K320
Cult in narrow circles mechanical keyboard with a shortened set of keys (format 80%). There is simply a huge selection of available switches, each of which is better read separately before ordering. In addition, the K320 boasts fully programmable keys (using specially developed software – Zeus Engine) and many additional features. For example, in addition to the instruction manual and the keycap puller (a special key for disassembling keys), the K320 also comes with two cables (USB to USB-C and USB-C to USB-C) and a sticker. The design is classic, with no useless inserts and no extra space. At the same time, the brushed plastic case looks very stylish and also does not get dirty. It is complemented by two-level rubberized legs. In general, it is an excellent option for those who like a strict style, quality materials and good assembly.
BEST MEMBRANE GAME KEYBOARDS
DARSHION M800
The keyboard stands out for its stylish design, built-in backlighting (although there are complaints of uneven lighting), and the minimum noise emitted. Keycaps, like most similar devices, are removable, which means you can replace them with other similar membrane keyboards. According to the reviews of M800 users, it boasts good ergonomics with reliable assembly, without backlashes and creaks. The key stroke is small, the distance between them is standard, it is convenient to print. True, not everyone can quickly get used to the round buttons instead of the usual rectangular, but it is only a matter of time
DBPOWER BACKLIGHT GAMING KEYBOARD
DBPOWER Gaming Keyboard is a typical example of a good budget keyboard from the website AliExpress. For a fairly reasonable price, users are offered a full-size device with 104 keys with RGB-backlit, waterproof and anti-slip coating. According to the developers, despite the membrane structure, when working with the device, there is a complete impression that you are mechanics (this is mainly about tactile sensations). It is difficult to say how this fact corresponds to reality (since most buyers of low-cost peripherals, in principle, do not see much of a difference between the two indicated types of keyboards). It is also worth noting the non-standard form of the “space button” (it is slightly larger than the rest of the keys in its height and because of this, fingers often cling to it) – the habituation occurs rather quickly, but it may be uncomfortable to play initially.
FIGHTING NATION
Hardcore gamers believe that a gaming keyboard can only be mechanical. But nothing stands still. Increasingly, membrane keyboards are adding to gamers' gadgets. Here's a worthy device that's taken pride of place at the top. It is a wired membrane keyboard on AliExpress qualitative assembly with beautiful backlighting. Well, the Chinese love everything beautiful and bright.
As for the functional characteristics, everything is fine here, too. The presence of hotkeys, laser engraving symbols, the ability to quickly adjust the backlight and instantaneous response – this is not the limit. The keyboard is claimed to be waterproof. It doesn't mean you can fill it with coffee or beer – it can't take such tests, but small splashes of water and high humidity are really not scary for it.
DARSHION TOUCH DREAM
If for some people the words “gaming keyboard” are certainly associated with a bright and aggressive design, then it makes sense to pay attention to the development of the company Darshion. The entire body of the model under consideration is littered with peculiar scratches that, when turned on, the backlights look very impressive and unusual. Colors, by the way, can be independently switched (three color modes are available in total). Users also highlight the ease of connecting equipment (no additional drivers are required), function keys (oriented to control music in audio players), and noiselessness during operation. Darshion also has drawbacks (a low level of reliability, manifested in the weakness of the buttons), but they are not critical and are quite acceptable for this price segment.
Havit HV-558
Despite the huge variety of brands, represented on AliExpress, there are also their leaders. When it comes to computer peripherals, this is the brand Havit, which managed to combine the best quality and attractive price in its devices.Here is a set of two accessories, a membrane keyboard and a mouse. For the lowest price, we get a gaming mouse with sensitivity adjustments from 800 to 3200 dpi and a full gaming keyboard.
Both accessories are backlit, changing settings via software. There are additional keys to control and quickly access important applications. Multimedia functions are placed on the F keys, and many gamers know how uncomfortable it is to have one button perform additional actions. The manufacturer has taken this into account and added a quick lock function. With just one combination you can disable the key to perform an additional function, leaving it only the main function. Very convenient and practical. And most importantly, you do not need to pry into the software settings.
BEST GAMING KEYPADS
Keypad is designed exclusively for one-handed operation. The idea is more than simple – if in most competitive games (where speed and convenience of the periphery are important) gamers use only a small part of the buttons, then why not create a keyboard with just the right keys, throwing away all the others. At the same time Kill two birds with one stone: the probability of a random misclick is reduced, the device's ergonomics are optimized directly for game tasks (developers have to adapt full-size models for normal work), and the device itself takes up much less space. There are also special gaming keyboards for smartphones.
Redragon K585 DITI RGB
The Redragon K585 DITI RGB is not a full-fledged keyboard, but an important part of it for gamers with multimedia programmable mechanical keys and RGB lighting. There are 42 keys, and their switches are Outemu. There is also a removable wrist rest.
Delux T9X
After completing experiments with design and form, Delux engineers decided to focus on the internal and external filling of the product being developed. So the T9X version was born – the most thoughtful and high-quality model of the entire line, respectively, and more expensive than its predecessors. However, there is a reason to pay extra. Instead of the membranes, the mini-keyboard has acquired full-fledged mechanical switches, and several programs have been written for quick control settings. We do not recommend using official software from the Chinese (actually, due to the presence of only the local Chinese language), since there are good alternative drivers (in particular, aLLreLi). Using them, you can set the desired function to any key, diversify the lighting system, create separate profiles for different games, etc.
DELUX T9
T9 – the basic model of the range of keypad produced under the brand Delux. In theory, after entering the market with an improved T9 PRO, the demand for the predecessor should have dropped dramatically, since it was inferior in terms of performance to the pro version. But in practice, it turned out that not everyone liked the dramatic changes, so his buyer was found on both keyboards. The device under consideration differs from the later counterparts primarily by the large number of keys (47 vs. 29). Thanks to them, the usual T9 is more convenient to use in some games and, moreover, it is cheaper. At the same time, it is necessary to note the rather exotic arrangement of individual buttons (in particular, “Alt”, “Ctr”, “Shift”) – it takes a long time to get used to it, which many do not like.
DELUX T9 PRO
Delux T9 PRO is a typical representative of conventional keypad with a comfortable under arm and quick response to pressing. The manufacturer did not forget about the backlight (it is possible to manually adjust both the general modes and individual buttons).
