Having a good gaming keyboard is essential for gaming, but some of the best models can be expensive. Fortunately, there are some great budget-friendly gaming keyboards available on the market. When looking for a cheap gaming keyboard, there are some key features to take into consideration. This article will outline what to look for when shopping for a budget-friendly gaming keyboard so you can make an informed purchase.
First and foremost, the number of keys is an important factor. A full-size keyboard typically has a total of 104 keys – but they can range from around 87 to 109. A mini gaming keyboard may have fewer keys, but it should still have the necessary features. Ultimately, the number of keys should depend on one’s specific gaming style.
The type of switches used in a gaming keyboard can also determine its performance and price. Clicky switches tend to be more expensive, while tactile switches are more cost-effective. These switches register the keys being pressed and are responsible for how quickly and accurately a command may be executed. While clicky switches provide a more tactile feel, any type of switch should provide sufficient feedback for gaming.
The material used for a gaming keyboard is also important. Plastic models are generally less expensive, but they can suffer from overuse or wear. Metal or alloy keyboards can be more durable and may offer more support. They also tend to be heavier, so they may stay in one place when gaming, reducing the risk of losing speed or accuracy.
Lastly, you should check the connectivity available on the gaming keyboard. USB ports can be used to plug in USB devices such as mice or headphones. In addition, some gaming keyboards have Bluetooth connectivity, so they may be easier to use with other devices. Depending on the type of gaming setup you have, you should determine what kind of cables and ports are necessary for connection.
RGB Lighting
RGB lighting can also be an important feature when choosing a gaming keyboard. Some models come with colour-customisable backlighting, so you can match the colour of your keyboard with your desktop setup or gaming theme. This can be a great way to customize your gaming experience and make your keyboard stand out.
Overall, RGB lighting can be a great addition to a gaming keyboard, but it is not an essential feature. So, if you are looking for a budget-friendly gaming keyboard, you may want to opt for a model without this feature.
Software & Macro Keys
Software support and macro keys are also features to look out for when purchasing a gaming keyboard. With macro keys, you can assign tasks or commands to individual keys, making it easier to control games or programs. Some gaming keyboards come with advanced software support, allowing you to customize the background lighting and assign further commands. This can let you further personalize your gaming and increase your gaming efficiency.
However, again, software support and macro keys are not essential features for gaming. So, if you are looking for a budget-friendly model, opting for a gaming keyboard without these features may be the best option.
Extra Features
Other features to look for when shopping for a gaming keyboard include media keys and a dedicated numpad. Media keys can be used to control the volume of songs or videos. And, a dedicated numpad is helpful for calculating numbers quickly during gaming.
Moreover, some models come with extra features such as a wrist rest and headphone jack. Having a wrist rest can make it more comfortable to use a gaming keyboard while playing. And, the headphone jack can be a great bonus, as it allows you to plug in a pair of headphones without needing an adapter.
However, if you are shopping for a cheap gaming keyboard, these extra features may not be necessary. So, you may want to opt for a model that does not include them.
Conclusion
When shopping for a cheap gaming keyboard, there are a few important things to consider. Key count, switch type, material, connectivity and RGB lighting are factors to look at when selecting a budget-friendly model. Software support, macro keys and extra features like media keys and headphone jacks may also be helpful but are not necessary. In the end, a well-informed purchase should provide gamers with a budget-friendly gaming keyboard that can help take their gaming to the next level.
