If you’re a programmer, you know the importance of having a good keyboard. Not only do you need one that’s comfortable to type on for long periods of time, but you also need one that has all the features you need to be productive.
Unfortunately, most high-quality keyboards can be quite expensive. But if you’re on a budget, don’t worry – there are plenty of great options available for under $100. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best budget keyboards for programmers available today.
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Why Trust Our Review?
We have personally reviewed and tested the most popular and high-rated keyboards available on the market at the present moment. This review is being continuously updated as the new models come out and become available to users.
Our reviews are based on thorough research of specs, common problems, user ratings, and personal experience. As you read through the article, be confident that you are receiving the most thorough and accurate advice on the new tech available today.
Why is a Good Keyboard Important for Programmers?
A keyboard is an important tool for any programmer. It allows you to quickly and efficiently type code without having to stop and think about each individual keystroke, relying on your motor memory function.
A good keyboard can also help to reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries, which are common among programmers who spend long hours at their computers.
In addition, a keyboard with a good layout can make it easier to find the keys you need, which can save you time and frustration.
There are many different types of keyboards available, so it is important to choose one that is comfortable and well-suited to your needs. With so many options on the market, there is no excuse for not having a keyboard that helps you work more efficiently and comfortably.
Features to Consider When Choosing a Keyboard for Programmers
There are a number of factors to consider when choosing a keyboard for programmers. Some of the most important include the type and layout of keys, key responsiveness, backlighting, and other features like programmable keys or media controls.
Ultimately, your best option will depend on your individual preferences, as well as the specific tasks you will be using your keyboard for.
Some of the important factors that influence the choice of a good keyboard for programmers include:
1. Key feel
When choosing a keyboard for programming, one of the most important features to consider is the key feel. Key feel refers to how the keys on the keyboard respond when they are pressed.
Some keyboards have a softer key feel, while others have a more pronounced key feel. Programmers typically prefer keyboards with a more pronounced key feel, as it provides a more satisfying typing experience.
2. Key travel
Another important feature to consider when choosing a keyboard for programming is key travel. Key travel refers to the distance that the keys on the keyboard move when they are pressed.
Some keyboards have shorter key travel, while others have longer key travel. Programmers typically prefer keyboards with longer key travel, as it allows for more precise typing.
3. Ergonomics
When choosing a keyboard for programming, it is also important to consider ergonomics. Ergonomics refers to the study of how people interact with their environment.
When it comes to keyboards, ergonomics is concerned with things like how the keyboard is positioned in relation to the user, and how the keys are spaced out. Programmers typically prefer keyboards that are designed with ergonomics in mind, as they provide a more comfortable typing experience.
4. Form factor
Finally, when choosing a keyboard for programming, it is important to consider the form factor. Form factor refers to the overall size and shape of the keyboard, which often mean presence or absence of the numpad and other non-essential keys.
As such, some keyboards are designed to take up less space on your desk, while others are intended for use with a laptop. For programmers, it is best to choose a keyboard with a standard full-sized form factor, as this provides the best typing experience and allows for easy customization.
However, if portability and compactness are a priority for you, you may want to choose a 60% keyboard.
5. Backlighting
Another important feature to consider when choosing a keyboard for programming is backlighting. Backlighting refers to the presence of lights behind the keys on the keyboard, which allow you to see what you are typing in low-light or even no-light conditions.
For programmers, backlighting can be a major timesaver, as it enables you to work more efficiently and reduces the risk of making mistakes. Many keyboards for programming offer customizable backlighting options, allowing you to choose from different color schemes and adjust brightness to suit your preferences.
6. Customizability
Another feature that is important to consider when choosing a keyboard for programming is customizability. Customizability refers to the ability to change the way that the keyboard looks and feels. Some keyboards allow you to change the color of the backlight, while others allow you to change the size and shape of the keys.
Programmers typically prefer keyboards that are highly customizable, as it allows them to create a keyboard that is tailored specifically to their needs.
7. Budget
Of course, one of the most important factors to consider when choosing any type of keyboard is price. There are a wide range of prices for different types of keyboards, so it is important to find one that fits within your budget.
However, it is important to keep in mind that cheaper keyboards may not offer all of the features that you desire, so you may need to sacrifice some features in order to stay within your budget. In our review, we present you the best budget keyboards for programmers you could buy with $100 or less.
Are There Good Budget-Friendly Keyboards Out There?
The price for keyboards ranges from $10 to thousands of dollars, and if you are on a budget, it can be hard to find one that offers all of the features that you need.
However, there are many budget-friendly keyboards that can deliver the performance and customization that you need for programming. As a rule of thumb, if you want a good, sturdy, functional keyboard that will serve you a long time and let you code for hours a day in comfort, you should aim for keyboards at least $40 in price.
In our review, we highlight some of the best budget keyboards for programmers that you can get for your programming needs without breaking the bank.
How to Choose the Right Keyboard for You?
When choosing a keyboard for programming, there are several factors that you should take into account. These include the size and shape of the keyboard, the presence or absence of backlighting, customizability options such as key color schemes and brightness settings, and budget considerations.
When making your selection, it is best to start by considering ergonomics and comfort, as these are critical factors that will impact your ability to work efficiently.
You should also consider the features that you may need, such as backlighting and customizability, and then compare different keyboards in terms of their price and overall value. Ultimately, the best keyboard for programming is one that meets all of your needs and fits within your budget.
Best Budget Keyboards for Programmers Under $100
Now that you know what to look for when choosing a keyboard for programming, you may be wondering where to start your search. If you are on a tight budget and looking for a quality keyboard that won’t break the bank, here are some of our top picks:
1. Logitech G213 Prodigy
- The Logitech G213 Prodigy is a full-sized keyboard designed for gaming and productivity that features brilliant color spectrum illumination with five individual lighting zones.
- The keyboard has a durable construction that repels liquids, crumbs and dirt, and an integrated palm rest and adjustable feet for comfort.
- Performance-tuned with multi-key input, the G213 has keys built specifically for gamers with responsive feedback that is up to four times faster than standard keyboards.
- Dedicated media controls let you control your background track without switching out of your work screen or game, and the Logitech gaming software lets you fully customize your G213 experience when you are playing.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Multiple backlighting themes | Soft membrane keys |
| Liquid-resistant | |
| Integrated palm rest |
2. Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard
- The Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard is a split keyboard designed to improve ergonomics.
- The keyboard has a central bulge that forces your hands into a position that is intended to be more comfortable and reduce strain.
- The keyboard also has a soft wrist rest and is adjustable for different angles.
- The Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard offers excellent typing comfort and a wide variety of shortcut keys.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Feels good to type | Takes time to adjust to the layout |
| Elegant design | |
| Comfortable wrist rest | |
3. Corsair K55 RGB PRO XT
- The Corsair K55 RGB Gaming Keyboard has per-key RGB backlighting and six dedicated macro keys.
- It is dust and spill resistant, has a detachable palm rest, and dedicated media keys.
- The CORSAIR iCUE software offers dynamic RGB lighting control, sophisticated macro programming, system-wide lighting synchronization, etc.
- This keyboard is also quiet and responsive with anti-ghosting technology built in.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very low latency | Keys feel heavy to press |
| Individually RGB backlit keys | |
| Programmable macro keys | |
4. Keychron K8
- The Keychron K8 is a 87-key hot-swappable white LED backlight bluetooth wireless mechanical keyboard made for Mac and Windows.
- It has a unique Mac layout and comes with extra keycaps for both Windows and Mac operating systems.
- The K8 has a pre-installed Gateron G Pro mechanical switch providing unrivaled tactile responsiveness on the Brown switch with up to 50 million durable keystroke lifespan.
- The K8 can last up to 200 hours with a 4000 mAh big battery, which is one of the biggest in mechanical keyboards.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Sturdy | No wrist rest |
| Feels great to type | |
5. Apple Magic Keyboard
- The Apple Magic Keyboard is a low-profile, wireless keyboard intended for office and productivity use.
- Its scissor switches provide a quiet and comfortable typing experience, but it lacks extra features like backlighting and programmable keys.
- Its sleek, minimalist design is great for those looking for a clean, wireless setup; however, it’s only fully compatible with Apple products as some keys aren’t functional when used with Windows or Linux.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comfortable and precise | Limited features |
| Wireless | Limited functionality outside of Apple products |
| Great for Apple users | |
6. Anne Pro 2
- The Obinslab Anne Pro 2 is a great keyboard for coding and gaming, with low wired latency and full RGB backlighting.
- Gateron Brown switches on our unit provide good tactile feedback and require little force to operate.
- The keyboard lacks arrow keys and has no wrist rest or adjustable incline settings, which may cause fatigue during long typing sessions.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent build | Small size, no arrow keys |
| Excellent typing quality | No wrist rest |
7. HyperX Alloy Origins Core
- The HyperX Alloy Origins is a simple mechanical keyboard that is well-crafted and feels good to type on.
- The new proprietary switches, dubbed HyperX Red, are between Cherry’s and Razer’s comparable parts.
- The Alloy Origins does not have USB pass-through ports, dedicated macro keys, or a volume dial but it is among the best midrange mechanical keyboards.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Classy backlighting | Limited features |
| Excellent build | |
| Proprietary switches | |
8. Cooler Master CK552
- The Cooler Master CK552 is a fully RGB-backlit mechanical keyboard.
- It has a simple but stylish design, with an exposed brushed metal backplate and minimalist rectangular shape.
- The CK552 is entry-level, lacking many of the frills typically found on more expensive keyboards, such as dedicated media keys and a wrist rest.
- It does have some redeeming features, including per-key backlighting and double-mapped commands that don’t require software.
- The CK552 uses Gateron switches which are known to be smoother than Cherry MX switches.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Vibrant RGB lighting | No wrist rest |
| Clean look | Relatively loud |
Conclusion
If you’re a programmer looking for a good keyboard on a tight budget, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ve listed some of the best budget keyboards for programmers.
Each one has its own advantages and disadvantages, so be sure to read through the descriptions carefully, and then proceed to ordering your new programming keyboard! We hope you find the perfect keyboard for your needs!
We also recommend that you check out our article on laptops, desks, smartphones, tablets, and headphones for computer science students and programmers!
Elmar Mammadov is a software developer, tech startup founder, and computer science career specialist. He is the founder of CS Careerline and a true career changer who has previously pursued careers in medicine and neuroscience.
Due to his interest in programming and years of past personal experience in coding, he decided to break into the tech industry by attending a Master’s in Computer Science for career changers at University of Pennsylvania. Elmar passionately writes and coaches about breaking into the tech industry and computer science in general.