Do you spend a lot of time typing or playing games on your PC? If yes, then have you ever thought of investing in a comfortable and good-looking keyboard that has a faster input rate and provides tactile feedback? Well, today in this guide we would not only recommend the best keyboards in a budget but also differentiate between a membrane-based keyboard and a mechanical keyboard.
With the arrival of the digital era, computers have become an integral part of our lives. While a significant number of people are working from home, they require a decent keyboard to function on a daily basis. Keyboards are the primary points of interaction between a user and a machine, be it while typing, playing games, or using a programmable button.
As technology has advanced, high-quality mechanical keyboards and gaming keyboards are readily available in the market, and one must invest in them if their profession requires them to type or play games on a PC. That being said, today we have brought before you the list of best mechanical keyboards under 5000 INR. Let us get into it.
Top 10 Best Mechanical Keyboards under 5000 INR
1. Zebronics Zeb-Transformer-k USB Gaming Keyboard
To begin with the list of the best mechanical keyboards under 5000 INR, Zebronics ZEB-Transformer is a perfect fit. Being the most affordable mechanical keyboard on this list, the Zebronics ZEB-Transformer is priced at Rs. 899 on Amazon India. Those who have subscriptions to Amazon’s Prime membership can get a next-day delivery as well.
The Transformer-K can also be used for gaming and is one of the best options out there for buyers on a budget. Being built out of aluminum, the chassis is strong and durable. The keys are built upon mechanical switches that produce a satisfying click sound while playing games or typing on the device.
Additionally, it has a multi-color LED light, comes with media controls and a braided USB cable, which might just be an exception for this price range. The device is one of the best gaming keyboards under 5000 INR, for those who wish to purchase their first gaming keyboard with LED lights and multimedia controls.
Specifications
Connectivity: USB | Total number of keys: 104 | Type of keys: membrane | Total number of multimedia keys: 12 (Integrated) | Power Consumption: DC 5V, <200mA | Chassis material: Aluminium on the top, plastic at the base | Keystrokes life: 80 million times | Cable length: 1.8 meters | Cable Type: Braided USB cable | LED lights: Multi-color lights with 4 modes | Configurable Lights: No | Programmable Button: No
Pros
- Highly durable as the top frame is built of aluminum
- Tactile membrane keys
- Braided USB cable
- Decent grip on surfaces as the base has rubber pads
- Dedicates Windows lock key and LED light control key
- Key travel is decent
- One year warranty
Cons
- Some reviews on the internet claim that input gets stuck once in a day
- Keys are not as tactile as a premium mechanical keyboard
- The LED lights cannot be programmed or synced with a software
- Packaging might not be as good as expected
2. Quantum QHM9800 Mechanical Keyboard
The second listing in this article is from Quantum. The company is famous around the world for manufacturing affordable electronic devices and accessories like speakers, game controllers, keyboards, and more. Priced at Rs. 1,599 on Amazon, the Quantum QHM9800 Rapid Strike Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is an excellent option at the price point.
While Amazon India also offers next-day delivery on the QHM9800, it is easy to set up and will get you going within no time. Be it typing or enjoying your favorite video game on a PC, the B23 switches on the Quantum device are tactile and offer an excellent experience. The company claims that the LED-backlit keyboard offers would not miss a single key-press or confuse within multiple strokes.
The Quantum QHM9800 comes with a spill-proof design that protects it against any accidental splashes and spills. It is a very rare feature at this price point, and those who are a little rough at handling their coffee mugs should consider buying it. Additionally, the LED lights on the device come with 12 adjustable modes, making it one of the best keyboards under 5000 INR.
Specifications
Connectivity: USB | Total number of keys: 104 | Type of keys: B23 switches with tactile key bumps | Total number of multimedia keys: 12 (Integrated) | Chassis material: robust and durable | Cable length: 1.8 meters | Cable Type: USB cable | LED lights: 6 LED RGB colors with 12 modes | Configurable Lights: No | Programmable Button: No | Spill Proof: Yes | Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- The key labels are lit
- The B23 switch keys provide decent tactile feedback
- Swappable WASD keys
- Integrated media control keys
- Spill-proof is a unique selling proposition
- RGB lighting in 12 modes
Cons
- The keys might be a little too loud for use in public places such as a office
- LED lights are not programmable
- Some users might find the Shift, Caps, Alt and Enter key to be too much wobbly
3. Cosmic Byte CB-GK-12
The Cosmic Byte CB-GK-12 is priced at Rs. 1,799 on Amazon India. While the company claims a 50 million keystroke life for the Blue Mechanical Switches, the keycaps are scratch-resistant as well. As far as durability is concerned, this mechanical keyboard has an aluminum body that weighs about 1 kilogram and feels robust.
The LED rainbow backlighting comes with 10 lighting effects along with three levels of speed adjustments and four levels of brightness. However, some users might find the row-based color scheme a little odd. The keys of Cosmic Byte CB-GK-12 provide decent tactile and audible feedback. It can be used for both heavy typing and gaming.
The multi-purpose Cosmic Byte CB-GK-12 comes with a 1.8-meter long cable to place the device in an elaborate setup. Additionally, there are 12 multimedia keys on the device, that include keys like pause/play, volume up/down, lock, search, and more. Overall, the device comes at a decent price point, making it one of the best gaming keyboards under 5000 INR.
Specifications
Connectivity: USB | Total number of keys: 104 | Type of keys: OUTEMU Blue-Switches | Total number of multimedia keys: 12 (Integrated) | Chassis material: Aluminum body | Cable length: 1.8 meters | Cable Type: USB cable | LED lights: 6 LED RGB colors with 10 modes | Configurable Lights: 3-level speed adjustment, 4 brightness level | Programmable Button: No | Spill Proof: No | Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- The key labels are lit with six different colors, each for one row
- The keys produce decent tactile and audible feedback
- Integrated media control keys
- Lighting comes in 10 different modes with 3-speed and 4 brightness levels
- The keyboard has a chrome bezel, which adds to the over all design
Cons
- The USB cable on this device is not braided, which might be an issue for some buyers
- LED lights come with speed controls, but they are not programmable
- The lighting pattern seems to reset every time a user turns the PC/laptop on
- There are some connectivity issues with Mac devices
4. Redragon Kumara K552 Mechanical Keyboard
The first compact mechanical keyboard on the list, the Redragon Kumara K552 is priced for Rs. 2,799 on Amazon India. Ideal for users who have limited space on the desk, the device does not have the number keys on the right-hand side as a traditional device. That way, the Redragon Kumara K552 has a total of 87 keys, equipped with OUTEMU Red Key Switches with fast action keys.
The mechanical keyboard is ideal for gaming, as it comes with anti-ghosting keys to avoid multiple input conflicts. Dustproof switches on the device give it an edge over other products in the list of features so far. Additionally, this one is ideal for users who do not like the loud-click sound produced by other devices. The tactile keys give subtle feedback, making it usable in public places.
So far, the Redragon Kumara K552 comes with the most lighting effects. It not only features 19 different lighting effects, but users can also program 2 modes and set it from among the 6 different brightness levels. The keys are built upon high-quality durable metal plates, making the keyboard durable. Additionally, there are 12 multimedia keys as well.
Specifications
Connectivity: USB | Total number of keys: 87 | Type of keys: OUTEMU Red Key Switches | Total number of multimedia keys: 12 (Integrated) | Chassis material: metal | Cable length: 1.8 meters | Cable Type: USB cable | LED lights: 6 LED RGB colors with 19 modes | Configurable Lights: Yes, 2 user-defined lighting modes | Programmable Button: No | Dust Proof: Yes | Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- Compact design ideal for people with limited desk space
- Metal alloy built provides additional strength
- The key labels are well lit and evenly placed
- The OUTEMU switch keys provide subtle feedback with low sound
- Integrated media control keys
- The switches are dust proof, preventing the damage due to tiny dust particles
- RGB lighting in up to19 modes
- Fast action and anti-ghosting keys can be used for both gaming and heavy typing
Cons
- The device might feel heavy to some users, as it weighs 1.5 kgs
- Some users have reported a double entry issue after a couple of months
5. AmazonBasics Mechanical Feel Gaming Keyboard
The AmazonBasics Mechanical Feel Gaming Keyboard is actually a membrane-based device. However, as the name suggests, it has got the feel of a gaming keyboard due to the bumped switches and customizable backlighting. Additionally, there are programmable keys as well, being the first in the list to have the feature.
The device is one of the most feature-rich keyboards in the list so far. For instance, the anti-ghosting keys on this one allow a user to press up to 19 keys at once. There are one-touch media controls providing quick access to play/pause, mute and skip a song. Yet another feature that is exclusive to the first half of the list is the presence of five dedicated programmable buttons, with three modes, for setting up 15 different macro keys.
Yet another feature that appears in this list for the first time is individual key lighting, using which a user can select from up to 16.8 million colors and different brightness levels as well. The AmazonBasics Mechanical Feel Gaming Keyboard functions with the help of AmazonBasics Gaming Software which can be used to configure lighting, macros, and sensitivity. All the features and the aggressive pricing makes this one of the best gaming keyboards under 5000 INR.
Specifications
Connectivity: USB | Total number of keys: 112 | Type of keys: membrane | Total number of multimedia keys: 6 (dedicated) | Chassis material: durable plastic | Cable length: 1.8 meters | Cable Type: USB cable | LED lights: individual key lights with 16.8 million colors | Configurable Lights: yes | Programmable Button: yes (five buttons – three modes) | Spill Proof: No | Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- The device offers individually customizable lights for keys
- There are dedicated macro buttons that can be programmed by the user
- User can also set from up to three modes (that contain three different set of macro keys)
- Device has dedicated multi-media keys
- Anti-ghosting keys allows user to press 19 keys at once
- The device comes with a dedicated software
- Most feature rich device at its price
Cons
- As mentioned earlier, it is not actually a mechanical keyboard
- The device might feel heavy as it weighs 1.36 kgs
- While other keyboards offer a switch life of up to 80 million presses, this one offers up to 10 million life cycles
6. Zebronics Mechanical Max Plus
The Zebronics Mechanical Max plus is priced at Rs. 2,906 and Amazon Prime members in India can opt for next-day delivery as well. It is yet another full-size tactile keyboard that provides decent travel and acoustic feedback while typing or playing games. The actuation point on the device is detectable and helps users while using it.
Like the other ones on the list, the Zebronics keyboard also has Rainbow LED lights, with 7 different modes including wave, game, snake, and more. The brightness of the LED lights can also be adjusted in 5 different levels. Double injection and suspended keycaps make it easier for the user to swap keycaps and make them highly durable.
The 1.86-meter extra long cable is braided and lasts long. As far as stability on the desk is concerned, the device has rubber feet on the bottom and a user can also change the angle of inclination using the stands. Surprisingly, the device weighs in at 1.27 kgs, making it sturdy and strong and one of the best keyboards under 5000 INR.
Specifications
Connectivity: USB | Total number of keys: 104 | Type of keys: Blue switches | Total number of multimedia keys: 12 (Integrated) | Chassis material: high quality plastic | Cable length: 1.8 meters braided | Cable Type: USB cable | LED lights: 6 LED Rainbow lighting | Configurable Lights: 7 available modes | Programmable Button: No | Spill Proof: No | Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- Blue switches are durable and provide decent feedback while typing or gaming
- The mechanical keyboard produces ample acoustic feedback
- Suspended double injection keys make the keycaps easy to switch
- Integrated media control keys come handy
- Braided cable increases the life of the wire
- Ideal for bloggers, programmers, typists or even gamers
Cons
- The device might be a little too heavy for some users and cause problems in carrying around
- No programmable buttons
7. Corsair K55 RGB PRO
The Corsair K55 RGB Pro keyboard makes it into this list because of its versatile nature and best-in-class feature set. It is priced at Rs. 2,999 on Amazon and next-day delivery is available as well. That being said, the Corsair K55 comes with all the features that make it worthy of being called a gaming keyboard. However, it lacks mechanical switches and the keys are membrane-based.
The six macro keys are placed on the extreme left on the gigantic device and the total number of keys on this one is 110. However, the user might take some time getting used to the placement of these macro keys, as there might be confusion between the Escape key and the first macro key. That being said, the Corsair K55 RGB Pro has dedicated keys in the top right corner that help it control multimedia on a computer system.
The Corsair keyboard comes with Dynamic RGB backlighting with six effects. Users can create their own customized lighting effect by assigning different lights to each lighting zone as well as by using the Corsair iCUE software. For those who have a weak hand in handling the glass of coffee on their desk, the device has IP42 protection against spills as well, making it one of the best gaming keyboards under 5000 INR.
Specifications
Connectivity: USB | Total number of keys: 110 | Type of keys: membrane-based | Total number of multimedia keys: 7 (dedicated) | Chassis material: plastic | Cable length: 1.8 meters | Cable Type: USB cable | LED lights: dynamic 5 zone RGB backlighting | Configurable Lights: 6 lighting effects | Programmable Button: Yes – 6 macro keys | Spill Proof: Yes – IP42 rated protection | Dust Resistant: Yes | Detachable Palmrest: Yes | Dedicated Software: Yes | Item Weight: 810g | Warranty: 2 year
Pros
- A detachable palm rest is the unique feature of this keyboard
- It comes with six dedicated macro keys
- IP42 water resistant rating protects the device against spills
- Integrated media control keys
- Customizable RGB lighting in 6 modes
- Dedicated software
Cons
- The keyboard might be to big for someone with a small desk or limited space
- The switches on the device are membrane based
- The alignment of the custom macro keys might be a little too odd for some users
- Cable is not braided and wire too thin
8. Gamdias Hermes E1 A Mechanical Keyboard
The first keyboard and mouse combo in this list, Gamdias Hermes E1 A mechanical keyboard and gaming mouse is a steal deal at Rs. 2,999. If you are looking to put up a gaming setup on budget and require a gaming keyboard and mouse, this one is the right combo for you. The gaming mouse supports up to 3200 DPI, making it ideal for gaming. Additionally, it also has RGB light accents on it.
Talking about the Gamdias Hermes E1 A, it comes with Gamdias certified mechanical switches. The mechanical keyboard has a zones lighting system on it with 4 brightness levels and 10 integrated multimedia keys. While the company says that the device is ergonomic in nature, the angle of inclination and a certain tail border does look good. If you order this combo, you also get a Gamdias branded mousepad. Additionally, the Amazon listing of the product also says that it has a spill-proof design.
Specifications
Connectivity: USB | Total number of keys: 105 | Type of keys: Gamdias certified mechanical switches | Total number of multimedia keys: 10 (Integrated) | Chassis material: plastic | Cable length: NA | Cable Type: USB cable | LED lights: Zones LED lighting with multiple brightness levels | Configurable Lights: No | Programmable Button: No | Spill Proof: Yes | Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- Ideal for someone who needs a combo in a budget
- Zones based LED lighting
- The gaming mouse comes with 3200 DPI sensitvity
- Integrated media control keys
- Spill-proof is a unique selling proposition
Cons
- Since this is a combo package, the company might have cut some cost in the built quality of the device
- LED lights are not programmable
- The keys are not rollable, in case one needs to customize or swap
9. Logitech G213 Prodigy Gaming Keyboard
Logitech is one of the most popular companies when it comes to manufacturing computer accessories. The Logitech G213 Prodigy Gaming Keyboard is priced at Rs. 3,495 and is available on Amazon India. To begin with, the device is a full-sized device with a spill-resistant and durable design that repels liquids, crumbs, and dirt.
An integrated palm rest and an ideal angle of inclination make the device ideal for long hours of usage while typing or while gaming. According to the company, each key on the G213 is designed to deliver the best-in-class tactile feel and performance with ultra-quick feedback. To differentiate between multiple inputs during gameplay, the device also features anti-ghosting matrix technology.
There are dedicated multimedia keys on the device, which allows a user to control music and videos. Along with the Logitech G hub software, a user can customize lighting, access and modify the game mode and program the macro key. The G213 comes with customizable lighting within a spectrum of up to 16.8 million colors in the five lighting zones. Being a membrane keyboard, the G213 offers 4 times faster input registration than other devices, making it one of the best gaming keyboards under 5000.
Specifications
Connectivity: USB | Total number of keys: 114 | Type of keys: membrane | Total number of multimedia keys: 7 (dedicated) | Chassis material: plastic | Cable length: NA | Cable Type: USB cable | LED lights: LIGHTSYNC RGB Backlit Keys | Configurable Lights: up to 16.8 million colors | Programmable Button: Yes | Dedicated Software: Yes | Palmrest: Yes | Spill Proof: Yes | Warranty: 2 year
Pros
- Integrated palm rest makes the experience comfortable
- The membrane based keys are 4 times faster than ordinary devices, making it a good choice for gamers
- Dedicated media control keys located at the top right corner of the device
- The Logitech G213 Prodigy is spill proof
- Customizable lighting with over 16.8 million colors
- The keyboard comes with a dedicated software
Cons
- The G213 is not an actual mechanical keyboard
- There could have been more modes with RGB lighting
- The palmrest is not removable
10. Redragon K580 VATA RGB LED Backlit Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The Redragon K580 VATA RGB Mechanical Keyboard offers a 50 million stroke, a small actuation force, and short travel to register the input. It is priced at Rs. 4,799 and is the most expensive device on this list. That being said, the device offers double-shot injection molded keycaps that do not fade easily. Additionally, the keys are water and dust-proof.
A user gets five programmable which are labeled G1 to G5. The device does not come with additional software and there are dedicated multimedia control keys as well. A unique aspect of the design of this mechanical keyboard is the presence of a control wheel at the top right corner of the device, which allows users to control volume and keyboard brightness.
Anti-ghosting technology allows users to input multiple keys at once without the memory overlap issue. The Redragon K580 VATA comes with OUTEMU blue switches which deliver faster response and satisfying click sounds as they are pressed. Additionally, there are 18 backlighting modes on the device that allow a user to type and play in the dark. The edge of the keyboard is also equipped with RBG lighting.
Specifications
Connectivity: USB | Total number of keys: 104 | Type of keys: OUTEMU blue switches | Total number of multimedia keys: 12 (Integrated) | Chassis material: plastic | Cable length: 1.8 meters | Cable Type: USB cable | LED lights: customizable RGB lighting with side panels | Configurable Lights: Yes | Programmable Button: Yes | Water Proof: Yes | Dust Proof: Yes | Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- The control wheel makes the device looks different
- The OUTEMU switch keys provide decent tactile feedback
- RGB light panels on the side of the keyboard makes it look stylish
- Integrated media control keys
- Device is water and dust proof
- Customizable RGB lighting of keys
Cons
- Since the device does not come with a software, it might be difficult to configure for some users
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it worthy to buy a mechanical keyboard?
While a normal keyboard can do both gaming and typing, a mechanical keyboard is for enthusiasts. The mechanical keyboard offers better tactile and acoustic feedback over normal devices. While those who have to do a lot of typing or game to earn their bread might actually like the comfort a mechanical keyboard has to offer, normal users may not appreciate the sound and bulky look that comes with it. That being said, investing in a mechanical keyboard is completely worth it for those who have had previous experience or those who spend the majority of time typing on the input device.
2. How long do mechanical keyboards last?
In general, the good-quality mechanical keyboards claim 10 million switch hits and above. In terms of life, the number translates to 10 years worth of usage. While that might be an exaggeration, a mechanical device purchased on a budget shall last between 3 to 5 years. Some companies also offer a warranty of up to 2 years, while others offer a 1-year warranty. Another crucial factor that decides the life of mechanical devices is the style and type of usage. Rough usage may decrease the life of a mechanical keyboard, while heavy gaming can also have an adverse impact on the life of affordable gaming devices.
3. What is the difference between a mechanical keyboard and a membrane keyboard?
While a mechanical keyboard has an actual moving mechanism that acts as a switch and registers input, a membrane-based device has a rubber layer or a membrane between the key and the circuit board that registers the input. As a result, the membrane keyboards have to be pressed harder than the mechanical keyboards. Additionally, since mechanical keyboards are built with hundred or more individual switches, it produces a sound while clicking and has a higher manufacturing cost. On the other hand, membrane keyboards are economical and do not provide elaborate feedback.
Conclusion
That was our take on which mechanical keyboards are the best to purchase up to a price of Rs. 5000. There are 10 listings from different brands which offer decent features at their price point. If you are thinking to buy a new mechanical/gaming keyboard, or you are open to trying a new category of products, go for the one that fits your budget and you would not regret it.
