I Tried The BEST Budget Keyboards On Amazon... (So You Don't Have To)

Summary

In this video, Hippot Tech reviews several budget keyboards priced under $50, offering insights on their sound, feel, customization, and aesthetics. He evaluates models ranging from $25 to $50, with a focus on value for money. While many of the keyboards are lacking in certain features, such as smooth switches or customization options, some offer potential for upgrades. The best recommendation for those on a tight budget is to go for the $25 model and upgrade later. For those seeking a more solid option, the Hex Gears M2 stands out as the most promising, providing good value and future customization potential.

Takeaways

• 😀 Keyboards under $50 can still offer decent quality, but compromises are necessary at this price point.
• 😀 The RIS Sophie ($25) is a good budget option for beginners, offering potential for upgrades with hot-swappable switches.
• 😀 The LMO Key K87 SE ($32) has a nice aesthetic but lacks important features like hot-swappable switches and customization options.
• 😀 The Kyron keyboard ($36) offers VIA software for reprogramming, but its poor build quality makes it a less ideal choice.
• 😀 The Xinming X87 (Magic Refiner AK8, $36) has a great design and decent switches but misleads customers with its non-hot-swappable design, offering hot-swapping for only five keys.
• 😀 The Hex Gears M2 ($50) stands out as the best overall option in this price range, with good sound and feel, as well as hot-swappable switches.
• 😀 When looking for budget mechanical keyboards, consider focusing on essential features like build quality, switch options, and customization.
• 😀 Gaming-focused keyboards like the LMO Key K87 SE may appeal if typing feel and sound are not a concern.
• 😀 If you're starting with a limited budget, consider buying an affordable keyboard and upgrading it later as your needs evolve.
• 😀 This video serves as a beginner's guide, helping users navigate budget options and choose the best keyboard under $50 for both gaming and typing.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video regarding mechanical keyboards?

The video focuses on reviewing and comparing mechanical keyboards under $50, offering insights on their build quality, switch types, and overall value for money.

Which keyboard was recommended for those on a very tight budget?

The $25 RIS Sophie keyboard is recommended for those on a very tight budget. While it has a basic build and poor switches, it offers the potential for upgrades over time.

What makes the $32 Keymove 87 SE stand out?

The Keymove 87 SE stands out due to its unique design and heavier build compared to other budget keyboards. However, it suffers from poor switches and a lack of customization options, making it less ideal for long-term use.

What is the issue with the Magic Refiner AK87's hot-swapping feature?

The Magic Refiner AK87 falsely advertises hot-swapping capability. In reality, only five of its keycaps are hot-swappable, which limits customization and upgrade options.

Why is the $50 Hexgears M2 considered the best choice among these keyboards?

The Hexgears M2 is considered the best choice due to its solid build, decent switches, and hot-swappable capability. It offers a good balance of quality and upgrade potential for those on a budget.

Which keyboard is suitable for gaming enthusiasts who don't prioritize typing feel or sound?

The LMO keyboards are suitable for gaming enthusiasts who don't mind sacrificing typing feel or sound for performance, as their main focus is gaming.

How does the RIS Sophie keyboard compare to other keyboards reviewed in terms of upgrade potential?

The RIS Sophie keyboard is one of the most budget-friendly options, and while it has poor switches and a basic build, its hot-swappable feature makes it a solid starting point for future upgrades.

What was the main downside of the $36 Kyron keyboard?

The main downside of the Kyron keyboard is its cheap feel and lack of customization options. It also features subpar switches that diminish the overall typing experience.

What key feature of the $32-36 Magic Refiner AK87 was considered a selling point?

The Magic Refiner AK87's key selling point was its coiled cable and attractive design. However, this is overshadowed by its misleading hot-swapping claims and lack of quality.

What general advice does the video give to beginners in the mechanical keyboard community?

The video advises beginners to start with affordable options like the RIS Sophie and gradually upgrade as their knowledge of mechanical keyboards grows. The importance of finding the right balance between price, build quality, and performance is emphasized.