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geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: thealias on Tue, 13 November 2012, 09:22:49

Title: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: thealias on Tue, 13 November 2012, 09:22:49
hey guys I just ordered a logitech g9x to replace my oem mouse and I need a keyboard under $60 that'll go with it .

I'd like it to be of the shorter variety as my kb+mouse space is only 23 inches long, but that doesn't matter much really . Backlighting would be really nice for the aesthetics and for when I get lost late at night, but once again it can be sacrificed . The thing that's really important to me is the knowledge my keyboard will not break and is well engineered .

Thank you guys so much for your help
Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: pitashen on Tue, 13 November 2012, 09:26:47
do you want... a mechanical? or... a rubber dome keyboard?

and welcome to geekhack.
Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: jeroplane on Tue, 13 November 2012, 09:32:05
If you are looking for a Cherry MX board, CoolerMaster QuickFire Rapids can be found around that price point, and they are very solid boards.

Good luck with your search and welcome to Geekhack!
Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: wetto on Tue, 13 November 2012, 09:34:54
Quote from: thealias on Tue, 13 November 2012, 09:22:49
hey guys I just ordered a logitech g9x to replace my oem mouse and I need a keyboard under $60 that'll go with it .

I'd like it to be of the shorter variety as my kb+mouse space is only 23 inches long, but that doesn't matter much really . Backlighting would be really nice for the aesthetics and for when I get lost late at night, but once again it can be sacrificed . The thing that's really important to me is the knowledge my keyboard will not break and is well engineered .

Thank you guys so much for your help

Normally, mechanical keyboards are well made and well engineered... All you need to do is just take a look at what a US$ 60~70 keyboard looks like inside:

(http://cdn.iqmore.com/iqmoreidv_img/review/2011/Cooler_Master/CM_Storm_Quick_Fire_Rapid/28.JPG)
(http://cdn.iqmore.com/iqmoreidv_img/review/2011/Cooler_Master/CM_Storm_Quick_Fire_Rapid/29.JPG)
(http://cdn.iqmore.com/iqmoreidv_img/review/2011/Cooler_Master/CM_Storm_Quick_Fire_Rapid/33.JPG)
(http://cdn.iqmore.com/iqmoreidv_img/review/2011/Cooler_Master/CM_Storm_Quick_Fire_Rapid/30.JPG)
(http://cdn.iqmore.com/iqmoreidv_img/review/2011/Cooler_Master/CM_Storm_Quick_Fire_Rapid/31.JPG)
(http://cdn.iqmore.com/iqmoreidv_img/review/2011/Cooler_Master/CM_Storm_Quick_Fire_Rapid/32.JPG)

But when it comes down to mechanical keyboards with backlight, sorry, but you won't find anything under US$ 100...
Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: esoomenona on Tue, 13 November 2012, 09:35:25
In the great finds thread recently, there were Rosewills for $50.

edit: looks like that was only for yesterday...
Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: thealias on Tue, 13 November 2012, 09:40:40
Quote from: pitashen on Tue, 13 November 2012, 09:26:47
do you want... a mechanical? or... a rubber dome keyboard?

and welcome to geekhack.

I don't really know as long as it's durable and thanks
Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: nullstring on Tue, 13 November 2012, 09:57:45
There are two keyboards you want to look at. These represent the best value in the keyboard world. (Minus ebay finds and the likes :) )
They are both commonly available for about $64.

Here is a good guide for newbies:
http://www.overclock.net/t/491752/mechanical-keyboard-guide
It's somewhat out of date, but it will provide for information on the different cherry switches. (I like cherry browns.)
(I think we had a better guide before on our geekhack wiki, but thats now gone.)

CoolerMaster Storm QuickFire Rapid
http://www.amazon.com/Storm-QuickFire-Rapid-Mechanical-SGK-4000-GKCL1-US/dp/B0068INSUM

Rosewill RK-9000
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=-1&IsNodeId=1&Description=rosewill%20rk-9000&bop=And&Order=PRICE&PageSize=20
Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: hotlikedimes on Tue, 13 November 2012, 10:35:24
Quote from: wetto on Tue, 13 November 2012, 09:34:54
But when it comes down to mechanical keyboards with backlight, sorry, but you won't find anything under US$ 100...

The razer bwu tournament is backlit for $80 (but better non-backlit boards can be had for a similar price)
http://www.razerzone.com/store/razer-blackwidow-tournament-edition

Also you can get a ducky 1087 which is tenkeyless with green or black alps switches for $53, but I'm not in a position to recommend or not because I don't really know about the switch type, but I have a 1087 and it's a lovely little board. For the switches I've heard black alps aren't that great, and the green alps used on that board would be a better pick up, they feel like mx-blue's, they're tactile and clicky, but I would reserve judgement for someone more knowledgeable to comment on alps.
http://tigerimports.net/sunshop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=11530

Other than those you'll have to snipe a deal somewhere, but honestly I'd save up a bit more until you can get something that fits all your desires, because lets be honest, you'll be typing on it for a while, might as well get something that's everything you want than something that you can have right now, right?

(http://www.weedwatch.com/forums/attachments/cannabis-grow-logs/5428d1341708184-alien-reunion-fire-afghan-hound-cannobi-pushing-envelop-force-patience-young-padawan-yoda.jpg)
Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: nullstring on Tue, 13 November 2012, 10:48:48
Quote from: hotlikedimes on Tue, 13 November 2012, 10:35:24
Quote from: wetto on Tue, 13 November 2012, 09:34:54
But when it comes down to mechanical keyboards with backlight, sorry, but you won't find anything under US$ 100...

The razer bwu tournament is backlit for $80 (but better non-backlit boards can be had for a similar price)
http://www.razerzone.com/store/razer-blackwidow-tournament-edition

Also you can get a ducky 1087 which is tenkeyless with green or black alps switches for $53, but I'm not in a position to recommend or not because I don't really know about the switch type, but I have a 1087 and it's a lovely little board. For the switches I've heard black alps aren't that great, and the green alps used on that board would be a better pick up, they feel like mx-blue's, they're tactile and clicky, but I would reserve judgement for someone more knowledgeable to comment on alps.
http://tigerimports.net/sunshop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=11530

Other than those you'll have to snipe a deal somewhere, but honestly I'd save up a bit more until you can get something that fits all your desires, because lets be honest, you'll be typing on it for a while, might as well get something that's everything you want than something that you can have right now, right?

Show Image
(http://www.weedwatch.com/forums/attachments/cannabis-grow-logs/5428d1341708184-alien-reunion-fire-afghan-hound-cannobi-pushing-envelop-force-patience-young-padawan-yoda.jpg)


I would not recommend any iOne board (Such as the blackwidow), there are just too many quality control issues with those.

Ducky 1087 with green or black alps has intrigued me in the past, but there are two caveats:
1. Many people seem to feel these particular ducky line is of lower quality. (Although, you seem to disagree)
2. These are are XM switches; Clones of Alps CM. They quality of these switches is also debatable. All in all, I find it hard to recommend these.
http://deskthority.net/wiki/XM

Information about ALPS:
http://deskthority.net/keyboards-f2/intro-alps-board-t4235.html

My conclusion: if you want to buy alps, you either need to buy an old board.(Maybe AEKII or SGI Granite.) Or you need to get one of the new matias keyboards which right now run $150.
My hope is that other OEMs will eventually make boards with matias switches at more competitive prices.
Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: thealias on Tue, 13 November 2012, 11:09:11
Quote from: hotlikedimes on Tue, 13 November 2012, 10:35:24
Quote from: wetto on Tue, 13 November 2012, 09:34:54
But when it comes down to mechanical keyboards with backlight, sorry, but you won't find anything under US$ 100...

The razer bwu tournament is backlit for $80 (but better non-backlit boards can be had for a similar price)
http://www.razerzone.com/store/razer-blackwidow-tournament-edition

Also you can get a ducky 1087 which is tenkeyless with green or black alps switches for $53, but I'm not in a position to recommend or not because I don't really know about the switch type, but I have a 1087 and it's a lovely little board. For the switches I've heard black alps aren't that great, and the green alps used on that board would be a better pick up, they feel like mx-blue's, they're tactile and clicky, but I would reserve judgement for someone more knowledgeable to comment on alps.
http://tigerimports.net/sunshop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=11530

Other than those you'll have to snipe a deal somewhere, but honestly I'd save up a bit more until you can get something that fits all your desires, because lets be honest, you'll be typing on it for a while, might as well get something that's everything you want than something that you can have right now, right?

Show Image
(http://www.weedwatch.com/forums/attachments/cannabis-grow-logs/5428d1341708184-alien-reunion-fire-afghan-hound-cannobi-pushing-envelop-force-patience-young-padawan-yoda.jpg)


I can't though ! playing fps games on my current keyboard makes my left hand ache for like an hour after I play Idk why but it just started this weekend and I can't stand it . Even typing makes the bone below my middle finger knuckle ache
Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: hotlikedimes on Tue, 13 November 2012, 11:17:25
Quote from: nullstring on Tue, 13 November 2012, 10:48:48
I would not recommend any iOne board (Such as the blackwidow), there are just too many quality control issues with those.

Ducky 1087 with green or black alps has intrigued me in the past, but there are two caveats:
1. Many people seem to feel these particular ducky line is of lower quality. (Although, you seem to disagree)
2. These are are XM switches; Clones of Alps CM. They quality of these switches is also debatable. All in all, I find it hard to recommend these.
http://deskthority.net/wiki/XM

Information about ALPS:
http://deskthority.net/keyboards-f2/intro-alps-board-t4235.html

My conclusion: if you want to buy alps, you either need to buy an old board.(Maybe AEKII or SGI Granite.) Or you need to get one of the new matias keyboards which right now run $150.
My hope is that other OEMs will eventually make boards with matias switches at more competitive prices.

I haven't used any other Ducky board, and my other experience with mechanicals are my BWU, and brief experience with 2 leopold TKL's, so take my recommendations with a grain of salt, I haven't been around the scene that long so I don't have the widest experience pool to draw recommendations from.  I've had the Ducky for about a month now and I haven't had any issues with it, it's certainly more solid than my BWU, they keys don't feel like they're going to fall off (the BWU keys feel a bit like they're mounted on jello). I take it to classes and type on it a decent amount, I game with it over my BWU and mash buttons and haven't seen any degrading in quality, but again I haven't had it for a long time and haven't really used anything else, or that could be considered better. 

on the topic of the alps, there seems to be little to no information out about them on the DT wiki, and after reading that thread I understand why. So yeah wouldn't recommend the alps board..  Also after reading some posts about the 1087 / 1008, it looks like there are indeed some quality control concerns, most of which seem to deal with the controller not being 100% correct, but luckily I haven't seen any issues with it.  But again, something to think about if you're going to go down that path.

But I guess more than ever, just save up and get a reliable keyboard with a good rep that has all the fun features you're interested in.

Quote from: thealias on Tue, 13 November 2012, 11:09:11
I can't though ! playing fps games on my current keyboard makes my left hand ache for like an hour after I play Idk why but it just started this weekend and I can't stand it . Even typing makes the bone below my middle finger knuckle ache

That would be the beginnings of tendinitis!!! I don't think it really has to do with the keyboard, but more excessive amounts of use to the point where you're not used to it.  I basically spent all weekend typing (coding a website) and playing some dota and my right middle finger is on fire after an hour or two. Just take a day or so off from gaming, make sure to stretch your finger, otherwise it's just going to get worse. 
Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: jspark on Tue, 13 November 2012, 11:40:23
You could get a ibm model m at eBay if you like it.
Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: wetto on Tue, 13 November 2012, 11:49:16
Quote from: jspark on Tue, 13 November 2012, 11:40:23
You could get a ibm model m at eBay if you like it.

lol, read his previous quote

Quote
I can't though ! playing fps games on my current keyboard makes my left hand ache for like an hour after I play Idk why but it just started this weekend and I can't stand it . Even typing makes the bone below my middle finger knuckle ache

I don't really think buckling spring will be a good idea..
Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: FoxWolf1 on Tue, 13 November 2012, 12:30:15
Small, backlit, durable, very cheap?

TG3 BL82 could work.
Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: modulor on Tue, 13 November 2012, 12:36:11
Can't go wrong with a Quickfire Rapid IMO
Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: thealias on Tue, 13 November 2012, 12:42:52
Quote from: FoxWolf1 on Tue, 13 November 2012, 12:30:15
Small, backlit, durable, very cheap?

TG3 BL82 could work.

I looked it up on google and the first one I saw was one for $250 lol

having all of those features isn't really a must the one thing that I really must have is the durability though

how's the thermaltake knucker and levetron clicker ?
Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: FoxWolf1 on Tue, 13 November 2012, 13:45:06
Quote from: thealias on Tue, 13 November 2012, 12:42:52
Quote from: FoxWolf1 on Tue, 13 November 2012, 12:30:15
Small, backlit, durable, very cheap?

TG3 BL82 could work.

I looked it up on google and the first one I saw was one for $250 lol

having all of those features isn't really a must the one thing that I really must have is the durability though

how's the thermaltake knucker and levetron clicker ?

$250 is waaay too much for a TG3 BL82, considering that you can get them for $50 or less from other stores or eBay.

Thermaltake Knuckler is to be avoided. All the business about their having developed a unique system for replicating the feel of a mechanical keyboard is BS, since the same "technology" was already used by iRocks and no, it doesn't feel like a mechanical.

Levetron Clicker is related to the brand-less "Mechanical Gaming Keyboards" that were all over eBay and Amazon a while back, based on Taiwan Tai-Hao's "F21-7D". Quality on those was very "hit or miss", and reviews for the Azio version seem to suggest the same.

If you want to go super-ultra-mega-cheap, MicroConnectors D07-135 (http://store.microconnectors.com/servlet/-strse-1104/iMAC-Flavored-USB-Keyboard/Detail) is a possibility. It probably won't meet your needs for "durability", but then, I'm sure the same could be said about the TT and Azio products you mentioned, and at least the form of ALPS in the D07 isn't half bad (at least, the black ones in mine were quite decent...I've heard that sometimes you get ones with gray/white switches instead, and don't have experience with those). Otherwise, look at TG3, or for a little more, CM Storm QFR.
Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: thealias on Tue, 13 November 2012, 13:54:33
Quote from: FoxWolf1 on Tue, 13 November 2012, 13:45:06
Quote from: thealias on Tue, 13 November 2012, 12:42:52
Quote from: FoxWolf1 on Tue, 13 November 2012, 12:30:15
Small, backlit, durable, very cheap?

TG3 BL82 could work.

I looked it up on google and the first one I saw was one for $250 lol

having all of those features isn't really a must the one thing that I really must have is the durability though

how's the thermaltake knucker and levetron clicker ?

$250 is waaay too much for a TG3 BL82, considering that you can get them for $50 or less from other stores or eBay.

Thermaltake Knuckler is to be avoided. All the business about their having developed a unique system for replicating the feel of a mechanical keyboard is BS, since the same "technology" was already used by iRocks and no, it doesn't feel like a mechanical.

Levetron Clicker is related to the brand-less "Mechanical Gaming Keyboards" that were all over eBay and Amazon a while back, based on Taiwan Tai-Hao's "F21-7D". Quality on those was very "hit or miss", and reviews for the Azio version seem to suggest the same.

If you want to go super-ultra-mega-cheap, MicroConnectors D07-135 (http://store.microconnectors.com/servlet/-strse-1104/iMAC-Flavored-USB-Keyboard/Detail) is a possibility. It probably won't meet your needs for "durability", but then, I'm sure the same could be said about the TT and Azio products you mentioned, and at least the form of ALPS in the D07 isn't half bad (at least, the black ones in mine were quite decent...I've heard that sometimes you get ones with gray/white switches instead, and don't have experience with those). Otherwise, look at TG3, or for a little more, CM Storm QFR.

the tg3 is growing on me I have to say are there any review on that and the d07-135tng
Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: Octane on Wed, 14 November 2012, 17:20:10
NCIX.ca has the Cherry G80-3800 on sale for $54.99 and $59.99 depending on the switch you want.
I have purchased lots of parts there, as well as my Filco keyboard, and they have been a great company to deal with.
Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: Octane on Wed, 14 November 2012, 17:24:45
I should add that I haven't personally tried this keyboard, but it does fit within your budget.
Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: IvanIvanovich on Wed, 14 November 2012, 17:44:32
I agree the TG3 is a nice board, if you don't mind a non standard layout. There are a few on ebay for under $50 like this one (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Police-PC-Tablet-Xplore-Xpander-XP-DDM-Keyboard-TG3-/300759721730?pt=PCA_Mice_Trackballs&hash=item4606ad2702), try a lower offer like $35.
Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: lazerpointer on Wed, 14 November 2012, 18:49:58
The QFR with black switches on amazon last I checked was ~$68. Or you could go with the Ducky that has green alps on mechanicalkeyboards.com ($49.00) but I heard they feel cheap to type on... I think it's funny that they would put that keyboard there. It's almost a knock against alps switches, sort of how on Unicomp.com they have the "value plus" keyboard for $2.00 plus shipping and handling, Lol.

Honestly I recommend you go for a bit higher price point like $80ish for the QFR with blues / browns / reds. Back lighting is going to cost you lots more though, as others have mentioned.
Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: whiteduck on Wed, 14 November 2012, 21:22:01
I'm looking to part with my TG3 under your price range if you end up deciding to go with one.  All I did was remove the plastic layer in between the switches and the key caps (felt horrible).  I can get you pics if you're interested.
wd
Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: Joe6pack on Wed, 14 November 2012, 21:28:45
Quote from: FoxWolf1 on Tue, 13 November 2012, 12:30:15
Small, backlit, durable, very cheap?

TG3 BL82 could work.

Tg3 Bl82 is $50 here.   http://www.globaltekoutlet.com/TG3-Electronics-BL82-Series-Backlit-Keyboard-p/bl82.htm (http://www.globaltekoutlet.com/TG3-Electronics-BL82-Series-Backlit-Keyboard-p/bl82.htm)   

I got one from here and it was shipped free.  This is the most durable keyboard I have get my hands on.  It is red backlit on MX Black.   Some minor difference to the Deck Legend 82 and both are made by TG3.   It weights close to 2.5 lbs with plastic backplate.  This one has a single PS2 connect.   I may be curiously to see if it is like legend that you can switch it to USB internally.  I believe it has PBT doubleshot keycaps made by TG3.    For $50, you cannot even buy this quality keycaps for the price.   You can even buy colorful face plate from Deck.   

I personally prefer softer keyboard, and MX black is not my switch type.   





Title: Re: I need a keyboard under $60
Post by: dorkvader on Thu, 15 November 2012, 22:06:35
Quote from: FoxWolf1 on Tue, 13 November 2012, 13:45:06
Quote from: thealias on Tue, 13 November 2012, 12:42:52
Quote from: FoxWolf1 on Tue, 13 November 2012, 12:30:15
Small, backlit, durable, very cheap?

TG3 BL82 could work.

I looked it up on google and the first one I saw was one for $250 lol

having all of those features isn't really a must the one thing that I really must have is the durability though

how's the thermaltake knucker and levetron clicker ?

$250 is waaay too much for a TG3 BL82, considering that you can get them for $50 or less from other stores or eBay.
I waited for a deal on eBay and got my two for $10 shipped each. The Bl82 is an excellent backlit keyboard with some really nice keycaps, but it uses charry blacks (not my favourite) and it doesn't have NKRO. Otherwise, it's probabyl the most solidly built keyboard I own.

It has some excellent inductors for noise-rejection on the PS2 line. It has an anodyzed brushed aluminium backplate, so it and the switch mounting plate make for some excellent shielding, etc. It's really solid. The surface of the keycaps is made of PBT (the "skirts" are ABS) so they'll last you a while without starting to look ugly (like old BWU's or RD saitek, etc.)

Highly recommended. This is probably your best option at $50. Is it durable? Yes, yes indeed.