New keyboard idea presented.
New keyboard idea presented.
Hi, I’m trying to decide which keyboard to buy. I need something mechanical with RGB lighting, that can be controlled via software and possibly connected through one USB port. I’m also keeping costs in mind, aiming for a budget of around 50 euros or up to 60. In the future, I plan to get a new mouse, so I’d like to choose a brand that makes good gaming mice as well for easy pairing. Do you have any recommendations?
Because selecting a keyboard mechanical keyboard is a personal decision, it’s hard to recommend one in particular. Particularly with mechanical KBs, there are numerous switch options to consider, offering significantly different sensations, keypress force (for example, the pressure needed to press keys), and types such as tactile switches that provide a noticeable bump during key presses, as well as those with a pronounced "click" sound.
What’s feasible is focusing on mechanical KBs that support USB passthrough. The models I’m considering are:
Corsair Strafe RGB
Corsair Strafe RGB Mk.II
Corsair K100 RGB
All three are available, and I currently own the Mk.II, which serves as my partner’s keyboard. The two Strafe KBs I have feature Cherry MX Silent switches, whereas the K100 includes Corsair OPX (optical-mechanical) switches.
While each of these KBs delivers strong build quality, they also allow extensive software customization through Corsair iCUE, support RGB lighting, and offer USB passthrough. However, their prices are quite high.
In terms of cost, I spent:
€178 for my Strafe in 2017,
€184 for the Mk.II in 2019,
€316 for the K100 in 2023.
Currently, Corsair Strafe and Strafe Mk.II models are out of production. But if you find a used copy somewhere, that would be great. The K100 remains a premium choice from Corsair, while the K100 is their flagship option.
If you end up with a Corsair mechanical keyboard, their mouse selection is also solid. I’ve used various Corsair mice over the years, and currently I’m pairing them with Corsair Nightsword RGB (specifications) and other Corsair accessories like headphones.
It seems you may have underestimated the value of a good mechanical keyboard, especially when considering software control and USB capabilities. Given your budget, the only realistic option at the moment appears to be the Endorfy Thock TLK Blue:
https://endorfy.com/en/product/thock-tkl-blue/
(Amazon link)
It’s not a full-size model and lacks USB passthrough, but it’s mechanical with software control and RGB lighting. The key switch is Kalih Blue, which produces a loud click.
For other alternatives, they’re generally beyond your budget.
PC Part Picker has useful information:
https://de.pcpartpicker.com/products/key...e&b=46&n=0
My recommendation is to visit a local PC hardware store and try the different display models to experience various key switch types firsthand. For example, while Cherry MX Brown sounded appealing on paper, it didn’t feel right in person. Cherry MX Red, on the other hand, provided the best tactile response for my needs.
You might also consider purchasing a key switch tester to evaluate several options before deciding.
Amazon has a good selection:
https://www.amazon.de/dp/B0BHDST4WY
https://amazon.de/dp/B0CC2WZLQ3/
Keep in mind these are not full-size KBs and lack USB passthrough, but they’re mechanical with software control and RGB features. The key switches here are Kalih Blue, which deliver a noticeable click.
For more options, check PC Part Picker:
https://de.pcpartpicker.com/products/key...e&b=46&n=0
In short, at your current price point, the Endorfy Thock TLK Blue is the most viable choice. If you’re set on Corsair products, their mouse lineup remains strong, though I’d steer clear of Razer due to frequent reliability issues.
But I think those are quite premium kb options, for instance Trust Kb isn't that costly and they actually fit within my budget, at most they exceed by 10-15 euros. They also offer software control, even though they don't come with a USB port. Or I came across a Logitech G413 for 60 euros which a friend owns, and I personally liked it. So I don't believe it's impossible to find something in that price range that matches the requirements. I could even ignore the USB port—it would have been nice but isn't essential.
In the past, Corsair Strafe RGB offered decent mechanical keystrokes, while the K95 model was considered premium. However, the K100 is currently regarded as top-tier. This particular model lacks RGB lighting and software customization, which contributes to its lower cost. The switches are tactile, similar to Cherry MX Brown—whether you like it or not.
Details:
https://www.logitechg.com/en-eu/pro...1d...cSCoXZx6xD
Keep in mind, this price point won’t deliver the features you desire. For example, no Trust mechanical KBs come with software control, and none offer true RGB lighting. You’re limited to around six backlight colors, but there’s no per-key illumination adjustment like with Corsair RGB KBs.
Lineup:
https://www.trust.com/en/gaming/keyboard?filter=380
If you need software features—such as keybindings or macros—you’ll require specialized programs for these mechanical keyboards. These high-end units can cost between €100 and €200.
The most sensible choice for a mid-range keyboard with your requirements would be to consider used options. Your expectations and budget are quite different, especially when it comes to quality and features.
Back in my day, I owned a Corsair Strafe RGB with Cherry MX Silent switches. Before that, I used a budget membrane keyboard with a PS/2 port—no backlight, no software support, just basic functionality. It worked fine enough for me.
After researching mechanical keyboards and testing several in-store models, I realized that purchasing a genuine mechanical keyboard upfront is better than settling for a cheap imitation. The latter often leads to problems later on.
Of course, spending €178 for a keyboard in 2017 was significant, especially compared to the €10 models I used before. Now, years later, buying a proper keyboard that matches my needs has been rewarding. For instance, I’ve discovered new macro capabilities with my current model—something I might revisit if needed.
I’m not suggesting you invest over €100 for a basic mechanical keyboard. My point is simply to caution against settling for low-end options; it can lead to frustration if your expectations aren’t met.