One thing that you can be sure of in college is that you will be typing a lot. You will have assignments, essays, presentations, essays, and many other tasks that will require typing. I know most college students use their laptops for typing stuff up and never consider a dedicated keyboard, but the right keyboard can make those long typing sessions so much better.
On the other hand, if you prefer a desktop computer, then a standalone keyboard is necessary. If you are in the market for a durable and comfortable keyboard that doesn’t break the bank, I might be able to help.
I have compiled a list of keyboards that range from the introductory membrane keyboards to fancy mechanical ones that are a pleasure to type on. However, I will steer clear of the name-brand “gaming” mechanical keyboards with a myriad of bells and whistles as those cost upwards of $250, and I doubt a college student is willing to spend so much on a keyboard.
That being said, thanks to the novelty offered by online stores, you can even buy a mechanical keyboard for as cheap as 40 dollars.
In this Article
- 10. Havit Mechanical Gaming Keyboard and Mouse Combo
- 9. Arteck 2.4G Wireless Keyboard
- 8. Logitech Wireless Keyboard K360
- 7. Logitech K120
- 6. iClever BK06 Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard
- 5. Logitech Bluetooth Multi-Device Keyboard K480
- 4. X9 Performance Ergonomic Split Keyboard with Wrist Rest
- 3. Microsoft Wireless All-In-One Media Keyboard
- 2. HUO JI E-Yooso Z-88 RGB Mechanical Keyboard
- 1. STOGA Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
10. Havit Mechanical Gaming Keyboard and Mouse Combo
You’d be hard-pressed to find a better deal than this. For just $40, this mechanical keyboard comes with an RGB mouse. If the RGB lighting is too much for you, you can quickly turn it off. The keyboard has mechanical switches and offers a tactile typing experience.
Key Features:
- RGB lit mechanical switches
- 21 different light modes for the keyboard
- High-quality Aluminium alloy top case
- Features 12 multimedia key combinations
Get it from here.
9. Arteck 2.4G Wireless Keyboard
This Arteck wireless keyboard is extremely low-profile while offering a full-sized experience. However, it is not Bluetooth like the previous entries on this list but instead uses a 2.4 Hz wireless dongle for connectivity. This prevents it from being connected to tablets and smartphones but is perfect for laptops and desktops.
Key Features:
- Stainless steel construction, premium look
- Rechargeable battery lasts six months on a single charge
- Ultra-thin and light
- Ergonomic design
Get it from here.
8. Logitech Wireless Keyboard K360
The Logitech K360 is the most affordable wireless keyboard on the market. Sure, you can get some even cheaper, but those are usually knock-offs and are prone to breaking. The K360 is compact and supports a host of various devices. It has multimedia keys and an astonishing 36 months of battery life.
Key Features:
- Wireless connectivity via Bluetooth
- Multimedia shortcuts
- 36-month battery life
- Light and compact
Get it from here.
7. Logitech K120
If you are looking for something incredibly cheap that works well without any durability issues, this is the keyboard for you. The Logitech K120 is the most affordable keyboard on this list and offers insane value. It is a no-frills keyboard that has all the keys expected in a full-sized keyboard. It is made of plastic which makes it light and durable.
Key Features:
- Full-sized keyboard
- The cheapest name-brand keyboard on the market
- Plug and play, no hassle
- Durable plastic construction
Get it from here.
6. iClever BK06 Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard
If portability is your priority, then this iClever BK06 Bluetooth keyboard is your best bet. It has a basic key layout which makes it smaller and incredibly light. Moreover, it folds like a notebook, and carrying it around is a breeze. It is compatible with a host of devices such as iOS, Android, Mac, and Windows.
Key Features:
- Angled design for ergonomic comfort
- Bluetooth connectivity, supports iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac
- Built-in battery lasts up to 40 hours on a single charge
- 12mm slim body, minimum weight
Get it from here.
5. Logitech Bluetooth Multi-Device Keyboard K480
This Logitech keyboard is a truly universal keyboard that is compatible with almost every device type. If you use your tablet or smartphone to type and would also like the ability to use it with your laptop and desktop, look no further. This keyboard does it all. Since it uses Bluetooth for connectivity, you can use it with a variety of devices. It also features a cradle that can hold your tablet and smartphone at the same time.
Key Features:
- Universal compatibility, switch between three devices at a time
- Built-in cradle to hold tablet and smartphone
- Works with Windows, iOS, Android, and Mac
- Extremely efficient, batteries last for months
Get it from here.
4. X9 Performance Ergonomic Split Keyboard with Wrist Rest
This might be the weirdest-looking keyboard you have ever seen, but there is a good reason for it. If you experience discomfort in your wrists when typing on a regular keyboard, this ergonomic keyboard might be the solution. The unusual critical layout aids in comfortable typing and the extended wrist rest offers physical support to minimize pain. However, it does take quite a bit of space.
Key Features:
- Ergonomic design offers comfort for long typing sessions
- Cushioned wrist rest provides physical support for your wrists
- Full-sized 110 key layouts with 17 shortcuts
- Durable and strong construction
Get it from here.
3. Microsoft Wireless All-In-One Media Keyboard
Unlike the previous two, this is not a gaming-oriented keyboard, but that might be what you are looking for. Not only is this keyboard fully wireless, but it also has a touchpad. You don’t even have to use your mouse. You can control everything without lifting your hand from the keyboard. It has a bunch of shortcut keys as well.
Key Features:
- Wireless connectivity
- Built-in touchpad
- Robust keys and construction
- Shortcut keys for various functions, including multimedia
Get it from here.
2. HUO JI E-Yooso Z-88 RGB Mechanical Keyboard
This mechanical keyboard comes from a Chinese brand and is one of the most popular affordable options on Amazon. The reason I like it is due to its compact size. It is a tenkeyless keyboard meaning it doesn’t have a Numpad. This makes for a more petite overall body and makes it easier to lug around. Moreover, you get the famous “blue switches” that make typing a breeze.
Key Features:
- Gaote/Outemu hot-swappable Blue Switches
- Anti-ghosting 81 Keys
- 15-mode RGB Backlighting
- Made of top ABS and metal material
Get it from here.
1. STOGA Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
I would be remiss if I didn’t give the first spot to this beautiful mechanical keyboard by SOTGA. I like it more than other “gaming” mechanical keyboards in this price range because it lacks those gamesque logos and symbols. You can even turn the LED lighting off if you find it’s a distraction. Above all, it’s a mechanical keyboard that offers those satisfying clicking sounds, and it only costs $40.
Key Features:
- Fourteen Backlight Modes
- Durability & Double-Injection Key Caps
- USB 2.0 Keyboard Compatibility
- Short travel makes for comfortable typing
Get it from here.