Why Choose the Best Mechanical Keyboard Under $100?

Mechanical keyboards have become the preferred choice for many users due to their durability, tactile feedback, and superior typing experience. While premium mechanical keyboards can easily cost over $150 or even $200, you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a solid, high-quality keyboard. In fact, there are plenty of excellent mechanical keyboards under $100 that offer great features, impressive build quality, and an enjoyable typing experience.

Whether you’re a gamer, programmer, or someone who types for long hours at work, the best mechanical keyboard under $100 can provide a balance between affordability and performance. In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of budget-friendly mechanical keyboards and explore the best options available in 2024. From compact designs to full-sized keyboards, there’s something for everyone on a budget.

What Makes a Mechanical Keyboard Great?

Before we dive into the top picks, it’s essential to understand what makes a great mechanical keyboard—especially under the $100 price range. While premium keyboards are loaded with extra features like customizable RGB lighting, programmable keys, and top-tier switches, many affordable mechanical keyboards still offer fantastic value. Here’s what to look for:

1. Switch Type

The key to a great typing experience lies in the switches. Mechanical switches come in several types, each offering a different feel:

• Tactile Switches (e.g., Cherry MX Brown): Provide a slight bump when pressed, which can help you type faster and more accurately.
• Linear Switches (e.g., Cherry MX Red): Smooth and quiet, perfect for fast typists and gamers who don’t need tactile feedback.
• Clicky Switches (e.g., Cherry MX Blue): These switches have a noticeable “click” sound, providing feedback that some typists love but can be loud in shared spaces.

Most budget keyboards under $100 offer either tactile or linear switches, which strike the right balance between price and performance.

2. Build Quality

When shopping for a mechanical keyboard under $100, build quality is crucial. Many budget keyboards in this range use plastic construction, but you’ll want to ensure it feels sturdy and not flimsy. Some even feature metal top plates that enhance durability and provide a premium feel.

3. Keycap Material

Keycaps are usually made of either ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) or PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate). PBT keycaps are denser, more durable, and resistant to wear and shine, making them the preferred option. While some budget keyboards use ABS keycaps, many in this price range now feature PBT keycaps, which are a great upgrade.

4. Size and Layout

Mechanical keyboards come in various sizes, including full-size, tenkeyless (without the number pad), and compact (60% or 65%). Choosing the right size depends on your preference and available desk space. Full-size keyboards are great for productivity, while compact designs are excellent for portability and minimalistic setups.

5. Price and Value

Price is, of course, a major factor in this guide. While keyboards under $100 are generally affordable, you want to ensure you get the most value for your money. Keyboards that offer features like customizability, durable switches, and solid build quality at this price point should be prioritized.

Best Mechanical Keyboards Under $100 in 2024

Now that we’ve covered the key factors to look for, let’s dive into some of the best mechanical keyboards under $100 in 2024. Whether you’re looking for a keyboard for gaming, typing, or everyday use, these options will provide you with a great balance of performance and price.

1. Keychron K2 (Version 2)

The Keychron K2 is one of the best mechanical keyboards under $100, especially for those who want a versatile, wireless keyboard with great performance. It features Gateron switches, which come in different variants like Gateron Browns (tactile), Gateron Reds (linear), and Gateron Blues (clicky), allowing you to choose the switch that best suits your typing style.

Pros:

• Wireless and wired connectivity (Bluetooth and USB-C)
• Compact 75% layout, saving desk space while still providing function keys
• Hot-swappable switches allow you to change switches easily without soldering
• Mac and Windows compatibility
• PBT keycaps for durability
• Affordable price point with excellent features

Cons:

• No dedicated number pad (compact layout)
• Keycaps could have better quality in some cases (though it’s still a significant upgrade over ABS)

The Keychron K2 offers a fantastic mix of features, performance, and versatility, making it a top contender in the best mechanical keyboards under $100 list.

2. Redragon K552 Kumara RGB Mechanical Keyboard

The Redragon K552 Kumara is an excellent choice for gamers on a budget who don’t want to compromise on performance. This mechanical keyboard features Outemu Blue switches, which offer a clicky feedback that is highly responsive and tactile, making it a popular choice for both gamers and typists who prefer that clicky feel.

Pros:

• Compact 87-key layout for a more compact form factor
• RGB backlighting with multiple lighting modes
• Sturdy build with a metal top plate for durability
• Excellent value for money, considering the features
• Anti-ghosting and N-key rollover for gaming

Cons:

• Keycaps are made from ABS plastic, which can wear down faster than PBT
• Clicky switches can be loud, which may not be ideal for shared spaces

The Redragon K552 Kumara offers excellent features at a budget-friendly price point, especially for those who want a gaming keyboard with customizable RGB lighting.

3. HyperX Alloy FPS Pro (Tenkeyless Mechanical Keyboard)

For gamers looking for a tenkeyless design, the HyperX Alloy FPS Pro is one of the best options under $100. This keyboard is designed with FPS (first-person shooter) gamers in mind, featuring Cherry MX mechanical switches known for their accuracy and responsiveness.

Pros:

• Cherry MX mechanical switches for top-tier performance
• Compact tenkeyless layout for portability and more desk space
• Solid steel frame for durability
• Red LED backlighting for a simple, clean look
• Detachable USB cable for easier portability

Cons:

• No RGB lighting (limited to red LEDs)
• Higher price point for a tenkeyless keyboard

The HyperX Alloy FPS Pro is an excellent choice for gamers who prefer a smaller, portable mechanical keyboard with high-quality switches and a durable build.

4. Corsair K55 RGB Gaming Keyboard (Membrane)

Although technically not a full mechanical keyboard, the Corsair K55 RGB is often included in discussions of best budget keyboards under $100 because it offers a great typing experience with quiet keys and excellent performance. This membrane keyboard provides a similar feel to mechanical keyboards with quiet key presses and RGB backlighting, making it a good option for people who prefer quieter typing.

Pros:

• RGB backlighting with customizable lighting effects
• Quiet, responsive membrane switches
• Dedicated media controls
• Ergonomic wrist rest for comfort during long sessions
• Affordable for gamers looking for budget options

Cons:

• Membrane switches are not as durable or satisfying as mechanical switches
• Lacks the tactile or clicky feedback many mechanical keyboard users prefer

The Corsair K55 RGB offers an alternative to those who want an affordable and quiet keyboard with RGB features, though it is a membrane keyboard rather than a mechanical one.

5. Razer Cynosa V2

The Razer Cynosa V2 is a popular budget mechanical keyboard that uses Razer’s own membrane switches, providing a soft, quiet typing experience that’s ideal for users who want low noise and comfort. It’s equipped with RGB Chroma backlighting and offers a range of customization options.

Pros:

• RGB Chroma backlighting for full customization
• Dedicated media controls for quick volume adjustments
• Comfortable wrist rest for long sessions
• Excellent software for key remapping and customization
• Affordable for a Razer-branded product

Cons:

• Membrane switches don’t offer the same tactile feedback as mechanical switches
• Build quality isn’t as premium as higher-end models

The Razer Cynosa V2 is perfect for those who prefer a quieter, softer keypress and need a keyboard with advanced lighting and customization features.

Conclusion: Finding the Best Mechanical Keyboard Under $100

When shopping for the best mechanical keyboard under $100, there are plenty of excellent options to consider. Whether you’re a gamer, a typist, or a casual user, there’s a keyboard on this list that meets your needs without breaking the bank.

For those who want the flexibility of wireless connections and swappable switches, the Keychron K2 is a fantastic choice. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, compact gaming keyboard, the Redragon K552 Kumara offers exceptional value. For FPS enthusiasts, the HyperX Alloy FPS Pro offers a solid steel frame and Cherry MX switches for optimal performance.

Ultimately, the best keyboard for you will depend on your personal preferences, whether you prioritize switch type, build quality, RGB lighting, or portability. Each of these keyboards delivers great performance at an affordable price point, proving that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a premium mechanical keyboard.