Best Mechanical Keyboards Under $100 in 2023
Typing on your keyboard is one of the most common tasks you have to do throughout your working day. This makes your keyboard one of the most essential touch points for your job; having a good one can make or break your working experience.
Conversely, mechanical keyboards are gaining popularity due to their durability, reliability, and tactile feedback. However, they can also be pricey, and finding one on a budget can be challenging.
Fortunately, several high-quality mechanical keyboards are available for under $100, and it should not be too much of a hustle to find one whether you’re a gamer, typist, or casual computer user.
This post will explore the best mechanical keyboards under $100 and take a closer look at each keyboard’s features, performance, and value to help you make an informed decision. Keep reading to learn more.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mechanical Keyboard Under $100
When shopping for a mechanical keyboard under $100, it’s essential to consider several factors that can affect the typing experience and the overall quality of the keyboard. Here are some of the vital factors to keep in mind.
1. Switch type
Mechanical keyboards use different switch types that determine each key’s tactile feedback, noise level, and actuation force. The most popular switch types are Cherry MX, Outemu, and Kailh. Cherry MX switches are considered the gold standard for mechanical keyboards but are also the most expensive. Outemu and Kailh switches are more affordable and offer similar performance and durability.
Your keyboard’s key type will significantly determine your typing experience and overall comfort while working.
2. Build quality
The build quality of a mechanical keyboard is crucial for long-term reliability and durability. Keyboards made of high-quality materials such as aluminum or steel are generally more durable than plastic ones. Additionally, the keycaps’ quality, the switches’ stability, and the cable’s thickness can affect the keyboard’s overall quality and performance over time.
3. Additional features
Some mechanical keyboards have additional features that enhance the typing experience, such as backlighting, macro keys, wrist rests, and media controls. These features can improve productivity, reduce fatigue, and make typing more comfortable. Additionally, the more features a keyboard has, the better value for money you will get.
4. Compatibility
It’s essential to consider the compatibility of the mechanical keyboard with your operating system. Most keyboards are compatible with Windows, but some may not work with Mac or Linux systems. Even though there are ways to make most keyboards compatible with your device, it takes time and skills you may not have.
Additionally, if you’re on a Mac, the key layout on some mechanical keyboards might not be the same as your standard key layout—an essential consideration if you want to keep the same workflow.
Top mechanical keyboards under $100
Here is a review of the top mechanical keyboards under $100.
1. HyperX Alloy FPS Pro

HyperX Alloy FPS Pro
The HyperX Alloy FPS Pro is a mechanical keyboard designed for gamers and typists who want a high-performance keyboard without breaking the bank. This keyboard features Cherry MX switches, a compact design, and a detachable cable, making it a reliable and durable option if you value performance and portability. Here are its features in more detail.
Cherry MX Switches: The HyperX Alloy FPS Pro uses Cherry MX switches that provide satisfying tactile feedback and responsiveness, making typing and gaming more enjoyable.
Compact Design: The keyboard’s compact design is perfect if you’re looking for a portable and space-saving keyboard. It will not pose a challenge fitting it on your small desk or backpack when traveling.
Steel Frame: The steel frame provides excellent stability and durability, ensuring the keyboard lasts for years. It also provides a pleasing aesthetic that fits in any setting.
Detachable Cable: The detachable cable makes it easy to transport the keyboard without damaging the cable. It also makes charging the keyboard’s internal batteries convenient, improving its usability.
Game Mode Option: The Game Mode option is a great feature for gamers, as it disables the Windows key, preventing accidental interruptions during gameplay.
Red LED Backlighting: The red LED backlighting provides a sleek and modern look to the keyboard. It also has dynamic lighting effects that allow you to customize the keyboard even further.
Full N-key Rollover: The full N-key rollover ensures accurate inputs in fast-paced games, and the 100% anti-ghosting feature eliminates the possibility of missed inputs.
Pros of HyperX Alloy FPS Pro
- The Cherry MX switches provide a satisfying typing experience, and the keyboard is responsive, making it perfect for both typing and gaming.
- The compact design is ideal if you need a portable keyboard or have limited desk space.
- The steel frame adds stability and durability, ensuring that the keyboard lasts for years.
- The detachable cable makes it easy to transport the keyboard without damaging the cable.
- The Game Mode option is a great feature for gamers, as it prevents accidental interruptions during gameplay.
- The red LED backlighting adds a sleek and modern look to the keyboard.
- The full N-key rollover and anti-ghosting features ensure accurate inputs in fast-paced games.
Cons of HyperX Alloy FPS Pro
- The keyboard lacks additional features, such as media controls or programmable keys.
- The compact design may not be comfortable if you have larger hands or prefer a full-size keyboard.
Overall, the HyperX Alloy FPS Pro is an excellent choice if you’re a gamer or typist looking for a reliable, portable mechanical keyboard with Cherry MX switches. While it may not have many additional features, its compact design, detachable cable, and steel frame make it a durable and reliable option.
2. Redragon K552

Redragon K552
The Redragon K552 mechanical keyboard is an affordable option for gamers and typists who want a durable and reliable mechanical keyboard. This keyboard features Outemu Blue switches, RGB backlighting, and a tenkeyless design, making it compact and versatile whether you’re on a Mac or Windows device. Here are its features in more detail.
Outemu Blue Switches: The Redragon K552 mechanical keyboard uses Outemu Blue switches, which provide a tactile and responsive typing experience. These switches have a distinct clicky sound and feel, making them ideal if you prefer audible feedback while typing.
Tenkeyless Design: The keyboard’s tenkeyless design means it does not have a dedicated number pad, making it a space-saving and portable option. This feature is perfect if you require a smaller keyboard for your desk setup or frequently travel with your keyboard.
RGB Backlighting: The keyboard features RGB backlighting with multiple lighting modes and brightness levels. You can customize the lighting to your preferences, allowing you to create a unique and personalized look for your keyboard.
Double-shot Injection Molded Keycaps: The Redragon K552 mechanical keyboard has double-shot injection molded keycaps, which are durable and long-lasting. This feature ensures that the letters on the keys do not fade over time, even with heavy use.
Gold-plated USB Connector: The keyboard’s gold-plated USB connector ensures a stable and reliable connection, reducing the likelihood of disconnections during use.
Windows Key Lock Option: The keyboard has a Windows key lock option, which disables the Windows key during gaming sessions, preventing you from accidentally minimizing your game. Therefore, you need not worry about getting a bit carried away when playing your favorite games.
Full N-key Rollover and Anti-ghosting Technology: The keyboard’s full N-key rollover and anti-ghosting technology allow you to input multiple keystrokes simultaneously, ensuring accurate inputs during fast-paced gaming.
Pros of Redragon K552
- The Outemu Blue switches provide a tactile and responsive typing experience, making it ideal for users who require feedback while typing.
- The tenkeyless design saves space and makes the keyboard portable.
- The RGB backlighting is customizable and adds a unique and personalized look to the keyboard.
- The double-shot injection molded keycaps are durable and long-lasting.
- The gold-plated USB connector ensures a stable and reliable connection.
- The Windows key lock option prevents accidental minimization during gaming.
- The full N-key rollover and anti-ghosting technology ensure accurate inputs during gaming.
Cons of Redragon K552
- The keyboard lacks programmable keys.
- The Outemu Blue switches may be too loud if you work in quiet environments.
- The tenkeyless design may not be comfortable if you require a dedicated number pad.
Overall, the Redragon K552 mechanical keyboard is an excellent option for a gamer or typist who wants an affordable and reliable mechanical keyboard. While it may lack features on larger and more expensive counterparts, its Outemu Blue switches, RGB backlighting, and tenkeyless design make it a versatile and customizable option.
3. Tecware Phantom 104

Tecware Phantom 104
The Tecware Phantom keyboard is a budget-friendly option for users who want a customizable and feature-rich mechanical keyboard. This keyboard features Outemu Brown switches, RGB backlighting, and a full-size layout, making it a versatile option for users. Here are the features of the Tecware Phantom mechanical keyboard.
Outemu Brown Switches: The Tecware Phantom mechanical keyboard uses Outemu Brown switches, which are known for providing a tactile and quiet typing experience. These switches have a soft tactile bump without the clicky sound of Blue switches, making them ideal if you prefer a quieter keyboard.
Full-size Layout: The keyboard layout includes a dedicated number pad and function keys, making it a more traditional and comfortable typing experience.
RGB Backlighting: The keyboard features RGB backlighting with multiple lighting modes and brightness levels. You can customize the lighting to your preference, creating a unique and personalized look for your setup.
Double-shot ABS Keycaps: The Tecware Phantom mechanical keyboard has double-shot ABS keycaps, which are durable and long-lasting. This feature ensures that the letters on the keys do not fade over time, even with heavy use.
Hot-swappable Switch Sockets: The keyboard’s hot-swappable switch sockets allow you to easily replace switches without soldering. This feature makes it easy to customize the keyboard to fit your typing preferences. Moreover, removal tools are included in the box to make replacing keys more convenient.
Fully Programmable Keys: The keyboard has fully programmable keys, allowing you to assign macros and custom functions to each key. This feature is perfect for streamlining your workflow or gaming experience. Furthermore, you can save up to three user profiles for more convenience if you share the keyboard with other users.
N-key Rollover and Anti-ghosting Technology: The keyboard’s N-key rollover and anti-ghosting technology allow you to input multiple keystrokes simultaneously, essential in fast-paced gaming.
Pros of Tecware Phantom 104
- The Outemu Brown switches provide a tactile and quiet typing experience, making it ideal if you want feedback without the clicky sound of Blue switches.
- The full keyboard layout includes a dedicated number pad and function keys.
- The RGB backlighting is customizable and adds a unique and personalized look to the keyboard.
- The double-shot ABS keycaps are durable and long-lasting.
- The hot-swappable switch sockets make it easy to customize the keyboard to fit your typing preferences.
- The fully programmable keys allow you to streamline your workflow or gaming experience.
- Has N-key rollover and anti-ghosting technology.
Cons of Tecware Phantom 104
- The keyboard’s software may be challenging to navigate for some users.
- The included wrist rest may not be comfortable for all users.
- The USB cable is not detachable, which may make it more challenging to transport.
Overall, the Tecware Phantom mechanical keyboard is an excellent option if you want an affordable, customizable, feature-rich mechanical keyboard. Its Outemu Brown switches, RGB backlighting, a full-size layout, hot-swappable switch sockets, and entirely programmable keys make it a versatile option if you’re a typist and gamer.
4. Velocifire VM01

Velocifire VM01
The Velocifire VM01 mechanical keyboard is a budget-friendly option for users who want a simple and reliable mechanical keyboard. This keyboard features Outemu Brown switches, a full-sized layout, and an ergonomic design, making it a comfortable and functional option. Here are some of its features.
Outemu Brown Switches: The Velocifire VM01 mechanical keyboard features Outemu Brown switches, which offer a tactile and quiet typing experience. These switches have a soft tactile bump without the clicky sound of Blue switches, making them ideal if you prefer a quieter keyboard.
Full-sized Layout: The keyboard has a full-sized layout with a number pad, making it suitable for quickly typing lettered and numbered documents.
Ergonomic Design: The keyboard’s ergonomic design includes a sloped design and a wrist rest, providing a comfortable typing experience for long sessions. Furthermore, the wrist rest is detachable, allowing you to customize the keyboard to your working conditions.
White LED Backlighting: The keyboard features white LED backlighting with adjustable brightness levels, making it easy to type in low-light environments. The lighting is also not as harsh as you have on other non adjustable keyboards.
Double-shot Keycaps: The Velocifire VM01 mechanical keyboard has double-shot keycaps, which are durable and long-lasting. This feature ensures that the letters on the keys will not fade with heavy use over time.
Anti-ghosting Technology: The keyboard’s anti-ghosting technology allows users to input multiple keystrokes simultaneously, allowing for a better gaming experience.
Pros of Velocifire VM01
- The Outemu Brown switches provide a tactile and quiet typing experience.
- The full-sized layout with a number pad is excellent if you require the extra keys.
- The ergonomic design includes a wrist rest and sloped design, providing a comfortable typing experience.
- The white LED backlighting is adjustable, making it easy to type in low-light environments.
- The double-shot keycaps are durable and long-lasting.
- Includes anti-ghosting technology for fast-paced gaming.
Cons of Velocifire VM01
- Dull design.
- The keyboard’s cable is not braided, which may make it less durable over time.
- Does not work with Macs out of the box.
Overall, the Velocifire VM01 mechanical keyboard is a reliable and functional option for users who want a simple and affordable mechanical keyboard. It has all the features a budget keyboard should have and will be an excellent option for typing or gaming.
5. Drop ENTR Mechanical Keyboard

Drop ENTR Mechanical Keyboard
The Drop ENTR mechanical keyboard is a highly customizable keyboard with a minimalist design, focusing on functionality and simplicity. This keyboard is ideal for users who prefer a clean, sleek look without sacrificing performance. It’s also compatible with all the major operating systems, making it an excellent choice regardless of your workstation. Here are its main features.
Hot-swappable Switches: This keyboard features hot-swappable switches that allow you to easily swap them out without soldering or other specialized tools. This feature enables you to customize your typing experience and makes it easy to experiment with different switches.
Minimalist Design: The Drop ENTR keyboard has a simple and elegant design, with no additional features or functions that may distract from its core purpose. It features a compact layout with no number pad or dedicated media keys, making it a space-efficient option if you have limited desk space and prefer simplicity.
USB Type-C Connectivity: This keyboard has a USB Type-C port for easy and reliable connectivity with other devices and connecting peripherals to your computer.
Backlit Keys: The Drop ENTR keyboard features white LED backlighting adjustable to different brightness levels. This feature makes using the keyboard in low-light environments easy and adds a stylish touch to its design.
Pros of Drop ENTR Mechanical Keyboard
- The hot-swappable switches allow you to customize your typing experience easily.
- The minimalist design and compact layout make this keyboard space-efficient.
- The USB Type-C connectivity provides reliable and fast data transfer.
- The white LED backlighting adds a stylish touch and makes the keyboard easy to use in low-light environments.
Cons of Drop ENTR Mechanical Keyboard
- The lack of dedicated media keys may be inconvenient if you frequently use multimedia functions.
- The keyboard’s minimalist design may not be visually appealing to some users.
- The keycaps are not double-shot, which may result in the letters fading over time with heavy use.
In summary, the Drop ENTR mechanical keyboard is a highly customizable and functional keyboard with a minimalist design, ideal for users who prioritize simplicity and efficiency. It does the basics without being flashy or wasteful, which is important today. However, the lack of dedicated media keys and the absence of double-shot keycaps may be a drawback for some users.
6. Logitech G PRO

Logitech G PRO
The Logitech G PRO mechanical keyboard is a high-performance keyboard designed specifically for gamers. It features advanced technology and a sleek, minimalist design that will impress even the most discerning gamers. It’s compatible with most operating systems, as well as most consoles, for easier gaming. Here are its main features.
Romer-G Switches: The Logitech G PRO keyboard features Romer-G or blue mechanical switches, providing a fast and precise typing experience. These switches are designed for gaming and offer a 25% faster actuation than standard mechanical switches.
Customizable RGB Lighting: This keyboard features customizable RGB lighting, allowing you to set the perfect lighting to match your style or gaming setup. The Logitech G PRO software provides an easy-to-use interface that makes it simple to customize the lighting to suit your preferences.
Compact Design: The Logitech G PRO keyboard has a compact design that is perfect for gaming, even with limited desk space. Furthermore, it has a detachable USB cable that makes it easy to transport and store.
Tenkeyless Layout: This keyboard has a tenkeyless layout that eliminates the number pad to make room for a more comfortable and ergonomic typing experience.
Pros of Logitech G PRO
- The Romer-G switches provide a fast and precise typing experience that is perfect for gaming.
- Offers customizable RGB lighting.
- The compact design and detachable USB cable make it easy to transport and store.
- The tenkeyless layout provides a more comfortable and ergonomic typing experience.
Cons of Logitech G PRO
- The tenkeyless layout may be inconvenient if you also want to use your keyboard for typing purposes.
- The keycaps are not double-shot, which may result in the letters fading over time with heavy use.
In summary, the Logitech G PRO mechanical keyboard is a high-performance keyboard designed for gaming. Its Romer-G switches, customizable RGB lighting, compact design, and tenkeyless layout make it a reliable and stylish option for gaming enthusiasts. However, the keyboard’s tenkeyless layout may not be ideal for all users, and the absence of double-shot keycaps may be a drawback for some.
7. Fnatic Streak65

Fnatic Streak65
The Fnatic Streak65 mechanical keyboard is another compact and stylish keyboard designed for gaming enthusiasts. It has a sleek and minimalistic design you will like. Here are the main features of the Fnatic Streak65 keyboard.
Cherry MX RGB Switches: The Fnatic Streak65 keyboard features Cherry MX RGB switches that offer a fast and precise typing experience. These switches are designed for heavy gaming and offer a 50 million keystroke lifespan.
Compact Design: The Streak65 has a compact 65% layout perfect for gamers with limited desk space. It also features a detachable USB-C, making it easy to transport and store.
Customizable RGB Lighting: This keyboard features customizable RGB lighting to match your keyboard to your style or gaming setup. The Fnatic OP software provides an easy-to-use interface, making it simple to customize lighting.
Full aluminum Frame: The keyboard’s full aluminum frame provides durability, stability, and a pleasing aesthetic. You also don’t have to worry about the keyboard breaking if you accidentally drop it, as you would with plastic ones.
On Board Memory: The Fnatic has onboard memory that saves up to four user profiles. This makes sharing the keyboard with other family members or working and gaming more convenient.
Pros of Fnatic Streak65
- The Cherry MX RGB switches provide a fast and precise typing experience that is perfect for gaming.
- The compact 65% layout is ideal if you have limited desk space.
- The customizable RGB lighting allows you to set the perfect lighting to match your style or gaming setup.
- The full aluminum frame provides durability and stability.
- Allows for different user profiles.
Cons of Fnatic Streak65
- The 65% layout may be inconvenient if you frequently use the number pad.
- The keycaps letters may fade over time with heavy use due to their quality.
- Not compatible with Macs.
In summary, the Fnatic Streak65 mechanical keyboard is a high-performance keyboard designed for gaming. However, the keyboard’s 65% layout may be good for convenient portability but may not be ideal for all users. The absence of double-shot keycaps may also be a drawback for some.
Conclusion
Undoubtedly, your keyboard is one of the most essential working tools you interact with daily. It can also easily become a significant pain point in your workflow if you have a low-quality one or one that’s not ideal for your type of work. Investing in a good mechanical keyboard can help make your typing or gaming experience much more convenient while providing a much more durable and pleasing platform to work from.
Furthermore, as seen in this post, you don’t need to break the bank to own a good mechanical keyboard. Plenty of excellent mechanical keyboards under $100 have exceptional features and designs for your work or gaming needs. We hope this post helps guide you toward an affordable, high-quality mechanical keyboard to improve your typing and gaming experience.
So, what mechanical keyboard under $100 do you think is best? Let us know in the comments section below.
FAQs
Are mechanical keyboards better than membrane keyboards?
It depends on personal preference and intended use. Mechanical keyboards offer a tactile and responsive typing experience that many users prefer, while membrane keyboards are typically quieter and more affordable.
What are Cherry MX switches?
Cherry MX switches are a type of mechanical switch commonly used in mechanical keyboards. They come in different variations, each with a unique feel and sound, and are known for their durability and precision. They are also commonly referred to as the gold standard for mechanical keyboard keys.
Can mechanical keyboards help with hand and wrist strain?
Mechanical keyboards are often designed to reduce hand and wrist strain by providing a more comfortable and ergonomic typing experience. Some also come with detachable wrist rests that further improve your typing experience.
What is a mechanical keyboard?
A mechanical keyboard is a type of keyboard that uses individual mechanical switches for each key instead of the rubber dome switches found on traditional keyboards. They provide a more tactile and responsive typing experience and are more durable.
Are all mechanical keyboards expensive?
No, there are many mechanical keyboards available for under $100. However, high-end mechanical keyboards with advanced features can be quite expensive.
What is the difference between a full-sized keyboard and a tenkeyless keyboard?
A full-sized keyboard includes a number pad, while a tenkeyless keyboard does not. This makes tenkeyless keyboards more compact and easier to travel with.
What is anti-ghosting on a keyboard?
Anti-ghosting is a feature found on most mechanical keyboards that allow multiple keys to be pressed simultaneously without any keystrokes being lost or ignored. This improves your gaming experience since you can rely on all your key presses and your gaming characters to do what you expect them to.
What is the difference between a wired and wireless mechanical keyboard?
A wired mechanical keyboard connects to your computer via a cable, while a wireless mechanical keyboard uses Bluetooth or other wireless technologies to connect. Wired keyboards tend to be more reliable and responsive, while wireless keyboards offer greater flexibility and convenience but can also introduce lag.
Are mechanical keyboards worth the investment?
It depends on your needs and preferences. If you spend a lot of time typing or gaming, a mechanical keyboard can provide a more enjoyable and comfortable experience. However, a traditional keyboard may be sufficient if you’re on a tight budget or don’t prioritize the tactile feedback of mechanical switches.