Best Mechanical Keyboards Under $100

By Marcus Chen November 20, 2024 6 min read

Mechanical keyboards have become more accessible than ever, with excellent options available under $100. These budget-friendly keyboards deliver the satisfying tactile feedback and durability that mechanical switches provide, without requiring a premium investment. Here's our guide to the best mechanical keyboards that won't break the bank.

Understanding Switch Types

Before diving into specific models, it's crucial to understand switch types. Mechanical switches come in three main categories:

Keychron C2 Pro: Best Overall Value

The Keychron C2 Pro offers exceptional build quality and features at just $69.99. This full-size keyboard features hot-swappable switches, meaning you can easily replace switches without soldering, making it perfect for beginners who want to experiment.

Specifications

The double-shot PBT keycaps resist shine and wear better than cheaper ABS plastic. The aluminum plate provides rigidity that eliminates flex during typing. Hot-swap sockets mean you can upgrade to premium switches later without buying an entirely new keyboard. Mac users will appreciate the included keycaps for macOS shortcuts.

Royal Kludge RK84: Best 75% Layout

At $59.99, the Royal Kludge RK84 delivers a compact 75% layout that includes arrow keys and function row, unlike 60% keyboards. This tri-mode keyboard supports Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, and wired connections, offering remarkable versatility.

Specifications

The tri-mode connectivity stands out at this price point. You can pair up to three devices via Bluetooth and switch between them with a key combination. The 2.4GHz wireless mode provides low-latency performance suitable for gaming. Battery life is impressive, lasting weeks on a single charge with lighting disabled.

The main compromise is ABS keycaps instead of PBT, which will develop shine over time. However, the keycaps are standard size, making aftermarket replacements easy to find.

Redragon K552 Kumara: Best Budget Option

For those on a tight budget, the Redragon K552 at $39.99 proves you don't need to spend much to get a solid mechanical keyboard. This tenkeyless (TKL) keyboard eliminates the numpad, saving desk space while maintaining essential keys.

Specifications

Despite the low price, the K552 features an aluminum top plate that provides surprising rigidity. The build quality exceeds expectations for a keyboard at this price. Outemu Blue switches are louder and slightly scratchier than Cherry MX Blues, but they offer similar tactile feedback at a fraction of the cost.

Limitations include non-detachable cable, basic red backlighting only, and no software for customization. The keyboard is plug-and-play, which some users prefer for simplicity.

Akko 3098B: Best for Quiet Typing

The Akko 3098B at $89.99 targets users who need a quieter typing experience without sacrificing mechanical feel. It features Akko's custom switches designed to reduce noise while maintaining tactile feedback.

Specifications

Akko switches incorporate design elements that dampen sound, including longer switch stems and modified spring designs. The Jelly Pink switches are particularly smooth with minimal scratchiness. Dye-sublimated PBT keycaps provide excellent durability with legends that won't fade.

The 98-key layout is brilliant for those who need a numpad but have limited desk space. It maintains all full-size functionality while reducing width by eliminating gaps between key clusters.

Making Your Decision

Your ideal keyboard depends on your priorities:

All these keyboards offer genuine mechanical switches and solid construction. The sub-$100 mechanical keyboard market has matured significantly, providing excellent options for every typing preference and budget constraint.