Top 5 budget mechanical keyboards for under $100

Intro

Mechanical keyboards have become the go-to choice for gamers, programmers, writers, and tech enthusiasts who demand more from their typing experience. Unlike traditional membrane keyboards, mechanical keyboards use individual switches beneath each key, providing tactile feedback, audible clicks, and unmatched durability.

This design not only makes typing more precise and satisfying but also allows for faster response times, which is particularly beneficial for gaming or intensive typing tasks.

Beyond performance, mechanical keyboards offer extensive customization options, including hot-swappable switches, different keycap materials and profiles, RGB lighting, and programmable macros, making them both a highly functional tool and a visually appealing centerpiece for any desk setup.

In this article, we will break down everything you need to know about mechanical keyboards. From how they work and the differences between switch types, to layouts, keycap materials, customization options, and even maintenance tips, helping you choose the perfect keyboard to suit your needs.

RK ROYAL KLUDGE R65 Wired Gaming Keyboard

The RK ROYAL KULDGE R65 is a high performance 65% (66 keys) mechanical keyboard designed for users who want a compact and versatile setup.

The R65 comes with a gasket mounted structure that is made up of 5 layers of sound dampening material which reduces the vibration of the keys and optimize the sound of the switches.

The keyboards comes with pre-lubed linear cream switches that gives smooth, creamy and consistent keystrokes. It comes with hot swappable PCB so that users can change switches without having to solder it.

The PC gaming keyboard comes with a high quality aluminum CNC metal knob that is easily adjustable by rotating or pressing the knob to turn on/off the volume. In Addition there are three indicator lights next to the arrow keys which make the statues of the keyboard clear at glance.

PTB Key-caps are made of double shot technology with a non-fading matte surface with longer durability and gives more longer service life. The keycaps is compatible with 3pins/5pins switches and are in MDA Profile.

The keyboard has 20 built in backlight modes with a variety of RGB effects, monochrome and full color modes. You can customize RGB modes and colors through software. The keyboard supports QMK/VIA programming which can redefine your keyboard.

Pros: Compact size, premium build, hot-swappable switches, RGB lighting, programmable, durable construction and Supports QMK /VIA programming.

Cons: No numpad or F-row, louder than membrane keyboards, requires some learning for advanced customization, the 60% layout may need time to adjust for new users.

Conclusion:

The RK R65 is a well-built, customizable, and space-efficient mechanical keyboard that offers premium features usually found in higher-end models. With its combination of durability, programmability, and comfortable typing feel, it’s an excellent choice for those who want a compact keyboard without sacrificing performance.

RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 Mechanical Keyboard

The RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 is a 60% (61-key) compact mechanical keyboard built for portability and versatility. Its minimalist design removes the numpad, function row, and navigation cluster, freeing up desk space while keeping essential functions accessible through Fn layers.

A key feature is its triple-mode connectivity: wired via USB-C, Bluetooth 5.0 (pair up to 3 devices), and 2.4GHz wireless with low-latency performance—making it suitable for gaming, productivity, and mobile use. In addition it is equipped with an extra 4.7 Ft-Grey coiled keyboard cable with a USB C custom double-sleeved cable.

The RK61 comes hot-swappable switches with Red (linear) or Brown (tactile) options, they both are durable and are long-lasting. It comes with ABS shine-through keycaps in an OEM profile, plus per-key RGB customization, macros, and remapping via RK’s software. Its lightweight plastic chassis keeps it sturdy and portable.

The RK Royal Kludge RK61 has over 18 backlight modes, 8 monochrome backlight modes and 1 full color backlight mode which makes a absolute charming experience in the dark.

Pros: Compact and portable, triple connectivity, hot-swappable switches, customizable RGB and affordable.

Cons: No dedicated arrow/F-keys, ABS caps wear faster, small layout requires adjustment of new users.

Conclusion

The RK Royal Kludge RK61 is a flexible, budget-friendly keyboard that balances portability, performance, and customization which is ideal for gamers, students, and typists seeking a compact setup.

Keychron C3 Pro

The Keychron C3 Pro is a compact TKL (87-key) mechanical keyboard designed for gamers, programmers, and productivity users who want to have performance without having to sacrifice desk space. Its tenkeyless layout removes the number pad while keeping arrow navigation keys and function keys, creating a cleaner and more ergonomic workspace.

The keyboard connects via USB-C, providing a stable, low-latency input, its suitable for gaming, coding, or professional typing. It is also cross-platform compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux, making it versatile for any setup. In addition it provides a 1000 Hz polling rate for fast and responsive typing speed and a high- performance ARM architecture MCU with 256KB Flash.

A standout feature of the C3 Pro is its support for QMK/VIA firmware, which allows full programmability. Users can remap keys, create macros, or configure multiple layers to suit their workflow or gaming setup.

The keyboard uses a gasket-mount design, which cushions keystrokes, reduces typing noise, and provides a softer, more comfortable typing experience compared to traditional mechanical keyboards.

The C3 Pro comes with pre-lubed hot-swappable switches with both Red (linear) and Brown (tactile) options, both rated for tens of millions of keystrokes to ensure durability and long-term performance. Red switches provide smooth and fast typing ideal for gaming, while Brown switches offer tactile feedback suitable for both typing and gaming. This allows users to tailor the keyboard’s feel to their preference without soldering.

The keycaps are made of high-quality ABS plastic, compatible with red LED backlighting for low-light environments. The chassis combines aluminum and plastic for a sturdy yet portable design.

Its OEM keycap profile offers sculpted rows for natural finger placement, supporting ergonomic typing over extended sessions and remaining compatible with aftermarket keycap sets.

Pros: Compact and functional TKL layout, pre lubed hot-swappable switches, supports QMK/VIA programmability, durable construction, ergonomic and quiet typing.

Cons: Wired only, ABS keycaps wear faster than PBT, may be less convenient for users who frequently use a number pad

Conclusion

The Keychron C3 Pro is a compact TKL keyboard that balances performance, comfort, and customization. With QMK/VIA support, users can remap keys, create macros, and customize layers for gaming, coding, or productivity.

Its gasket-mounted design softens keystrokes and reduces noise, while hot-swappable Red or Brown switches let you adjust feel switches without soldering. The keyboard is durable, ergonomic, and cross-platform compatible (Mac, Windows, Linux).

Although it is limited to wired connectivity and ABS keycaps that wear faster than PBT, the C3 Pro delivers a premium typing experience, strong build quality, and extensive customization—making it a solid investment for any setup.

ATTACK SHARK X66 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

The ATTACK SHARK X66 is a compact 60% (66-key) wireless mechanical keyboard engineered for portability and space efficiency. It offers tri-mode connectivity, functioning via USB-C wired, Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4 GHz wireless, and houses a 3000 mAh rechargeable battery for extended use.

The keyboard features an upgraded gasket-mount design with five layers of sound-dampening foam, delivering a smooth, quiet typing experience. It includes a CNC aluminum volume knob for easy audio control.

A key highlight is its triple-mode connectivity: wired via USB-C, Bluetooth 5.0 for up to five devices, and low-latency 2.4GHz wireless, supported by a 3000mAh rechargeable battery with power-saving features for long-lasting use.

The X66 uses a gasket-mounted structure with 5 layers of dampening foam, delivering a softer, quieter, and more comfortable typing experience. It supports hot-swappable 3-pin and 5-pin switches and comes with pre-lubed Strawberry linear switches, ensuring smooth, responsive keystrokes for both gaming and typing, It also has pre-lubed finely-calibrated stabilizer, and 1.2mm single key slotted PCB.

Additionally the keyboard comes with three indicator lights to show caps lock, win lock, charging statues and long pressing FN+Backspace keys, the 1-0 lights will show the battery level which is very smart.

Durability is enhanced with double-shot, side-printed PBT keycaps that resist wear and shine. Paired with customizable RGB lighting with 18 presets dynamic chroma backlit modes, 7 monochroma modes and 1 rainbow color light mode.

The X66 is sturdy yet portable, with extras like a magnetic storage slot for the 2.4GHz adapter, keycap/switch pullers, and extra switches included in the box.

Pros: Compact yet functional with arrow keys and volume knob, tri-mode connectivity, gasket-mounted design, hot-swappable switches, durable PBT keycaps, customizable RGB.

Cons: Volume knob can be sensitive, legends are side-printed (learning curve), wired-only users may find cable placement less convenient.

Conclusion:

The Attack Shark X66 blends portability, versatility, and premium typing feel in a compact package. With tri-mode wireless connectivity, gasket mounting, durable PBT keycaps, and hot-swappable switches, it offers a feature set usually found in higher-end boards—making it an excellent choice for gamers, typists, and professionals seeking a budget-friendly yet premium-feeling 60% keyboard.

E-YOOSO Z82 Gasket Mechanical Keyboard

The E-YOOSO Z82 is a compact 75% wireless mechanical keyboard with 81 keys, designed to balance functionality and desk space.

It supports three modes of connectivity—Bluetooth (3.0/5.0), 2.4 GHz wireless, and USB-C wired—and can connect to up to five devices at once, making it easy to switch between setups.

A built-in 3000 mAh battery with (4000 mAh variant available) ensures long usage time without frequent charging.

Typing feels refined thanks to its gasket-mounted structure and five layers of sound-absorbing materials, which soften keystrokes and minimize unwanted noise.

The keyboard also includes a multifunctional knob for quick control of volume, media, and RGB lighting, eliminating the need for extra software.

With hot-swappable sockets that support both 3-pin and 5-pin switches, users can easily customize their typing experience without soldering. Durable PBT keycaps round off the design, resisting shine and wear for long-term reliability.

Conclusion

Overall, the E-YOOSO Z82 delivers a premium combination of versatility, comfort, and customization in a compact form—ideal for gamers, writers, and professionals alike. If you’re looking for a mechanical keyboard that blends performance with practicality at an affordable price, the Z82 is an excellent choice.

Conclusion

No matter your budget or preferences, there’s a mechanical keyboard out there that makes the upgrade worth it. If you’re after a premium typing experience, look for options with gasket-mount designs and sound-dampening layers that deliver a smooth, quiet feel.

For those on a budget, affordable models with hot-swappable switches and reliable wireless connectivity give you great performance without breaking the bank. If customization matters, programmable boards with VIA/QMK support open up endless possibilities to tailor every key to your workflow.

And if you want a perfect middle ground, compact layouts with volume knobs and tri-mode connectivity strike a balance between practicality and style.