Best Mechanical Keyboard Under $100

There’s no doubt about it – mechanical keyboards add spice to the aesthetics of a PC set-up. In this article, we’ll be sharing with you our top recommendations for the BEST mechanical keyboards under $100. 

Before we proceed, let’s have an overview of the different types of mechanical keyboards:

Full Keyboard –  this keyboard has ALL the works – alphabetic characters, number keys, punctuations, etc.

Tenkeyless (TKL) keyboard – this is essentially a full or standard keyboard but without the number keys – literally ten keys less. 

60% keyboard – this keyboard only has 60% of the keys that a full keyboard has. 

Got that? Alright, let’s start clickety-clacking starting with-

SteelSeries Apex 5 Hybrid

Looking for something solid and durable? Check out the SteelSeries Apex 5 Hybrid mechanical gaming keyboard. This wired-only option mechanical keyboard boasts a double-shot ABS keycap and aluminum alloy top that makes the unit a durable work of art.

In terms of ergonomics, the SteelSeries Apex 5 comes with a wrist rest and an incline setting.

If you’ve been eyeing the Cherry MX Blue, you’ll be delighted to know that the SteelSeries Apex 5 mechanical keyboard comes with the proprietary SteelSeries Hybrid Blue Mechanical switches that are at par with Cherry MX Blue.

With low pre-travel and low actuation, this is one of the best mechanical keyboards under $100. It pleasantly feels responsive, with a tactile bump and an audible click when a key is activated.

Customization of the SteelSeries Apex 5 Mechanical is easy-peasy, thanks to its user-friendly software. It also comes with extra features including a Windows key lock to prevent a user from minimizing a game accidentally (perfect for clumsy gamers) and an OLED screen. You may browse the SteelSeries keyboard manuals for your guide.

If anything, the SteelSeries Apex 5 Mechanical lacks dedicated macro keys BUT the audible click can make up for it. It also has RGB backlighting, perfect for dark-room gaming. The brightness can easily be controlled directly via the keyboard.

Redragon K552-RGB

The Redragon K552-RGB is a wired-only, mechanical TenKeyLess model is a strong contender for the best mechanical keyboard under $100. At $50, it’s easy on the pocket but is well-built and sturdy.

The frame of the Redragon K552-RGB is made of metal and plastic. The space bar may wobble sometimes, but the stable double-shot ABS keycaps make up for it. Thanks to the Outemo Blue switches, a user won’t need a lot of force to activate a clicky and tactile feedback when a keypress is registered.

If you’re looking for a mechanical keyboard that goes all out on the “TYPING” sounds, the Redragon K552-RGB is a good choice. It’s worth noting that this mechanical keyboard is not available in other types of switches and there’s also no accompanying software to customize RGB backlight. On the bright side, the Redragon K552-RGB can be directly customized using the keyboard hotkeys.

Razer Blackwidow Lite

The Razer Blackwidow Lite is one of the best mechanical keyboards under $100 that can be considered as a worthy TenKeyLess (TKL) alternative. While its software may not be compatible with macOS and it doesn’t have the onboard memory that the SteelSeries Apex 5 Hybrid has to offer, we are happy with its better typing quality and smaller footprint thanks to the TKL size.

You’ll enjoy the suave, tactile bump powered by the proprietary Razer Orange switches. The backlight of the Razer BlackWidow Lite is white-only (a downer for RGB fans) BUT this mechanical keyboard is versatile (and can be quiet enough) to be used in a quiet environment thanks to the included O-rings.

To make things simpler for you, if you want a TKL keyboard that can save space, the Razer BlackWidow Lite is an ideal choice. However, if you need a full-size keyboard that can be used with macOS, the SteelSeries Apex 5 Hybrid is the way to go.

Obinslab Anne Pro 2

A wireless variant for the best mechanical keyboard under $100, the Obinslab Anne Pro 2 is one of our favorite compact models. Since it is wireless, it won’t take much space and leaves more room for the mouse. 

The Obinslab Anne Pro 2 is also perfect for when you are traveling with mobile devices not only because of its size but for its connectivity options as well. It can be paired with up to four devices via Bluetooth, and switching between devices is quick and seamless.

Another thing that we like about the Obinslab Anne Pro 2 is its availability in different switches including Gateron, Cherry MX, and Kailh. 

Backlighting? Outstanding! The Obinslab Anne Pro 2 offers FULL RGB lighting that can be easily customized via the ObinsKit software. Aside from lighting customization, the ObinsKit software also gives a user access to reprogram each key, save multiple profiles to the onboard memory, and set macros.

Corsair K63 Wireless

Corsair joins our list for the best mechanical keyboard under $100. Versatile and pleasant, the Corsair K63 Wireless offers great typing quality and good ergonomics which can be attributed to the adjustable incline setting and wrist rest.

The Corsair K63 Wireless gaming keyboard can be connected to two devices at the same time, either via Bluetooth or USB receiver. Switching between the two devices is easy and can be done directly on the keyboard.

This best mechanical keyboard under $100 from Corsair comes with linear Cherry MX Red switches that are very responsive and won’t cause any fatigue. Extra features of the Corsair K63 Wireless include a Windows key lock and dedicated media keys.

Compared to other models included in our list of the best mechanical keyboards under $100, Corsair K63 may be a bit behind when it comes to building quality, as it is made entirely out of plastic. However, the keys are very stable, so that’s plus points for the Corsair K63.

DIERYA DK61E 60%

If you are looking for the classic 60% mechanical keyboard with a compact design, Dierya DK61E is a good choice. Without a Numpad, this is a practical choice for gamers, offering more space to the desktop.

The keycaps are tough, sturdy, and oil-proof, ideal for heavy-duty gaming or typing. Speaking of durability, the circuit board of the keyboard of the Dierya DK61E is IPX4 certified, which means that a user can enjoy snacking in front of the computer without worrying about spills.

Whether you are looking for a TKL, 60%, or a Full mechanical keyboard you can’t go wrong with any of the best mechanical keyboards under $100. Do you have your own recommendations? Do share it with us in the comments!

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