Best Gaming Keyboards Under $100: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

Finding a high-performance gaming keyboard without breaking the bank can feel like a daunting quest. In a market flooded with options, it’s easy to get lost in technical jargon and flashy lights. That’s where we come in. After countless hours of testing, typing, and gaming, we’ve navigated the landscape to bring you the definitive guide to the best gaming keyboards under $100. Our top pick, the HyperX Alloy Origins 60 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, consistently stood out from the competition. Its aircraft-grade aluminum body provides a rock-solid foundation, the HyperX Red linear switches are incredibly fast and responsive, and its compact 60% form factor is perfect for maximizing desk space for intense mouse movements.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Gaming Keyboards Under $100

#1 HyperX Alloy Origins 60 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard – Ideal for: Competitive Gamers Needing Maximum Desk Space

From the moment we unboxed the HyperX Alloy Origins 60 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, its premium quality was undeniable. The first thing you notice is the weight; its full aircraft-grade aluminum body gives it a satisfying heft and ensures it stays planted on your desk during the most frantic gaming sessions. There is absolutely zero flex to this board, a testament to its robust construction. The 60% form factor is a game-changer for anyone with limited desk space or those who, like us, prefer wide, sweeping mouse movements without bumping into a number pad. The HyperX Red linear switches are the star of the show. They are incredibly fast, smooth, and require minimal force to actuate, making them perfect for rapid-fire inputs in FPS and action games. Our testing confirmed they feel balanced for both speed and accuracy. This sentiment was echoed by numerous users who noted a significant increase in their typing speed and in-game responsiveness. The double-shot PBT keycaps feel durable and have a pleasant texture that resists the shine that plagues lesser keyboards. We also appreciated the vibrant, bright RGB lighting, which shines brilliantly thanks to the exposed LED design on the switches. The only learning curve, as some users pointed out, is getting used to the function (FN) key for accessing arrow keys and F-keys, but it quickly becomes second nature.

#2 Elgato Stream Deck Mini Productivity Control – Perfect for: Streamers and Content Creators on a Budget

While not a traditional keyboard, the Elgato Stream Deck Mini Productivity Control is an indispensable tool for any gamer who also streams or creates content. We found it to be a massive productivity booster, transforming complex keyboard shortcuts into single, satisfying button presses. The setup process is refreshingly simple; Elgato’s software is intuitive, allowing you to drag and drop actions onto the six customizable LCD keys with ease. We programmed it to switch scenes in OBS, trigger sound effects, and launch applications, and it performed flawlessly every time. The ability to create folders means those six keys can hold a virtually unlimited number of commands, a feature we and many other users found incredibly powerful. While its primary audience is streamers, we discovered it’s just as useful for everyday tasks, creating shortcuts for Zoom, PowerPoint, and even specific trading functions. The build is solid, and the keys provide a nice tactile feel. Our one minor critique, which some users also noted, is that the colors on the LCD screens can appear slightly washed out compared to their on-screen counterparts. However, for streamlining your workflow and elevating your production value at this price point, the Stream Deck Mini is an absolute game-changer.

#3 Corsair K55 RGB PRO Gaming Keyboard – Suits: Gamers Wanting Full-Size Features on a Budget

For gamers who aren’t ready to leap into the mechanical world or prefer a quieter experience, the Corsair K55 RGB PRO Gaming Keyboard presents a compelling package. As a membrane keyboard, it offers a soft, quiet typing experience that’s comfortable for both long gaming sessions and everyday work. We were immediately impressed by the feature set for the price. You get six dedicated macro keys, fully programmable through Corsair’s iCUE software or via Elgato Stream Deck software, which is a fantastic addition for MMO players or streamers. The dedicated media keys and volume roller are also a welcome convenience, allowing for on-the-fly adjustments without tabbing out of your game. The included detachable palm rest is soft, textured, and genuinely comfortable, reducing wrist fatigue during extended use. The IP42 dust and spill resistance provides peace of mind against accidental spills. While the five-zone RGB lighting isn’t as granular as per-key options, it’s bright and looks great. The biggest hurdle for us, a point many users vehemently agreed with, is the baffling decision to invert the legends on the number and symbol keys. It’s a strange design choice that takes some getting used to. Still, for its price, the feature-rich Corsair K55 RGB PRO Gaming Keyboard offers tremendous value.

#4 Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Gaming Keyboard – Ideal for: Gamers Demanding the Fastest Possible Actuation

When speed is the top priority, the Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Gaming Keyboard enters the conversation with authority. This keyboard is built around Razer’s Clicky Optical Switches, which use light-based actuation for near-instantaneous key registration. In our hands-on testing, the difference was palpable; the keys feel incredibly responsive and light, perfect for competitive gaming where every millisecond counts. The audible click is sharp and satisfying, providing clear feedback with every press. Like our top pick, this keyboard sports a 60% layout, clearing up a ton of desk real estate for your mouse. The build quality is excellent, with a sturdy aluminum top frame and high-quality doubleshot PBT keycaps that feel great and resist the oily buildup common on ABS caps. The Razer Chroma RGB is, as expected, a visual treat with deep customization options through the Synapse software. Many users confirm that it’s a fantastic keyboard for both gaming and office work, though the loud clicky switches might not be suitable for a shared workspace. The only drawback we found is that the optical switches are not hot-swappable, limiting customization down the line. But for pure, out-of-the-box speed in a compact and durable package, the Huntsman Mini is a formidable contender.

#5 Orzly Hornet RX-250 Gaming Bundle 4-in-1 – Perfect for: Beginners Building a Full Setup from Scratch

For someone just starting their PC gaming journey, the cost of peripherals can add up quickly. The Orzly Hornet RX-250 Gaming Bundle 4-in-1 tackles this head-on, offering a complete starter kit at an unbelievably low price. The bundle includes a membrane keyboard, an optical mouse, a headset with a microphone, and a mouse pad. In our evaluation, we found the keyboard to be the strongest component. It has a comfortable, if standard, membrane feel, and the multi-color backlighting looks quite good, adding a touch of gamer aesthetic to any setup. The mouse is lightweight and functional, with adjustable DPI settings that work as advertised. The overall value proposition is the main draw here. As one user aptly put it, it’s a perfect starter set. However, it’s important to set expectations. We noted, and many reviews confirmed, that the durability can be a concern. The paint on the keycaps tends to wear off with heavy use, and the headset is functional but certainly the weakest link in the package, with some users reporting issues with the microphone. Despite these trade-offs, if you need to get a full gaming setup running on a shoestring budget, this bundle provides everything you need to jump right into the game.

#6 EPOMAKER Ajazz AK820 Pro 75% Wireless Mechanical Keyboard TFT Display Knob – Suits: Budget-Conscious Keyboard Enthusiasts

The EPOMAKER Ajazz AK820 Pro 75% Wireless Mechanical Keyboard TFT Display Knob is a keyboard that punches far above its weight class, delivering features we’d typically expect to see on boards costing twice as much. The standout feature is, of course, the TFT smart display. We had a lot of fun customizing it with GIFs, but it’s also genuinely useful for displaying the time, battery status, and connectivity mode. The typing experience is superb right out of the box. Its gasket-mounted design provides a soft, cushioned feel, and the pre-lubed switches we tested (the “Gift” variant) offered a wonderfully creamy sound profile with no rattle or ping. We also love the versatility of its tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, and USB-C), which worked seamlessly in our tests. The 75% layout is a perfect middle ground, retaining arrow keys and the function row while saving significant desk space. The hot-swappable sockets are a huge plus for enthusiasts who want to experiment with different switches later. A few users mentioned, and we agree, that the software can be a bit tricky to find and navigate. However, for the price, the combination of a TFT screen, hot-swappable switches, wireless connectivity, and a fantastic out-of-the-box sound is simply unmatched.

#7 RK ROYAL KLUDGE S108 Typewriter Mechanical Keyboard RGB – Ideal for: Users Seeking a Unique, Retro Aesthetic

If you’re tired of the standard gamer aesthetic, the RK ROYAL KLUDGE S108 Typewriter Mechanical Keyboard RGB offers a refreshing and stylish alternative. Its retro round keycaps and steampunk-inspired design make it a true centerpiece for any desk. We found the typing experience to be incredibly satisfying. The clicky Blue switches provide distinct tactile and audible feedback, reminiscent of an old-school typewriter, which made typing long documents a joy. Many users reported that their typing speed actually increased on this keyboard. The build quality is surprisingly robust, featuring an aluminum alloy panel that gives it a solid, premium feel. The full 108-key layout means you don’t sacrifice any functionality, and the included detachable wrist rest is a comfortable and welcome addition. The RGB backlighting is vibrant, with a huge number of modes to choose from, including a unique sidelight. The biggest drawback we encountered, a common point of frustration in user reviews, is that the keycap legends themselves are not backlit. The RGB shines from under the keys, not through them, making the characters difficult to see in the dark. If you’re a touch typist this is a non-issue, but for others, it could be a dealbreaker. For its unique style and solid mechanical feel, however, it’s a fantastic choice.

#8 EPOMAKER Aula F75 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard – Perfect for: Gamers Prioritizing a “Thocky” Sound and Feel

The EPOMAKER Aula F75 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard is an acoustic masterpiece for its price point. If you’re chasing that deep, satisfying “thocky” sound profile without wanting to build a keyboard from scratch, this is your answer. In our testing, the five-layer internal padding and gasket-mounted structure worked wonders, producing a cushioned typing feel and a clean, muted sound that we absolutely loved. The pre-lubed LEOBOG Reaper switches are smooth and responsive, perfect for both gaming and extended typing sessions. The 75% layout is highly efficient, keeping the essential keys while maintaining a compact footprint. We also appreciated the convenient multimedia knob for quick volume adjustments. Like its Ajazz cousin, the Aula F75 offers tri-mode connectivity, and we found the 2.4GHz wireless connection to be stable and low-latency, even during fast-paced gaming. The hot-swappable sockets add long-term value, allowing for future customization. The main drawback, as several users have reported, is the software. It is not compatible with macOS and is distributed through a Google Drive link, which can feel a bit sketchy. However, if you can look past the software and focus on the hardware, the typing feel and sound quality are simply phenomenal for the cost.

#9 Redragon K580 PRO Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard – Suits: Users Needing a Wireless Full-Size Board with Macros

Finding a full-size, wireless mechanical keyboard with dedicated macro keys under $100 is a tall order, but the Redragon K580 PRO Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard manages to deliver. This keyboard is a workhorse, packed with features for gamers and power users alike. We were impressed by the versatile tri-mode connectivity, which allows you to switch between three different devices (one 2.4Ghz, two Bluetooth) on the fly. The five dedicated macro keys (G1-G5) are easy to program, even on-the-fly without software, which is a huge plus for MMO or productivity tasks. The dedicated media controls and volume/brightness wheel are well-implemented and feel great to use. The inclusion of hot-swappable sockets is another standout feature, offering compatibility with most 3-pin and 5-pin switches for future upgrades. Our experience with the stock linear Red switches was positive; they were smooth and relatively quiet. Our main ergonomic complaint, echoed by some users, is the placement of the connectivity mode switch on the bottom of the keyboard, which is inconvenient. Additionally, the media keys only light up temporarily when pressed. Despite these minor quirks, the K580 PRO offers a robust, feature-rich wireless experience for those who need a full-size layout.

#10 AULA F99 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard – Ideal for: Users Wanting a Numpad in a Compact, Wireless Form

The AULA F99 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard strikes an excellent balance between functionality and desk space with its 96% layout. This design keeps the full number pad that is essential for data entry and productivity, while trimming the fat for a footprint that’s not much larger than a tenkeyless (TKL) board. We found the typing experience to be outstanding. The combination of pre-lubed linear switches and a multi-layered sound-dampening structure produces a very pleasant, “creamy” sound that many users rave about. The keyboard has a substantial weight to it, feeling sturdy and well-built. A standout feature is the massive 8000mAh battery; in our testing, this keyboard just kept going and going, easily lasting through long work and gaming sessions on a single charge. It also features tri-mode connectivity and hot-swappable sockets, adding to its versatility and long-term value. Like other enthusiast-focused budget boards, the software is its weakest point, but the hardware is so good that many will not even feel the need to install it. For anyone who wants the productivity of a number pad without the massive footprint of a traditional full-size keyboard, the AULA F99 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard is a superb wireless option.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

• Switch Type: This is the most important factor for feel and performance. Mechanical switches come in three main flavors: Linear (smooth, fast, like Red switches), Tactile (a noticeable bump mid-press, good for typing, like Brown switches), and Clicky (a bump plus an audible click, satisfying but loud, like Blue switches). Membrane keyboards are quieter and often cheaper but feel “mushy” and lack the precision of mechanicals.
• Form Factor (Size): Do you need a number pad? Full-size (104/108 keys) keyboards have everything. Tenkeyless (TKL) removes the number pad for more mouse room. 75% is even more compact but keeps the arrow and function keys. 60% or 65% are the smallest, removing function rows and more for maximum desk space, relying on function layers for missing keys.
• Build Quality & Keycaps: A keyboard with a metal (usually aluminum) top plate or full body will feel more solid and last longer than an all-plastic one. For keycaps, look for Double-shot PBT. They are more durable and resist the shiny, oily look that cheaper ABS keycaps develop over time.
• Connectivity: Wired keyboards offer a fool-proof, zero-latency connection. Wireless options (either 2.4GHz dongle or Bluetooth) offer a cleaner desk setup but require charging. For gaming, a 2.4GHz connection is strongly preferred over Bluetooth due to its lower latency.
• Extra Features: Look for features that suit your needs, such as hot-swappable sockets (to change switches without soldering), dedicated media controls, programmable macro keys, or included wrist rests.

Understanding Keyboard Switch Types

The “switch” is the mechanism under each keycap that registers a keystroke. For gaming keyboards under $100, you’ll mainly encounter mechanical switches and rubber dome membrane switches. Mechanical switches are generally preferred for their durability, responsiveness, and distinct feel. As mentioned above, they are categorized as Linear, Tactile, or Clicky. Linear switches (like Cherry MX Red or equivalent) are ideal for fast-paced gaming as there’s no bump to overcome, allowing for rapid, repeated presses. Tactile switches (like Cherry MX Brown) are a great all-around choice, providing feedback that you’ve pressed the key, which is great for typing accuracy without being overly loud. Clicky switches (like Cherry MX Blue) are the loudest but provide the most definitive feedback, which many typists love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Form Factor: Buying a full-size keyboard when you have limited desk space can be a huge mistake, constantly causing you to hit your mouse on the keyboard during intense gaming moments. Measure your space and consider how much you value a number pad.
• Choosing the Wrong Switch for Your Environment: Buying a keyboard with loud, clicky Blue switches for a shared office or dorm room is a quick way to annoy everyone around you. Consider Linear or Tactile switches for quieter operation.
• Prioritizing RGB over Build Quality: Don’t be fooled by flashy lights on a flimsy, all-plastic keyboard. A solid build with better switches and keycaps will provide a much better experience in the long run than a keyboard with a million color modes but a cheap feel.
• Assuming All Wireless is Equal: For gaming, there is a significant difference between a 2.4GHz wireless connection and Bluetooth. Always opt for 2.4GHz (which uses a dedicated USB dongle) for a low-latency, stable gaming experience. Bluetooth is fine for typing but can introduce noticeable lag in games.

Frequently Asked Questions

What features can I expect from a gaming keyboard under $100?

In the sub-$100 price range, you can expect a fantastic range of features. Most keyboards will offer mechanical switches (often from brands like Outemu, LEOBOG, or even proprietary ones like HyperX’s), full RGB backlighting, and durable construction (sometimes with an aluminum top plate). More advanced features like tri-mode wireless connectivity (2.4GHz, Bluetooth, Wired), hot-swappable sockets for changing switches, and PBT keycaps are also becoming increasingly common and are featured on several of our top picks.

Are hot-swappable keyboards available for under $100?

Yes, absolutely. The enthusiast keyboard market has driven this feature into more affordable price brackets. Models like the EPOMAKER Ajazz AK820 Pro, EPOMAKER Aula F75, and Redragon K580 PRO all offer hot-swappable sockets, allowing you to easily customize your typing experience by trying different mechanical switches without any soldering.

What is the most durable gaming keyboard in this price range?

Based on our testing, the HyperX Alloy Origins 60 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is one of the most durable options. Its full aircraft-grade aluminum body gives it a tank-like build with zero flex. Combined with its high-quality double-shot PBT keycaps, it’s designed to withstand years of intense gaming sessions.

Should I choose a wireless or wired keyboard under $100?

This depends on your priorities. A wired keyboard guarantees a lag-free, reliable connection and you never have to worry about battery life. A wireless keyboard offers a cleaner, cable-free desk setup. For competitive gaming, we recommend either a wired connection or a wireless keyboard with a 2.4GHz dongle for the lowest latency. Thankfully, many excellent options under $100 now offer both.

Which brands offer the best value for under $100?

Brands like HyperX, Corsair, and Razer offer excellent entry-level mechanical keyboards that carry their reputation for quality. At the same time, brands like EPOMAKER, Redragon, and Aula are pushing the boundaries of value, often packing more “enthusiast” features like hot-swappable sockets and advanced acoustic dampening into their budget-friendly models.

Can I get a good mechanical keyboard from a major brand like Logitech or Razer for this price?

Yes. While their flagship models are more expensive, major brands often have excellent entry-level mechanical options that fall under or around the $100 mark, especially during sales. The Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Gaming Keyboard on our list is a prime example of getting premium brand performance and technology at an accessible price point.

What are the best switches for a sub-$100 gaming keyboard?

For pure gaming, linear switches (typically “Red” switches) are often considered the best. They offer a smooth, consistent keypress with no tactile bump, allowing for the fastest possible actuation which is critical in competitive games. However, tactile switches (“Brown” switches) are a fantastic all-around option if you also do a lot of typing, as the small bump improves accuracy without being loud.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After rigorous testing and comparison, we can confidently say that the best gaming keyboard under $100 is the HyperX Alloy Origins 60 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard. It strikes the perfect balance of premium build quality, top-tier performance, and a gamer-centric design. The full aluminum body provides a stability and feel that is unmatched by the plastic-bodied competition in this price range. Its custom HyperX Red linear switches are exceptionally fast and smooth, giving you a competitive edge when it matters most. While the 60% form factor may require a slight adjustment period, the benefit of having massive amounts of extra desk space for your mouse is a trade-off we believe is well worth it for any serious gamer. For a reliable, durable, and high-performing keyboard that feels like it should cost much more, the HyperX Alloy Origins 60 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is our definitive top choice.

Last update on 2025-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API