We've compiled our list of recommendations to help you find the best gaming keyboard under $100, and although some won't have extra features like more premium models, they're reliable for playing all your favorite games. When looking for a gaming keyboard, it's important to consider which types of switches you're most comfortable with, as some come in a range of mechanical switches, while others have rubber dome switches.
We've tested over 270 keyboards, and below are our recommendations for the best budget gaming keyboards available. All of these picks are suited for gaming, so if you're looking for budget keyboards that aren't gaming-focused, you can check out our picks for the best budget and cheap keyboards. Although many of these picks are mechanical, you might find something better suited to your needs in our recommendations for the best budget mechanical keyboards. Otherwise, feel free to check out the best keyboards for gaming or the best RGB keyboards.
For a deeper dive, check out our most recent 1.4 test bench update, which evaluates gaming keyboards with adjustable actuation settings like our Best Budget Wireless Gaming Keyboard For Enthusiasts pick, the MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra.
We test dozens of keyboards each year, and to maintain independence, we buy every unit ourselves. Our reviews go beyond subjective typing impressions or quick gaming sessions. Each keyboard is put through the same standardized test bench, so you can directly compare our results. We use specialized tools like a Mecmesin force tester to measure switch force curves and a Beagle 480 USB analyzer to capture input data for latency testing. Multiple teams contribute to each review in a process that can take days or even weeks from start to finish.
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Best Budget Gaming Keyboard
Gaming8.6Office6.4Mobile/Tablet1.0Programming7.0Entertainment / HTPC3.1Raw Performance8.9Size:Full-size (100%)Hot-Swappable Switches:NoConnectivity:WiredSwitch Type:MechanicalSee all our test resultsAnalog:NoIf you're after a budget-friendly gaming keyboard, the Corsair K70 CORE is an excellent choice. It comes in both full-size and TKL (TenKeyLess) layouts, with the latter removing the number pad to give you more room for mouse movement. The keyboard combines plastic and aluminum materials, resulting in solid build quality and minimal deck flex. In terms of performance, the K70 CORE delivers exceptional gaming responsiveness with outstanding single- and multi-key latency. While its 1000Hz polling rate isn't as high as the 8000Hz found on some newer models, the difference is negligible in real-world use. The Corsair MLX Red linear switches are light and have short pre-travel, making them ideal for fast-paced, reaction-based games. Keep in mind that the switches are soldered, so they can't be swapped later. The RGB backlighting is bright, highly customizable, and features clear legends for easy visibility.
If you prefer a more compact keyboard, the Corsair K65 RGB MINI is another top-tier option. It uses a 65% layout, removing the function row and the arrow keys. While this saves you some desk space for mouse movement, it'll also require some getting used to. The K65 RGB MINI also pushes performance even further, offering near-instant input response thanks to its 8000Hz polling rate. If you're after a wireless option with even more advanced features, take a look at our next entry.
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Best Budget Wireless Gaming Keyboard For Enthusiasts
Gaming9.0Office7.8Mobile/Tablet7.3Programming8.0Entertainment / HTPC6.4Raw Performance9.3Size:Compact (60%)Hot-Swappable Switches:YesConnectivity:WirelessSwitch Type:MagneticSee all our test resultsOutput Type:Adjustable ActuationWe strongly recommend the MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra if you're a competitive enthusiast. Simply put, this keyboard outperforms our top pick, the Corsair K70 CORE, not only in raw performance but also thanks to its added wireless versatility and lower price. Despite its budget price point, it has exceptionally low single- and multi-key latency and an effective update rate of 8000Hz. It also supports both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth wireless connectivity and features a premium-feeling all-aluminum frame, a feature typically found on much more expensive models.
The main reason we don't recommend it to everyone is that it uses magnetic switches, which allow you to customize the actuation point and enable advanced features like Rapid Trigger and SOCD. These features can provide a slight but meaningful edge in competitive play, but they're often overkill and can feel overly sensitive or unwieldy if you play more casually without the proper settings. The configuration software is powerful but comes with a steep learning curve for newcomers. Another consideration is that its compact 60% layout omits the function row, arrow keys, navigation cluster, and numpad. While this maximizes desk space for mouse movement, it may be a dealbreaker depending on your needs. If these aren't problems for you, the FUN60 Ultra delivers exceptional performance, high-end build quality, and wireless flexibility rarely seen at this price. It's a standout choice if it aligns with your needs.
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Best Versatile Budget Gaming Keyboard
Gaming8.4Office8.1Mobile/Tablet6.8Programming7.9Entertainment / HTPC6.0Raw Performance8.6Size:Compact (96%)Hot-Swappable Switches:YesConnectivity:WirelessSwitch Type:MechanicalSee all our test resultsAnalog:NoThe Keychron V5 Max isn't specifically marketed as a gaming keyboard above all else, but there are a few reasons why we recommend it. First off, its raw gaming performance puts many other dedicated gaming keyboards to shame. Second, it's part of a much wider lineup, which means you can buy a full-size version of this keyboard if you prefer having a numpad, or even a more ergonomic Alice layout. Third, these keyboards have an impressive range of quality-of-life features often found on more expensive custom keyboards. Some examples include PBT keycaps, a gasket mount system that makes typing feel softer, and multiple layers of acoustic foam inside the keyboard that round out the sound profile. There's even an included toolkit, so you can completely disassemble your board to swap out pieces, and the hot-swappable PCB means you can quickly pop out the stock switches for those of your choosing.
One of its only downsides is that while it has full RGB lighting, it has south-facing LEDs, and the keycaps don't have shine-through legends. This means you won't be able to read the legends on your keyboard as easily. Provided this isn't a dealbreaker for you, then this keyboard's multiple size variants, tri-mode connectivity, and hardware customization possibilities make it one of the most versatile budget gaming options available.
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Best Non-Mechanical Budget Gaming Keyboard
Gaming8.3Office6.1Mobile/Tablet1.1Programming6.6Entertainment / HTPC3.5Raw Performance8.7Size:Full-size (100%)Hot-Swappable Switches:NoConnectivity:WiredSwitch Type:Rubber DomeSee all our test resultsAnalog:NoMechanical or magnetic options often hog the spotlight, but non-mechanical gaming keyboards have advantages. Take the Corsair K55 RGB PRO XT, the best non-mechanical budget gaming board we've tested. It uses membrane switches hidden under a piece of solid frosted plastic, which is a bonus for the folks who like to eat and drink by their keyboard, as it's more resistant to spills and crumbs since there aren't any exposed moving parts. These switches are nearly silent during use, making them a great choice for people who game late into the night or have to game in tight, shared spaces.
In terms of its performance and features, it has almost every feature a gamer could want. It includes RGB backlighting that's customizable on a per-key basis, dedicated macro keys for easy access, extremely low latency, and a detachable wrist rest for ergonomic support during those marathon sessions.
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Best Non-Mechanical Cheap Gaming Keyboard
Gaming7.2Mobile/Tablet4.0Office7.2Programming6.8Entertainment / HTPC4.7Size:TenKeyLess (80%)See all our test resultsConnectivity:WiredIf you're looking for a cheaper, non-mechanical option, we recommend the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL. Its compact TenKeyLess form factor leaves you with more space on your desk for dynamic mouse movements, and its rubber dome switches are fairly light to press and very quiet compared to most mechanical switches. However, they have a longer pre-travel distance and feel a bit mushier compared to more expensive options.
This keyboard also doesn't offer the same level of raw gaming performance compared to the other options on this list, so we don't recommend it for competitive play. However, it's an impressive pick for casual gaming in any genre. It also has some extra features that are rare at this price, like the ability to set macros to any key, dedicated media keys, and a volume wheel. It has RGB lighting, too. However, the keys aren't individually lit, so you only have eight zones you can customize in the software.
Notable Mentions
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8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard:
The 8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard is an excellent alternative to the Corsair K70 CORE with a distinct vintage look. Its performance is excellent all-around, but particularly well-suited for playing arcade, retro, and rhythm games. Its clicky mechanical switches also emulate the tactility of old-school game controllers, but they're significantly louder and heavier-feeling than the fast switches on most gaming keyboards.
See our review
Recent Updates
Nov 18, 2025:
Since the Corsair K70 RGB TKL is no longer available at a budget price, we've replaced it with the Corsair K70 Core, which is our new 'Best Budget Gaming Keyboard' pick. We've also added the Corsair K65 RGB MINI as an alternative option.
Jun 25, 2025:
We’ve made the Corsair K70 RGB TKL our new Best Budget pick and added the MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra as a new wireless recommendation for enthusiasts. We’ve also updated category names and removed older, less relevant entries from our Notable Mentions.
Apr 16, 2025:
We've checked current pricing and aren't updating our picks at this time. That said, we're closely monitoring developments as trade conditions continue to shift. If you come across any unusual pricing or availability issues, we encourage you to let us know in the comments.
Jan 13, 2025:
We've made sure all our picks are in stock at the correct price points, but we haven't made any changes to our lineup of recommendations with this update.
Oct 17, 2024:
We've revisited this article to verify our picks' continued relevance, pricing, and availability, but no changes have been made to the lineup in this update.
All Reviews
Our recommendations above are what we think are the best gaming keyboards under $100 for most people. We factor in the price (a cheaper product wins over a pricier one if the difference isn't worth it), feedback from our visitors, and availability (no keyboard that is difficult to find or almost out of stock everywhere).
If you would like to do the work of choosing yourself, here is the list of all keyboards we've tested under $100. Be careful not to get too caught up in the details. While no product is perfect for every use, most keyboards are great enough to please almost everyone, and the differences are often not noticeable unless you really look for them. Be sure to know your key switch preferences before choosing.