: The 9 Best Gaming Keyboards Under $100 in 2023

Gaming keyboards can elevate your play with faster inputs and more precision. Fortunately, you can get a high-quality keyboard without spending a lot. We’ve researched the top affordable gaming keyboards priced under $100 for 2023.

This buying guide covers what to look for in a budget gaming keyboard and provides detailed recommendations to help you find the right one.

## H2: How to Choose the Best Gaming Keyboard Under $100

Consider these factors when picking an affordable gaming keyboard:

: Switch Type

Mechanical switches are ideal for gaming due to their responsiveness, but they may cost more. Membrane and scissor switches are cheaper alternatives.

: Key Rollover 

Look for at least 6-key rollover to avoid ghosting when pressing multiple keys at once.

: Backlighting

RGB offers customizable backlighting. Red is good for visibility without being distracting. 

: Programmable Keys

Allow you to bind macros and shortcuts. Great for MMOs and MOBAs.

: Comfort and Ergonomics

Keycaps, wrist rests, and the overall shape affect comfort during extended gaming.

: Extra Features

Media controls, USB passthrough and software can provide added functionality.

## H2: 9 Best Gaming Keyboards Under $100

### H3: 1. Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

**Brand:** Redragon | **Compatible Devices:** Gaming Console, PC | **Connectivity Technology:** Wired | **Keyboard Description:** Mechanical | **Special Feature:** Lighting | **Color:** Black | **Number of Keys:** 87 | **Keyboard backlighting color support:** RGB | **Style:** K552-RGB | **Item Dimensions LxWxH:** 13.9 x 4.8 x 1.4 inches

The Redragon K552 is a compact tenkeyless mechanical gaming keyboard with custom mechanical switches designed to mimic Cherry MX Blue switches. It delivers great quality and performance for the price.

This keyboard from Redragon uses high-quality mechanical switches to deliver responsive, tactile feedback for gaming. The compact tenkeyless design conserves desk space without sacrificing performance. 

With a metal top plate for durability and mechanical keys that can withstand 50 million keystrokes, the Redragon K552 is built to last through intense gaming marathons. The red LED backlighting creates visibility in dark settings without being overly bright.

#### H4: REASONS TO BUY

- Sturdy, compact design

- Smooth, tactile switches  

- RGB backlighting

- N-key rollover

- Great value

#### H4: REASONS TO AVOID

- Thin keycaps

- No wrist rest

- Limited customization

### H3: 2. HyperX Alloy Core RGB Membrane Gaming Keyboard

**Brand:** HyperX | **Compatible Devices:** Gaming Console, PC | **Connectivity Technology:** Wired | **Keyboard Description:** Membrane | **Special Feature:** Lighting | **Color:** Black | **Number of Keys:** 104 | **Keyboard backlighting color support:** RGB | **Style:** Alloy Core RGB | **Item Dimensions LxWxH:** 17.4 x 5.2 x 1.5 inches

The HyperX Alloy Core RGB features responsive membrane keys, dynamic RGB lighting effects and a spill-resistant design. It's a great mid-range option for gaming and typing.

With customizable per-key lighting and a sleek, compact design, the Alloy Core RGB delivers functionality and style without breaking the bank. The spill-resistant build makes it more durable than typical budget keyboards.

The steel-reinforced body of the Alloy Core RGB gives it a sturdy, premium feel uncommon for a budget gaming keyboard. And with convenient onboard memory, you can save your favorite RGB lighting profiles for gaming on the go.   

#### H4: REASONS TO BUY

- Sleek, compact design

- Smooth membrane keys

- Customizable RGB lighting

- Spill/dust resistant   

#### H4: REASONS TO AVOID 

- Keys feel mushy

- Limited onboard memory

### H3: 3. Logitech G213 Prodigy Gaming Keyboard

**Brand:** Logitech G | **Compatible Devices:** Gaming Console, PC | **Connectivity Technology:** Wired | **Keyboard Description:** Membrane | **Special Feature:** Lighting, Media Control | **Color:** Black | **Number of Keys:** 104 | **Keyboard backlighting color support:** RGB | **Style:** Prodigy | **Item Dimensions LxWxH:** 18.74 x 8.34 x 1.34 inches

Logitech’s G213 combines durable spill-proof membrane keys with RGB lighting and dedicated media controls. The integrated wrist rest boosts comfort.

With dedicated media controls and a built-in wrist rest, the Logitech G213 is designed for comfortable, convenient gaming and entertainment. The tactile mechanical-dome switches provide a more responsive feel than typical membranes. 

The unique angled design of the Logitech G213 helps reduce hand and wrist fatigue during marathon gaming sessions. And with 16.8 million color RGB lighting, you can customize colors and effects to match your setup.

#### H4: REASONS TO BUY

- Slim, modern design

- Tactile mechanical dome switches  

- RGB backlighting

- Built-in wrist rest

#### H4: REASONS TO AVOID

- Shallow keypresses

- Wrist rest adhesive can melt

### H3: 4. Havit RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard and Mouse

**Brand:** Havit | **Compatible Devices:** Gaming Console, PC | **Connectivity Technology:** Wired | **Keyboard Description:** Mechanical | **Special Feature:** Lighting | **Color:** Black | **Number of Keys:** 104 | **Keyboard backlighting color support:** RGB | **Style:** HV-KB390L | **Item Dimensions LxWxH:** 18.1 x 6.6 x 1.4 inches

This combo from Havit provides a 104-key RGB backlit mechanical keyboard and 6-button gaming mouse for one low price. The keyboard uses Outemu Blue switches for a satisfying clicky feel.

With a full-size mechanical gaming keyboard and 6-button gaming mouse, this Havit bundle provides an immersive gaming experience out of the box. The ergonomic wrist rest enhances comfort for marathon gaming sessions.

The injection molded suspended keycaps on the Havit keyboard allow each keypress to register rapidly with a satisfying click. And with 7 different LED lighting modes, you can pick vibrant effects to suit your mood or game.

#### H4: REASONS TO BUY

- Great value keyboard + mouse bundle

- Tactile, clicky Outemu Blue switches 

- RGB backlighting

- Ergonomic wrist rest

#### H4: REASONS TO AVOID

- Bulky footprint

- No macro customization

### H3: 5. SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming Keyboard

**Brand:** SteelSeries | **Compatible Devices:** Gaming Console, PC | **Connectivity Technology:** Wired | **Keyboard Description:** Membrane | **Special Feature:** Lighting, Spill Resistant | **Color:** Black | **Number of Keys:** 104 | **Keyboard backlighting color support:** RGB | **Style:** Apex 3 | **Item Dimensions LxWxH:** 17.24 x 5.11 x 1.57 inches

The Apex 3 from SteelSeries features premium membrane keys, 10-zone RGB illumination, and IP32 water resistance. It delivers solid performance and durability.

With extensive RGB lighting customization and IP32 water resistance, the SteelSeries Apex 3 adds gamer-centric features without the premium price tag. The fast membrane switches provide a responsive feel for gaming. 

The specially coated ABS keycaps on the Apex 3 allow smooth, consistent movement even during competitive play. And with 10-zone brilliant RGB illumination, you can highlight important key groups for MOBAs, MMOs or FPS games.

#### H4: REASONS TO BUY 

- Sleek, compact design

- Smooth membrane switches  

- 10-zone RGB lighting 

- IP32 water resistant

#### H4: REASONS TO AVOID

- Macro customization limited

- Non-detachable cable

### H3: 6. AUKEY Mechanical Keyboard with Brown Switches

**Brand:** AUKEY | **Compatible Devices:** Gaming Console, PC | **Connectivity Technology:** Wired | **Keyboard Description:** Mechanical | **Special Feature:** N/A | **Color:** Black | **Number of Keys:** 87 | **Keyboard backlighting color support:** Blue | **Style:** CB-G11 | **Item Dimensions LxWxH:** 13.9 x 4.9 x 1.5 inches

The budget-friendly AUKEY mechanical keyboard uses tactile, quiet Outemu Brown switches paired with soothing blue LED backlighting. It delivers mechanical quality in a compact form factor.

With a compact tenkeyless design, the AUKEY mechanical keyboard conserves space without compromising on responsive tactile switches. The blue LED backlight adds visibility for gaming in dim environments. 

Thanks to the gold-plated USB connector, the AUKEY resists corrosion for a more durable, reliable connection during intense gaming sessions. And the Outemu Brown switches provide tactile feedback without excessive noise.

#### H4: REASONS TO BUY

- Real mechanical switches

- Compact, portable size  

- Tactile Brown switches

- Soothing blue backlight

#### H4: REASONS TO AVOID

- Keycaps prone to fading

- Non-RGB lighting

### H3: 7. Razer Cynosa Chroma Gaming Keyboard 

**Brand:** Razer | **Compatible Devices:** Gaming Console, PC | **Connectivity Technology:** Wired | **Keyboard Description:** Membrane | **Special Feature:** Chroma RGB Lighting | **Color:** Black | **Number of Keys:** 104 | **Keyboard backlighting color support:** RGB | **Style:** Cynosa Chroma | **Item Dimensions LxWxH:** 18.2 x 6.1 x 1.2 inches

The Razer Cynosa Chroma delivers customizable Chroma RGB backlighting and quiet, responsive membrane keys. It's a great entry-level gaming keyboard from a top brand.

With extensive Chroma RGB lighting options, the Razer Cynosa Chroma makes it easy to customize colors and effects. And Razer's gaming pedigree provides reliable performance for the price. 

With over 16 million color options, the fully programmable Chroma RGB lighting on the Razer Cynosa takes immersion to the next level. The soft-cushioned keys are optimized for both gaming and daily typing comfort.

#### H4: REASONS TO BUY

- Fully customizable RGB lighting

- Spill-resistant membrane keys

- Soft, responsive feel  

- Razer gaming pedigree

#### H4: REASONS TO AVOID

- Keys feel mushy to some

- No macro or media keys

### H3: 8. RedThunder One-Handed RGB Gaming Keyboard

**Brand:** RedThunder | **Compatible Devices:** Gaming Console, PC | **Connectivity Technology:** Wired | **Keyboard Description:** One-Handed Membrane | **Special Feature:** Compact 35-key Layout | **Color:** Black | **Number of Keys:** 35 | **Keyboard backlighting color support:** RGB | **Style:** Gaming Keyboard | **Item Dimensions LxWxH:** 6.7 x 4.3 x 1.6 inches

The uniquely designed RedThunder one-handed keyboard works great for gaming thanks to its compact 35-key layout. The responsive membrane keys are outfitted with customizable RGB lighting.

With a uniquely compact design tailored for one-handed gaming, the RedThunder keyboard provides easy access to essential keys. The RGB lighting and ergonomic shape enhance the gaming experience.

The 35 keys on the RedThunder are strategically arranged to give your thumb, index and middle fingers access to the most vital gaming actions. The keyboard is lightweight for effortless maneuvering yet doesn't sacrifice on response. 

#### H4: REASONS TO BUY

- Unique 35-key one-handed layout

- Smooth membrane keys

- Customizable RGB lighting  

- Ergonomic design

#### H4: REASONS TO AVOID 

- Keys are very close together

- Not ideal for typing

### H3: 9. HP K2500 Wireless Keyboard

**Brand:** HP | **Compatible Devices:** Gaming Console, PC | **Connectivity Technology:** Wireless | **Keyboard Description:** Membrane | **Special Feature:** Media Control, Spill Resistant | **Color:** Silver/Black | **Number of Keys:** 104 | **Keyboard backlighting color support:** White | **Style:** K2500 | **Item Dimensions LxWxH:** 17.36 x 5.98 x 0.7 inches 

The HP K2500 uses smooth scissor-switch keys and wireless connectivity for a clutter-free desk setup. It's a solid budget option for casual gaming and productivity.

With wireless flexibility, integrated media controls, and a spill-resistant build, the HP K2500 offers convenience and reliability in an affordable package. The scissor-switch keys provide a responsive feel for gaming or typing.

The low-profile key design on the HP K2500 allows for comfortable, quiet typing that won't disrupt others. And the useful volume dial and media keys grant convenient control while gaming or enjoying entertainment.

#### H4: REASONS TO BUY

- Wireless via USB dongle

- Low-profile scissor switches

- Integrated media controls

- Spill-resistant 

#### H4: REASONS TO AVOID

- Limited backlighting  

- AA batteries required

## H2: Conclusion

You can get excellent gaming keyboard performance without having to spend a lot. Mechanical keyboards like the Redragon K552 provide responsive, tactile keys for gaming. Or quality membrane keyboards like the SteelSeries Apex 3 offer smooth, fast inputs at an affordable price. 

Focus on the switch type, rollover, and ergonomics first when shopping in this budget range. Extra features like RGB lighting, media controls and wrist rests are nice bonuses. With this list of the top sub-$100 options, you can upgrade your setup with a reliable, high-performing gaming keyboard.