Mechanical Keyboards Under $100 — 5 Picks That Don't Suck

Why Mechanical Keyboards Are Worth It

Membrane keyboards are fine for typing your grocery list. But if you're spending 8+ hours a day at a desk, the difference between a $10 membrane and a $70 mechanical is the difference between a Honda Civic and a Mazda Miata. Both get you there, but one makes you smile.

### 1. Keychron V1 — $69

The best bang-for-buck entry into mechanical keyboards. Hot-swappable switches, QMK/VIA support, and a knob that actually works. The V1 is the keyboard you buy when you want to dip your toes into the hobby without diving in headfirst.

• Gasket mount
• Hot-swappable (3/5-pin)
• RGB with per-key lighting
• USB-C and Bluetooth

### 2. Royal Kludge RK84 — $55

Budget king. This thing has wireless, hot-swap, and RGB for less than the price of a nice dinner. The build quality won't blow you away, but for $55? No complaints.

### 3. Akko 3087 — $70

If you care about aesthetics, Akko's colorways are unmatched. The 3087 comes in like 20 different color schemes and the PBT keycaps are legitimately good. Not hot-swappable, but the pre-lubed switches are solid.

### 4. Epomaker TH80 Pro — $80

Wireless tri-mode (USB-C, Bluetooth, 2.4GHz), gasket mount, and a TFT screen that shows your battery level. Sounds too good to be true at this price? It basically is.

### 5. Ducky One 3 — $90

The reliable choice. Ducky's been in the game forever and the One 3 is their best value board. Cherry-compatible hot-swap, PBT doubleshot keycaps, and a build that'll outlast your monitor.

The Verdict

Under $100, the Keychron V1 is the move. If you need wireless, the Epomaker TH80 Pro. If you want to look cool, the Akko 3087. Either way, your fingers will thank you.