Best Mechanical Keyboard Under $150: Top Picks & Buyer’s Guide

In this guide we focus on finding the best mechanical keyboard under $150. While this price range won’t get you the absolute top-tier keyboards, it does offer a sweet spot of affordability and quality. It’s where you can find keyboards with excellent build quality, great performance, and features usually found in more expensive models.

Top Picks

• Best 75%: Keychron K2 V2 Wireless: This keyboard is a hidden gem with its compact 75% layout and high customizability.
• Best 65%: ASUS ROG Falchion MX: If you’re after a 65% size, the ASUS ROG Falchion MX is worth a look.
• Best Gaming: Logitech G PRO TKL: This keyboard is designed with competitive gaming in mind. It features a traditional TKL layout and stealthy aesthetics, with custom RGB lighting.
• Best TKL: Corsair K70 RGB CHAMPION SERIES: Corsair’s K70 is another TKL keyboard that caters to gamers. It stands out with its aluminium frame and dedicated media controls.
• Best Full Size: MSI Vigor GK71 Sonic: MSI Vigor GK71 Sonic is a full-sized keyboard that shines bright with its vivid RGB lighting and pudding keycaps.

🏆 Keychron K2 V2 Wireless

The Keychron K2 V2 Wireless mechanical keyboard is an impressive offering that combines compactness with high functionality, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate a smaller footprint without sacrificing usability.

The 75% layout design gives it a neat, compact feel while still ensuring that you have all the keys you need for regular typing or gaming. As a notable feature, this model is hot-swappable, which means you can switch out the keys for any that you prefer without needing to solder them. This is a great feature for those who like to customize their keyboard to suit their specific preferences.

Aesthetically, the keyboard is pretty basic. It features a sturdy aluminum frame that’s built to withstand a few knocks. While some may find the design bland, the RGB backlighting adds a pop of color and the keycaps can be easily switched out for something more unique and personalized.

In terms of connectivity, the Keychron K2 V2 offers both wired (USB-C) and wireless (Bluetooth) options, which is great for those who want to minimize desk clutter or have the flexibility to connect to multiple devices. With up to 240 hours of battery life, it provides impressive longevity, so you don’t need to worry about it dying in the middle of your workday or gaming session.

As for the downsides, one is the weak gaming performance. Although it functions well for everyday typing tasks, it might not meet the requirements of hardcore gamers. Additionally, some users might want to make minor upgrades to suit their personal preferences.

🥇 ASUS ROG Falchion MX

The ASUS ROG Falchion MX is a compact and feature-packed keyboard that targets gaming enthusiasts with its high-performance capabilities and innovative design.

At first glance, you’ll notice the sleek and minimalistic aesthetics. With its 65% form factor, it eliminates non-essential keys to save on desk space without sacrificing gaming efficiency. The compact layout allows more room for mouse movements, making it a viable choice for gamers.

The Falchion MX comes with a dark theme and ASUS’ signature Aura Sync per-key RGB lighting. This allows you to set the mood for your gaming sessions and can even sync up with other Aura Sync-compatible peripherals for a unified look.

One of its standout features is its interactive touch panel, a rarity in compact keyboards. This feature allows you to adjust volume, create shortcuts, and even check the battery status. The touch panel makes it easy to perform quick adjustments mid-game, giving you a slight edge during intense gaming moments.

The Falchion MX performs reliably, with a 1ms response time and both wired and wireless connectivity options. However, note that it’s not hot-swappable and does not support Bluetooth connectivity. While this might not be an issue for some, others may find the lack of these features limiting. Also, it’s more suited for gaming rather than typing, so it may not be the best choice if you plan to use it primarily for work.

🥇 Logitech G PRO TKL

The Logitech G PRO TKL is a solid choice for those seeking a professional, gaming-oriented keyboard with a minimalistic look. This wired, tenkeyless (TKL) model is designed with a focus on delivering peak performance for competitive gaming.

This keyboard employs a traditional TKL layout, providing all essential keys while saving space to allow for increased mouse movement — an important feature for FPS and MOBA gamers. Although it lacks wireless connectivity, the hard-wired design ensures stable and latency-free performance.

The design is sleek and stealthy, boasting an all-black aesthetic that will fit seamlessly into any setup. Despite its professional look, the G PRO doesn’t forget about the gamers who enjoy a splash of color. With Logitech’s LIGHTSYNC RGB lighting, users can customize the lighting settings to their preference, creating a more personal gaming atmosphere.

Performance-wise, the G PRO is top-notch. Its wired connection offers low latency and reliable inputs, which are critical during high-stakes gaming sessions. Although it uses a micro USB port, which can feel somewhat outdated, the detachable cable design adds to its durability and lifespan.

However, the G PRO does fall short in terms of switch variety, offering only two options: responsive clicky blue and tactile brown switches. Despite this limitation, both switch types offer great feedback and are highly suitable for gaming.

🥇 Corsair K70 RGB CHAMPION SERIES

The Corsair K70 RGB CHAMPION SERIES stands as a powerhouse in the world of mechanical keyboards, offering an impressive blend of style, function, and performance that any gamer would be hard-pressed to overlook.

This tenkeyless (TKL) keyboard is wired, giving it a stable and low-latency connection that’s crucial for competitive gaming. It features a distinct aluminium frame, which not only offers added durability but also enhances the effects of the keyboard’s vibrant RGB lighting. This series takes it a step further with a taller frame to accommodate a row of dedicated media controls – a feature that proves convenient for swift adjustments during intense gaming sessions or everyday use.

When it comes to performance, the Corsair K70 truly lives up to the ‘champion’ in its name. It’s powered by Corsair’s AXON technology, which enables an 8000Hz polling rate and an ultra-low response time of just 0.25ms. Its USB-C connection further reduces input lag, and the detachable cable design enhances its durability and portability.

However, its potential drawbacks include a lack of wireless connectivity, limited switch options, and the absence of hot-swap capability. Despite these, the unique features like the tournament switch, which allows gamers to disable macros and switch to static lighting instantly, outweigh the cons and position this keyboard as a top contender in the market.

🥇 MSI Vigor GK71 Sonic

The MSI Vigor GK71 Sonic is a full-sized keyboard that combines visual appeal and excellent functionality. It is tailored for users who prefer a more visually engaging keyboard and offers a good balance of gaming and typing performance.

Designed for gaming enthusiasts, the GK71 Sonic is encased in a robust combination of brushed metal and black plastic. The standout feature is undoubtedly the unique ClearCaps or pudding keycaps, which significantly amplify the RGB lighting effects to create a vibrant aesthetic. However, these ClearCaps are not just for the visual show – they also contribute to a lighter feel of the keys.

The keyboard is fitted with MSI’s Sonic Red switches that are linear and lightweight, leading to a smooth and bouncy typing experience. For added typing comfort, the GK71 Sonic also includes an adjustable kickstand and a wrist rest.

However, on the downside, the GK71 Sonic lacks a detachable cable, limiting its portability. Plus, it does not offer wireless connectivity, meaning it would best suit a more permanent setup.

Mechanical Keyboard Buyer’s Guide

This comprehensive buyer’s guide will walk you through the basics of mechanical keyboards and provide you with insights into key factors to consider, as well as a list of top models within your budget. Additionally, we’ll discuss how to maintain your mechanical keyboard and answer some frequently asked questions. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of mechanical keyboards!

Understanding the Basics of Mechanical Keyboards

Before delving into the nitty-gritty details, it’s important to understand what a mechanical keyboard actually is and why it stands apart from the more common membrane keyboards.

When you think of a keyboard, you probably picture a flat, plastic device with keys that you press down to input characters. This is a membrane keyboard, which is the standard type of keyboard found in most computers. However, there is another type of keyboard that offers a completely different experience – the mechanical keyboard.

What is a Mechanical Keyboard?

A mechanical keyboard is a type of keyboard that uses individual mechanical switches for each key, as opposed to a rubber membrane found in most traditional keyboards. These switches are small mechanical devices that sit below each key and register a keystroke when pressed down. Unlike membrane keyboards, which rely on a rubber dome to register key presses, mechanical keyboards offer a more tactile and responsive typing experience.

Each mechanical switch is made up of several components, including a spring and a stem. When you press a key, the stem pushes down on the spring, which then compresses and registers the keystroke. This design allows for faster and more accurate typing, making mechanical keyboards popular among professionals and enthusiasts.

Why Choose a Mechanical Keyboard?

There are several advantages to using a mechanical keyboard over a membrane keyboard. Firstly, mechanical keyboards are more durable and built to last. The individual switches can withstand millions of key presses, ensuring that your keyboard remains functional for years to come. This durability is especially important for heavy typists or gamers who rely on their keyboards for extended periods of time.

Additionally, the tactile feedback provided by mechanical switches allows for more accurate typing and reduces the chance of accidentally hitting adjacent keys. When you press a key on a mechanical keyboard, you can feel a satisfying click or bump, indicating that the keystroke has been registered. This feedback not only enhances the typing experience but also helps to reduce typing errors, making mechanical keyboards a favorite among writers, programmers, and gamers.

Besides their durability and typing advantages, mechanical keyboards offer customization options. From different switch types that suit your typing style to customizable keycaps, mechanical keyboards allow you to create a personalized typing experience. You can choose switches that are linear, tactile, or clicky, depending on your preference for a smooth, responsive, or audible typing experience. Additionally, many mechanical keyboards offer the ability to swap out keycaps, allowing you to customize the look and feel of your keyboard to match your style or gaming setup.

Furthermore, mechanical keyboards often have features that cater to specific needs. Some keyboards are designed specifically for gaming, with features like customizable RGB lighting, programmable macros, and anti-ghosting technology to prevent keypress conflicts. Others are designed for typing enthusiasts, with ergonomic layouts and specialized key switches to reduce strain and improve comfort during long typing sessions.

Mechanical keyboards offer a superior typing experience compared to membrane keyboards. Their durability, tactile feedback, and customization options make them a popular choice among professionals, gamers, and typing enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re looking for a keyboard that can keep up with your fast typing speed, want a more enjoyable gaming experience, or simply appreciate the satisfying click of each keystroke, a mechanical keyboard is worth considering.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Mechanical Keyboard

Now that you have a basic understanding of mechanical keyboards, let’s explore some key factors you should consider before making a purchase.

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard, there are several important factors that can greatly impact your typing experience. From price range to keyboard size and layout, switch types, and keycap material, each element plays a crucial role in determining the overall quality and functionality of the keyboard.

Price Range

One of the first things to consider is your budget. Fortunately, there are plenty of excellent mechanical keyboards available under $150. However, it’s essential to determine how much you are willing to spend, keeping in mind that higher-end keyboards might offer additional features and better build quality.

Investing in a high-quality mechanical keyboard can be a worthwhile decision, as it can enhance your typing speed, accuracy, and overall comfort. So, carefully consider your budget and choose a keyboard that offers the best value for your money.

Keyboard Size and Layout

Mechanical keyboards come in various sizes, and the layout can also differ. The most common layouts include full-size, tenkeyless (TKL), and compact.

Full-size keyboards feature a numeric keypad, which is useful for those who frequently work with numbers or require a dedicated set of keys for gaming. On the other hand, TKL keyboards exclude the numeric keypad for a more compact design, which can save valuable desk space and provide a more ergonomic typing experience.

For those who prefer an even more compact design, there are compact keyboards, such as 60% or 65%, which further reduce size by omitting the function row and arrow keys. These keyboards are popular among gamers and those who prioritize portability.

When choosing a keyboard size and layout, consider your needs, preferences, and desk space. Think about the tasks you’ll be performing on the keyboard and how the layout will impact your workflow.

Switch Types

Another crucial factor to consider is the type of switches used in the keyboard. Each switch type provides a unique typing experience, and finding the right one for your needs can greatly enhance your overall satisfaction with the keyboard.

Here’s a breakdown of some popular switch types:

• Cherry MX Red: Linear switches with a light touch and no tactile bump. These switches are popular among gamers due to their smooth keystrokes and fast actuation.
• Cherry MX Brown: Tactile switches with a slight bump and moderate actuation force. These switches strike a balance between gaming and typing, making them versatile for various tasks.
• Cherry MX Blue: Tactile and clicky switches with a noticeable bump and audible click. These switches are favored by typists who enjoy the satisfying click sound and precise tactile feedback.
• Gateron Red: Similar to Cherry MX Red with a smoother keystroke. These switches offer a similar experience to Cherry MX Red at a more affordable price point.

Consider your typing style, preferences, and the tasks you’ll be performing on the keyboard when choosing a switch type. If possible, try out different switches before making a final decision to ensure the best typing experience.

Keycap Material

While often overlooked, keycap material can significantly impact your typing experience. Keycaps can be made from various materials, including ABS plastic and PBT plastic.

ABS plastic keycaps are commonly found on most keyboards. While they offer a smooth and shiny surface, they are more prone to wear and tear over time, resulting in the key legends fading away.

PBT plastic keycaps, on the other hand, are more durable and resistant to fading. They have a textured surface that provides a better grip and a more satisfying typing feel. Keycaps made from doubleshot or dye-sublimated PBT plastic offer even more longevity, as the legends are embedded into the keycap material, preventing them from wearing out over time.

Consider your preferences for keycap material, taking into account factors such as durability, texture, and overall typing comfort.

How to Maintain Your Mechanical Keyboard

Proper maintenance of your mechanical keyboard is essential to ensure its longevity and optimal performance.

Cleaning Tips

Regular cleaning helps to remove dust, debris, and oils that can accumulate on the keycaps and switches. Here are some cleaning tips:

1. Use a keycap puller to remove the keycaps gently.
2. Wipe the keycaps with a damp cloth or gently wash them with mild soap.
3. Use compressed air or a small brush to clean the exposed switches.

Regular Maintenance Practices

In addition to cleaning, there are a few regular maintenance practices you can follow:

• Keep your keyboard away from liquids to prevent damage to the internal components.
• Avoid eating or drinking while using the keyboard to prevent crumbs or spills.
• Turn off your computer before unplugging or plugging in the keyboard.

Conclusion

With a solid understanding of the basics, key factors to consider, and some top models available, you are now equipped to choose the perfect mechanical keyboard under $150 that meets your needs. Remember to maintain your keyboard regularly to maximize its lifespan, and enjoy the enhanced typing experience that mechanical keyboards bring!

Here’s our top picks again …

• Best 75%: Keychron K2 V2 Wireless: This keyboard is a hidden gem with its compact 75% layout and high customizability.
• Best 65%: ASUS ROG Falchion MX: If you’re after a 65% size, the ASUS ROG Falchion MX is worth a look.
• Best Gaming: Logitech G PRO TKL: This keyboard is designed with competitive gaming in mind. It features a traditional TKL layout and stealthy aesthetics, with custom RGB lighting.
• Best TKL: Corsair K70 RGB CHAMPION SERIES: Corsair’s K70 is another TKL keyboard that caters to gamers. It stands out with its aluminium frame and dedicated media controls.
• Best Full Size: MSI Vigor GK71 Sonic: MSI Vigor GK71 Sonic is a full-sized keyboard that shines bright with its vivid RGB lighting and pudding keycaps.

Mechanical Keyboard FAQs

What is the best budget mechanical keyboard for writing?

The Keychron K2 V2 Wireless is a solid choice for a budget mechanical keyboard specifically designed for typing. With its 75% layout, hot-swappable feature, and a wide array of switch options, it allows for a customized typing experience that suits different preferences.

Is Ducky a good brand?

Yes, Ducky is indeed a reputable brand in the mechanical keyboard market. The company is known for producing high-quality keyboards that offer good tactile feedback, customization options, and durability. Their models often feature compact layouts, making them a favorite amongst both gamers and typists.

Do mechanical keyboards last a lifetime?

While no product can truly last a lifetime, mechanical keyboards are known for their longevity. They are typically constructed with durable materials and high-quality mechanical switches that can withstand millions of keystrokes. With proper care and maintenance, a good mechanical keyboard can easily last for over a decade.

What is the best budget keyboard for Fortnite?

The ASUS ROG Falchion MX is a great budget choice for Fortnite and other fast-paced games. Its compact 65% layout frees up desk space for mouse movement, and the 1ms response time ensures quick, lag-free inputs. The keyboard also features a unique touch panel for quick adjustments and shortcuts.