Introduction

Gaming keyboards can make a significant difference in your gaming experience. While high-end models often come with a hefty price tag, there are plenty of excellent options available for under $100. This guide will help you find the best gaming keyboard that suits your budget and needs.

Why Invest in a Gaming Keyboard?

A gaming keyboard is not just about the aesthetics. It can enhance your gameplay with better performance, durability, and customizability.

Enhanced Performance

Gaming keyboards are designed with features that improve your performance. These include faster response times and precise key registration.

Durability and Build Quality

High-quality materials ensure that gaming keyboards can withstand intense gaming sessions. They are built to last longer than standard keyboards.

Key Features to Consider

When choosing a gaming keyboard, several key features should be considered to ensure you get the best value for your money.

Mechanical vs. Membrane Switches

Mechanical switches offer tactile feedback and durability, while membrane switches are quieter and more affordable. Decide based on your preference for feel and sound.

RGB Lighting

RGB lighting isn't just for looks. It can help you see the keys better in low light and add a personalized touch to your setup.

Anti-Ghosting and N-Key Rollover

These features prevent missed or incorrect keystrokes, ensuring that all your inputs are registered accurately, even during fast-paced games.

Ergonomics

An ergonomic design reduces strain on your wrists during long gaming sessions. Look for keyboards with wrist rests and adjustable height.

Additional Macro Keys

Extra macro keys can be programmed for specific functions or commands, giving you an edge in competitive gaming.

Top 10 Gaming Keyboards Under 100

Here are the top 10 gaming keyboards you can get for under $100, each offering a unique set of features and benefits.

1. Corsair K55 RGB

Features and Specifications

  • Membrane switches
  • Six programmable macro keys
  • Dynamic RGB backlighting

Pros and ConsPros:

  • Affordable
  • Customizable lighting
  • Dedicated media controls

Cons:

  • Membrane switches may not appeal to everyone

2. Razer Cynosa Chroma

Features and Specifications

  • Membrane switches
  • Individual key RGB lighting
  • Spill-resistant design

Pros and ConsPros:

  • Durable build
  • Great lighting effects
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • No mechanical switches

3. Redragon K552 Kumara

Features and Specifications

  • Mechanical switches
  • Compact tenkeyless design
  • RGB backlighting

Pros and ConsPros:

  • Affordable mechanical option
  • Compact and portable
  • Strong build quality

Cons:

  • No wrist rest

4. SteelSeries Apex 3

Features and Specifications

  • Membrane switches
  • 10-zone RGB illumination
  • Water-resistant

Pros and ConsPros:

  • Durable and spill-resistant
  • Customizable lighting zones
  • Silent operation

Cons:

  • Membrane keys might not be preferred by mechanical keyboard fans

5. HyperX Alloy Core RGB

Features and Specifications

  • Membrane switches
  • Six lighting effects
  • Spill-resistant

Pros and ConsPros:

  • Affordable
  • Durable design
  • Great lighting options

Cons:

  • Membrane switches only

6. Logitech G213 Prodigy

Features and Specifications

  • Mech-Dome keys
  • RGB lighting
  • Integrated palm rest

Pros and ConsPros:

  • Comfortable to use
  • Customizable lighting
  • Dedicated media controls

Cons:

  • Bulky design

7. Cooler Master Devastator 3

Features and Specifications

  • Mem-chanical switches
  • RGB lighting
  • Mouse included

Pros and ConsPros:

  • Budget-friendly combo
  • Decent build quality
  • Customizable lighting

Cons:

  • Mem-chanical feel may not suit everyone

8. Havit HV-KB395L

Features and Specifications

  • Low-profile mechanical switches
  • Full RGB backlighting
  • Ultra-thin design

Pros and ConsPros:

  • Sleek design
  • Great for typing and gaming
  • Customizable lighting

Cons:

  • No wrist rest

9. Aukey KM-G12

Features and Specifications

  • Mechanical switches
  • RGB backlighting
  • Durable build

Pros and ConsPros:

  • Solid construction
  • Great for gaming
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • Slightly louder switches

10. Tecware Phantom 87

Features and Specifications

  • Mechanical switches
  • Customizable RGB lighting
  • Durable and compact design

Pros and ConsPros:

  • Great build quality
  • Hot-swappable switches
  • Compact and portable

Cons:

  • No dedicated media keys

Conclusion

Choosing the right gaming keyboard under $100 doesn't mean compromising on quality or performance. Whether you prefer mechanical or membrane switches, RGB lighting, or additional macro keys, there's a keyboard on this list for you. Invest in a good gaming keyboard and elevate your gaming experience to the next level.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between mechanical and membrane keyboards? 

Mechanical keyboards use individual switches for each key, providing tactile feedback and durability, while membrane keyboards use a single rubber dome, making them quieter and more affordable.

2. Are RGB lighting features necessary in a gaming keyboard?

While not necessary, RGB lighting can enhance the aesthetic of your gaming setup and help you see the keys better in low-light conditions.

3. What is anti-ghosting in keyboards? 

Anti-ghosting ensures that multiple key presses are registered accurately, preventing missed or incorrect inputs during fast-paced gaming.

4. Can I use a gaming keyboard for typing? 

Yes, gaming keyboards can be used for typing. Mechanical keyboards, in particular, are often preferred for typing due to their tactile feedback.

5. Are there gaming keyboards under $100 with mechanical switches? 

Yes, several gaming keyboards under $100 feature mechanical switches, such as the Redragon K552 Kumara and the Tecware Phantom 87.