Best Mechanical Keyboards to Buy for Under $150

Introduction

After building a brand-new PC, the next logical step towards creating the ultimate setup is to upgrade your peripherals. There are a number of products that can make day-to-day productivity and leisurely tasks easier, but keyboards are arguably the most important of them all.

However, finding the right mechanical keyboard for you can be quite the challenge. With the complexity that comes with designing a keyboard, there are a lot of factors to consider, including the budget.

But never fear, as GeekaWhat HQ has done all the hard work for you. We’ve been busy scouring the internet for the best mechanical keyboards at varying price points.

In this buyers guide, we’ll be showing you our recommendations for the best mechanical keyboards for under $150, along with some advice on how to pick the right keyboard for you.

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What Makes a Gaming Keyboard Good for ‘Gaming’?

Before we dive into our favourite mechanical keyboards, it is important to understand what features will suit your daily needs. Whilst almost every task on a PC requires a keyboard at some stage, they can be separated into two categories, productivity and gaming. Productivity tasks mainly refers to typing documents or articles, but also includes any other work-related task, whereas gaming is strictly focussed on having fun!

Layout

The first thing to consider is the layout, as this will have a major impact on not only the rest of the keyboard, but how it fits into the rest of your setup. As mentioned earlier, larger layouts are typically better for typing and productivity, whilst smaller layouts are more popular amongst gamers. However, other factors such as portability, the amount of desk space available, or need additional inputs can affect the ideal layout too.

Key Switches

Another important factor when picking a mechanical keyboard is the switches, as it often determines the typing experience. There are a wide range of switches on the market, but they can be put into three categories: clicky, tactile, and linear. Clicky switches offer the most responsive feedback, whilst linear switches are quieter with more force required to register an input, and tactile switches sit somewhere between the two.

Macros & Media Controls

Whilst having macros and media controls is by no means a priority for most consumers, it is always a nice option to have. These additional controls offers the ability to adjust settings such as volume or lighting on the fly, without having to pause or exit the task you are currently on. This feature is going to be more beneficial to those using their keyboard for productivity reasons, but it can also be very useful in the middle of a gaming session.

Connectivity

One of the first decisions to make when picking a mechanical keyboard is the type of connection you want it to include. Choosing between a wireless or wired connection in particular can have a major influence on the performance and functionality of a keyboard. Wireless is the better option if you have the funds, as most wireless keyboards include wired connectivity as well, but it always worth double-checking.

Software Compatibility

Another nifty feature that is usually included with mid-range and high-end gaming peripherals is software compatibility. This software allows you to unlock more customisation options and settings that can’t be altered on the keyboard itself. Big brands such as Logitech and Corsair have their own software that supports a range of their products, making it possible to synchronise your setup’s lighting effects.

Hot-Swappable Parts

And finally, for those wanting a bit of a DIY project, or just looking to increase their keyboard’s longevity, it is worth considering a hot-swappable option. Hot-swapping has become a popular feature on gaming keyboards specifically, as it allows users to change the switches and keycaps without having to tear the entire keyboard apart. This significantly reduces the chance of damages, whilst also making upgrades a lot cheaper.

1. Keychron K2 V2 Wireless

We’re starting things off with a keyboard that could quite easily go under the radar of general buyers, the Keychron K2 V2. Keychron are a good example of how relying on already established brands can sometimes lead to you missing out on a hidden gem. Whilst they offer a wide range of keyboards with various form factors, we’ve gone for the Keychron K2 V2, as the 75% layout offers a perfect blend of compactness and functionality. But what makes this keyboard truly great is the amount of variations available. Whilst the appearance doesn’t change much between each model, the functionality varies quite a bit, with little change to the price.

2. ASUS ROG Falchion MX

For those looking for something a little bit smaller, we have the ASUS ROG Falchion MX. This keyboard has a compact 65% form factor, a layout that keeps the essential inputs but reduces desk space, leaving more room for your gaming mouse or other accessories. In addition, the Falchion MX includes 2.4GHz wireless connectivity via a USB dongle, which makes it an incredibly portable choice.

Compared to the Keychron K2 V2, this keyboard has a heavier gaming theme throughout, with a black and dark grey design that includes ASUS’ trademark Aura Sync per-key RGB lighting.

3. Logitech G PRO TKL

Next up, we have a gaming keyboard with a larger layout, the Logitech G Pro. TKL keyboards have been traditionally been considered the gold standard for competitive gaming. This is because the layout has enough space to fit all the necessary keys, along with some extras programmable buttons, but also clears some room for mouse movements. The Logitech G Pro adopts this mentality, and looks to provide the best gaming performance possible. As a wired keyboard, the G Pro doesn’t have the versatility of the other options on this list, but looks to make up for it with quality.

4. Corsair K70 RGB CHAMPION SERIES

Moving onto a direct competitor to the G Pro, we’ve picked out Corsair’s K70 RGB CHAMPION SERIES. Although the K70 shares a TKL layout and similar purpose to the Logitech G Pro, there a lots of design choices that differentiate the two products. For example, the aluminium frame on the K70 offers a distinct look that alters the effects of the RGB lighting. In addition, the K70 has a taller frame that most TKL keyboards in order to cater for a row of dedicated media controls. Similar controls can be found on most Corsair keyboards, but they are always a welcomed addition to a setup, as it makes adjustments mid-game or in general day-to-day use quick and hassle-free.

5. MSI Vigor GK71 Sonic

For those looking for a full-sized keyboard that makes a statement, then look no further than the MSI Vigor GK71 Sonic. Whilst the design of the GK71 Sonic is more of an acquired taste than the alternatives on this list, it is an absolute dream for lovers of RGB. The functionality of a full-sized layout is more suited to productivity, but the aesthetics on this keyboard is definitely tailored towards gamers. The combination of brushed metal and black plastic on the frame makes for a smart and durable base, but this gets quite literally outshined by the pudding keycaps. These keycaps possess the traditional solid black look on the top, but the clear plastic on the sides makes the GK71 Sonic extremely vivid and colourful.

6. Ducky One 3 Mini

To round off our list, we have the Ducky One 3 Mini. Another brand that purely focusses on gaming peripherals, Ducky have built a reputation for producing high-quality keyboards. Their One 3 Mini is a popular choice in particular, due its the small form factor and customisation options. With a 60% layout, the Ducky One 3 Mini is a better choice for gamers, as it is missing key inputs required for general productivity tasks. However, the integrated function key does offer a way round the limited keys featured on the design, which helps make the portable nature of the One 3 Mini slightly more appealing.