Here’s the thing—mechanical keyboards used to be crazy expensive, with only a few brands catering to enthusiasts who could drop hundreds of dollars on something fancy. Thankfully, times have changed. In 2025, there are some seriously impressive budget gaming mechanical keyboards out there that punch way above their price tag.
Now, I’m not talking about those cheap membrane keyboards you find at random electronics stores. Nope, we’re diving into the world of proper mechanical switches, customizable RGB lighting, hot-swappable options, and even wireless connectivity—all for under $100. It’s wild how far things have come! The best part? These aren’t just basic keyboards; they’re packed with features that gamers and typists alike will love. From smooth linear switches perfect for fast-paced action to tactile ones that give satisfying feedback for every press, there’s something for everyone.
But with so many options flooding the market, finding the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s why I decided to put together this list of the top 5 budget gaming mechanical keyboards of 2025. These picks are based on performance, build quality, customization options, and overall value for money. Plus, I’ve included links to grab them on Amazon and AliExpress so you can check current prices and snag any deals that might be running.
#5 Royal Kludge R65
Let’s kick things off with the Royal Kludge R65, priced at just $59.99 (or even cheaper if you catch the 15% coupon that drops it to $50.99). This little guy is a 65% form factor keyboard, meaning it’s compact and perfect for saving desk space. It comes with a metal knob that has satisfying tactile bumps, though there’s a tiny bit of wobble—but honestly, nothing major.
The R65 is gasket-mounted, which means it has a softer typing feel thanks to silicone pads between the plate and PCB, as well as more dampening materials inside the case. It’s got a sleek two-piece plastic design with rounded edges and a decorative badge that gives it a custom look. You can choose between black and tan or green and white colourways, both of which scream premium.
Switch-wise, the R65 uses Royal Kludge’s own Preed Cream Linear switches. They’re factory-lubed, smooth, and not too heavy—not too light either. For keycaps, you’re getting double-shot PBT with an MDA profile, which feels great under your fingers. The stabilizers? Plate-mounted and factory-lubed, with only a slight rattle on the backspace key. Honestly, for this price, it’s hard to complain.
Connectivity is wired via USB-C, but it’s compatible with QMK/VIA for customization. And yes, it’s got RGB lighting—north-facing, bright, and vibrant with tons of modes. If you’re looking for something compact and feature-packed, the R65 is a steal.
#4 Dareu EK75 Pro
Next up is the Dareu EK75 Pro, also priced at $59.99. Think of it as a beefed-up version of the popular Akko 20 Pro, but with better build quality and a lower price tag. It’s a 75% form factor keyboard with a plastic knob that has tactile bumps and almost zero wobble. The two-piece plastic case looks sharp, especially with the side RGB accents that glow beautifully in a dark room.
This keyboard is gasket-mounted, giving it a bouncy, trampoline-like typing feel. Inside, it’s packed with foam between the plate and PCB, switch dampening pads, and more foam in the case. The result? A super quiet, creamy sound that’s perfect for gaming marathons.
The Dream High-Fi Linear switches are factory-lubed and buttery smooth. Paired with the dampening, they create a muted yet satisfying typing experience. The keycaps have a cherry profile with a slight texture, and the stabilizers are lubed and greased from the factory. There’s a tiny rattle on the shift and enter keys, but it’s barely noticeable.
What sets the EK75 Pro apart is its wireless connectivity—Bluetooth, a 2.4 GHz dongle, or good ol’ wired USB-C. With a 3750 mAh battery, you won’t need to charge it often. And the RGB? Bright, vibrant, and fully customizable. For $59.99, this is a no-brainer.
#3 ILovBee B87
If you prefer a full-sized experience without going overboard, the ILovBee B87 is your go-to. At $59.99 (or $39.99 for the green variant during sales), this TKL (tenkeyless) keyboard punches above its weight. It’s got a hot-swappable metal knob, which is rare at this price point, and it feels solid with tactile bumps.
The B87 uses a leaf spring gasket mount and is loaded with poron foam—a material I absolutely love because it gives the keyboard a creamy, muted sound. The case has RGB lining on the sides, adding a touch of flair. You can choose from retro red, gradient green, or plain green, depending on your vibe.
Switches? The Pre-Bed AST Linears are smooth and lightweight, making them ideal for gaming. Pair that with the poron foam, and you’ve got a buttery-smooth typing experience. The PBT keycaps are non-shine-through with a Cherry profile, and the stabilizers are factory-lubed. There’s a slight ticking sound on some keys, but a dab of grease fixes it instantly.
For connectivity, you’ve got options: Bluetooth, a 2.4 GHz dongle, or USB-C. The 3150 mAh battery ensures long-lasting performance, and the RGB is south-facing, bright, and vibrant. If you want a TKL keyboard that feels premium, the B87 is worth every penny.
#2 Aula F75
Coming in at $67.99, the Aula F75 is a 75% keyboard with a ton of customization options. The metal knob has tactile bumps and minimal wobble, and the two-piece plastic case is gasket-mounted with rounded edges and a mode-switching button. It’s got a nice weight to it and feels sturdy.
Inside, you’ll find layers of poron foam, a switch pad, and a silicone layer for dampening. The result is a refined, quiet typing experience that’s still punchy enough for gaming. The F75 comes in multiple colorways, including gradient black, blue, green, and more.
Switch options are where this keyboard shines. I tested the Leobog Reaper Linears, which are pre-lubed and smooth. They’re slightly heavier than average, which is perfect for precision gaming. And yes, it’s hot-swappable with three- and five-pin switches. The PBT keycaps have a cherry profile with a smooth finish, and the stabilizers are lightly lubed from the factory.
Connectivity includes Bluetooth, a 2.4 GHz dongle, or USB-C, and the 4000 mAh battery means you won’t run out of juice anytime soon. The RGB is vibrant, customizable, and has a small light bar in the corner for extra flair. For $67.99, the Aula F75 is a beast.
#1 Tecware Spectre 75
Finally, we’ve got the Tecware Spectre 75, priced at $79.99 (with discounts bringing it closer to $63.99). This is hands down the best budget gaming mechanical keyboard of 2025. It’s a 75% form factor with a customizable LCD screen in the corner, letting you upload GIFs or display stats. The two-piece plastic case is simple yet clean, giving it a custom look.
Dampening is top-notch, with foam between the plate and PCB, a switch pad, and silicone in the bottom. The sound is subdued but refined, which is exactly what you’d expect from Tecware. You can get it in black or white, and it comes with Candy Red Linear switches or Cocoa Brown Tactile switches. Both are pre-lubed and feel fantastic—slightly heavier than usual, which is great for gaming.
The PBT keycaps are double-shot with a subtle texture and the stabilizers? Oh man, these might be the best stock stabilizers I’ve ever tested. The delete key sounds like a Lego brick—it’s that tight and satisfying.
Connectivity is wireless via Bluetooth, a 2.4 GHz dongle, or USB-C, and the 4000 mAh battery ensures long-lasting performance. The RGB is vibrant, customizable, and south-facing. If you’re looking for the absolute best budget keyboard, the Spectre 75 is it.
