Top 6 Mechanical Gaming Keyboards Under 170 USD

Introduction To Gaming Keyboards

Gaming keyboards have become an essential tool for gamers looking to enhance their gaming experience. These keyboards are specifically designed to meet the demands of gaming, offering features and functionality that cater to gamers’ needs. These keyboards are meticulously crafted and optimized to fulfill the unique demands of gaming, providing a range of features and functionality.

One of the key aspects that set gaming keyboards apart is their implementation of mechanical switches. Unlike traditional membrane keyboards, gaming keyboards utilize mechanical switches that offer a distinct tactile feel and improved responsiveness. The actuation point and reset point of these switches are precisely engineered, allowing for faster and more accurate keystrokes. This is particularly crucial in fast-paced games where split-second reactions can make a significant difference.

Furthermore, gaming keyboards frequently feature programmable keys or macro functionality. This empowers gamers to assign complex commands or macros to specific keys, streamlining their actions and providing a competitive edge. Whether it’s executing intricate spell combinations in an RPG or performing advanced building techniques in a first-person shooter, the ability to program keys offers unparalleled convenience and efficiency.

Aspects To Consider Before Buying Gaming Keyboards

Here are some key aspects to consider when looking for a gaming keyboard:

Mechanical Switches

Gaming keyboards often feature mechanical switches, which provide a more tactile and responsive feel compared to membrane keyboards. Mechanical switches offer faster response times and improved durability, making them ideal for gamers who require precise keystrokes.

RGB Lighting

Many gaming keyboards come with customizable RGB lighting, allowing you to personalize your keyboard with a wide range of colors and lighting effects. This feature not only adds a visually stunning element to your gaming setup but also enhances immersion and atmosphere during gameplay.

Programmable Keys

Gaming keyboards often have programmable keys or macro functionality. This allows you to assign custom commands or complex macros to specific keys, giving you an advantage in games that require quick and efficient actions.

Ergonomics

Comfort is important during long gaming sessions. Look for keyboards with ergonomic designs, wrist rests, and adjustable tilt angles to reduce wrist strain and enhance the overall comfort.

Software Customization

Gaming keyboards often come with software that allows you to customize various settings, including lighting effects, macros, and key assignments. A user-friendly and intuitive software interface makes it easier to personalize your gaming experience.

Durability

Gaming keyboards should be built to withstand heavy use. Look for keyboards with durable construction, reinforced keycaps, and spill-resistant designs to ensure longevity and reliability.

Connectivity and Extras

Consider the connectivity options of the keyboard, whether it’s wired or wireless, and whether it has additional USB ports or media controls for added convenience.

Top 6 Mechanical Gaming Keyboards Under 170 USD

SteelSeries Apex Pro

The SteelSeries Apex Pro is an exceptional gaming keyboard that offers a combination of premium features, customizable options, and high-performance capabilities. Designed for gamers who demand precision and versatility, it stands out as a top-tier choice.

At the heart of the Apex Pro are the world’s fastest OmniPoint 2.0 adjustable switches. These switches provide adjustable actuation points, allowing you to fine-tune the sensitivity of each key to your liking. Whether you prefer a light touch or a deeper press, the Apex Pro can be customized to suit your gaming style and preferences. You can program and customize a single button for two different actions to get awesome gaming shortcuts.

It also has an OLED smart display that delivers essential information for gamers from apps and games.

The keyboard features a sleek and minimalist design with a durable aircraft-grade aluminum frame, ensuring longevity and a premium look and feel. The RGB lighting system adds a vibrant touch, allowing you to personalize and create stunning lighting effects that match your gaming setup.

With SteelSeries Engine software, you can fully customize the lighting, assign macros, and create profiles tailored to specific games or applications. The software’s intuitive interface makes it easy to create complex macros and synchronize lighting effects across all your SteelSeries devices.

In summary, the SteelSeries Apex Pro is a feature-rich gaming keyboard that offers exceptional performance, customization options, and a premium build. With its adjustable OmniPoint switches, sleek design, and advanced software customization, it is a top choice for gamers who seek precision and versatility in their gaming peripherals.

ASUS ROG Strix Flare

The ASUS ROG Strix Flare Mechanical Keyboard is a premium gaming keyboard that combines exceptional performance, stunning aesthetics, and customizable features. Designed with gamers in mind, it offers a superior gaming experience for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

The keyboard features Cherry MX RGB (Silver, Red, Silent Red) mechanical switches, known for their tactile feedback and quiet operation. The switches provide a balanced typing and gaming experience, making them versatile for various tasks. They are responsive and accurate, allowing for precise and comfortable keystrokes during intense gaming sessions.

The ROG Strix Flare boasts a sleek and stylish design with customizable RGB lighting. With ASUS Aura Sync technology, you can create stunning lighting effects and synchronize them with other Aura-compatible devices, immersing yourself in a vibrant gaming environment.

Also, the ROG Armoury II software lets you customize the Strix Flare keyboard to match your gameplay profile easily.

The keyboard’s detachable magnetic wrist rest provides ergonomic support during long gaming sessions, reducing wrist fatigue and enhancing comfort. It can be easily attached or detached based on your preference, allowing for a customizable and comfortable gaming experience.

In summary, the Asus ROG Strix Flare RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a top-of-the-line choice for gamers seeking a combination of performance, aesthetics, and customization options. With its high-quality switches, stunning RGB lighting, ergonomic design, and robust software customization, it provides a premium gaming experience that will satisfy even the most demanding gamers.

Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT

The Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT is an exceptional gaming keyboard that offers a premium experience for gamers and enthusiasts. With its sleek design, sturdy aluminum frame, and customizable per-key RGB backlighting, it is visually stunning and stands out on any gaming setup.

The Cherry MX Blue & MX Speed mechanical key switches provide a satisfying typing and gaming experience. Whether you’re typing out long documents or engaging in intense gaming sessions, the keys are responsive, accurate, and offer excellent tactile feedback.

One of the standout features of the K95 RGB Platinum XT is its extensive customization options. With the Corsair iCUE software, you can personalize the lighting effects, create macros, and remap keys to suit your individual preferences. The software is user-friendly and allows for easy customization without any hassle.

The keyboard also boasts advanced gaming features, such as six programmable macro keys and on-the-fly macro recording. These features give gamers a competitive edge by allowing them to execute complex commands and shortcuts with ease.

Furthermore, the K95 RGB Platinum XT comes with a comfortable detachable wrist rest, which provides ergonomic support during long gaming sessions, reducing strain on your wrists.

In conclusion, the Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT is a top-of-the-line gaming keyboard that delivers on all fronts. From its stunning design to its exceptional performance and customization options, it is a worthy investment for any gaming enthusiast.

Razer Huntsman Elite

The Razer Huntsman Elite is a premium gaming keyboard that combines cutting-edge technology with a sleek design. Designed for gamers who demand the highest performance, it offers a unique typing and gaming experience.

One of the standout features of the Huntsman Elite is its Razer Opto-Mechanical switches. These switches utilize light-based actuation, which results in an incredibly fast response time. With a keypress registering at the speed of light, you can enjoy lightning-fast gameplay and precise typing.

The keyboard’s customizable Razer Chroma RGB lighting adds a visually stunning element to your gaming setup. With Razer Synapse 3 software, you can create dazzling lighting effects, synchronize them across multiple Razer devices, and explore a wide range of pre-programmed lighting profiles.

The Razer Huntsman Elite features a comfortable magnetic wrist rest that provides ergonomic support during extended gaming sessions. It helps reduce wrist strain and enhances overall comfort, allowing you to stay focused on your game for longer periods.

Furthermore, the keyboard includes dedicated media controls and a multifunction digital dial, giving you convenient access to media playback, volume adjustments, and more, all within reach of your fingertips.

Overall, the Razer Huntsman Elite is a top-tier gaming keyboard that combines advanced technology, comfort, and stunning visuals. With its lightning-fast Opto-Mechanical switches, customizable Chroma RGB lighting, and convenient features, it provides an immersive and satisfying gaming experience.

HyperX Alloy Origins Core PBT

The HyperX Alloy Origins Core PBT is a compact and reliable gaming keyboard designed for gamers who prioritize performance and portability. With its Tenkeyless (TKL) design, it offers a compact form factor without sacrificing functionality.

The keyboard features custom HyperX mechanical key switches, known for their exceptional durability and responsiveness. Whether you prefer the linear HyperX Red switches, the tactile HyperX Aqua switches, or the clicky HyperX Blue switches, the Alloy Origins Core has options to suit your typing and gaming preferences.

The absence of a number pad allows for a more ergonomic and comfortable hand positioning, making it ideal for gamers who prefer a more compact layout or require extra desk space for mouse movement.

The keyboard is built with an aircraft-grade aluminum body that makes it strong and durable. You can take control of your gaming experience with the HyperX NGENUITY Software, a powerful and user-friendly tool that allows you to customize your lighting, create macros, and fine-tune Game Mode settings.

The keyboard’s red LED backlighting adds a stylish touch and enhances visibility in low-light environments. While it doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the brightness levels, and lighting effects can be adjusted directly on the keyboard itself.

In conclusion, the HyperX Alloy Origins Core is a reliable and compact gaming keyboard that focuses on performance and portability. With its durable construction, responsive mechanical switches, and compact design, it delivers a comfortable and efficient gaming experience without compromising on functionality.

Logitech G513 RGB

The Logitech G513 is also a high-quality gaming keyboard that offers a blend of style, performance, and customization options. With its sleek design and durable build, it instantly enhances the aesthetics of any gaming setup.

One of the key features of the G513 is its GX mechanical key switches. These switches provide a unique tactile feel and offer a quieter typing experience compared to other mechanical switches. They are highly responsive, allowing for rapid keystrokes during intense gaming sessions.

The keyboard’s customizable RGB lighting adds a vibrant touch to your gaming experience. With Logitech’s G Hub software, you can personalize the lighting effects, synchronize them with other Logitech devices, and create custom lighting profiles to match your preferences and game themes.

The G513 also features a comfortable palm rest that provides support during long gaming sessions, reducing fatigue and enhancing overall comfort.

The dedicated media controls and programmable function keys add convenience, allowing you to control media playback, adjust volume, and access macros with ease.

The Logitech G513 is a versatile and visually appealing gaming keyboard that delivers on both style and functionality. With its comfortable typing experience, customizable RGB lighting, and additional features, it is a great choice for gamers seeking a reliable and customizable gaming keyboard.

Conclusion

In conclusion, gaming keyboards have become an integral part of any serious gamer’s arsenal. Their tailored features, including mechanical switches, RGB lighting, programmable keys, ergonomic design, software customization, and durability, contribute to an enhanced gaming experience. By investing in a gaming keyboard, gamers can unlock their full potential, immerse themselves in the gameplay, and gain a competitive advantage in their virtual adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)