How To Build A Custom Mechanical Keyboard For Under 100 Dollars

Building your own mechanical keyboard doesn’t have to be an expensive hobby. With smart choices and careful sourcing, you can assemble a fully functional, personalized keyboard for less than $100. Unlike mass-produced models, a custom build lets you choose every component—switches, keycaps, layout, and even sound profile—so it fits your typing style perfectly. This guide walks through the process of selecting affordable yet reliable parts, assembling them correctly, and tuning your keyboard for long-term comfort and performance—all while staying within a tight budget.

Selecting the Right Components on a Budget

The foundation of any successful build is choosing components that balance cost, quality, and compatibility. A full custom keyboard typically includes a case, printed circuit board (PCB), plate, switches, keycaps, stabilizers, and cables. While high-end builds can exceed $300, many entry-level options now deliver excellent performance at a fraction of the price.

Budget builders should focus on TKL (87-key) or 65% layouts, which reduce material costs and simplify sourcing. Avoid rare or custom keycap sets, which can quickly drain your budget. Instead, opt for widely available ABS or PBT plastic keycaps in standard colorways. For PCBs and cases, open-source or group-buy alternatives offer solid engineering without premium pricing.

Tip: Look for \"kit\" bundles on marketplaces like Amazon, AliExpress, or KBPartPicker—they often include case, PCB, and plate together at a discount.

Essential Parts List and Price Breakdown

To stay under $100, each component must be carefully selected. The following table outlines realistic prices for new or lightly used parts from reputable vendors as of 2024. All prices are in USD and based on average market rates from stores like MechanicalKeyboards.com, KBDfans, and AliExpress.

Component	Recommended Option	Average Cost
Case	Plastic TKL case (e.g., GK61X-style or DIY kit)	$15–$25
PCB & Plate	Hot-swap PCB with matching acrylic or polycarbonate plate	$20–$30
Switches	Outemu Red or Gateron Yellow (68-pack)	$15–$20
Keycaps	ABS OEM-profile set (108 keys, generic brand)	$20–$25
Stabilizers	OEM wire stabs (included with PCB or bought separately)	$5–$10
Cable	USB-C to USB-A braided cable	$5–$8
Total Estimated Cost	$90–$118

Note: Some variation is expected depending on shipping times and vendor discounts. Buying during sales events (e.g., Black Friday, Prime Day) or using coupons from r/MechanicalKeyboards Discord servers can help keep the total under $100.

“Affordable doesn’t mean low quality. Many budget components today use the same molds and materials as premium brands—just without the markup.” — Jordan Lee, Keyboard Engineer at Input Labs

Step-by-Step Assembly Guide

Once all components arrive, follow this sequence to assemble your keyboard safely and efficiently. No soldering is required if you’ve chosen a hot-swap PCB.

1. Prepare your workspace: Use a clean, well-lit surface with an anti-static mat or wrist strap if possible. Gather small tools: tweezers, switch puller, screwdriver, and zip ties.
2. Install the plate into the case: Align the mounting points and secure with screws. Ensure no warping occurs—this affects switch alignment later.
3. Mount the PCB: Place the PCB onto standoffs inside the case, aligning screw holes. Tighten gently; over-tightening can crack plastic cases.
4. Lubricate switches (optional but recommended): Apply light lubricant like Krytox 100 to the switch stems for smoother feel. Skip this step if time-constrained.
5. Insert switches into the PCB: Press each switch firmly into the hot-swap sockets. Use tweezers for precise placement. Double-check polarity if not using uniform switches.
6. Install stabilizers: Clip-in stabs go under larger keys (spacebar, enter, shift). Test fit before adding keycaps. Lubing stabs reduces ping noise significantly.
7. Attach keycaps: Start with smaller keys, then install spacebars and modifiers. Press straight down to avoid damaging switch housings.
8. Connect the cable and test: Plug in the keyboard and use a tool like Keyboard Tester to verify all keys register correctly.

Tip: If a key isn’t responding, reseat the switch or check for debris in the socket. Hot-swap PCBs make troubleshooting easy.

Real Example: Sarah’s First Build Under $95

Sarah, a college student and coding enthusiast, wanted a durable, quiet keyboard for late-night programming sessions. She had a strict $100 limit but didn’t want to compromise on feel. After researching forums and watching YouTube tutorials, she sourced her parts over three weeks:

• Used a $18 black plastic 65% case from a clearance sale on KBDfans
• Purchased a $22 hot-swap PCB/plate combo with RGB support
• Chose $17 Gateron Silent Browns for reduced noise
• Bought a $23 white ABS keycap set with dark gray accents
• Added $7 stabilizers and $6 USB-C cable

Total: $93. After assembly, she flashed QMK firmware to remap her caps lock to escape and enable layer toggling. “It feels more personal than anything I could’ve bought ready-made,” she said. “And people always ask where I got such a clean little board.”

Do’s and Don’ts When Building on a Budget

Making the right trade-offs is essential when balancing cost and quality. The following table highlights common pitfalls and best practices.

Do	Don't
Buy kits that bundle PCB, plate, and case	Overpay for boutique keycap sets early on
Use community resources like r/MechanicalKeyboards for deals	Skimp on stabilizers—they greatly affect typing quality
Choose common layouts (60%, 65%, TKL) for better part availability	Assume cheaper switches are always worse—some budget brands perform well
Test each switch before installing keycaps	Rush assembly—misaligned switches lead to wobbling keys
Keep leftover screws and tools organized	Ignore firmware customization—it adds value at no extra cost

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I build a wireless mechanical keyboard under $100?

It’s extremely difficult. Reliable Bluetooth modules and battery integration usually add $30–$50 to the bill of materials. However, some pre-assembled compact boards like the Keychron Q1 HE come close to this range with wireless capability, though they may require minor modifications to customize further.

Are cheap switches durable enough for daily use?

Yes. Brands like Outemu and Greetech now offer switches rated for 50 million keystrokes—comparable to mid-tier Cherry MX clones. While they may lack the refinement of higher-end switches, they’re more than sufficient for typing, coding, or casual gaming. Lubrication also helps improve longevity and smoothness.

What if I make a mistake during assembly?

Most errors are reversible with hot-swap builds. Misplaced switches can be removed with a puller. Incorrect wiring is rare with plug-and-play PCBs. If a key doesn’t actuate, try reseating the switch or testing with another one. Always double-check connections before powering on.

Final Checklist Before You Begin

Before placing orders or starting assembly, run through this checklist to ensure success:

• ✅ Confirm layout compatibility between case, PCB, and keycaps
• ✅ Verify PCB supports hot-swap if you don’t want to solder
• ✅ Check switch type (linear, tactile, clicky) matches your preference
• ✅ Order slightly more switches than needed (for spares or future mods)
• ✅ Download firmware tools (QMK or VIA) if planning custom keymaps
• ✅ Watch a teardown video of your specific PCB model for reference
• ✅ Allow 2–4 weeks for international shipping if buying from overseas

Conclusion: Your Custom Keyboard Is Within Reach

Building a custom mechanical keyboard for under $100 is not only possible—it’s rewarding. With thoughtful planning, access to global markets, and growing open-source support, anyone can create a keyboard tailored to their hands and habits. You gain more than just a device; you develop a deeper understanding of how keyboards work, what makes typing enjoyable, and how small adjustments can enhance productivity. Whether you're a writer, programmer, or frequent texter, a well-built budget keyboard can elevate your daily digital experience without straining your wallet.

💬 Ready to start building? Share your first build idea or ask questions in the comments—join thousands who’ve discovered the joy of crafting their perfect keyboard.