Mechanical keyboards, with their oh-so-satisfying clickiness and customization options, are fast becoming the standard for any kind of desktop PC setup. But they’re often pretty pricey, with even mid-range or gaming options sometimes tipping into triple digits. Today one of our favorite budget picks, which earned an Editor’s Choice in its review last year, is even cheaper. You can pick up the Keychron C3 Pro mechanical keyboard for just $29.88 on Amazon right now.
The Keychron C3 Pro is a TKL (tenkeyless) keyboard, which means it has a standard layout and full arrow keys, only missing the chunky calculator bit on the left side. That makes it easy to adjust to for anyone dipping their toes into mech boards, which isn’t necessarily true for smaller designs. It’s a wired board that comes with your choice of Red (smooth) or Brown (with a tactile “bump”) switches. Other premium options include red LED lighting, a removable USB-C cable, and dual-stage feet for adjusting the typing angle.
Michael Crider/Foundry
Michael Crider/Foundry
Michael Crider/Foundry
The C3 Pro lacks some of the bells and whistles of more advanced models, like an all-metal body, volume dial, or the option to change out your switches. But it does allow you to reprogram its layout and macros with either the online VIA tool or QMK, something that’s practically unheard of even at its regular price. The standard TKL layout also means you can customize the keycaps with a near-unlimited number of flashy aftermarket upgrades.
These two options make the Keychron C3 Pro a great place to start if you’re just getting into the hobby and want to check it out without sinking tons of money in. But even if you’re not interested in tweaking it, a $30 price tag means this is a fantastic option for a replacement to the flimsy keyboard that came with your PC, or an external board for when your laptop is docked at a desk.
Author: Michael Crider, Staff Writer, PCWorld
Michael is a 10-year veteran of technology journalism, covering everything from Apple to ZTE. On PCWorld he's the resident keyboard nut, always using a new one for a review and building a new mechanical board or expanding his desktop "battlestation" in his off hours. Michael's previous bylines include Android Police, Digital Trends, Wired, Lifehacker, and How-To Geek, and he's covered events like CES and Mobile World Congress live. Michael lives in Pennsylvania where he's always looking forward to his next kayaking trip.