If you’re looking for a mechanical keyboard that’s under budget, around $50, and has features like a gasket mount, RGB lighting, and wireless connectivity, then you’re in the right place. I’ve been using the Tecware Phantom S 75% Compact Layout Gasket Mounted Mechanical Keyboard, which offers premium features for just $49. In this review, we’ll see if the specifications truly deliver on their promise of being a feature-rich keyboard under budget.
Specifications
- 81-Key / 75% Compact Layout
- Gasket Mount
- 0.85″ Customizable LCD Display with Knob
- Tri-tone Keycaps
- Double-shot, Double-walled ABS Shinethrough Keycaps
- Pre-installed, Custom, Pre-lubed Switches
- Universal Hot-swap 5-pin Switch Sockets
- North-facing LEDs
- Wired & Wireless (Bluetooth + 2.4GHz + USB-C)
- Braided USB-C Cable
- Sound Dampening Foam + Fillers
What’s you get in the Box
- Phantom S 75% Layout Keyboard
- A Braided USB-C Cable
- Four Extra Red Switchs
- A Keycap/Switch Puller
- A user Guide
That’s everything included in the Tecware Phantom S box. The packaging is well-designed and provides excellent protection.
Design and Build Quality
The keyboard is only available in a black colorway, which features a fully black case and a combination of gray and black keycaps. The keycaps have transparent legends, allowing the RGB light to shine through brightly and illuminate each character.
On the upper-left side, there is a slide toggle for connectivity options: 2.4GHz wireless, a central USB-C port, and Bluetooth. On the upper-right side, you’ll find a knob for volume control, and below it, a customizable LCD screen. This display allows you to upload GIFs, check battery and connectivity status, and view the current date.
On the base, just behind the function keys, there are three LEDs that serve as indicators for caps lock, mode, and charging. On the right side edge, a dedicated slot provides a convenient storage location for the 2.4GHz receiver. The front edge features a clean, simple “Tecware” logo and nothing else.
At the rear, a USB Type-C port is located in the center for both charging and wired connectivity. On the bottom, there are two-level adjustable kickstands for a comfortable typing angle. In the center, a sticker provides essential information, including the model name, “Phantom S.”
As for the build quality, the case is made of plastic, but it feels solid and well-constructed. I haven’t noticed any wobble while typing, and the keyboard feels durable. One minor thing to note is that it tends to attract dust easily, so you’ll need to clean it regularly to keep it looking its best.
Switch and Keycaps
The Phantom S features hot-swappable, pre-lubed Tecware Red switches and OEM profile ABS shine-through keycaps. This design allows the RGB lighting to illuminate each letter, making the keyboard look brighter and more vibrant on your desk.
As an 81-key, 75% compact layout, it includes a function row but does not have a Numpad or dedicated keys like Print Screen. This is a common and expected compromise for a compact keyboard, and the key travel is excellent.
RGB Color & Effect
As I mentioned, the shine-through keycaps allow the RGB lighting to illuminate each key’s legend, making the entire keyboard look brighter. I’ve even tested some other keyboards recently, like the Epomaker HE80, and the brightness on the Phantom S felt superior. It features 16.8 million colors of RGB lighting with 19 different lighting modes. You can easily cycle through these modes using key combinations or the dedicated software, which is a great asset for a budget keyboard.
Lighting Control Shortcuts
- Fn + Del: On/Off
- Fn + PgUp: Previous Lighting Mode
- Fn + PgDn: Next Lighting Mode
- Fn + Up Arrow: Brightness Up
- Fn + Down Arrow: Brightness Down
- Fn + Left Arrow: Speed Down
- Fn + Right Arrow: Speed Up
Gasket Mount and Typing Test
The Phantom S keyboard uses a gasket structure combined with multi-layered foam padding to produce a very smooth and pleasant typing experience. The linear switches provide a satisfying, deep “thocky” sound with each keystroke. The key travel feels smooth and responsive, and the keycaps have a comfortable profile that fits my fingers well. I’ve included an audio sample below so you can hear the sound for yourself.
Key Switch Specifications
- Type: Linear
- Actuation Force: 45±8g
- Bottom Out Force: 60±8g
- Total Travel Distance: 3.6±0.2mm
Connectivity and Battery Backup
Regarding connectivity, the Phantom S is a tri-mode keyboard, supporting 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth 5.0, and a wired USB-C connection.
I tested the 2.4GHz wireless connection, and it worked great, providing a responsive, low-latency experience. I didn’t notice any lag during general use. I also tested the Bluetooth 5.0, which worked perfectly. I had no issues connecting it, and once paired, it reconnects instantly to your device whenever you turn it on. For gaming, a wired connection is always the best option, especially for a budget keyboard like this. Overall, the connectivity is flawless with no issues at all.
As for the battery life, the keyboard features a 4000mAh battery, and the company claims up to 400 hours of continuous usage. In my testing, I used it on wireless or Bluetooth with full RGB brightness and the GIF display turned on. I got around 11 hours of non-continuous usage, and there was still more than half of the battery life remaining. While it may not hit the 400-hour claim under these conditions, the battery life is still more than sufficient for a keyboard that costs around $50.
Final Verdict: Is the Phantom S the best under $50?
After putting the Tecware Phantom S through its paces, it’s clear that this keyboard is an absolute game-changer in the budget mechanical keyboard space. For just around $50, you’re getting a feature set that’s typically reserved for keyboards in a much higher price bracket. The combination of a gasket mount, tri-mode connectivity, and that awesome customizable LCD screen is genuinely impressive.
While the keyboard is made of plastic, it feels surprisingly solid with no noticeable wobble. The pre-lubed Tecware Red switches and shine-through keycaps provide a great typing experience with a pleasant “thocky” sound, and the RGB lighting is top-notch—brighter than some of the competition I’ve tested. The connectivity options are flawless, and even though the battery doesn’t quite hit the claimed 400 hours under heavy use, it’s still more than enough for everyday work and play.
Of course, there are some minor trade-offs, like the plastic build and the lack of a Numpad and dedicated function keys. However, these are completely understandable compromises for a keyboard this affordable. If you’re looking to dip your toes into the enthusiast keyboard world without breaking the bank, the Tecware Phantom S is an easy recommendation. It delivers a premium experience at a seriously budget-friendly price.