Best SteelSeries Mechanical Keyboards for Gaming in 2026: 15 Picks
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Finding the best SteelSeries mechanical keyboards for gaming requires looking at how specs match your setup. We compared 15 models using only the specifications published on the listings. The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 Wireless leads because it offers wireless connectivity in a TKL form factor. This combination gives you freedom without sacrificing desk space. You can choose between silent options or high-speed magnetic switches. This guide helps you decide which layout and connectivity type fits your desk.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You want wireless freedom for competitive gaming SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 Wireless It features wireless connectivity and a TKL form factor for flexible desk setups.
- You need a quiet keyboard for a compact desk SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Silent Gaming Keyboard It offers silent switches and a compact TKL size to save desk space.
- You prefer tactile feedback with an OLED display SteelSeries Apex 7 Full-Size Blue Switch It includes blue tactile switches and an integrated OLED display for control.
- You want fast optical actuation in a compact layout SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL Optical Keyboard It uses optical switches for high-speed response in a compact TKL design.
Our 15 picks
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 Wireless
Best for: competitive gaming with wireless freedom
- Use
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- OmniPoint 3 analog magnetic
- Form Factor
- TKL
- Connectivity
- 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth
- Color
- Black
This TKL keyboard uses OmniPoint 3 analog magnetic switches for gaming. You get 40 levels of adjustable actuation from 0.1mm to 4.0mm. It connects via 2.4GHz wireless or Bluetooth. Rapid Trigger and Rapid Tap features help you react faster. It includes Protection Mode to stop accidental keypresses. This setup suits players who want quick response times and wireless freedom.
Pros
- OmniPoint 3 analog magnetic switches
- 40 levels of adjustable actuation
- 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connectivity
- Rapid Trigger and Rapid Tap features
Cons
- Only available in TKL form factor
- Black color option only listed
- Higher price point than standard keyboards
Good fit if
- You want adjustable actuation points
- You prefer wireless gaming connections
- You need rapid trigger responses
Skip if
- You need a full-size layout
- You require wired-only connections
- You want a budget-friendly option
Verdict: SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 offers precise switch control for competitive gamers. It fits players who value wireless flexibility and fast reaction times.
SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Silent Gaming Keyboard
Best for: Quiet gaming on a compact desk
- Use
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- Whisper Quiet
- Form Factor
- TKL
- Backlighting
- 8-Zone RGB
- Color
- Black
- Noise Level
- Silent
View on Amazon: SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Silent Gaming Keyboard
The SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL offers a compact tenkeyless layout for focused gaming. It uses whisper-quiet switches rated for 20 million keypresses. IP32 water and dust resistance adds durability. You get 8-zone RGB lighting and dedicated media controls with a volume roller. This model suits gamers who want a quiet, durable, and space-saving board without wireless complexity.
Pros
- Tenkeyless compact form factor saves desk space
- Whisper-quiet switches for near silent operation
- IP32 water and dust resistant build
- Dedicated multimedia controls with clickable volume roller
- 8-zone PrismSync RGB illumination
Cons
- Only 8-zone RGB instead of per-key lighting
- Wired connection only, no wireless option
- No OLED smart display for quick settings
Good fit if
- You need a compact keyboard to maximize mouse space
- You prefer silent typing and gaming sounds
- You want basic water resistance for peace of mind
Skip if
- You require per-key RGB customization
- You need wireless connectivity for a clean setup
- You want an OLED display for quick stats
Verdict: SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Silent Gaming Keyboard is a practical, quiet, and durable choice for gamers who prioritize a compact footprint and basic durability over advanced lighting or wireless freedom.
SteelSeries Apex 3 Full-Size Silent Gaming Keyboard
Best for: Quiet full-size gaming setups
- Use
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- Silent Switch
- Form Factor
- 104 Keys
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 17.5 × 5.97 × 1.56 inches
- Weight
- 1.78 pounds
View on Amazon: SteelSeries Apex 3 Full-Size Silent Gaming Keyboard
The SteelSeries Apex 3 is a full-size 104-key gaming keyboard featuring silent switches. It measures 17.5 inches wide and weighs 1.78 pounds. The design prioritizes quiet operation for late-night sessions. This model suits you if you want a standard layout without the noise of mechanical clicks. It offers a straightforward, no-frills approach to gaming input.
Pros
- Full-size 104-key layout for complete number pad access
- Silent switch technology reduces typing noise significantly
- Compact dimensions at 17.5 inches wide and 1.56 inches high
Cons
- Silent switches lack the tactile feedback of mechanical options
- No wireless connectivity or RGB lighting features listed
- Heavier at 1.78 pounds compared to tenkeyless alternatives
Good fit if
- You prefer a full-size keyboard with a number pad
- You need a quiet typing experience for shared spaces
- You want a durable, wired gaming keyboard
Skip if
- You require wireless connectivity for a cleaner desk setup
- You want customizable RGB lighting effects
- You prefer the tactile click of mechanical switches
Verdict: SteelSeries Apex 3 Silent Gaming Keyboard is a practical choice for users who value quiet operation over tactile feedback. It fits those who need a full-size layout without the distraction of bright lights.
SteelSeries Apex 100 Blue Backlit Keyboard
Best for: Quiet gaming setups with splash resistance needs
- Use
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- Backlighting
- Blue LED
- Noise Level
- Silent
- Dimensions
- 6.13 × 18.2 × 1.58 inches
- Weight
- 2.42 pounds
The SteelSeries Apex 100 is a compact mechanical keyboard designed for gaming. It features tactile and silent switches that offer quiet operation and fast reaction times. The unit includes blue LED backlighting and splash-resistant construction to handle everyday spills. You get a 20-million click lifespan for durability. This model suits players who prioritize quiet typing and basic durability over advanced features.
Pros
- Tactile and silent switches for quiet operation
- Blue LED backlighting
- Splash resistant to everyday spills
- 20-million click lifespan
- Advanced anti-ghosting for fast gameplay
Cons
- Single-color blue backlighting instead of RGB
- No wireless connectivity
- No OLED smart display
Good fit if
- You need a quiet keyboard for shared spaces
- You want splash-resistant durability
- You prefer tactile feedback without noise
Skip if
- You require customizable RGB lighting
- You need wireless connectivity
- You want an OLED display for stats
Verdict: SteelSeries Apex 100 Silent Gaming Keyboard delivers quiet, durable performance for gamers who value low noise and basic splash resistance. It fits users who do not need wireless features or advanced displays.
SteelSeries Apex 7 Full-Size Red Switch Keyboard
Best for: Gamers wanting OLED display and full-size layout
- Use
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- Red Switch
- Form Factor
- Full Length
- Backlighting
- RGB
- Case Material
- Aircraft grade aluminum alloy
- Noise Level
- Silent
View on Amazon: SteelSeries Apex 7 Full-Size Red Switch Keyboard
The SteelSeries Apex 7 is a full-size mechanical keyboard built with an aircraft-grade aluminum alloy case. It uses linear Red switches for quiet, smooth actuation. The key feature is an integrated OLED smart display that shows game info, Spotify, or Discord status. You also get USB passthrough and dedicated media controls. This design suits gamers who want a durable, feature-rich board with a standard layout.
Pros
- Integrated OLED smart display for real-time info
- Aircraft-grade aluminum alloy case for durability
- Linear Red switches for quiet operation
- USB passthrough port for convenient connectivity
- Full RGB illumination with 16.8 million colors
Cons
- Full-size layout takes up significant desk space
- No wireless connectivity option available
- Fixed magnetic wrist rest is not detachable
Good fit if
- You need a full-size layout with numpad
- You want an OLED display for quick stats
- You prefer a sturdy aluminum build over plastic
Skip if
- You require a compact tenkeyless form factor
- You need wireless freedom for your setup
- You want optical switches for faster response
Verdict: SteelSeries Apex 7 Full-Size Mechanical Keyboard is a solid choice for gamers who value desk space and smart display features. It fits users who want a wired, durable board with media controls.
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Dual Wireless Keyboard
Best for: Competitive gamers needing precise actuation
- Use
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- OmniPoint 2.0 HyperMagnetic
- Form Factor
- TKL
- Connectivity
- 2.4GHz, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C
- Case Material
- Aluminum top plate
- Dimensions
- 5.04 × 14 × 1.65 inches
View on Amazon: SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Dual Wireless Keyboard
This is a tenkeyless gaming keyboard with an aluminum top plate and detachable USB-C cable. It uses OmniPoint 2.0 HyperMagnetic switches for 40 levels of per-key actuation between 0.1 and 4.0mm. You get lag-free Quantum 2.0 Dual Wireless connectivity via 2.4GHz or Bluetooth 5.0. The design suits esports players who need rapid trigger response and customizable key travel distances for precise control.
Pros
- OmniPoint 2.0 HyperMagnetic switches allow 40 levels of per-key actuation
- Quantum 2.0 Dual Wireless supports 2.4GHz and Bluetooth 5.0 connections
- Rapid Trigger technology adjusts activation based on travel distance
- Premium aluminum top plate provides a sturdy build
Cons
- TKL layout removes the number pad for smaller desk space
- Weight of 2.36 pounds makes it less portable
- No OLED smart display for on-device information
Good fit if
- You want customizable actuation points for different game genres
- You prefer a wireless setup with low latency
- You need a compact keyboard without a number pad
Skip if
- You require a full-size keyboard with a number pad
- You need an OLED display for settings
- You prefer wired-only connections for maximum stability
Verdict: SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless offers precise control through adjustable magnetic switches and reliable wireless performance. It fits competitive gamers who value speed and a compact footprint.
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 Keyboard
Best for: competitive gamers needing fast actuation
- Use
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- OmniPoint 3.0
- Form Factor
- TKL
- Connectivity
- USB-C, Wired
- Keycap Material
- PBT
- Color
- Black
The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 is a wired tenkeyless gaming keyboard featuring OmniPoint 3.0 HyperMagnetic switches. It offers 40 adjustable actuation levels and rapid trigger response for precise inputs. The build includes durable PBT keycaps and a compact footprint. This model suits competitive gamers who need fast actuation and customizable sensitivity without wireless latency.
Pros
- OmniPoint 3.0 HyperMagnetic switches for speed
- 40 adjustable actuation levels
- Rapid Trigger and Rapid Tap technology
- Durable PBT keycaps
Cons
- Wired USB-C connection only
- No wireless option in this variant
- No OLED display included
Good fit if
- You want adjustable actuation points
- You prefer a tenkeyless layout
- You need wired reliability
Skip if
- You require wireless connectivity
- You need a full-size layout
- You want an OLED screen
Verdict: SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 delivers high-speed magnetic switches for precise gaming. It fits players who prioritize actuation control and a compact wired setup.
SteelSeries Apex 100 Blue LED Gaming Keyboard
Best for: budget-conscious gamers needing durability
- Use
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: SteelSeries Apex 100 Blue LED Gaming Keyboard
The SteelSeries Apex 100 is a wired mechanical gaming keyboard designed for straightforward performance. It features tactile switches that offer quiet operation and fast reaction times. The build includes splash resistance for everyday spills and blue LED backlighting for visibility. With a 20-million click lifespan, it provides reliable durability for daily use. This model suits players who want a no-frills, durable keyboard without wireless complexity or smart displays.
Pros
- Tactile mechanical switches for quiet operation
- Splash resistant design for spill protection
- 20-million click lifespan for durability
- Blue LED backlighting for low-light visibility
Cons
- No wireless connectivity option
- No OLED smart display for settings
- Sold as a renewed/refurbished unit
Good fit if
- You prefer tactile switches with quiet operation
- You want splash resistance for desk safety
- You need a durable keyboard with a long switch lifespan
Skip if
- You require wireless connectivity
- You want an OLED smart display
- You prefer brand new condition units
Verdict: The SteelSeries Apex 100 Gaming Keyboard is a solid choice for gamers who prioritize tactile feedback and spill resistance over wireless convenience or smart features.
SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL White Keyboard
Best for: Quiet gaming with a white aesthetic
- Use
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- Whisper Quiet
- Form Factor
- TKL
- Backlighting
- 8-zone RGB
- Color
- White
- Noise Level
- Silent
The SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL White is a compact tenkeyless keyboard designed for gaming. It features whisper-quiet switches that operate with low friction for over 20 million actuations. The build includes water and dust resistance to protect against splashes. You get 8-zone RGB lighting for visual customization. Its white color and silent operation make it a distinct option in the list.
Pros
- Whisper-quiet switches for low noise
- Water and dust resistant design
- 8-zone RGB lighting effects
- Compact TKL form factor
Cons
- No wireless connectivity option
- No OLED smart display
- Fixed 8-zone lighting instead of per-key
Good fit if
- You need a compact tenkeyless layout
- You prefer silent keyboard operation
- You want a white keyboard
Skip if
- You require wireless connectivity
- You need per-key RGB customization
- You want an OLED display
Verdict: SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL White is a solid choice for gamers who prioritize a quiet typing experience and a compact white design. It suits those who do not need advanced features like wireless support or per-key lighting control.
SteelSeries Apex 100 Silent Gaming Keyboard
Best for: quiet, compact gaming setups
- Use
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- Tactile
- Backlighting
- Blue LED
- Color
- Black
- Noise Level
- Silent
- Dimensions
- 6.13 × 18.2 × 1.58 inches
The SteelSeries Apex 100 is a tenkeyless mechanical keyboard designed for gaming. It uses tactile switches that offer quiet operation and a 20-million click lifespan. Blue LED backlighting illuminates the keys. The unit is splash resistant and includes media controls. It measures 18.2 inches wide and weighs 2.42 pounds. This model suits players who prioritize a compact footprint and low noise levels.
Pros
- Tactile switches provide a quiet typing experience
- 20-million click lifespan ensures long-term durability
- Splash resistant design protects against everyday spills
- Compact tenkeyless form factor saves desk space
Cons
- Blue LED backlighting lacks RGB customization options
- No wireless connectivity available
- No OLED smart display for system info
Good fit if
- You need a compact keyboard for a small desk
- You prefer quiet mechanical switches for late-night gaming
- You want splash resistance for accidental spills
Skip if
- You require customizable RGB lighting effects
- You need wireless connectivity for your setup
- You want an OLED display for stats
Verdict: SteelSeries Apex 100 Silent Gaming Keyboard is a durable, compact option for gamers who value quiet operation and splash resistance over advanced lighting or wireless features.
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL Optical Keyboard
Best for: fast optical actuation and compact gaming
- Use
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- OptiPoint optical
- Form Factor
- TKL
- Keycap Material
- Double shot PBT
- Dimensions
- 5.05 × 14 × 1.65 inches
- Weight
- 1.4 pounds
The SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL uses custom OptiPoint optical switches for gaming. It offers a 0.2ms response time and 2-point actuation, letting you adjust depth from 1 mm to 1.5 mm. The compact tenkeyless design saves desk space. Double shot PBT keycaps ensure durability. This keyboard suits gamers who need fast response times and customizable keystroke registration.
Pros
- 0.2ms response time with zero debounce
- Adjustable 2-point actuation depth
- Swappable OptiPoint switches
- Durable double shot PBT keycaps
Cons
- No wireless connectivity listed
- No OLED smart display included
- No dedicated media keys visible
Good fit if
- You want the fastest possible actuation speed
- You prefer a compact tenkeyless layout
- You value durable PBT keycaps
Skip if
- You need a full-size numpad
- You require wireless connectivity
- You want an OLED display
Verdict: The SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL is a high-speed optical keyboard for gamers who prioritize response time and a compact footprint. It fits users who want swappable switches and durable keycaps without extra features like displays.
SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Ghost Mechanical Keyboard
Best for: Gamers wanting a durable TKL with an OLED display
- Use
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- Red (Linear)
- Form Factor
- TKL
- Backlighting
- Per-Key RGB
- Case Material
- Aluminum Alloy
- Noise Level
- Silent
View on Amazon: SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Ghost Mechanical Keyboard
This compact mechanical keyboard uses an aluminum alloy frame and linear red switches for gaming. It features per-key RGB lighting and an integrated OLED smart display for settings adjustments. The design includes USB passthrough and media controls. It suits gamers who want a durable, feature-rich tenkeyless layout with clear visual feedback.
Pros
- Aircraft grade aluminum alloy frame for durability
- Integrated OLED smart display for settings and updates
- Linear red mechanical switches rated for 50 million keypresses
- Per-key RGB illumination with PrismCaps
- USB passthrough and media control
Cons
- Linear switches lack tactile feedback for typing
- OLED display is small and limited in utility
- No wireless connectivity option available
Good fit if
- You want a compact tenkeyless layout with a metal frame
- You prefer linear switches for fast gaming response
- You value an OLED display for quick settings checks
Skip if
- You need a full-size keyboard with a numpad
- You require tactile or clicky switches for typing
- You want wireless connectivity for a clean desk
Verdict: SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Aluminum Gaming Keyboard offers a sturdy aluminum build and useful OLED display for gamers who prefer wired, linear switches in a compact form.
SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Red Switch Keyboard
Best for: Gamers wanting aluminum durability and OLED display
- Use
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- Red Switch (Linear)
- Form Factor
- TKL
- Backlighting
- RGB
- Case Material
- Aircraft grade aluminum alloy
- Noise Level
- Silent
The SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL is a compact mechanical keyboard built for gaming. It features linear Red switches for quiet, smooth keystrokes. An aircraft-grade aluminum alloy case provides a sturdy, stable platform. You get full RGB backlighting with 16.8 million color options per key. An integrated OLED smart display lets you adjust settings or track game info on the fly. This model includes a USB passthrough port and a premium magnetic wrist rest for comfort.
Pros
- Aircraft-grade aluminum alloy case for durability
- Integrated OLED smart display for on-the-fly adjustments
- Linear Red switches offer quiet, smooth operation
- Full RGB backlighting with 16.8 million colors per key
- Includes USB passthrough port and magnetic wrist rest
Cons
- Linear switches lack tactile feedback for typing
- No wireless connectivity option available
- OLED display size is limited to small info
Good fit if
- You want a durable aluminum build for gaming
- You prefer linear switches for fast response
- You value an integrated OLED display for settings
Skip if
- You need wireless connectivity for your setup
- You require tactile or clicky switches for typing
- You need a full-size numpad for data entry
Verdict: SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Aluminum Keyboard suits gamers who prioritize a sturdy aluminum build and an integrated OLED display. It is ideal for those who prefer linear switches and want convenient on-the-fly adjustments without needing wireless features.
SteelSeries Apex 7 Full-Size Blue Switch
Best for: Gamers wanting an OLED display and tactile switches
- Use
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- Blue Switch
- Form Factor
- Full Length
- Backlighting
- RGB
- Case Material
- Aircraft-grade aluminum alloy
- Dimensions
- 5.5 × 17.2 × 1.6 inches
This SteelSeries Apex 7 is a full-size mechanical keyboard featuring tactile blue switches. It includes an integrated OLED smart display for adjusting settings and tracking game info. The chassis is built from aircraft-grade aluminum alloy. You get RGB illumination with 16.8 million colors per key. A premium magnetic wrist rest provides palm support. This model suits gamers who want physical controls and a dedicated display.
Pros
- Blue tactile and clicky switches
- Integrated OLED smart display
- Aircraft-grade aluminum alloy case
- 16.8 million color RGB per key
Cons
- Full-size layout requires significant desk space
- Blue switches produce loud clicky noise
- No wireless connectivity option
Good fit if
- You want a dedicated OLED display for quick settings
- You prefer tactile, clicky mechanical switches
- You need a durable aluminum build
Skip if
- You need a compact tenkeyless layout
- You require silent or low-noise typing
- You want wireless freedom
Verdict: SteelSeries Apex 7 Full-Size Mechanical Keyboard offers a unique OLED display and sturdy aluminum build for gamers who value tactile feedback and physical control over compactness or silence.
SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Red Switch Keyboard
Best for: Compact gaming with durable aluminum build
- Use
- Gaming (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- Red Switch
- Form Factor
- TKL
- Case Material
- Aircraft grade aluminium alloy
- Dimensions
- 17.2 × 5.48 × 1.59 inches
- Weight
- 1.7 pounds
The SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL is a tenkeyless mechanical keyboard built for gaming. It features an aircraft-grade aluminum alloy frame and red linear switches. A standout OLED smart display shows profiles, game info, and media details. The unit includes a magnetic wrist rest for comfort. Its compact layout saves desk space while maintaining durability and customizable per-key RGB lighting.
Pros
- Aircraft-grade aluminum alloy construction
- OLED Smart Display for status info
- Red linear mechanical switches
- Magnetic wrist rest included
- 16.8 million color per-key illumination
Cons
- No wireless connectivity option
- No dedicated media keys
- Lacks programmable macro keys
Good fit if
- You want a durable aluminum build
- You prefer a compact tenkeyless layout
- You value on-board display feedback
Skip if
- You need wireless freedom
- You require a full numpad
- You prefer tactile clicky switches
Verdict: The SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL suits gamers who prioritize a sturdy aluminum chassis and useful on-board display. It fits users who want a compact layout without wireless trade-offs.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 Wireless | SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Silent Gaming Keyboard | SteelSeries Apex 3 Full-Size Silent Gaming Keyboard | SteelSeries Apex 100 Blue Backlit Keyboard | SteelSeries Apex 7 Full-Size Red Switch Keyboard | SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Dual Wireless Keyboard | SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 Keyboard | SteelSeries Apex 100 Blue LED Gaming Keyboard | SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL White Keyboard | SteelSeries Apex 100 Silent Gaming Keyboard | SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL Optical Keyboard | SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Ghost Mechanical Keyboard | SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Red Switch Keyboard | SteelSeries Apex 7 Full-Size Blue Switch | SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Red Switch Keyboard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Switch Type | OmniPoint 3 analog magnetic | Whisper Quiet | Silent Switch | not specified | Red Switch | OmniPoint 2.0 HyperMagnetic | OmniPoint 3.0 | not specified | Whisper Quiet | Tactile | OptiPoint optical | Red (Linear) | Red Switch (Linear) | Blue Switch | Red Switch |
| Form Factor | TKL | TKL | 104 Keys | not specified | Full Length | TKL | TKL | not specified | TKL | not specified | TKL | TKL | TKL | Full Length | TKL |
| Connectivity | 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 2.4GHz, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C | USB-C, Wired | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Backlighting | not specified | 8-Zone RGB | not specified | Blue LED | RGB | not specified | not specified | not specified | 8-zone RGB | Blue LED | not specified | Per-Key RGB | RGB | RGB | not specified |
| Keycap Material | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | PBT | not specified | not specified | not specified | Double shot PBT | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Case Material | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Aircraft grade aluminum alloy | Aluminum top plate | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Aluminum Alloy | Aircraft grade aluminum alloy | Aircraft-grade aluminum alloy | Aircraft grade aluminium alloy |
| Use | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | Blue | Red – Linear & Quiet | Pro Gen 2 | Black | Black | White | Black | Optical Switches | Ghost | Red – Linear & Quiet | Blue – Tactile & Clicky | Red Switch |
| Noise Level | not specified | Silent | Silent | Silent | Silent | not specified | not specified | not specified | Silent | Silent | not specified | Silent | Silent | not specified | not specified |
| Dimensions | not specified | 14.3 × 5.9 × 1.57 inches | 17.5 × 5.97 × 1.56 inches | 6.13 × 18.2 × 1.58 inches | 5.5 × 17.2 × 1.6 inches | 5.04 × 14 × 1.65 inches | 14 × 5.05 × 1.65 inches | not specified | 14.3 × 5.91 × 1.57 inches | 6.13 × 18.2 × 1.58 inches | 5.05 × 14 × 1.65 inches | not specified | 5.48 × 14 × 1.6 inches | 5.5 × 17.2 × 1.6 inches | 17.2 × 5.48 × 1.59 inches |
| Weight | not specified | not specified | 1.78 pounds | 2.42 pounds | 2.1 pounds | 2.36 pounds | 2.15 pounds | not specified | 1.41 pounds | 2.42 pounds | 1.4 pounds | not specified | 1.7 pounds | 2.1 pounds | 1.7 pounds |
| Size | Pro TKL | Apex 3 TKL | Keyboard | Apex 100 | Full Length | Pro TKL | Wired | not specified | not specified | not specified | Compact (TKL) | Apex 7 TKL | TKL | Full Length | std |
| Model | 64871 | Apex 3 TKL RGB | 64795-cr | 64435 | 64636 | KB19 | 64740 | 64435 | 64819-Cr | 64435-cr | 64847 | not specified | 64646 | 64621 | 64636 |
How to choose the right SteelSeries keyboard
-
Pick your connectivity
Decide if you need a cable or wireless freedom. The Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 Wireless offers wireless connectivity for flexible desk setups. If you prefer a wired connection for consistent latency, the Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 is a wired option. Some models like the Apex 7 are strictly wired. Wireless models may require charging. Wired boards eliminate battery management. Choose based on your desk space and desire for clutter-free surfaces. Your choice affects how you set up your gaming station.
-
Choose the form factor
Form factor determines desk space usage. TKL layouts remove the number pad, saving space for mouse movement. The Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 Wireless and Apex 3 TKL Silent are TKL models. Full-size boards like the Apex 3 and Apex 7 include a number pad. Compact sizes vary slightly in width. Consider your mouse sensitivity and desk dimensions. A TKL layout suits competitive gamers needing room. Full-size boards help users who type numbers frequently. Match the size to your physical workspace constraints.
-
Select the switch type
Switch type defines the typing feel and noise. Magnetic switches in the Apex Pro series allow adjustable actuation. Optical switches in the Apex 9 TKL offer fast response. Linear red switches in the Apex 7 are quiet and smooth. Tactile blue switches in the Apex 7 provide feedback. Silent switches in the Apex 3 reduce noise. Choose linear for speed, tactile for feedback, or silent for shared spaces. Your game genre and environment dictate the best switch choice.
-
Check backlighting needs
Backlighting helps visibility in low light. RGB backlighting allows color customization on models like the Apex 3 TKL Silent and Apex 7. Blue backlighting is fixed on the Apex 100. Some boards have no backlighting listed. RGB offers personalization but uses more power if wireless. Fixed colors are simpler. Decide if you need visual customization or just basic illumination. Your gaming environment and aesthetic preferences guide this choice. Check the attributes list for specific lighting capabilities.
-
Consider material durability
Build material affects longevity and feel. Aluminum chassis models like the Apex 7 TKL offer sturdy construction. Plastic boards like the Apex 100 are lighter. Keycap material matters too. The Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 uses PBT keycaps for durability. PBT resists shine and wear better than ABS. Check the specs for keycap material if longevity is a priority. Heavier boards may stay in place better. Lighter boards are easier to move. Match the build quality to your usage intensity and desk habits.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best SteelSeries keyboard for competitive wireless gaming?
The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 Wireless is the top choice for players who need wireless freedom without sacrificing speed. It features a TKL form factor to save desk space and magnetic switches that allow for precise actuation control. This combination supports fast reaction times and flexible setup options for serious gamers.
Which SteelSeries keyboard is best for quiet gaming?
The SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Silent Gaming Keyboard is ideal for users who prioritize a quiet environment. It uses silent switches to reduce noise during intense sessions. The compact TKL size also helps keep your desk uncluttered, making it a practical choice for gamers who want discretion and durability without advanced lighting features.
Does SteelSeries make a full-size keyboard with an OLED display?
Yes, the SteelSeries Apex 7 Full-Size Red Switch Keyboard includes an integrated OLED display. It offers a full-length layout for users who need a numpad and media controls. The board features linear red switches for smooth keystrokes and a sturdy build, making it suitable for gamers who value on-the-fly adjustments and desk space.
What is the best SteelSeries keyboard for a compact desk setup?
The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 offers a compact wired option for tight desks. It uses high-speed magnetic switches for precise actuation in a TKL layout. Alternatively, the Apex 9 TKL Optical Keyboard provides swappable optical switches in a similar compact footprint. Both models remove the numpad to maximize mouse space.
Are there SteelSeries keyboards with blue switches?
The SteelSeries Apex 7 Full-Size Blue Switch Keyboard features tactile and clicky blue switches for distinct feedback. It also includes a unique OLED display and a sturdy aluminum build. This model suits gamers who prefer physical control and tactile response over silence or compactness, offering a traditional mechanical feel in a full-size layout.
Which SteelSeries keyboard has the best white aesthetic?
The SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL White Keyboard is designed for users who want a quiet typing experience with a white design. It features silent switches and an RGB backlight. The compact TKL size makes it suitable for gamers who do not need wireless support or per-key lighting control but still want a clean look.
What is the difference between magnetic and optical switches in SteelSeries keyboards?
Magnetic switches, like those in the Apex Pro series, allow for adjustable actuation points for precise control. Optical switches, found in the Apex 9 TKL, use light beams for high-speed actuation and durability. Both technologies offer faster response times than traditional mechanical switches, appealing to gamers who prioritize speed and consistent performance in competitive titles.
Is there a durable SteelSeries keyboard with splash resistance?
The SteelSeries Apex 100 Silent Gaming Keyboard provides durability and splash resistance for practical use. It features silent switches and a compact design that fits well on any desk. This model is suitable for gamers who value low noise and basic spill protection over advanced features like wireless connectivity or complex lighting schemes.