11 Best SteelSeries Silent Mechanical Keyboards, Compared
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Finding the best SteelSeries silent mechanical keyboards requires comparing their published specifications. We evaluated 11 models to help you choose based on data, not hype. The SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Silent Gaming Keyboard ranks first because its compact TKL form factor saves desk space while maintaining silent operation. Each pick reflects strict spec comparisons from the listings. This guide helps you decide which layout, size, and feature set fits your setup.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You need a compact layout for silent gaming SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Silent Gaming Keyboard It features a TKL form factor with silent switches to save desk space.
- You want a full-size board with water resistance SteelSeries Apex 3 Full-Size Silent Gaming Keyboard This full-size model includes silent operation and splash resistance for durability.
- You prefer a white color for your setup SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL White Keyboard It offers a white color scheme with RGB backlighting and silent keys.
- You want a premium build with an OLED display SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Red Switch Keyboard This TKL model includes an OLED display and quiet red switches.
- You need a reliable wired connection for gaming SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Silent Keyboard It provides a wired TKL design with silent switches for stable performance.
Our 11 picks
SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Silent Gaming Keyboard
Best for: compact silent gaming setups
- Noise Level
- Silent (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- Whisper Quiet
- Form Factor
- TKL
- Backlighting
- 8-Zone RGB
- Use
- Gaming
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Silent Gaming Keyboard
This tenkeyless keyboard uses whisper quiet switches to reduce noise while gaming. It features IP32 water and dust resistance for durability. You get 8-zone RGB lighting and dedicated multimedia controls with a volume roller. The compact size saves desk space. It suits players who want a quiet setup without a numpad.
Pros
- Whisper quiet switches for near silent use
- IP32 water and dust resistant build
- Dedicated multimedia controls with volume roller
- 8-zone RGB illumination
- Compact tenkeyless form factor
Cons
- No OLED smart display for game info
- Limited to 8-zone RGB lighting zones
- Wired connection only
Good fit if
- You need a compact keyboard layout
- You prefer silent typing and gaming
- You want basic multimedia controls
Skip if
- You require a full-size numpad
- You want wireless connectivity
- You need an OLED display
Verdict: SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Silent Keyboard is a solid choice for gamers who value a compact layout and quiet operation. It offers essential durability and lighting without the bulk of a full-size board.
SteelSeries Apex 3 Full-Size Silent Gaming Keyboard
Best for: Full-size silent gaming with water resistance
- Noise Level
- Silent (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- Silent Switch
- Form Factor
- 104 Keys
- Use
- Gaming
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 17.5 × 5.97 × 1.56 inches
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 device offers high water resistance for durability. You get a standard US English layout in black. This model suits users who need a quiet typing experience without a tenkeyless footprint.
Pros
- Silent switch mechanism for reduced noise
- Full 104-key layout with numeric keypad
- High water resistance protection
- Standard US English layout
Cons
- No wireless connectivity option
- No OLED smart display
- Lacks RGB backlighting
Good fit if
- You need a full-size keyboard with a number pad
- You prioritize silent operation over flashy lighting
- You want a durable keyboard with water resistance
Skip if
- You require a compact tenkeyless design
- You want customizable RGB lighting effects
- You need wireless connectivity
Verdict: SteelSeries Apex 3 Silent 104-Key Keyboard is a practical choice for users who need a full-size layout with silent switches and water resistance. It fits those who value durability and quiet performance over wireless freedom or advanced displays.
SteelSeries Apex 100 Blue Backlit Keyboard
Best for: Quiet gaming with splash resistance
- Noise Level
- Silent (what this guide is about)
- Backlighting
- Blue LED
- Use
- Gaming
- Dimensions
- 6.13 × 18.2 × 1.58 inches
- Weight
- 2.42 pounds
The SteelSeries Apex 100 is a silent mechanical keyboard designed for gaming. It features tactile switches that operate quietly, making it suitable for shared spaces. The unit includes blue LED backlighting and splash-resistant construction for durability. It weighs 2.42 pounds and measures 18.2 inches wide. The switches are rated for 20 million clicks. It includes media controls and anti-ghosting for fast gameplay.
Pros
- Silent tactile switches for quiet operation
- Blue LED backlighting
- Splash-resistant design
- 20-million click lifespan
- Built-in media controls
Cons
- Blue LED only, no RGB
- No OLED smart display
- Fixed blue color scheme
Good fit if
- You need silent typing for shared rooms
- You want splash resistance
- You prefer blue lighting
Skip if
- You require RGB customization
- You want an OLED display
- You need a tenkeyless layout
Verdict: SteelSeries Apex 100 Silent Blue LED is a straightforward option for gamers who prioritize quiet operation and splash resistance over advanced lighting or display features.
SteelSeries Apex 7 Full-Size Red Switch Keyboard
Best for: Users needing a full layout with quiet switches
- Noise Level
- Silent (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- Red Switch
- Form Factor
- Full Length
- Backlighting
- RGB
- Case Material
- Aircraft grade aluminum alloy
- Use
- Gaming
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 quiet Red linear switches for silent operation. You get per-key RGB lighting with 16.8 million colors and an OLED smart display for quick settings adjustments. A premium magnetic wrist rest adds ergonomic support. This model includes USB passthrough and dedicated media controls for a complete setup.
Pros
- Aircraft grade aluminum alloy case for durability
- Quiet Red linear mechanical switches
- OLED smart display for on-the-fly info
- Per-key RGB illumination with 16.8 million colors
- Premium magnetic wrist rest for palm support
Cons
- Full-length size requires significant desk space
- Wired connection limits cable management flexibility
- No Bluetooth or wireless connectivity options
Good fit if
- You want a durable aluminum build
- You need a numeric keypad
- You prefer quiet linear switches
Skip if
- You need a compact tenkeyless layout
- You require wireless connectivity
- You want tactile clicky switches
Verdict: SteelSeries Apex 7 Full-Size Keyboard offers a sturdy aluminum build and quiet typing for users who need a full layout. It suits those who value durability and on-screen info over portability.
SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL White Keyboard
Best for: Compact silent gaming with a white look
- Noise Level
- Silent (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- Whisper Quiet
- Form Factor
- TKL
- Backlighting
- 8-zone RGB
- Use
- Gaming
- Color
- White
This SteelSeries keyboard uses a tenkeyless form factor to save desk space. It features whisper-quiet switches designed for silent triggering. The build is water and dust resistant for extra durability. You get 8-zone RGB lighting for visual customization. The white color stands out against typical black gear. It suits users who want a compact, quiet setup.
Pros
- Whisper Quiet switches for silent operation
- TKL compact form factor saves space
- Water and dust resistant design
- 8-zone RGB backlighting
- Anti-ghosting keys for gaming
Cons
- No OLED smart display
- No Bluetooth wireless connectivity
- Fixed 8-zone lighting instead of per-key
Good fit if
- You need a compact keyboard for a small desk
- You prefer a white aesthetic for your setup
- You want silent typing for shared spaces
Skip if
- You require a full-size numpad for data entry
- You need wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You want individual per-key RGB customization
Verdict: SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL White is a compact, silent option for gamers who value desk space and a white color scheme. It fits users who prioritize quiet operation and water resistance over advanced display features.
SteelSeries Apex 100 Silent Gaming Keyboard
Best for: Quiet gaming and simple media control
- Noise Level
- Silent (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- Tactile
- Backlighting
- Blue LED
- Use
- Gaming
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 6.13 × 18.2 × 1.58 inches
The SteelSeries Apex 100 is a compact, silent mechanical keyboard designed for gaming. It features tactile switches that offer quiet operation and a 20-million click lifespan. The device includes blue LED backlighting and splash resistance for everyday spills. It also has dedicated media controls for easy adjustments. This model suits users who want a durable, quiet typing experience without complex software.
Pros
- Tactile silent switches for quiet operation
- 20-million click lifespan for durability
- Splash resistant to everyday spills
- Dedicated media controls
- Blue LED backlighting
Cons
- Only blue LED backlighting, not RGB
- Certified Refurbished condition
- Minimum 90-day warranty
Good fit if
- You need a quiet keyboard for shared spaces
- You want simple media controls without software
- You prefer tactile feedback over linear switches
Skip if
- You require customizable RGB lighting effects
- You want a brand new unit with full warranty
- You need wireless connectivity
Verdict: The SteelSeries Apex 100 Silent Keyboard is a practical choice for gamers who prioritize quiet operation and durability. It fits users who value tactile feedback and simple media controls over advanced lighting features.
SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Ghost Mechanical Keyboard
Best for: Compact silent gaming setups
- Noise Level
- Silent (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- Red (Linear)
- Form Factor
- TKL
- Backlighting
- Per-Key RGB
- Case Material
- Aluminum Alloy
- Use
- Gaming
View on Amazon: SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Ghost Mechanical Keyboard
The SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL is a compact mechanical keyboard with a silent linear red switch. It features a durable aluminum alloy frame and an integrated OLED smart display for quick settings adjustments. Per-key RGB lighting with PrismCaps adds visual customization. This keyboard suits gamers who want a tenkeyless layout with premium build quality and on-device control.
Pros
- Silent linear red switches for quiet typing
- Durable aircraft-grade aluminum alloy frame
- Integrated OLED smart display for settings
- Per-key RGB illumination with PrismCaps
Cons
- Linear switches lack tactile feedback
- OLED display size is limited
- No wireless connectivity option
Good fit if
- You need a compact tenkeyless layout
- You prefer silent linear switches
- You want an aluminum build
Skip if
- You require a full-size numpad
- You need tactile or clicky switches
- You want wireless connectivity
Verdict: The SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL offers a sturdy aluminum build and silent linear switches for focused gaming. Its OLED display adds useful on-device control for users who value compact layouts.
SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Red Switch Keyboard
Best for: Gamers wanting a compact layout with an OLED display
- Noise Level
- Silent (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- Red Switch (Linear)
- Form Factor
- TKL
- Backlighting
- RGB
- Case Material
- Aircraft grade aluminum alloy
- Use
- Gaming
This SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL is a compact mechanical keyboard featuring red linear switches for quiet operation. It includes an integrated OLED smart display for tracking game info, Spotify, and Discord. The build uses an aircraft-grade aluminum alloy case and comes with a premium magnetic wrist rest. It offers full RGB illumination with 16.8 million colors per key. This model suits gamers who want a tenkeyless layout with dedicated media controls.
Pros
- TKL compact form factor saves desk space
- Integrated OLED smart display for on-the-fly info
- Aircraft-grade aluminum alloy case for durability
- Red linear switches provide quiet typing
- Premium magnetic wrist rest included
Cons
- No Bluetooth or wireless connectivity option
- Fixed wired connection limits portability
- OLED display is small and non-touch
Good fit if
- You want a compact tenkeyless layout
- You need an OLED display for game stats
- You prefer quiet linear switches
Skip if
- You require a full-size numpad
- You need wireless or Bluetooth connectivity
- You prefer tactile or clicky switches
Verdict: The SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL fits users who want a compact, wired keyboard with a unique OLED display and quiet red switches. It is a solid choice for desk-space-conscious gamers who value build quality.
SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Silent Keyboard
Best for: compact quiet wired gaming setups
- Noise Level
- Silent (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- Quiet
- Form Factor
- TKL
- Connectivity
- Wired
- Use
- Gaming
- Color
- Black
This SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL keyboard uses quiet switches to keep noise levels low. It features a tenkeyless form factor that saves desk space. The device connects via a wired USB cable. It has an IP32 splash resistance rating to handle minor spills. The black keyboard weighs 1.96 pounds. It suits gamers who need a compact, quiet setup for their station.
Pros
- Quiet switch type for silent operation
- Tenkeyless (TKL) compact form factor
- Wired USB connectivity
- IP32 splash resistance rating
Cons
- Wired connection only
- No backlighting mentioned in specs
- No OLED display included
Good fit if
- You need a compact keyboard for a small desk
- You prefer wired connections for stability
- You want silent typing during gaming sessions
Skip if
- You require a full-size numpad
- You need wireless freedom
- You want customizable backlighting
Verdict: SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Quiet Switch is a compact, wired option for users who prioritize silence and space saving over extra features. It fits well in tight setups where noise reduction is key.
SteelSeries Apex 3 Silent Gaming Keyboard
Best for: Quiet full-size gaming setups
- Noise Level
- Silent (what this guide is about)
- Use
- Gaming
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 17.5 × 5.97 × 1.56 inches
- Weight
- 1.78 pounds
The SteelSeries Apex 3 is a full-size gaming keyboard designed for quiet operation. It features silent switches to reduce noise during use. The build includes a black finish and measures 17.5 inches in length. Weighing 1.78 pounds, it offers a stable base for typing and gaming. This model suits users who need a standard layout with minimal acoustic feedback.
Pros
- Silent switch mechanism for quiet typing
- Full-size 104-key layout for numeric input
- Durable black construction with stable dimensions
Cons
- No wireless connectivity options available
- Lacks programmable macro keys
- No backlighting for low-light visibility
Good fit if
- You need a standard full-size keyboard
- You prefer silent operation over tactile clicks
- You want a durable wired gaming peripheral
Skip if
- You require wireless freedom
- You need RGB backlighting
- You want a compact tenkeyless design
Verdict: SteelSeries Apex 3 Silent Gaming Keyboard fits users who prioritize quiet performance and a full numeric keypad without needing wireless features or lighting effects.
SteelSeries Apex 3 Silent Gaming Keyboard
Best for: quiet desktop gaming with spill protection
- Noise Level
- Silent (what this guide is about)
- Switch Type
- Whisper quiet gaming switches
- Backlighting
- 10-zone RGB
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 5.94 × 17.5 × 1.57 inches
- Weight
- 2.8 pounds
The SteelSeries Apex 3 is a full-size mechanical keyboard designed for quiet gaming. It features whisper-quiet switches rated for 20 million keystrokes and IP32 water resistance to handle spills. You get 10-zone RGB lighting and a premium magnetic wrist rest for comfort. Dedicated multimedia controls let you adjust volume easily. It connects via USB and works with Windows, Mac, and major consoles.
Pros
- Whisper quiet gaming switches for silent operation
- IP32 water resistant build
- 10-zone RGB illumination
- Premium magnetic wrist rest included
- Dedicated multimedia controls
Cons
- No wireless connectivity option
- Only 10-zone RGB instead of per-key
- Full-size layout lacks compact form factor
Good fit if
- You need a quiet keyboard for shared spaces
- You want spill protection for your desk
- You prefer full-size layouts with wrist support
Skip if
- You require wireless freedom
- You want per-key RGB customization
- You need a compact tenkeyless design
Verdict: SteelSeries Apex 3 Silent Gaming Keyboard offers solid quiet performance and spill resistance for desktop gamers who value comfort and durability over compact size or wireless convenience.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | 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 3 TKL White Keyboard | SteelSeries Apex 100 Silent Gaming Keyboard | SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Ghost Mechanical Keyboard | SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Red Switch Keyboard | SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Silent Keyboard | SteelSeries Apex 3 Silent Gaming Keyboard | SteelSeries Apex 3 Silent Gaming Keyboard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Switch Type | Whisper Quiet | Silent Switch | not specified | Red Switch | Whisper Quiet | Tactile | Red (Linear) | Red Switch (Linear) | Quiet | not specified | Whisper quiet gaming switches |
| Form Factor | TKL | 104 Keys | not specified | Full Length | TKL | not specified | TKL | TKL | TKL | not specified | not specified |
| Connectivity | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Wired | not specified | not specified |
| Backlighting | 8-Zone RGB | not specified | Blue LED | RGB | 8-zone RGB | Blue LED | Per-Key RGB | RGB | not specified | not specified | 10-zone RGB |
| Case Material | not specified | not specified | not specified | Aircraft grade aluminum alloy | not specified | not specified | Aluminum Alloy | Aircraft grade aluminum alloy | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Use | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming |
| Color | Black | Black | Blue | Red – Linear & Quiet | White | Black | Ghost | Red – Linear & Quiet | Black | Black | Black |
| Noise Level | Silent | Silent | Silent | Silent | Silent | Silent | Silent | Silent | Silent | Silent | Silent |
| Dimensions | 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 | 14.3 × 5.91 × 1.57 inches | 6.13 × 18.2 × 1.58 inches | not specified | 5.48 × 14 × 1.6 inches | 5.91 × 14.3 × 1.57 inches | 17.5 × 5.97 × 1.56 inches | 5.94 × 17.5 × 1.57 inches |
| Weight | not specified | 1.78 pounds | 2.42 pounds | 2.1 pounds | 1.41 pounds | 2.42 pounds | not specified | 1.7 pounds | 1.96 pounds | 1.78 pounds | 2.8 pounds |
| Size | Apex 3 TKL | Keyboard | Apex 100 | Full Length | not specified | not specified | Apex 7 TKL | TKL | Keyboard | Keyboard | Apex 3 |
| Model | Apex 3 TKL RGB | 64795-cr | 64435 | 64636 | 64819-Cr | 64435-cr | not specified | 64646 | 64831 | 64795 | 64812 |
How to choose the right silent keyboard
-
Check the form factor
You need to decide between TKL and full-size layouts. TKL models like the Apex 3 TKL Silent Gaming Keyboard measure 14.3 inches in length. This compact size saves significant desk space for mouse movement. Full-size boards like the Apex 3 Full-Size Silent Gaming Keyboard extend to 17.5 inches. You get a dedicated numeric keypad on these larger models. Choose TKL if you prioritize room. Choose full-size if you need number keys for data entry.
-
Look at the backlighting
Backlighting options vary across the list. The Apex 7 TKL Ghost Mechanical Keyboard features RGB lighting. This allows you to customize colors for your setup. Other models like the SteelSeries Apex 100 Blue Backlit Keyboard use fixed blue LEDs. You cannot change these colors. Some entries do not list backlighting in their attributes. You get simple illumination or no lights at all. Pick RGB for customization. Pick fixed or none for simplicity and lower power use.
-
Consider the switch type
Switch type affects your typing feel. The Apex 7 Full-Size Red Switch Keyboard uses linear red switches. These provide a smooth keystroke without tactile bumps. This is ideal for fast gaming. Other models list silent operation but do not specify the switch mechanism in the specs. You get quiet performance on all listed boards. Linear switches are common for silence. You want smooth action. Check the attributes for switch type. Pick linear if you prefer a consistent press.
-
Verify connectivity options
Connectivity determines how the board links to your PC. The Apex 3 TKL Silent Keyboard is listed as wired. You get a stable connection without battery concerns. Most other models do not explicitly state their connectivity in the provided specs. You assume they are wired based on the model names. Wireless options are not mentioned. You need a cable for all listed choices. Pick wired for reliability. Avoid wireless if you want zero latency and no charging.
-
Review the dimensions
Physical dimensions impact your desk setup. The Apex 3 TKL Silent Gaming Keyboard is 5.9 inches wide. The Apex 3 Full-Size Silent Gaming Keyboard is slightly wider at 5.97 inches. Height is consistent around 1.57 inches for most models. You get a low profile that sits flat. Weight varies from 1.41 pounds to 2.8 pounds. Heavier boards like the Apex 3 Silent Gaming Keyboard (2.8 pounds) stay put. Pick lighter models for portability. Pick heavier ones for stability on your desk.
Frequently asked questions
Which SteelSeries silent keyboard is best for small desks?
The SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Silent Gaming Keyboard is the top choice for compact setups. It measures 14.3 inches in length and 5.9 inches in width. This tenkeyless form factor leaves more room for mouse movement. It also features silent switches to keep noise down during gaming sessions.
Does SteelSeries offer a white silent keyboard?
Yes, the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL White Keyboard is available in a white color scheme. It maintains the silent switch technology found in other models. This option suits users who want a quiet typing experience without compromising on desk aesthetics. It retains the compact TKL layout for space efficiency.
Are SteelSeries silent keyboards water resistant?
Several models in this lineup feature splash or water resistance. The SteelSeries Apex 3 Full-Size Silent Gaming Keyboard and the Apex 100 Silent Gaming Keyboard both offer this durability. This protection helps safeguard the internal components from accidental spills. It is a practical feature for long-term use in various environments.
Which model includes an OLED display?
The SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Ghost Mechanical Keyboard and the Apex 7 TKL Red Switch Keyboard both include an OLED display. This screen provides on-device control and useful information without needing to open software. These models combine silent linear switches with a compact layout for focused gaming.
What is the heaviest SteelSeries silent keyboard listed?
The SteelSeries Apex 3 Silent Gaming Keyboard (model 64812) is the heaviest at 2.8 pounds. Its full-size design contributes to this weight. The Apex 100 Silent Gaming Keyboard also weighs 2.42 pounds. Heavier boards tend to stay firmly in place during intense gaming sessions.
Do all these keyboards use red switches?
Not all models use red switches, but many do. The Apex 7 and Apex 7 TKL models explicitly use Red Switches, which are linear and quiet. The Apex 3 and Apex 100 models also provide silent operation, though their specific switch type is not always listed as red. All listed keyboards prioritize quiet performance.
Which SteelSeries silent keyboard is best for full-size layouts?
The SteelSeries Apex 3 Full-Size Silent Gaming Keyboard is ideal for users needing a complete layout. It measures 17.5 inches in length and includes a numeric keypad. It also offers water resistance for added durability. This model fits those who value full functionality alongside silent operation.
Is there a wired-only option in this list?
The SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Silent Keyboard (model 64831) is explicitly labeled as a wired option. It connects via cable for stable performance. This model is designed for users who prioritize silence and space saving over wireless convenience. It features a compact TKL form factor to fit tight setups.