By Taylor Bennett 
SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL RGB Gaming Keyboard Review
In today’s competitive gaming landscape, having the right equipment can make all the difference. A responsive and reliable keyboard is crucial for both casual and professional gamers. Today, we’re reviewing the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL RGB Gaming Keyboard, a tenkeyless option packed with features designed to enhance your gaming experience.
Detailed Review
The SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL is designed with a compact tenkeyless form factor, favored by many professional gamers for its space-saving design. This allows for more ergonomic positioning and frees up valuable desk space, leading to improved in-game performance. The lack of a number pad might take some getting used to for those accustomed to a full-sized keyboard, but the benefits in terms of space and comfort are undeniable.
One of the standout features of this keyboard is its whisper-quiet gaming switches. These switches are crafted from low-friction material, offering near-silent operation without sacrificing performance. Boasting a durability rating of over 20 million keypresses, these switches are built to withstand intense gaming sessions. The integrated anti-ghosting technology ensures that every keystroke is registered accurately, even during rapid-fire commands. This is a critical feature for competitive gaming where precision is paramount.
Durability is another key aspect of the Apex 3 TKL. Its IP32 water and dust resistance provides a level of protection against accidental spills and dust accumulation, ensuring that the keyboard can withstand the rigors of everyday use. While it’s not fully waterproof, this added layer of protection offers peace of mind.
Aesthetically, the Apex 3 TKL features 8-zone RGB illumination. The PrismSync RGB system offers a wide range of customization options, allowing you to create reactive lighting effects and interactive lightshows. The ability to personalize the keyboard’s appearance adds a touch of flair to your gaming setup.
Furthermore, dedicated multimedia controls, including a clickable volume roller and media keys, provide convenient access to volume adjustment, rewind, skip, and pause functions. This allows you to manage your audio and media playback without interrupting your gameplay.
Compatibility is broad, supporting Windows, Mac OS X, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, PS4, and PS5, making it a versatile option for various gaming platforms.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact tenkeyless design maximizes desk space. | May require adjustment for users accustomed to full-sized keyboards. |
| Whisper-quiet gaming switches offer near-silent operation. | Membrane switches may not offer the same tactile feedback as mechanical switches. |
| IP32 water and dust resistance provides added durability. | IP32 rating offers limited protection; not fully waterproof. |
| 8-Zone RGB Illumination offers customizable lighting effects. | 8-Zone RGB might be less granular than per-key RGB found on higher-end models. |
| Dedicated multimedia controls for easy access. | |
| Broad compatibility with multiple platforms. |
Excellent Alternatives
- Razer BlackWidow V3 Mini HyperSpeed: A premium wireless tenkeyless keyboard with excellent mechanical switches.
- Corsair K65 RGB Mini: An ultra-compact 60% keyboard with customizable RGB lighting.
- Logitech G915 TKL: A high-performance wireless TKL keyboard with low-profile mechanical switches.
Final Verdict
The SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL RGB Gaming Keyboard offers a compelling combination of features, durability, and affordability. Its compact design, quiet switches, and water resistance make it a practical choice for gamers of all levels. While the membrane switches may not appeal to everyone, the overall value and performance are impressive. We recommend it, especially for those seeking a budget-friendly, space-saving gaming keyboard.
Our Rating
★★★★☆ 4/5