SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Keyboard Review: A Budget Gamer’s Dream?

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If you’ve ever spilled a drink on your keyboard and felt your heart drop faster than your kill/death ratio, then the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL keyboard might just be your knight in shining armor. Designed for the budget-conscious gamer, this keyboard promises durability, functionality, and a bit of style. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Keyboard in this review.

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First Impressions: Sleek and Compact

Opening the box, the first thing you’ll notice is how compact and sleek the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL is. This TenKeyLess (TKL) design is perfect for gamers who need extra desk space for sweeping mouse movements. Plus, it’s quite the looker with its minimalist aesthetic and RGB backlighting. While the RGB isn’t per-key customizable, the eight-zone lighting still offers a visually pleasing array of colors that can match any gaming setup.

Build Quality and Design: Tough and Tiny

Despite being a budget gaming keyboard, the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL doesn’t skimp on build quality. It feels sturdy and well-made, with a decent heft that suggests it can withstand some rough handling. The keyboard is IP32-rated, which means it’s resistant to spills and dust – a feature that’s a godsend for clumsy gamers like me. So go ahead, keep that can of soda on your desk without fear.

Typing Experience: Whisper Quiet and Tactile

Let’s get into the meat and potatoes of this review: the typing experience. The SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL uses rubber dome switches, which might raise a few eyebrows among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. These switches are indeed lighter to press and provide decent tactile feedback, but they have a longer pre-travel distance. This means they aren’t as quick to actuate as mechanical switches, which could be a dealbreaker for some competitive gamers.

However, for casual gaming and everyday typing, these switches are surprisingly pleasant. They’re whisper-quiet, making late-night gaming sessions roommate-friendly. The tactile feedback is satisfying enough to make typing enjoyable without the loud clacks of mechanical keyboards. If you’re transitioning from a membrane keyboard or if you prioritize quietness, you’ll feel right at home here.

Gaming Performance: Good Enough for Most

When it comes to gaming, the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL holds its own. The anti-ghosting technology ensures that your key presses are accurately registered, even during intense gaming sessions. However, the higher latency compared to mechanical keyboards might be noticeable for competitive gamers who need lightning-fast response times. For casual gamers, though, this shouldn’t pose a significant issue.

Customization: Macro Keys and RGB

The SteelSeries GG software lets you customize macros and the RGB lighting. While the eight customizable lighting zones might not satisfy those looking for individual key customization, it’s still a step up from plain old single-color backlighting. You can sync the lighting with other SteelSeries devices for a cohesive look, which is a nice touch.

Everyday Use: Office-Friendly?

Beyond gaming, the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL is a solid choice for everyday use. The keys are stable, and the typing experience is comfortable enough for long typing sessions. However, the ABS keycaps feel a bit slippery, which might be a minor annoyance during extended use. Also, the lack of a wrist rest could lead to some fatigue, but this is a minor gripe given the overall value of the keyboard.

Connectivity: Wired Only

In terms of connectivity, the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL is wired-only. This means you won’t be able to use it with mobile devices or enjoy the freedom of a wireless setup. But for most gamers, a wired connection ensures a stable, lag-free experience, which is essential during high-stakes gaming sessions.

Multimedia Controls: Handy Additions

The dedicated multimedia controls are a nice bonus. The clickable volume roller and media keys let you adjust the volume, skip tracks, and pause music without leaving your game. This might seem like a small feature, but it adds a lot to the overall convenience and user experience.

Durability: Built to Last

One of the standout features of the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL is its durability. The rubber dome switches are rated for over 20 million keypresses, which is impressive for a non-mechanical keyboard. Coupled with the IP32 rating, this keyboard is built to withstand the rigors of daily use and accidental spills.

Value for Money: A Budget Gem

Let’s be real – the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL isn’t trying to compete with high-end mechanical keyboards. It’s a budget-friendly option that offers a lot of value for its price. You get a durable, spill-resistant keyboard with decent typing and gaming performance, customizable RGB lighting, and handy multimedia controls. For gamers on a budget, this keyboard is a steal.

Who Should Buy the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL?

The SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL is perfect for:

  • Casual gamers: If you enjoy gaming but aren’t competing at a professional level, this keyboard offers everything you need without breaking the bank.
  • Budget-conscious buyers: You get a lot of bang for your buck with this keyboard, making it a great option for those who want quality without spending a fortune.
  • Quiet typists: The whisper-quiet switches are ideal for those who need a quiet keyboard for late-night gaming or office use.

Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?

  • Competitive gamers: If you need the absolute fastest response times, you might want to invest in a mechanical keyboard with lower latency.
  • Customization enthusiasts: If you crave per-key RGB customization and the feel of mechanical switches, this keyboard might leave you wanting more.

Final Verdict: A Solid Budget Choice

In the grand scheme of gaming keyboards, the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL holds a unique spot. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t feel cheap. With its durable build, decent typing and gaming performance, customizable RGB lighting, and handy multimedia controls, it offers a lot of value. Sure, it’s not perfect – the latency could be better, and the keycaps could be less slippery – but these are minor gripes in the context of its overall performance and price.

If you’re looking for a reliable, spill-resistant gaming keyboard that won’t break the bank, the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL is definitely worth considering. It’s not going to turn you into a gaming god overnight, but it will provide a solid, enjoyable gaming and typing experience. And really, what more can you ask for at this price point?

So, to sum it all up: SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Keyboard Review – it’s a budget-friendly, durable, and stylish keyboard that punches well above its weight class. Whether you’re a casual gamer, a budget-conscious buyer, or someone who just needs a quiet keyboard for late-night sessions, the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL is a fantastic choice.

My Recommendation

If you’re in the market for a new keyboard and don’t want to spend a fortune, give the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL a shot. Its compact design, durability, and user-friendly features make it a great addition to any gaming setup. Plus, you’ll have the peace of mind knowing that a spilled drink won’t ruin your day. So go ahead, game on, and maybe keep that soda a little too close – the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL can handle it.

This concludes our SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Keyboard Review. Happy gaming!

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