SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Keyboard Review

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Hey there, fellow keyboard enthusiast! If you’re on the lookout for a gaming keyboard that strikes the perfect balance between performance and aesthetics, you’ve landed in the right place. In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive into the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL, a TenKeyLess (TKL) gaming keyboard that promises to elevate your gaming and typing experience to new heights. So, grab a comfy seat and maybe a snack, because we’re about to embark on a journey through the highs and lows of this fantastic piece of tech.

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First Impressions: Sleek and Sturdy

Unboxing the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL was like unwrapping a present on your birthday. The first thing that caught my eye was its sleek design. The keyboard is compact, thanks to its TKL layout, which means it ditches the numpad for a more streamlined look. This is perfect for those of us who need extra desk space for those epic mouse swipes in intense gaming sessions.

The build quality is impressive. It’s mostly plastic, but don’t let that fool you – there’s a solid aluminum plate that runs through the middle, giving it a nice heft and a feeling of durability. This keyboard is ready to take a beating from your late-night gaming rage quits.

Key Switches: The Heart of the Beast

Now, let’s talk about the core of any keyboard – the key switches. The SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL offers three different types of switches: SteelSeries Brown, SteelSeries Red, and SteelSeries Blue.

SteelSeries Brown Switches

Our unit came with the SteelSeries Brown switches, which are known for their tactile feedback. If you enjoy the feel of a slight bump with each keypress but don’t want the loud click, these are a great choice. They offer a balanced experience that’s good for both gaming and typing.

SteelSeries Red Switches

If you’re after a smoother and quieter experience, the SteelSeries Red switches might be your best bet. They’re linear switches, meaning there’s no tactile bump – just a straight press down. This can be a dream for fast-paced gaming where every millisecond counts.

SteelSeries Blue Switches

For those who crave that classic clicky sound and tactile feedback, the SteelSeries Blue switches are your go-to. These are the loudest of the bunch, so maybe not the best choice if you share your gaming space with others who value their peace and quiet.

RGB Lighting: A Feast for the Eyes

One of the standout features of the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL is its RGB lighting. Each key is individually backlit, and the customization options are seemingly endless. You can choose from a whopping 16.8 million colors per key. Whether you want a subtle glow or a full-on disco party at your desk, this keyboard has you covered.

The lighting effects can be customized using the SteelSeries Engine software, which we’ll get into a bit later. It’s worth noting that the RGB lighting is not just about aesthetics – it can also be functional. You can set different lighting profiles for different games or applications, making it easier to locate specific keys during those intense moments.

Ergonomics: Comfort is Key

Comfort is crucial when it comes to long gaming or typing sessions, and the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL doesn’t disappoint in this department. The keyboard comes with a magnetic wrist rest that attaches effortlessly. It’s not just a gimmick – it genuinely adds to the comfort, providing full palm support and reducing strain on your wrists.

The keyboard itself has a slight incline, which can be adjusted using the flip-out feet on the bottom. This helps in finding the most comfortable typing angle. The keys are also well-spaced, reducing the likelihood of accidental keypresses.

OLED Smart Display: Your Command Center

One of the coolest features of the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL is the OLED smart display located at the top right corner of the keyboard. This little screen can show a variety of information, such as in-game stats, Discord messages, or even your Spotify playlist. It’s like having a tiny command center at your fingertips.

You can also use the OLED screen to adjust settings on the fly without having to tab out of your game. Need to tweak your RGB lighting or set a macro? Just use the OLED screen and the accompanying navigation button and scroll wheel. It’s a nifty feature that adds a lot of convenience.

Companion Software: SteelSeries Engine

To get the most out of your SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL, you’ll want to dive into the SteelSeries Engine software. This software is where the magic happens – you can customize your RGB lighting, set up macros, reprogram keys, and much more.

The software is user-friendly, with a clean and intuitive interface. Setting up custom lighting effects is a breeze, and you can even synchronize your lighting with other SteelSeries peripherals. The macro editor is powerful, allowing you to create complex sequences with ease. Whether you’re looking to gain an edge in your favorite game or streamline your workflow, the SteelSeries Engine has you covered.

Performance: A Gaming Powerhouse

When it comes to performance, the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL truly shines. The combination of responsive key switches and customizable features makes it a formidable tool for any gamer.

In fast-paced games, every millisecond counts, and the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL delivers. The key switches are responsive, and the N-key rollover ensures that every keypress is registered, no matter how fast you’re mashing the keys. This keyboard also boasts a 1000Hz polling rate, meaning it sends input to your computer 1000 times per second. This translates to minimal input lag and a smoother gaming experience.

Office Use: More Than Just a Gaming Keyboard

While the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL is marketed primarily as a gaming keyboard, it’s also a great choice for office use. The tactile feedback from the Brown switches makes typing a pleasure, and the quiet operation means you won’t disturb your coworkers (unless you opt for the Blue switches, of course).

The compact TKL layout frees up desk space, making it easier to navigate your workstation. The magnetic wrist rest provides comfort during long typing sessions, and the customizable keys can be a boon for productivity. You can set up macros for repetitive tasks or reprogram keys for shortcuts in your favorite applications.

Compatibility: Plays Well with Others

The SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL is fully compatible with both Windows and macOS. This is great news for those of us who switch between different operating systems or use a Mac for work and a PC for gaming.

Plugging the keyboard into either system is a breeze, and the SteelSeries Engine software is available for both platforms. This means you can enjoy all the customization options regardless of your operating system.

Additional Features: Little Extras that Make a Difference

Beyond the core features we’ve covered, the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL packs a few additional goodies that add to its appeal.

USB Passthrough

One handy feature is the USB passthrough port. This allows you to connect other devices, like a mouse or a USB drive, directly to your keyboard. It’s a small convenience that can make a big difference in keeping your desk tidy and cables under control.

Media Controls

The dedicated media controls on the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL are a nice touch. You can easily adjust volume, skip tracks, and pause your music without having to fiddle with on-screen controls. This is especially useful during gaming sessions when you need to make quick adjustments without leaving the action.

Cable Management

The keyboard comes with a built-in cable routing system, allowing you to run the cable in different directions. This helps in managing your desk setup and keeping things neat. The cable itself is also nicely braided, adding to the overall durability and aesthetic of the keyboard.

Final Thoughts: Is the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Worth It?

After spending ample time with the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL, it’s clear that this keyboard is a fantastic choice for both gamers and office users. Its combination of build quality, responsive key switches, and a plethora of features makes it a standout option in the crowded gaming keyboard market.

The RGB lighting is gorgeous and highly customizable, the OLED smart display is both fun and functional, and the companion software is among the best out there. The inclusion of a magnetic wrist rest and thoughtful design touches like USB passthrough and media controls further enhance the overall experience.

While the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL is not the cheapest option out there, its price is justified by the quality and features it offers. If you’re looking for a versatile, high-performance keyboard that can handle both your gaming and productivity needs, the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL is definitely worth considering.

Recommendation

In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL. It’s a top-tier gaming keyboard that also excels in everyday use. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer, a casual player, or someone who spends a lot of time typing, this keyboard is likely to meet your needs and then some. So, if you’re ready to take your gaming and typing experience to the next level, the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL is a solid investment. Happy gaming!

Now, go forth and conquer your virtual worlds with the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL by your side. And remember, in the words of a wise gamer, “May your RGB lights always shine bright and your keypresses be forever swift.”

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