Any good PC set-up requires a strong keyboard and mouse, but many want to take it to the next level too without next-level costs. That’s where theApex 3 TKL keyboardfrom Steelseries comes in, with its pro-level keyboard design. Indeed, if someone is looking for a strong keyboard forcompetitive gaming inApex Legends, Call of Duty: Warzone, or so on, then the Apex 3 TKL is that without breaking the bank.
At first glance, it may be easy to shy away from adding SteelSeries’ Apex 3 TKL to aPC gaming setup. It is a compact keyboard meaning the overall size seems like it would get in the way for standard size users or those with big hands, but that’s not the case. Using a tenkeyless pro form (meaning it lacks a 10-key numeric keypad on the right side), the Apex 3 TKL is able to shrink its size without making the keys harder to hit.
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After all, any sort ofcompetitive gamerequires a lot of quick input, and players will want to be able to hit keys, rely on them, and not damage them. Not only are the Apex 3 TKL keys easy to use and incredibly reliable, but they boast a lifetime of 20 million keystrokes. As such, at its $44.99 price point, it’s a wise investment and not a money pit. On top of that though, the Apex 3 TKL keys are described as “whisper quiet” and deliver on that promise.
Utilizing durable low friction material, the Apex 3 TKL’s keys are incredibly quiet. Players can obviously still hear the click of each switch, but no one across the room will. This makes it perfect for those who wish to avoid sensory overload, be quiet around roommates or loved ones, and yet still have a strong, competitive keyboard. The compact design combines with this to make it the perfect travel keyboard, as while somegaming keyboards are so heavythey could deal serious damage to other items in transit, the Apex 3 TKL stands out and can fit anywhere safely.
That doesn’t mean it’s any less durable frame-wise, and this is especially true with the added protections worked into this frame. The Apex 3 TKL features an IP32 water and dust resistance rating, meaning its design prevents dust from getting into the keyboard and damaging its internal components. Really, there’s no identifiable way for dust to build up or damage this keyboard.
Obviously, water is a bit more tricky, but the Apex 3 TKL is basically going to ignore any everyday accident. If players accidentally spill a drink on it, the Apex 3 TKL should be able to resist any serious damage—this doesn’t mean it’s impossible but it’s very unlikely to be damaged from a typical spill. This is because the internal electronics are sealed, preventing exposure should water, drink, or some liquid find their way in somehow, but to really top off its protection, there are built-in drain holes on the bottom of the keyboard. This prevents any liquid from pooling within the keyboard itself. It’s still best to avoid this situation for any number of reasons, but it’s not going to ruin the keyboard if something spills on it.
On top of that, it boasts many of the features players have come to expect from a good gaming keyboard: anti-ghosting, instant media control features, solid typing experience for full functionality, broad compatibility, solid cable routing options, and of course,RGB features. No real PC gaming setup shines if it doesn’t give off that customizable glow, and fans won’t be disappointed with the Apex 3 TKL.
The Apex 3 TKL keyboard features 8 zones of customization for RGB illumination, and it’ll even react to events in-game, tosocials like Discord, and even when the hardware is resting (should players leave their gaming PCs on at all times). The biggest problem with RGB keyboards, sometimes, is the software to manipulate these, but that doesn’t apply here. The software is easy to use and intuitive, and it even comes with more than just the standard RGB customizations—SteelSeries GG users can share moments and more straight from one app.
Overall, the form factor, key design, durable architecture, customization options, and far more all shine in the Apex 3 TKL keyboard, making it one of thebest gaming keyboardson the market. This keyboard proves to be a worthwhile investment for any casual or standard gamer to take their set-up to the next level, all at a decent price.
Game Rant was provided with aSteelSeries Apex 3 TKL keyboardunit for the purposes of this review.
