SteelSeries makes three compelling gaming keyboards at very different price points, and the best choice depends entirely on your budget and whether you need wireless connectivity or compact sizing. The Apex Pro TKL Wireless is the premium option at £299.99, the Apex Wired offers mid-range performance at £99.99, and the Apex 3 TKL delivers solid entry-level gaming for just £51.29.
Why SteelSeries?
SteelSeries has specialised in gaming peripherals since 2002, with a focus on mechanical keyboards that prioritise durability and responsiveness. They're known for building switches and stabilisers in-house rather than relying entirely on third-party components, which means tighter quality control than many competitors. Their keyboards typically feature per-key RGB lighting, customisable actuation points (on premium models), and robust aluminium or plastic frames designed to withstand years of competitive play. The brand consistently scores high for customer support and replacement policies across gaming communities.
Top Picks
Apex Pro TKL Wireless — £299.99
Best for competitive players who need wireless reliability without sacrificing switch responsiveness. This is SteelSeries' flagship compact keyboard, featuring OmniPoint 2.0 adjustable mechanical switches (adjust actuation from 0.4mm to 4mm), a 2.4GHz wireless connection with 2ms latency, and an aluminium frame. Fully programmable with 8 hours of battery life per charge. The 87-key TKL layout saves desk space compared to full-size boards.
Apex Wired Gaming Keyboard — £99.99
Best for players who want mechanical switches and RGB lighting without wireless complexity. The wired connection eliminates latency entirely and removes charging requirements. Features traditional mechanical switches (not adjustable like the Pro), per-key customisation, and a solid plastic frame. Full-size layout with 104 keys means more comfortable typing for longer sessions.
Apex 3 TKL — £51.29
Best for casual gamers or those testing mechanical keyboards for the first time. This entry-level model uses hybrid mechanical switches (quieter than full mechanical), offers basic RGB lighting, and comes in white—uncommon for gaming keyboards. The TKL form factor keeps it compact. No wireless option, so it's wired only.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Price | Best For | Standout Feature | |---|---|---|---| | Apex Pro TKL Wireless | £299.99 | Competitive/wireless players | Adjustable actuation (0.4-4mm), 2ms wireless latency | | Apex Wired | £99.99 | Mid-range gamers | Mechanical switches, per-key RGB, full-size layout | | Apex 3 TKL | £51.29 | Budget/casual players | Affordable entry point, compact TKL size, white colour |
What to Look For
- Switch type matters: True mechanical switches (on the Pro and Wired) offer faster response and longer lifespan (50–80 million keystrokes) than hybrid switches (Apex 3). If you play competitive shooters or MOBAs, mechanical is worth the extra cost.
- Wireless vs wired trade-off: Wireless adds £200+ to the price but removes cable clutter. SteelSeries' 2.4GHz connection (not Bluetooth) keeps latency to 2ms—imperceptible in most games—but requires occasional charging.
- Layout size: TKL (87 keys) saves desk space and improves mouse room; full-size (104 keys) feels more familiar for typing-heavy users. Choose based on your desk depth, not just gaming preference.
- Adjustable actuation (Pro only): Changing from 0.4mm (lightest, fastest) to 4mm (heaviest, noise-dampened) lets you fine-tune response to your playstyle. This feature alone justifies the price bump for competitive players.
The Bottom Line
For most players, the Apex Wired at £99.99 offers the best value—you get genuine mechanical switches, per-key RGB, and a full-size layout without paying a wireless premium. If you compete seriously and want adjustable switches plus wireless freedom, the Apex Pro TKL Wireless at £299.99 justifies its cost, though you'll sacrifice the full-size layout. Budget gamers should start with the Apex 3 TKL at £51.29, but expect to upgrade within 1–2 years as you get more serious about gaming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SteelSeries good value for money compared to other gaming keyboard brands?
Yes—SteelSeries typically costs 10–15% less than equivalently specced Corsair or Razer boards, and their adjustment features (like the Apex Pro's actuation control) are often exclusive at this price point. Entry-level models like the Apex 3 undercut competitors by £20–30.
Do I really need the Apex Pro's adjustable switches, or is the standard mechanical switch good enough?
Standard mechanical switches are fine for casual gaming and work. Adjustable switches matter if you play fast-twitch shooters (lower actuation = faster flicks) or prefer heavier switches for typing without accidental presses. Most players won't notice a performance difference; it's mainly for personalisation.
How long do SteelSeries keyboards last, and what's the warranty?
Mechanical switches are rated for 50–80 million keystrokes (roughly 5–10 years of daily use). SteelSeries typically offers a 2-year warranty on manufacturing defects, with customer support available for replacement claims. Wired boards tend to outlast wireless ones simply because batteries degrade over time.
Can you use the Apex Pro TKL on PlayStation or Xbox, or is it PC-only?
The Apex Pro TKL Wireless uses a 2.4GHz USB dongle, so it works on any device with a USB port—including PS5, Xbox Series X, and Mac. Most gaming keyboards are platform-agnostic; only RGB customisation software (GN:X) is Windows/Mac only.
