OVERALL

SPECS

VS AVERAGE

REVIEWS

ALTERNATIVES

SteelSeries Apex 5 Review | 64 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£95
Avg. price in US: ~$100
Layout size: Full-size
Connection type: USB
Switch type: mechanical
Polling rate: 1000 Hz

SteelSeries Apex 5 review. Compare 64 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among keyboards and if it is worth buying.

5.9

Good

5.0

Good

9.4

Exceptional

2.1
Gaming
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Polling rate
24.0%
1.0
Rapid trigger
20.0%
1.0
Adjustable actuation
16.0%
1.0
Hot-swappable switches
12.0%
10
Onboard memory
8.4
Typing
Score components:
28.0%
10
Wrist rest included
24.0%
8.0
Legend method
20.0%
10
Adjustable feet
15.0%
7.8
Typing angle
13.0%
4.0
Pre-lubed stabilizers
2.8
Programming
Score components:
30.0%
1.0
QMK support
26.0%
1.0
VIA support
18.0%
10
Mac compatibility
14.0%
0.0
Multi-device pairing
12.0%
4.0
Connection type

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

Verdict

The SteelSeries Apex 5 is a full-sized hybrid mechanical gaming keyboard featuring clicky blue hybrid switches (20M keypress lifespan) housed in an aircraft-grade aluminum frame with per-key RGB lighting. Key pros include a functional OLED Smart Display for custom GIFs or game info, a dedicated clickable metal volume roller, and a comfortable magnetic wrist rest. It offers a premium feel with satisfying tactile feedback at a mid-range price point, though it lacks USB pass-through, uses ABS keycaps, and the hybrid switches are louder with a lower lifespan than traditional mechanical switches.

Technical Specifications of SteelSeries Apex 5

Overall score

5.9

Show more

Hide

Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the keyboard.

When it matters: When you prefer a keyboard that has already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.

Switches

1.8

Show more

Hide

Switch type

What it is: Identifies the switch technology used by the keyboard, such as mechanical, optical, or Hall effect.

When it matters: When you are choosing between different response technologies and their long-term behavior.

Importance: HIGH

mechanical

Switch feel

What it is: Describes the keypress character, such as linear, tactile, or clicky.

When it matters: When the sensation of each keypress changes comfort, control, and noise level for your use.

Importance: HIGH

tactile

Switch name

What it is: States the specific switch model used by the keyboard.

When it matters: When the exact switch model matters because small tuning differences affect your preference.

Importance: MEDIUM

?

Actuation force

What it is: Measures how much force is needed to actuate a key.

When it matters: When finger fatigue, accidental presses, or key resistance matters to your typing style.

Importance: HIGH

50 g

Min actuation distance

What it is: Measures the shortest key travel needed to register an input.

When it matters: When faster key response matters and you want the shortest possible trigger point under your fingers.

Importance: MEDIUM

Show more

Design

8.9

Show more

Hide

Keyboard type

What it is: Identifies the keyboard technology, such as mechanical, membrane, optical, or Hall effect.

When it matters: When you need a keyboard built around a specific switch technology or feel profile.

Importance: HIGH

Membrane

Layout size

What it is: States the keyboard form factor and how much of the standard keyset it includes.

When it matters: When desk space, portability, or access to a full key set affects how you work or play.

Importance: HIGH

Full-size

Layout standard

What it is: Specifies the regional layout standard, such as ANSI, ISO, or JIS.

When it matters: When you need a regional key layout that matches your language habits or keycap set.

Importance: MEDIUM

ANSI

N. of keys

What it is: States how many keys are present on the keyboard.

When it matters: When you need a certain number of keys for shortcuts, navigation, or a numpad.

Importance: MEDIUM

Profile

What it is: Describes whether the keyboard uses a low-profile or standard-height design.

When it matters: When key height changes your typing comfort, travel distance, or the overall desk setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

standard

Show more

Connectivity & Power

5.2

Show more

Hide

Connection type

What it is: Specifies how the keyboard connects, such as USB, 2.4 GHz wireless, or Bluetooth.

When it matters: When latency, cable management, or wireless flexibility is part of your buying decision.

Importance: HIGH

Multi-device pairing

What it is: Shows whether the keyboard can stay paired with multiple devices for quicker switching.

When it matters: When you switch regularly between a laptop, tablet, and other devices on one desk.

Importance: HIGH

N/A

Bluetooth version

What it is: States the Bluetooth generation supported for wireless pairing.

When it matters: When wireless stability, compatibility, and energy efficiency are part of what you compare.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Mac compatibility

What it is: Shows whether the keyboard is intended to work properly with macOS layouts, shortcuts, or legends.

When it matters: When you need the keyboard to work properly with macOS shortcuts and key mapping.

Importance: HIGH

Battery life

What it is: Estimates how long the keyboard can run on a full charge.

When it matters: When the keyboard needs to last through workweeks, travel, or long gaming stretches without constant charging.

Importance: HIGH

N/A

Show more

Features

8.4

Show more

Hide

RGB lighting

What it is: Shows whether the keyboard includes customizable RGB lighting effects.

When it matters: When visual customization and desk aesthetics matter to your setup.

Importance: HIGH

Per-key RGB

What it is: Shows whether each key can be lit and controlled independently instead of sharing one uniform lighting zone.

When it matters: When customizing each key individually matters for visuals, games, or shortcut visibility.

Importance: HIGH

RGB zones

What it is: States how many RGB lighting zones can be controlled separately.

When it matters: When you want more lighting control than a simple all-at-once backlight can provide.

Importance: LOW

Underglow / side lighting

What it is: Shows whether the case includes lighting around the underside or outer edges in addition to the keys themselves.

When it matters: When edge lighting is part of the visual style you want from the keyboard.

Importance: MEDIUM

Backlight direction

What it is: Specifies whether the switches use north-facing or south-facing backlighting.

When it matters: When you care about switch compatibility, keycap interference, or lighting placement.

Importance: LOW

north-facing

Show more

Materials

6.0

Show more

Hide

Case material

What it is: Describes the main material used for the keyboard case.

When it matters: When build feel, rigidity, and overall finish influence your sense of quality.

Importance: HIGH

aluminum

Plate material

What it is: Describes the material used for the mounting plate beneath the switches.

When it matters: When keyboard stiffness, sound profile, and bottom-out feel matter more than the switch spec sheet alone.

Importance: HIGH

aluminum

Keycap material

What it is: Describes the material used to make the keycaps.

When it matters: When surface texture, wear resistance, and sound of the keycaps affect your choice.

Importance: HIGH

ABS

Keycap profile

What it is: Describes the shape and height profile of the keycaps.

When it matters: When key shape and sculpting affect comfort, wrist angle, and the sound of each press.

Importance: MEDIUM

OEM

Legend method

What it is: Describes how the legends are applied to the keycaps, which affects durability and visibility.

When it matters: When you care about how long key legends stay readable after heavy use.

Importance: MEDIUM

Show more

SteelSeries Apex 5 vs the average keyboard

Why is SteelSeries Apex 5 better than the average keyboard?

Show more

Hide

Dedicated media keys
SteelSeries Apex 5 includes dedicated media keys, the average keyboard does not. 20.7% of keyboards include dedicated media keys.
What it is: Shows whether the keyboard includes separate media controls instead of hiding them behind a function layer.
When it matters: When you use media controls often and do not want to rely on function-layer shortcuts.
Importance: MEDIUM
SteelSeries Apex 5 includes dedicated media keys, the average keyboard does not. 20.7% of keyboards include dedicated media keys.
Built-in display
SteelSeries Apex 5 has a built-in display, the average keyboard does not. 9.5% of keyboards have a built-in display.
Built-in display panel.
What it is: Shows whether the keyboard includes a built-in screen for status information, controls, or custom widgets.
When it matters: When onboard information or direct controls on the keyboard are useful in daily use.
Importance: MEDIUM
SteelSeries Apex 5 has a built-in display, the average keyboard does not. 9.5% of keyboards have a built-in display.
17 more keys
SteelSeries Apex 5 has more keys than the average keyboard (104 vs 87). The average keyboard has 87 keys.
What it is: States how many keys are present on the keyboard.
When it matters: When you need a certain number of keys for shortcuts, navigation, or a numpad.
Importance: MEDIUM
SteelSeries Apex 5 has more keys than the average keyboard (104 vs 87). The average keyboard has 87 keys.104 vs 87
Volume control wheel
SteelSeries Apex 5 includes a volume wheel, the average keyboard does not. 38.8% of keyboards include a volume wheel.
What it is: Shows whether the keyboard includes a dedicated wheel or roller for hardware volume control.
When it matters: When frequent hardware volume control matters enough that you do not want to rely on function-key shortcuts.
Importance: MEDIUM
SteelSeries Apex 5 includes a volume wheel, the average keyboard does not. 38.8% of keyboards include a volume wheel.
21 more RGB zones
SteelSeries Apex 5 has more RGB zones than the average keyboard (104 vs 83). The average keyboard has 83 RGB zones.
What it is: States how many RGB lighting zones can be controlled separately.
When it matters: When you want more lighting control than a simple all-at-once backlight can provide.
Importance: LOW
SteelSeries Apex 5 has more RGB zones than the average keyboard (104 vs 83). The average keyboard has 83 RGB zones.104 vs 83
Includes wrist rest
SteelSeries Apex 5 includes a wrist rest, the average keyboard does not. 17% of keyboards include a wrist rest.
What it is: Shows whether a wrist rest is included in the box instead of needing to be purchased separately.
When it matters: When long typing or gaming sessions make wrist support more important.
Importance: HIGH
SteelSeries Apex 5 includes a wrist rest, the average keyboard does not. 17% of keyboards include a wrist rest.
17.5% higher user score
SteelSeries Apex 5 has a higher user score than the average keyboard (9.40 vs 8.000).
What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the keyboard.
When it matters: When you want to understand how a keyboard performs in daily use or gaming and how reliable it is in terms of typing feel, noise level, comfort, and long-term durability.
SteelSeries Apex 5 has a higher user score than the average keyboard (9.40 vs 8.000).9.4 vs 8
36.8% cheaper
SteelSeries Apex 5 is cheaper than the average keyboard (£95 vs £130).
SteelSeries Apex 5 is cheaper than the average keyboard (£95 vs £130).£95 vs £130
17 more keys
SteelSeries Apex 5 has more keys than the average keyboard (104 vs 87). The average keyboard has 87 keys.
Includes wrist rest
SteelSeries Apex 5 includes a wrist rest, the average keyboard does not. 17% of keyboards include a wrist rest.
1 ° lower typing angle
SteelSeries Apex 5 has a lower typing angle than the average keyboard (4 ° vs 5 °). The average keyboard has a typing angle of 5 °.
Dedicated media keys
SteelSeries Apex 5 includes dedicated media keys, the average keyboard does not. 20.7% of keyboards include dedicated media keys.
Built-in display
SteelSeries Apex 5 has a built-in display, the average keyboard does not. 9.5% of keyboards have a built-in display.
Volume control wheel
SteelSeries Apex 5 includes a volume wheel, the average keyboard does not. 38.8% of keyboards include a volume wheel.
21 more RGB zones
SteelSeries Apex 5 has more RGB zones than the average keyboard (104 vs 83). The average keyboard has 83 RGB zones.

Why is SteelSeries Apex 5 worse than the average keyboard?

Show more

Hide

87.8 mm wider width
SteelSeries Apex 5 is wider than the average keyboard (442.8 mm vs 355 mm). The average keyboard width is 355 mm.
3 older release date
SteelSeries Apex 5 is older than the average keyboard (2,020 vs 2,023). The average keyboard was released in 2,023.
January 2020.
2 mm higher keyboard height
SteelSeries Apex 5 is taller than the average keyboard (40.5 mm vs 38.5 mm). The average keyboard height is 38.5 mm.
Less versatile connectivity
SteelSeries Apex 5 offers less versatile connectivity than the average keyboard (USB vs USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth). The average keyboard offers USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth connectivity.
Fixed cable
SteelSeries Apex 5 has a fixed cable, while the average keyboard has yes. 90.8% of keyboards come with a detachable cable.
No hot-swap support
SteelSeries Apex 5 does not support hot-swappable switches, the average keyboard does. 65.5% of keyboards support hot-swappable switches.
0.3 mm longer minimum actuation distance
SteelSeries Apex 5 has a longer minimum actuation distance than the average keyboard (2 mm vs 1.7 mm). The average keyboard has a minimum actuation distance of 1.7 mm.
No full NKRO support
SteelSeries Apex 5 does not support full NKRO, the average keyboard does. 98% of keyboards support full NKRO.
No pre-lubed stabilizers
SteelSeries Apex 5 does not have pre-lubed stabilizers, the average keyboard does. 81.1% of keyboards come with pre-lubed stabilizers.
Less versatile connectivity
SteelSeries Apex 5 offers less versatile connectivity than the average keyboard (USB vs USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth). The average keyboard offers USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth connectivity.
What it is: Specifies how the keyboard connects, such as USB, 2.4 GHz wireless, or Bluetooth.
When it matters: When latency, cable management, or wireless flexibility is part of your buying decision.
Importance: HIGH
SteelSeries Apex 5 offers less versatile connectivity than the average keyboard (USB vs USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth). The average keyboard offers USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth connectivity.USB vs USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth
No hot-swap support
SteelSeries Apex 5 does not support hot-swappable switches, the average keyboard does. 65.5% of keyboards support hot-swappable switches.
What it is: Shows whether the switches can be removed and replaced without soldering.
When it matters: When you want to try different switches, replace a bad switch easily, or tune feel without soldering work.
Importance: HIGH
SteelSeries Apex 5 does not support hot-swappable switches, the average keyboard does. 65.5% of keyboards support hot-swappable switches.
No pre-lubed stabilizers
SteelSeries Apex 5 does not have pre-lubed stabilizers, the average keyboard does. 81.1% of keyboards come with pre-lubed stabilizers.
What it is: Shows whether the stabilizers arrive factory-lubricated instead of requiring manual tuning for smoother larger keys.
When it matters: When larger keys like space, enter, and shift need to feel smoother and sound less rattly out of the box.
Importance: MEDIUM
SteelSeries Apex 5 does not have pre-lubed stabilizers, the average keyboard does. 81.1% of keyboards come with pre-lubed stabilizers.
0.3 mm longer minimum actuation distance
SteelSeries Apex 5 has a longer minimum actuation distance than the average keyboard (2 mm vs 1.7 mm). The average keyboard has a minimum actuation distance of 1.7 mm.
What it is: Measures the shortest key travel needed to register an input.
When it matters: When faster key response matters and you want the shortest possible trigger point under your fingers.
Importance: MEDIUM
SteelSeries Apex 5 has a longer minimum actuation distance than the average keyboard (2 mm vs 1.7 mm). The average keyboard has a minimum actuation distance of 1.7 mm.2 mm vs 1.7 mm
Fixed cable
SteelSeries Apex 5 has a fixed cable, while the average keyboard has yes. 90.8% of keyboards come with a detachable cable.
What it is: Shows whether the cable can be unplugged and replaced instead of being permanently fixed to the keyboard.
When it matters: When easier transport, cable replacement, or custom cable use matters to you.
Importance: HIGH
SteelSeries Apex 5 has a fixed cable, while the average keyboard has yes. 90.8% of keyboards come with a detachable cable.
No full NKRO support
SteelSeries Apex 5 does not support full NKRO, the average keyboard does. 98% of keyboards support full NKRO.
What it is: Shows whether the keyboard supports n-key rollover so many simultaneous key presses can be registered correctly.
When it matters: When you press many keys at once and need all of them to be registered reliably.
Importance: MEDIUM
SteelSeries Apex 5 does not support full NKRO, the average keyboard does. 98% of keyboards support full NKRO.
9.5% worse value for money
SteelSeries Apex 5 has worse value for money than the average keyboard (7.13 vs 7.802).
What it is: An indicator that combines the keyboard's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters: When you are looking for a keyboard that offers a strong balance of performance, features, and price.
SteelSeries Apex 5 has worse value for money than the average keyboard (7.13 vs 7.802).7.13 vs 7.8
87.8 mm wider width
SteelSeries Apex 5 is wider than the average keyboard (442.8 mm vs 355 mm). The average keyboard width is 355 mm.
What it is: Measures the keyboard from side to side.
When it matters: When the keyboard has to match limited desk width or fit inside a specific setup.
Importance: MEDIUM
SteelSeries Apex 5 is wider than the average keyboard (442.8 mm vs 355 mm). The average keyboard width is 355 mm.442.8 mm vs 355 mm

Connectivity & Power

Graphic comparison of SteelSeries Apex 5 and

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

What customers like about SteelSeries Apex 5?

Hybrid Blue switches provide a tactile, 'clicky' feel similar to authentic mechanical switches.
High-quality aircraft-grade aluminum alloy frame ensures excellent build durability.
Customizable OLED smart display for GIFs, game stats, and Discord notifications.
Includes a premium magnetic wrist rest with a soft-touch finish for improved ergonomics.
Powerful SteelSeries Engine software allows for extensive per-key RGB and macro customization.
Clever three-way cable routing channels on the underside for cleaner desk management.

What customers dislike about SteelSeries Apex 5?

High input latency compared to other wired gaming keyboards, which may impact competitive play.
Hybrid Blue switches are notably loud, making it unsuitable for quiet office environments.
The USB cable is permanently attached (non-detachable), limiting portability and repairability.
Lacks a USB passthrough port, which is often standard on other keyboards in this price range.
ABS keycaps are prone to developing a 'shine' from finger oils over extended use.
The OLED display is sometimes viewed as a 'gimmick' with limited practical utility during gameplay.
Priced similarly to some fully mechanical keyboards, leading to concerns about its overall value proposition.

Expert reviews

uk.pcmag.com

10/02/2020

SteelSeries Apex 5 Review

The PCMag UK SteelSeries Apex 5 review highlights this midrange gaming keyboard as a killer, well-made option that earns a 4.0 Excellent rating. Originally launched for $99.99, it successfully bridges the gap between membrane and mechanical technology using spring-loaded "Hybrid Blue" switches. Pros mentioned in the review include a hybrid switch design that feels authentically...Read more

tomsguide.com

06/02/2020

SteelSeries Apex 5 review

The SteelSeries Apex 5 is a hybrid keyboard that pairs mechanical key switches with an underlying electrical membrane design, attempting to deliver a mechanical feel with membrane smoothness. Priced around $100, the full-sized keyboard delivers solid in-game performance across various genres and includes helpful design elements, such as a highly comfortable magnetic wrist rest and...Read more

invisioncommunity.co.uk

28/05/2020

SteelSeries Apex 5 Keyboard Review - Invision Game Community

SteelSeries Apex 5 Review Summary The SteelSeries Apex 5 is a lightweight, full-sized gaming keyboard that bridges the gap between budget and premium peripherals with a retail price of £109.99. Its defining design feature is the use of hybrid mechanical blue switches, which combine a cheaper membrane circuit layout with physical springs and coils. This architecture delivers the...Read more

wccftech.com

17/05/2020

SteelSeries Apex 5 Review - Bringing the Hybrid Home - Wccftech

The SteelSeries Apex 5 is a mid-range gaming keyboard priced at £109.99/$99.99 that utilizes "hybrid mechanical" switches. These keys combine the physical spring, click, and tactile bump of a mechanical switch with a cost-effective membrane design. In real-world testing across gaming and extensive typing, the hybrid switches performed identically to pure mechanical keys, showing...Read more

laptopmag.com

29/04/2020

SteelSeries Apex 5 review

The SteelSeries Apex 5 is a feature-rich, full-sized gaming keyboard that offers an impressive balance between high-end aesthetics and strategic pricing at around $100. Weighing just two pounds with tight, trimmed-down bezels, its lightweight design combines a durable aluminum top deck with a sturdy plastic base that includes integrated pop-out feet and customizable cable routing...Read more

pcmag.com

10/02/2020

SteelSeries Apex 5 Review - PCMag

The PCMag review highlights the SteelSeries Apex 5 as a strong hybrid-mechanical keyboard, bridging the gap between performance and price with its clicky, tactile "Hybrid Blue" switches and robust, aircraft-grade aluminum frame. Notable features include a magnetic wrist rest, a customizable OLED display, and a premium metal volume roller that enhance the overall user experience....Read more

ign.com

29/11/2022

SteelSeries Apex 5 Gaming Keyboard Review - IGN

The SteelSeries Apex 5 gaming keyboard balances premium design and high-end features with a mid-range price of $99, earning an 8/10 "Great" score from IGN. A major highlight is its hybrid mechanical switches, which utilize a physical mechanism to deliver the tactile bump, loud click, and 4mm travel of a mechanical layout, while actuating over a more affordable and smooth membrane...Read more

alfiebsmith.com

03/02/2026

Review: SteelSeries Apex 5 Gaming Keyboard

The SteelSeries Apex 5 is a premium full-sized gaming keyboard priced between £80 and £100 that successfully bridges the gap between budget membrane decks and expensive mechanical boards. Built with a rigid, aircraft-grade aluminium alloy frame that shows almost no flex, it includes a highly comfortable, soft-touch magnetic wrist rest and a three-way cable routing system to keep...Read more

xander51.medium.com

24/09/2021

SteelSeries Apex 5 Hybrid Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Review Would you like a comparison of how the Apex 5's hybrid switches perform against the fully...

Alex Rowe’s review on Medium positions the SteelSeries Apex 5 as a competent $100 mid-range hybrid mechanical keyboard, offering premium features like an aircraft-grade aluminum top plate, per-key RGB, and a magnetic wrist rest. The core highlight is the hybrid blue switches, which provide a tactile, clicky experience, complemented by a customizable OLED display and effective cable...Read more

senses.se

05/02/2020

SteelSeries Apex 5 Keyboard Review

The SteelSeries Apex 5 is a durable and well-constructed gaming keyboard evaluated at approximately 1400 SEK, featuring impressive out-of-the-box, plug-and-play functionality across Xbox, Windows PC, and Mac platforms. The reviewer noted that installing the optional SteelSeries software significantly enhances user agency, allowing for customized per-key macros, personalized text on...Read more

cravingtech.com

29/04/2020

SteelSeries Apex 5 Review – SteelSeries' entry-level gaming keyboard with hybrid switches

The SteelSeries Apex 5 is reviewed as a rock-solid, entry-level gaming keyboard that successfully brings the premium aesthetics of high-end models like the Apex Pro down to a more affordable price point. Built with a highly durable aircraft-grade aluminum alloy chassis, it features per-key RGB backlighting, a premium detachable magnetic wrist rest, and handy dedicated multimedia...Read more

well-played.com.au

20/07/2020

SteelSeries Apex 5 Review - WellPlayed

The WellPlayed review finds the SteelSeries Apex 5Go to product viewer dialogue for this item. to be a tactile and versatile hybrid keyboard that justifies its price with satisfying, typewriter-like mechanical keys. Key strengths include a comfortable magnetic wrist rest, vibrant RGB, and a functional OLED smart display for customization. However, the hybrid switches are louder than...Read more

gdgtme.com

25/07/2020

SteelSeries APEX 5 Hybrid Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Review", "SteelSeries Apex 5 Hybrid Mechanical Keyboard Review

The Gadgets Middle East review of the SteelSeries Apex 5 Hybrid Mechanical Keyboard highlights it as a feature-rich, budget-friendly option that delivers flagship-tier specifications without breaking the bank. Built with an premium aircraft-grade aluminium alloy frame and a minimalistic design, the keyboard introduces "hybrid" blue switches. These switches combine a membrane...Read more

rtings.com

14/02/2020

SteelSeries Apex 5 Keyboard Review

The SteelSeries Apex 5 is a wired gaming keyboard featuring an aircraft-grade aluminum top plate, exceptional build quality, and a comfortable, magnetic wrist rest. Its hybrid mechanical switches offer a light, clicky typing experience, complemented by a unique OLED smart display and extensive software customization for RGB lighting. However, the keyboard is hampered by unexpectedly...Read more

eteknix.com

23/05/2020

SteelSeries Apex 5 Mechanical Keyboard Review

The SteelSeries Apex 5 review by Peter Donnell on eTeknix highlights it as a highly capable, feature-packed mid-range peripheral priced at £109.99. A major highlight is its exceptional build quality, featuring a rigid, aircraft-grade aluminium alloy chassis that exhibits virtually no deck flex. It sets itself apart by bridging the gap between enthusiast hardware and budget...Read more

igorslab.de

23/04/2020

SteelSeries Apex 5 Review: A Feature-Packed Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

The SteelSeries Apex 5 is a mid-range, RGB-illuminated gaming keyboard that positions itself in the middle of a crowded market. Evaluated by Igor'sLAB, the keyboard is priced at around €130, aiming to bridge the gap between high-end custom mechanical boards and cheap membrane alternatives. It stands out by integrating an interactive OLED Smart Display alongside dedicated multimedia...Read more

play-experience.com

10/05/2020

SteelSeries Apex 5 – The Keyboard with Hybrid Mechanical Blue Gaming Switches

The PLAY Experience review highlights the SteelSeries Apex 5 as a highly capable mid-range gaming keyboard that bridges the gap between the budget Apex 3 and the premium Apex 7. Priced at a recommended €129.99, its standout feature is the hybrid blue mechanical switches. This technology combines a budget-friendly, highly durable membrane backing layer with a mechanical spring to...Read more

charlestech.fr

02/08/2024

SteelSeries Apex 5 Review: Our Thoughts on the Hybrid Mechanical Keyboard

The SteelSeries Apex 5 is a highly versatile mid-range hybrid keyboard that mirrors the elegant, high-end design of its premium sibling, the Apex 7, but introduces distinct internal and structural compromises. Built on a sturdy frame with an excellent 16.8-million color per-key RGB backlighting system, it features proprietary hybrid blue switches designed to blend the smoothness of...Read more

pxlbbq.com

05/03/2020

SteelSeries Apex 5 Review: The best of both worlds?

The SteelSeries Apex 5 is a hybrid mechanical gaming keyboard that bridges the gap between high-end features and budget-conscious pricing, retailing at €129.99. Visually and structurally, it mimics premium models like the Apex Pro by featuring a robust aluminum alloy frame, individual per-key RGB backlighting via the SteelSeries Engine software, and a magnetic, soft-touch wrist...Read more

frandroid.com

03/12/2020

SteelSeries Apex 5 Review: A Surprising Mix of Genres

The SteelSeries Apex 5 is a hybrid gaming keyboard that blends membrane infrastructure with true mechanical switch components, aiming to replicate the feel of premium mechanical keyboards at a more accessible production cost. It features a frameless design with a hard plastic chassis reinforced by an aluminum top plate, bringing the total weight to just under one kilogram. Its...Read more

gamereactor.es

22/02/2020

SteelSeries Apex 5 Keyboard Review - Gamereactor

The SteelSeries Apex 5 is an elegant and solidly constructed full-sized gaming keyboard featuring an aircraft-grade aluminum alloy body with a "floating" keycap design that makes it visually appealing and easy to clean. Its primary highlight is the inclusion of "hybrid mechanical gaming switches," which utilize a real metal spring to mimic the tactile feel and actuation distance...Read more

hardware.info

05/10/2020

SteelSeries Apex 5 keyboard - Hardware Info

The SteelSeries Apex 5 is highlighted as an excellent "memchanical" middle-ground option for gamers looking for premium features without a steep flagship price tag. The review emphasizes its exceptional build quality, showcasing an aircraft-grade aluminium alloy top plate that ensures a rigid, durable chassis with zero deck flex. A major praise is given to the SteelSeries Hybrid...Read more

tweakers.net

03/08/2020

SteelSeries Apex 5 - Reviews - Tweakers

The Tweakers user reviews for the SteelSeries Apex 5 reveal a highly capable hybrid "memchanical" gaming keyboard that successfully bridges the gap between premium features and a mid-range price point. Users universally praise its exceptional build quality, highlighted by a sturdy, heavy aircraft-grade aluminium housing that exhibits zero flex. The proprietary hybrid blue...Read more

tweakers.net

05/10/2020

Semi-mechanical gaming fun - Review - Tweakers

This review evaluates eight "memchanical" (hybrid mechanical-membrane) gaming keyboards, which aim to combine the distinct tactile feedback of a mechanical switch with the cost-effective rubber dome foundation of a membrane system. The testing reveals that except for the Steelseries Apex 5, these keyboards essentially perform like standard membrane keyboards, requiring a deep travel...Read more

Video reviews

Best alternatives

ASUS ROG Falcata

Keyboards

ASUS ROG Azoth 96 HE

Keyboards

Keyboards

Keyboards

ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless

Keyboards

Turtle Beach Vulcan II TKL Pro

Keyboards

NuPhy Field75 HE

Keyboards

Keyboards

Gravastar Mercury V60 Pro

Keyboards

NuPhy Halo96 V2

Keyboards

Keyboards

Razer Blackwidow V4 TKL Hyperspeed

Keyboards

Compare SteelSeries Apex 5 with

Compare