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SteelSeries Apex 7 Review | 64 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£140
Avg. price in US: ~$150
Layout size: Full-size
Connection type: USB
Switch type: mechanical
Polling rate: 1,000 Hz

SteelSeries Apex 7 review. Compare 64 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among keyboards and if it is worth buying.

5.5

Good

4.5

Poor

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
8.2
Typing
Score components:
28.0%
10
Wrist rest included
24.0%
8.0
Legend method
20.0%
10
Adjustable feet
15.0%
6.6
Typing angle
13.0%
4.0
Pre-lubed stabilizers
1.2
Programming
Score components:
30.0%
1.0
QMK support
26.0%
1.0
VIA support
18.0%
1.0
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 7 is a high-performance mechanical gaming keyboard featuring a durable Series 5000 aircraft-grade aluminum frame and proprietary SteelSeries QX2 switches (available in Red linear, Brown tactile, or Blue clicky) rated for 50 million keypresses. It stands out with an integrated OLED Smart Display for on-the-fly settings and game notifications, alongside a clickable metal roller and media key for dedicated control. Key technical specs include a 1,000Hz polling rate, 1ms response time, 100% anti-ghosting with full N-key rollover, and a built-in USB pass-through port. Main pros include its premium build quality, vibrant per-key RGB illumination, and the comfort of its detachable magnetic soft-touch wrist rest. However, notable cons include its high price point, the use of ABS plastic keycaps that can attract fingerprints, and a thick, non-detachable cable that requires two USB ports for pass-through functionality.

Technical Specifications of SteelSeries Apex 7

Overall score

5.5

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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

2.0

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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

linear / tactile / clicky

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

SteelSeries QX2

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

45 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

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Design

8.9

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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

mechanical

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

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Connectivity & Power

3.6

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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

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Features

8.4

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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

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Materials

6.0

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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/plastic

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

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SteelSeries Apex 7 vs the average keyboard

Why is SteelSeries Apex 7 better than the average keyboard?

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Dedicated media keys
SteelSeries Apex 7 includes dedicated media keys, the average keyboard does not. 20.7% of keyboards include dedicated media keys.
Dedicated media button.
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 7 includes dedicated media keys, the average keyboard does not. 20.7% of keyboards include dedicated media keys.
Built-in display
SteelSeries Apex 7 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 7 has a built-in display, the average keyboard does not. 9.5% of keyboards have a built-in display.
17 more keys
SteelSeries Apex 7 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 7 has more keys than the average keyboard (104 vs 87). The average keyboard has 87 keys.104 vs 87
Volume control wheel
SteelSeries Apex 7 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 7 includes a volume wheel, the average keyboard does not. 38.8% of keyboards include a volume wheel.
21 more RGB zones
SteelSeries Apex 7 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 7 has more RGB zones than the average keyboard (104 vs 83). The average keyboard has 83 RGB zones.104 vs 83
USB passthrough port
SteelSeries Apex 7 includes USB passthrough, the average keyboard does not. 4.8% of keyboards include USB passthrough.
What it is: Shows whether the keyboard includes a USB port that can be used to connect another device through it.
When it matters: When reaching behind the PC is annoying and you want an easier place to plug in a headset, drive, or receiver.
Importance: MEDIUM
SteelSeries Apex 7 includes USB passthrough, the average keyboard does not. 4.8% of keyboards include USB passthrough.
18.1% higher user score
SteelSeries Apex 7 has a higher user score than the average keyboard (9.45 vs 8).
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 7 has a higher user score than the average keyboard (9.45 vs 8).9.45 vs 8
Includes wrist rest
SteelSeries Apex 7 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 7 includes a wrist rest, the average keyboard does not. 17% of keyboards include a wrist rest.
17 more keys
SteelSeries Apex 7 has more keys than the average keyboard (104 vs 87). The average keyboard has 87 keys.
Includes wrist rest
SteelSeries Apex 7 includes a wrist rest, the average keyboard does not. 17% of keyboards include a wrist rest.
USB passthrough port
SteelSeries Apex 7 includes USB passthrough, the average keyboard does not. 4.8% of keyboards include USB passthrough.
Dedicated media keys
SteelSeries Apex 7 includes dedicated media keys, the average keyboard does not. 20.7% of keyboards include dedicated media keys.
Built-in display
SteelSeries Apex 7 has a built-in display, the average keyboard does not. 9.5% of keyboards have a built-in display.
Volume control wheel
SteelSeries Apex 7 includes a volume wheel, the average keyboard does not. 38.8% of keyboards include a volume wheel.
21 more RGB zones
SteelSeries Apex 7 has more RGB zones than the average keyboard (104 vs 83). The average keyboard has 83 RGB zones.

Connectivity & Power

Why is SteelSeries Apex 7 worse than the average keyboard?

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48 mm wider width
SteelSeries Apex 7 is wider than the average keyboard (403 mm vs 355 mm). The average keyboard width is 355 mm.
4 older release date
SteelSeries Apex 7 is older than the average keyboard (2019 vs 2023). The average keyboard was released in 2023.
June 2019.
Less versatile connectivity
SteelSeries Apex 7 offers less versatile connectivity than the average keyboard (USB vs USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth). The average keyboard offers USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth connectivity.
Limited Mac support
SteelSeries Apex 7 is not Mac compatible, the average keyboard is. 55.8% of keyboards are Mac compatible.
Fixed cable
SteelSeries Apex 7 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 7 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 7 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.
Less durable legends
SteelSeries Apex 7 uses laser-etched legends, while the average keyboard uses double-shot.
No pre-lubed stabilizers
SteelSeries Apex 7 does not have pre-lubed stabilizers, the average keyboard does. 81.1% of keyboards come with pre-lubed stabilizers.
Less versatile connectivity
SteelSeries Apex 7 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 7 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 7 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 7 does not support hot-swappable switches, the average keyboard does. 65.5% of keyboards support hot-swappable switches.
Less durable legends
SteelSeries Apex 7 uses laser-etched legends, while the average keyboard uses double-shot.
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
SteelSeries Apex 7 uses laser-etched legends, while the average keyboard uses double-shot.laser-etched vs double-shot
Limited Mac support
SteelSeries Apex 7 is not Mac compatible, the average keyboard is. 55.8% of keyboards are Mac compatible.
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
SteelSeries Apex 7 is not Mac compatible, the average keyboard is. 55.8% of keyboards are Mac compatible.
No pre-lubed stabilizers
SteelSeries Apex 7 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 7 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 7 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 7 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 7 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 7 has a fixed cable, while the average keyboard has yes. 90.8% of keyboards come with a detachable cable.
14.9% worse value for money
SteelSeries Apex 7 has worse value for money than the average keyboard (6.79 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 7 has worse value for money than the average keyboard (6.79 vs 7.802).6.79 vs 7.8

Connectivity & Power

Graphic comparison of SteelSeries Apex 7 and

Attribute category

Attribute

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about SteelSeries Apex 7?

Premium build quality featuring an aircraft-grade aluminum alloy frame for durability
Highly customizable per-key RGB backlighting with 16.8 million colors
Functional OLED Smart Display for in-game info, Discord messages, and setting adjustments
Comfortable, soft-touch magnetic wrist rest included
Smooth and responsive mechanical switches (Red, Blue, or Brown options)
Dedicated media controls including a clickable volume roller
Convenient USB pass-through port for connecting peripherals or flash drives
User-friendly SteelSeries GG/Engine software for deep customization

What customers dislike about SteelSeries Apex 7?

Stock ABS keycaps are prone to fingerprints and may feel less premium than PBT
OLED screen is considered a 'gimmick' by some users and can be prone to burn-in
The thick, non-detachable USB cable can be difficult to manage
Magnetic wrist rest is a dust magnet and can be uncomfortable for some
Requires two USB ports for full functionality (one for the keyboard, one for pass-through)
Software can occasionally be buggy or fail to save configurations
Higher price point compared to competitors with similar features

Expert reviews

tekeurope.co.uk

01/10/2020

Summary of the review

Staff Product Review: Steelseries Apex 7 TKL Keyboard

The TekEurope staff review highlights the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL as a durable, premium-built mechanical keyboard featuring deep software integration for advanced macro customization and responsive gaming performance. It is praised for its robust build quality and intuitive Engine software, making it a functional, long-lasting tool for gamers. However, the review notes a significant drawback in the high price point, which may deter users looking for a budget-friendly option. While the keyboard is considered a solid investment, the cost is highlighted as a major consideration, marking it as a premium peripheral.

silvercipherofficial.medium.com

24/03/2021

Summary of the review

SteelSeries Apex 7 Red Switch TKL Review

The Silvercipher review of the SteelSeries Apex 7 Red Switch TKL highlights its compact design, magnetic wrist rest, and functional OLED display as key pros, creating a premium, comfortable experience. However, noted cons include the confusing OLED menu navigation, a steep learning curve for the SteelSeries Engine software, and the tendency of stock ABS keycaps to collect oils. Medium · While the reviewer customized the keyboard with Razer White PBT keycaps for better durability, this swap made the typing experience significantly louder. Overall, the review balances high praise for the hardware's features with drawbacks concerning software complexity and necessary keycap upgrades. Medium ·Luke Freeman

impulsegamer.com

20/01/2020

Summary of the review

SteelSeries Apex 7 Keyboard Review

The SteelSeries Apex 7 is a premium, highly responsive mechanical gaming keyboard built with an aircraft-grade aluminum alloy frame designed to endure 50 million keypresses. A major highlight of the keyboard is its customizable, top-right monochrome OLED smart display (128x40 resolution) paired with a clickable multimedia scroll wheel. This display delivers instant notifications from Discord, Tidal, or supported games, and can even showcase personalized animations and macros. The review evaluated the silent, linear "Red" switch variant, noting that its 2mm actuation point delivers a smooth, effortless, and rapid typing experience well-suited for fast-paced first-person shooters like Call of Duty and Overwatch. The keyboard features a robust suite of pros, including an exceptionally sturdy chassis, a detachable soft-touch magnetic wrist rest, dynamic per-key RGB illumination, and a glowing USB pass-through port for easy connectivity. It also features 100% anti-ghosting and full N-key rollover to prevent missed inputs. However, a notable con is that maximizing its customizability requires downloading the separate SteelSeries Engine 3 software, as the OLED screen only shows a static company logo by default. Additionally, users transitioning from clicky...

pcmag.com

27/11/2019

Summary of the review

SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Gaming Keyboard Review

The SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL is recognized by PCMag as a top-tier tenkeyless keyboard, lauded for its robust aircraft-grade aluminum frame, comfortable ergonomics, and innovative, customizable OLED smart display. Offering per-key RGB lighting and fast, durable mechanical switches (Red, Brown, or Blue), the keyboard is specifically praised for providing a premium, high-utility experience for competitive gamers. Key drawbacks noted in the review include the extremely loud, clicky nature of the Blue switches, making them less suitable for shared office environments. Additionally, the compact, tenkeyless design and lack of a dedicated number pad make it impractical for intensive data entry, although this is intentional for optimizing desk space.

rtings.com

20/01/2020

Summary of the review

SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Keyboard Review - RTINGS.com

The SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL is an outstanding, sturdy mechanical gaming keyboard featuring low latency, full N-key rollover, and a 1000Hz polling rate. It offers premium features such as an OLED smart display, dedicated media controls, and a comfortable magnetic wrist rest, with extensive software customization via the SteelSeries Engine. Drawbacks highlighted by the review include a wired-only design with a thick, non-detachable cable and the use of fingerprint-prone ABS keycaps. Additionally, the soft-touch wrist rest gathers dust, and the USB pass-through requires a secondary, dedicated connection to the computer.

tomsguide.com

22/07/2019

Summary of the review

SteelSeries Apex 7 Keyboard Review: Colorful and Competent

The SteelSeries Apex 7 ($160) is a well-designed mechanical gaming keyboard that offers premium features like robust RGB lighting, dynamic in-game performance, and a sleek, compact plastic frame with a magnetic wrist rest. Utilizing SteelSeries' in-house Red, Brown, or Blue switches, the keyboard delivers responsive, precise input that excels in fast-paced gaming environments, such as Overwatch and Age of Empires. Users can highly customize the device using the powerful SteelSeries Engine software to reprogram keys, manage five on-board profiles, and map macros. Additionally, a built-in volume dial provides a genuinely useful physical control for media adjustments. Despite these strengths, the Apex 7 struggles to stand out against similarly priced competitors due to several key design flaws. The signature mini-OLED screen feels largely redundant, as it duplicates software settings and requires players to look away from their primary monitor to read notifications. Furthermore, the proprietary keycaps have an unsatisfying, spongy feel with minimal resistance, causing typos unless typing speed is intentionally throttled. Ultimately, unless you are strictly dedicated to the SteelSeries RGB ecosystem, rivals like the Corsair K70 RGB Mk.2 offer...

vonguru.fr

19/07/2019

Summary of the review

Review - SteelSeries Apex 7 Keyboard - Vonguru

Here is a summary of the keyboard review based on the provided text: The SteelSeries Apex 7 is a premium, frameless mechanical gaming keyboard priced around €189.90, featuring an aluminium frame, extensive RGB lighting, and software integration for game-specific profiles. While initial use feels somewhat rigid due to new keycaps, it quickly provides a high-quality, responsive typing experience with Red, Brown, or Blue switch options. Key pros highlighted include the high-end build quality, excellent responsiveness, and lightweight keys that reduce fatigue, making it suitable for long gaming sessions. The main, temporary downside noted is the initial stiff sensation of the keys before they are broken in.

hardwarecooking.fr

14/08/2020

Summary of the review

Review: SteelSeries Apex 7, a keyboard with an OLED screen

The SteelSeries Apex 7 is a premium mechanical gaming keyboard evaluated by HardwareCooking for its solid aluminum frame, individual per-key RGB illumination, and an integrated OLED smart display. Priced between €189.99 and €229.94, this model comes equipped with brown mechanical switches featuring a tactile, quiet actuation point of 2 mm and a durability rating of 50 million keystrokes. The layout includes a metal volume wheel, a dedicated media button, and a built-in USB pass-through port on the back for secondary device connectivity. Underneath, three-way cable routing channels and fold-out feet allow for cleaner desktop organization and adjustable positioning. Highly customizable via the SteelSeries Engine 3 software, users can save up to five on-board profiles, assign macros, map key bindings, and configure specific app integrations for games like League of Legends or system monitors. The keyboard earned a "HC Gold Medal" due to several notable design and functional strengths. Its primary pros include sleek design aesthetics, highly responsive typing feedback, and a comfortable, magnetically detachable wrist rest that supports the wrists during long sessions. However, the reviewer highlighted a few cons,...

charlestech.fr

02/08/2024

Summary of the review

SteelSeries Apex 7: OLED Screen Gaming Keyboard Review

The SteelSeries Apex 7 is an exceptionally stable and heavy mechanical gaming keyboard equipped with red linear switches, which offer a short actuation travel and quiet operation suitable for both gaming and extensive typing. Its standout features include a highly customisable 16.8-million-colour RGB backlighting system controlled via the streamlined SteelSeries Engine 3 software, a powerful magnetic wrist rest made of soft plastic, and a dedicated volume wheel paired with a mute button. A major highlight is its innovative OLED smart display in the top-right corner, which successfully displays in-game information, Discord notifications, or custom images/logos. Additionally, it features a thick dual-USB cable that powers a convenient built-in USB passthrough port for low-bandwidth accessories, and a bottom groove system for clean desk cable management. On the downside, the reviewer criticises the keyboard's high price tag of nearly €200, suggesting that consumers should wait for it to drop closer to €160 before purchasing. Visually, the design layout sacrifices traditional key labels on utility keys like Insert, Delete, End, and Home to make room for the macro keys (M1 to M6), resulting in...

sitegeek.fr

09/03/2026

Summary of the review

SteelSeries Apex 7 – Mechanical keyboard review

The review of the SteelSeries Apex 7 by Johnny Ofthedead on Sitegeek.fr highlights it as a premium mechanical gaming keyboard that scores high across design, performance, and features. Among its major pros, the reviewer praises its ultra-durable aircraft-grade aluminium chassis, which provides vastly superior structural strength compared to plastic competitors. Functionally, its standout element is the unique integrated OLED smart display that enables on-the-fly configuration profile adjustments without launching software, showcases direct in-game notifications (like item cooldown tracking), and exhibits animated GIFs. Additional advantages noted include excellent per-key RGB lighting with PrismSync capability, premium high-grade mechanical switches certified for 50 million keystrokes, an ergonomic magnetic soft-touch wrist rest, an extra USB passthrough port, and efficient three-way cable routing channels. On the other hand, the review highlights specific cons that potential buyers should consider before purchasing. The most prominent disadvantage mentioned is its steep retail price point of approximately €190, which may deter budget-conscious users. While the reviewer personally enjoyed testing the tactile and clicky Blue switches, he explicitly notes that the heavy mechanical sound emulates rapid machine-gun fire, indicating that...

ign.com

07/10/2019

Summary of the review

SteelSeries Apex 7 Review: Is the OLED Screen Actually Useful?

The SteelSeries Apex 7 with Red switches features a durable aluminum frame, a comfortable magnetic wrist rest, and linear switches providing a responsive, quiet typing experience. It includes practical features such as per-key RGB lighting, a USB pass-through, media controls with a volume roller, and an OLED smart display for quick settings adjustments. Reddit ·r/ Drawbacks include the use of ABS plastic keycaps that accumulate fingerprints and feel lower-quality for the price point. Unlike the higher-end Apex Pro, the Apex 7 lacks adjustable-actuation OmniPoint switches, and it misses dedicated macro keys, facing stiff competition in its price bracket. YouTube

gametales.it

26/08/2020

Summary of the review

SteelSeries Apex 7, the mechanical keyboard for everyone with an OLED display", "SteelSeries Apex 7: the almost perfect keyboard

The SteelSeries Apex 7 is reviewed as a premium, high-end mechanical gaming keyboard that offers an exceptional layout with minor flaws. The reviewer strongly praises its high-quality construction, featuring a solid plastic body topped with an aluminum plate, and its excellent SteelSeries QX2 mechanical switches that rival premium Cherry MX models. The stable, magnetic wrist rest with its gommated surface provides great comfort during both typing and heavy gaming sessions. Additionally, the per-key RGB lighting delivers seamless illumination, which can be fully customized using the SteelSeries Engine software alongside broad key remapping and multi-profile storage. On the downside, the key selling point—its integrated OLED smart display—falls heavily short of expectations. The reviewer notes that it does far less than anticipated, hides behind the keys depending on your viewing angle, and frustratingly only supports track metadata visualization via TIDAL, leaving popular services like Spotify completely unsupported. Furthermore, the side-mounted multimedia scroll wheel and button can be awkward to use in practice. Ultimately, while its original standard retail price of around €180 feels steep due to the underwhelming OLED screen, the reviewer...

pc-gaming.it

16/11/2019

Summary of the review

SteelSeries Apex 7 Mechanical Keyboard - Review

The SteelSeries Apex 7 is a premium mechanical keyboard featuring a durable aircraft-grade aluminum frame, offering a highly tactile typing experience and a comfortable magnetic wrist rest. It includes individual per-key RGB lighting and customizable on-board profiles via the SteelSeries Engine software, aimed at high-performance gaming. However, the review notes that the OLED Smart Display lacks broad application integration for tracking and can be poorly positioned, rendering it hard to see. Additionally, the keyboard uses fingerprint-prone ABS plastic keycaps rather than premium materials, reducing its overall value proposition for some users.

hardware.info

13/05/2020

Summary of the review

Small but sweet typing: 17 compact mechanical keyboards tested

Kingston HyperX Alloy FPS Pro Review Summary The Kingston HyperX Alloy FPS Pro is a budget-friendly, compact mechanical gaming keyboard featuring an all-black design with floating keys over a durable metal top plate. A major highlight of this keyboard is that Kingston includes authentic Cherry MX switches—available in linear Red or clicky Blue variants—rather than opting for cheaper clone switches typically found in this price bracket. Retailing at an average price of 79 euros, it stands as one of the most affordable options in Hardware Info's roundup, making it highly accessible for budget-conscious gamers looking for reliable build quality and genuine mechanical switches. However, its low price point comes with several noticeable trade-offs in modern features. On the downside, the keyboard completely lacks customisation software and uses an outdated mini-USB connector for its cable. Furthermore, visual customisation is highly restricted; it features only static red backlighting instead of full RGB illumination. Testing also revealed that its standard deviation in switch performance measurements was on the higher side. While it offers premium switches for a low price, cheaper alternatives like the...

hardware.info

07/01/2020

Summary of the review

SteelSeries Apex 7 and Apex Pro review: Mechanical and magnetic typing

The Steelseries Apex 7 and Apex Pro gaming keyboards stand out due to their premium build quality, per-key RGB lighting, magnetic wrist rests, and a built-in OLED screen in the top right corner. The flagship Apex Pro model features innovative OmniPoint magnetic switches developed with Gateron, which utilize the Hall-effect to allow users to customize the actuation distance for individual keys. This results in an exceptionally smooth, uniform keystroke and incredibly fast response times ideal for gaming. Additionally, the companion Steelseries Engine 3 software is praised for its intuitive interface, deep lighting customization, and seamless game integration. In contrast, the standard Apex 7 uses traditional tactile Gateron brown or blue switches, or linear red switches, but suffers from less uniform actuation consistency. Despite their strong performance, both keyboards suffer from a high price-to-performance ratio that limits their value. At approximately €190 to €250, they are heavily criticized for utilizing cheap, painted ABS plastic keycaps that do not match their luxury price points. Furthermore, competitors like Wooting pose a massive threat by offering similar variable actuation capabilities alongside true analog input...

xgn.nl

10/07/2019

Summary of the review

Steelseries Apex 7 Review - Good keyboard with a hefty price tag

The SteelSeries Apex 7 is lauded as a premium mechanical gaming keyboard, offering on-the-fly customization, a, durable build, and a functional OLED smart display with RGB lighting. Pros highlighted include an exceptionally comfortable, magnetic wrist rest and excellent tactile switch response, making it a strong competitor to high-end rivals. Conversely, the review identifies the loud, clicky nature of the switches as a primary con, potentially requiring sound isolation, along with a high retail price that positions it as a luxury, rather than entry-level, investment. It is recommended for users seeking top-tier customization and comfort. YouTube

tweakers.net

14/07/2025

Summary of the review

SteelSeries Apex 7, QX2 Red, QWERTY US Review", "SteelSeries Apex 7 Review: QX2 Red Switches, US QWERTY Layout

In his comprehensive Tweakers review, user daniel360gt highly rates the SteelSeries Apex 7 (QX2 Red, QWERTY US) after six months of intensive personal use, concluding it is a premium, full-size mechanical keyboard well-suited for a balance of casual gaming and office tasks. Structurally, the reviewer highlights a minimalist, frameless metal design that leaves no space between the keys and the chassis, which successfully prevents dirt from gathering and simplifies dusting maintenance. Functionally, the proprietary linear QX2 Red switches are praised for providing a quick, light, and precise typing experience without any loose key wobble. Additional positive features include the soft and comfortable magnetic wrist rest, strong stability provided by rubber feet, and seamless integration with open-source software like OpenRGB to synchronize the keyboard's vibrant lighting with external hardware. Tweakers Conversely, the review highlights several distinct weaknesses and design compromises. A major drawback is the integrated OLED smart display, which sits too low in the direct field of vision and would have benefited from being placed higher or tilted forward for better readability. In terms of materials, the keyboard utilizes painted...

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