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SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL Review | 64 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£130
  • Avg. price in US: ~$140
  • Layout size: TKL
  • Connection type: USB
  • Switch type: optical
  • Polling rate: 1000 Hz

SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL review. Compare 64 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among keyboards and if it is worth buying.

7.4

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the keyboard's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best keyboards on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

6.9

Technical Score

20.0%

9.5

User score

Very good
6.9

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the keyboard's technical performance, covering key areas such as switch feel, typing and gaming performance, layout and features, connectivity, build quality, backlighting, software, and comfort.

When it matters: When you want to compare keyboards based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

34.0%

6.5

Connectivity & Power

28.0%

6.8

Switches

20.0%

7.0

Materials

12.0%

7.7

Features

6.0%

7.5

Design

Good
9.5

User score

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.

Score components:

70.0%

9.3

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.6
(884)
amazon
4.8
(261)
amazon
4.6
(214)
amazon
4.6
(194)
amazon
4.5
(148)
amazon
4.8
(42)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
(884)
Amazon_logo.png
4.8
(261)
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
(214)
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
(194)
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(148)
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4.8
(42)

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

Exceptional
  • 7.0
    Gaming

    Score components:

    28.0%

    1.0

    Polling rate

    24.0%

    8.0

    Rapid trigger

    20.0%

    10

    Adjustable actuation

    16.0%

    10

    Hot-swappable switches

    12.0%

    10

    Onboard memory

  • 7.4
    Typing

    Score components:

    28.0%

    4.0

    Wrist rest included

    24.0%

    10

    Legend method

    20.0%

    10

    Adjustable feet

    15.0%

    9.0

    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

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Best prices in UK

Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL is a high-performance tenkeyless gaming keyboard featuring custom-built OptiPoint optical switches that offer a lightning-fast 0.2ms response time and zero debounce. A standout characteristic is its adjustable actuation, allowing users to toggle between a 1.0mm 'gaming mode' for speed and a 1.5mm 'typing mode' for precision. Its premium build includes a Series 5000 aluminum top plate, durable double-shot PBT keycaps, and a detachable braided USB-C cable, while also being the first in its lineup to feature hot-swappable switches for easy customization. Main pros include its exceptional responsiveness, robust aircraft-grade durability, and space-saving TKL design that provides more room for mouse movements. However, potential cons include the lack of a built-in OLED smart display or included wrist rest found on higher-end Apex Pro models, and some users find the SteelSeries GG software to be somewhat bloated.

Technical Specifications of SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the keyboard's technical performance, covering key areas such as switch feel, typing and gaming performance, layout and features, connectivity, build quality, backlighting, software, and comfort.

When it matters: When you want to compare keyboards based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

34.0%

6.5

Connectivity & Power

28.0%

6.8

Switches

20.0%

7.0

Materials

12.0%

7.7

Features

6.0%

7.5

Design

6.9
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL has a technical score of 6.88 points, which is higher than that of 54.6% of products in this category.
User score

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.

Score components:

70.0%

9.3

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.6
(884)
amazon
4.8
(261)
amazon
4.6
(214)
amazon
4.6
(194)
amazon
4.5
(148)
amazon
4.8
(42)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
(884)
Amazon_logo.png
4.8
(261)
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
(214)
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
(194)
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(148)
Amazon_logo.png
4.8
(42)

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

9.5
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL has a user score of 9.48 points, which is higher than that of 97.5% of products in this category.
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.
10
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 68.6% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

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.

Score components:

60.0%

7.4

Overall score

40.0%

9.8

Price

8.1
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL has a quality-to-price ratio of 8.1 points, which is higher than 69.2% of products in this category.
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

optical
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
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 OptiPoint
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

35 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

1 mm
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL has a minimum actuation distance of 1 mm, which is shorter than 75.8% of keyboards and equal to 2.9% of keyboards.
Show more
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

optical
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

TKL
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

87
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL has 87 keys, which is more than 44.5% of keyboards and equal to 17.6% of keyboards.
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
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

USB
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL offers USB connectivity, which is less versatile than 56.7% of keyboards and equal to 43.3% of keyboards.
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

yes
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL is Mac compatible. 44.4% of keyboards are Mac compatible.
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
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

yes
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL has RGB lighting. 12.3% of keyboards have RGB lighting.
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

yes
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL has per-key RGB lighting. 23% of keyboards have per-key RGB lighting.
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

87
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL has 87 RGB zones, which is more than 58.6% of keyboards and equal to 11.8% of keyboards.
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

no
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL does not include underglow lighting. 31.7% of keyboards include underglow lighting.
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
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

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

PBT
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

double-shot
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL uses double-shot legends, which are more durable than 25.8% of keyboards and equal to 74.2% of keyboards.
Show more

SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL vs the average keyboard

  • 0.6 mm shorter key travel
    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL has 3.4 mm of total travel, while the average keyboard has 4 mm.
    What it is: Measures the full distance a key can move from top to bottom.
    When it matters: When full key movement changes comfort, speed, or the way the keyboard feels under your fingers.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL has 3.4 mm of total travel, while the average keyboard has 4 mm.3.4 mm vs 4 mm
  • Adjustable actuation
    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL supports adjustable actuation, the average keyboard does not. 22.6% of keyboards offer adjustable actuation.
    What it is: Shows whether the keyboard lets you change how deep a key must travel before it registers.
    When it matters: When you want a shorter trigger for competitive play or a deeper trigger to reduce accidental presses while typing.

    Importance: HIGH

    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL supports adjustable actuation, the average keyboard does not. 22.6% of keyboards offer adjustable actuation.
  • 0.5 mm shorter actuation distance
    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL has a longer maximum actuation distance than the average keyboard (1.5 mm vs 2 mm). The average keyboard has a maximum actuation distance of 2 mm.
    What it is: Measures the highest configurable actuation point or trigger position.
    When it matters: When you want precise control over how deep a key can be set to trigger for different games or typing styles.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL has a longer maximum actuation distance than the average keyboard (1.5 mm vs 2 mm). The average keyboard has a maximum actuation distance of 2 mm.1.5 mm vs 2 mm
  • 0.7 mm shorter actuation distance
    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL has a shorter minimum actuation distance than the average keyboard (1 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 9 TKL has a shorter minimum actuation distance than the average keyboard (1 mm vs 1.7 mm). The average keyboard has a minimum actuation distance of 1.7 mm.1 mm vs 1.7 mm
  • Dedicated media keys
    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL 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 9 TKL includes dedicated media keys, the average keyboard does not. 20.7% of keyboards include dedicated media keys.
  • Volume control wheel
    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL 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 9 TKL includes a volume wheel, the average keyboard does not. 38.8% of keyboards include a volume wheel.
  • 34.9% lower weight
    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL weighs less than the average keyboard (635 g vs 976 g). The average keyboard weighs 976 g.
    What it is: Measures the total mass of the keyboard.
    When it matters: When you care whether the keyboard feels easy to carry or heavy enough to stay planted on the desk.

    Importance: HIGH

    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL weighs less than the average keyboard (635 g vs 976 g). The average keyboard weighs 976 g.635 g vs 976 g
  • 18.5% higher user score
    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL has a higher user score than the average keyboard (9.48 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 9 TKL has a higher user score than the average keyboard (9.48 vs 8.000).9.48 vs 8
  • 34.9% lower weight
    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL weighs less than the average keyboard (635 g vs 976 g). The average keyboard weighs 976 g.
  • 0.6 mm shorter key travel
    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL has 3.4 mm of total travel, while the average keyboard has 4 mm.
  • Adjustable actuation
    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL supports adjustable actuation, the average keyboard does not. 22.6% of keyboards offer adjustable actuation.
  • 0.5 mm shorter actuation distance
    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL has a longer maximum actuation distance than the average keyboard (1.5 mm vs 2 mm). The average keyboard has a maximum actuation distance of 2 mm.
  • 0.7 mm shorter actuation distance
    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL has a shorter minimum actuation distance than the average keyboard (1 mm vs 1.7 mm). The average keyboard has a minimum actuation distance of 1.7 mm.
  • Dedicated media keys
    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL includes dedicated media keys, the average keyboard does not. 20.7% of keyboards include dedicated media keys.
  • Volume control wheel
    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL includes a volume wheel, the average keyboard does not. 38.8% of keyboards include a volume wheel.

Total
Overall
Design
Switches
Features
  • 3.5 mm higher keyboard height
    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL is taller than the average keyboard (42 mm vs 38.5 mm). The average keyboard height is 38.5 mm.
  • 4 mm thicker design
    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL is thicker than the average keyboard (42 mm vs 38 mm). The average keyboard thickness is 38 mm.
  • Less versatile connectivity
    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL offers less versatile connectivity than the average keyboard (USB vs USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth). The average keyboard offers USB / 2.4GHz / Bluetooth connectivity.
  • No pre-lubed stabilizers
    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL does not have pre-lubed stabilizers, the average keyboard does. 81.1% of keyboards come with pre-lubed stabilizers.
  • Less versatile connectivity
    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL 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 9 TKL 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 pre-lubed stabilizers
    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL 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 9 TKL does not have pre-lubed stabilizers, the average keyboard does. 81.1% of keyboards come with pre-lubed stabilizers.
  • 3.5 mm higher keyboard height
    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL is taller than the average keyboard (42 mm vs 38.5 mm). The average keyboard height is 38.5 mm.
    What it is: Measures the keyboard's vertical dimension from its base to its highest point.
    When it matters: When the keyboard has to fit under shelves, trays, or other tight desk constraints.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL is taller than the average keyboard (42 mm vs 38.5 mm). The average keyboard height is 38.5 mm.42 mm vs 38.5 mm
  • 4 mm thicker design
    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL is thicker than the average keyboard (42 mm vs 38 mm). The average keyboard thickness is 38 mm.
    What it is: Measures the keyboard's front-to-back depth or body thickness.
    When it matters: When front height and overall keyboard bulk affect comfort or portability.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL is thicker than the average keyboard (42 mm vs 38 mm). The average keyboard thickness is 38 mm.42 mm vs 38 mm
Total
Design
Connectivity & Power
Materials

Graphic comparison of SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.6
884 Reviews
amazon
4.8
261 Reviews
amazon
4.6
214 Reviews
amazon
4.6
194 Reviews
amazon
4.5
148 Reviews
amazon
4.8
42 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
884 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
4.8
261 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
214 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
194 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
148 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
4.8
42 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: Jun 2026)

What customers like about SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL?

  • Extremely low latency (0.2ms) and high responsiveness due to OptiPoint optical switches
  • Durable, textured double-shot PBT keycaps that resist fading and grease
  • Two-point adjustable actuation (1.0mm for gaming, 1.5mm for typing) for versatility
  • Hot-swappable switches allowing for easy replacement or customization
  • Solid build quality with an aircraft-grade aluminum top plate
  • Compact TKL (tenkeyless) form factor that saves desk space for mouse movement
  • Includes a built-in keycap puller storage compartment on the bottom

What customers dislike about SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL?

  • Wired-only connection with no wireless or Bluetooth options
  • Lack of an included wrist rest, which many users feel is needed for comfort
  • RGB lighting is noted by some users to be dimmer than older SteelSeries models
  • Hyper-sensitive 1.0mm actuation can lead to accidental keypresses or typos
  • The keyboard has a somewhat hollow or plasticky sound when typing
  • Lacks the OLED smart display found on the higher-end Apex Pro models
  • Price is considered steep given the lack of certain features like wireless or a metal base

Expert reviews

L
latestintech.com
04/06/2026
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL Keyboard Review Would you like to compare these scores to the Apex 9 Mini or the Apex Pro series?

The SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL is a highly responsive, durable, tenkeyless gaming keyboard utilizing hot-swappable, custom-built OptiPoint linear optical switches. A major standout feature is its two-point actuation, which allows users to toggle between a highly sensitive 1.0mm "gaming mode" and a 1.5mm "typing mode" via the user-friendly SteelSeries Engine software. Built for...Read more

M
moviesgamesandtech.com
23/09/2022
Apex 9 TKL Review", "Review: Apex 9 TKL

In this review, Daniel Waite from Movies Games and Tech evaluates the SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL gaming keyboard and awards it the website's Gold award. The reviewer notes that the tenkeyless device is a market leader tailored for competitive play, highlighted by a 0.2ms response time with zero debounce and lightning-fast OptiPoint optical switches. Major pros include an exceptionally...Read more

S
sea.ign.com
17/05/2023
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL Review - IGN Southeast Asia Copy

The SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL is a streamlined, wired gaming keyboard that features proprietary OptiPoint optical switches with dual-point actuation. The primary pros highlighted in the review include its solid build quality, featuring a robust aluminum top plate, durable black double-shot PBT keycaps, and stable, non-wobbly keys. It provides three adjustable height variations using...Read more

C
checkpointgaming.net
28/03/2024
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL is a simple and clean happy medium

The SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL is a sleek, mid-range gaming keyboard featuring highly responsive OptiPoint linear optical switches and a durable, space-saving design. The review highlights its satisfying tactile feel, convenient dedicated volume knob, and robust, compact construction as key strengths. However, the keyboard presents potential ergonomic limitations, with the reviewer...Read more

P
pcguide.com
14/02/2025
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL review: incredibly fast with plenty of...

The SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL is a highly customizable, ten-keyless gaming keyboard featuring OptiPoint optical switches and double-shot PBT keycaps. Its design prioritises speed and stability with a rigid aluminium chassis, dual-angle elevation feet, and a built-in keycap puller tucked beneath a rubber flap on the back. Performance-wise, the keyboard offers rapid responsiveness...Read more

G
gamingtrend.com
22/09/2022
Steelseries Apex 9 TKL gaming keyboard review - GamingTrend

The SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL is an excellent, compact gaming keyboard designed to optimize desk space while maintaining high performance. Built with a sturdy aluminum top plate and dense plastic housing, it balances lightweight portability with a highly robust feel. Its standout features include hot-swappable OptiPoint linear optical switches that offer nearly instantaneous response...Read more

P
pcgamer.com
09/01/2023
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL review - PC Gamer

The SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL is a compact, tenkeyless gaming keyboard designed for competitive gaming that prioritises a minimal footprint to allow extra desk space for mouse movement. Priced at $140, it features OptiPoint optical switches that actuate via light rather than mechanical contact, which enhances response and debounce times. These hot-swappable switches offer a...Read more

R
reviewed.com
17/11/2023
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL (2022) review: Another winner

The SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL ($139.99) is a highly customizable, wired tenkeyless gaming keyboard that successfully bridges the gap between high-stakes competitive gaming and daily productivity. Built with an aluminum top plate and durable Double-Shot PBT keycaps, its standout technical feature is the custom OptiPoint linear optical switches. These hot-swappable switches offer an...Read more

I
ign.com
23/09/2024
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL Keyboard Review

The SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL is a moderately stripped-down, tenkeyless gaming keyboard that offers premium build quality and high performance at a more accessible price point than its Pro counterpart. On the positive side, the keyboard features a solid, streamlined design with an aluminum top plate and durable black double-shot PBT keycaps. It stands out as the first in its lineup to...Read more

T
tomshardware.com
06/09/2022
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL Review: Hot-Swappable Optical Switches

The SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL is a wired, tenkeyless gaming keyboard that offers a slightly scaled-down and more affordable alternative to the highly customisable Apex Pro Mini. Built with a sturdy aircraft-grade aluminum top plate and double-shot PBT keycaps, the board introduces SteelSeries' hot-swappable OptiPoint linear optical switches. These switches feature a rapid 0.2ms...Read more

R
rtings.com
05/10/2022
SteelSeries Apex 9 Keyboard Review - RTINGS.com

The SteelSeries Apex 9 is a premium, wired-only gaming keyboard featuring custom OptiPoint optical switches that allow toggling between 1.0mm and 1.5mm pre-travel distances. It offers exceptional build quality with an aluminum top plate, very low latency, and onboard memory for macro customization. However, the keyboard lacks wireless connectivity and an included wrist rest, which...Read more

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tweakers.net
februari 2024
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL review: Optical overload

The provided web page aggregates 14 product reviews from 2024 for SteelSeries gaming peripherals, showcasing mixed user experiences across keyboards, mice, and headsets. On the positive side, several products received praise for their physical design and core performance. For instance, the SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL and Apex 7 keyboards were commended for their robust build quality,...Read more

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P
playsense.nl
16/10/2022
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL Review

The PlaySense review highlights the SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL as a durable, high-quality tenkeyless keyboard featuring fast, hot-swappable OptiPoint optical switches. The premium, compact design is suited for competitive players, with the switches offering significant customization and longevity. Conversely, the review notes the €149,99 price point is high and criticizes the...Read more

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