Combined with the keycaps, which don’t rely on typographic monstrosities to convey the Apex 7’s status as a gaming keyboard, the frame makes it clear that the Apex 7 is supposed to be a premium device that wouldn’t look out of place in the office. I like the brushed metal-it’s a nice change of pace from the plastic cases I’ve encountered on most keyboards. SteelSeries constructed the Apex 7’s case with an “aircraft grade aluminum alloy” that gives it a satisfying heft. But the sizing issue is really a matter of preference-and price, since the Apex 7 TKL (sans the number pad) costs $30 less than its full-sized counterpart-in the end. This led to some uncomfortable moments, which I'll discuss later, but it generally meant that once I put the Apex 7 down I was determined not to move it again. That's especially true when the wrist rest is attached-suddenly the number pad, thick USB cable, and wrist rest have become more than the sum of their parts. It's not a behemoth, either, but it takes up considerably more space on my desk than I would like. Why break that habit-and ruin my posture-to look at the keyboard when there’s a monitor right in front of me? DesignĪt 403 x 139 x 17mm (15.9 x 5.5 x 0.7 inches), the Apex 7 isn't a small keyboard. I learned to touch-type specifically so I wouldn’t have to stare at my keyboard while I’m using my PC. It’s an interesting concept, but it’s never managed to become core to my computer usage, despite repeated attempts to understand what the hype is about. I’ve had similar problems with other keyboards that were supposed to offer at-a-glance information. But without those OmniPoint switches, the Apex 7 relies on the OLED Smart Display to stand out. Much of the company’s attention went to the Apex Pro, which features new OmniPoint switches that offer customizable actuation points, with the Apex 7 offering a similar design with traditional switches for people willing to sacrifice customizability for affordability.

SteelSeries released the Apex 7 alongside the Apex Pro (as well as tenkeyless versions of both keyboards) earlier in 2019. USB 2.0 Type-A (with an additional head for USB passthrough) via unbraided cableġ5.9 x 5.5 x 0.7 inches (403 x 139 x 17mm) SteelSeries QX2 Mechanical RGB Switch in linear Red, tactile Brown, and clicky Blue

Apex 7 keyboard