SteelSeries Apex 5

Overview

TechSpot Metascore

Based on 7 expert reviews

Excellent:

2
Good:

3
Average:

0
Bad:

2

Pros:

Good gaming performance, Strategic pricing, OLED display with multimedia controls, Minimalist design
Hybrid switch feels more mechanical than membrane, Sleek design with OLED screen, Strong RGB options, Wrist rest included.
Reasonable price, Good in-game performance, Smart multimedia key

Cons:

Non-detachable cable, Keys are too quiet
Fully mechanical keyboards available in same price range, Single button for all media controls, Wrist rest isn't very supportive

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Last revision on December 5, 2023

Reviewers Liked

Good gaming performance, Strategic pricing, OLED display with multimedia controls, Minimalist design
Hybrid switch feels more mechanical than membrane, Sleek design with OLED screen, Strong RGB options, Wrist rest included
Reasonable price, Good in-game performance, Smart multimedia key

Reviewers Didn't Like

Non-detachable cable, Keys are too quiet
Fully mechanical keyboards available in same price range, Single button for all media controls, Wrist rest isn't very supportive
Membrane/mechanical hybrid doesn't add much, Somewhat dull lighting, Superfluous OLED screen

Expert reviews and ratings

The SteelSeries Apex 5 is a solid gaming keyboard that offers great gaming performance and a neat OLED display in a minimalist...

By LaptopMag on April 29, 2020

The Apex 5 is a premium feeling keyboard that manages to pack in a satisfying amount of customization and performance at a relatively budget friendly...

By CGM on April 09, 2020

Steelseries' budget lineup of keyboards are pretty interesting – the Apex 3 is a full rubber dome keyboard that's selling for £50, and the Apex 5 is an OLED wielding “Hybrid Mechanical Switch” board that costs £110. I can't say these are exactly for me,...

By techteamgb.co.uk on March 16, 2020

The SteelSeries Apex 5 feels amazing to use, and comes with an impressive range of features and software customization options at a fantastic...

By Games Radar on March 04, 2020

The SteelSeries Apex 5 gaming keyboard finds a better way to blend money-saving membrane and snappy but pricey mechanical...

By PC Mag on February 10, 2020

Aside from its somewhat lower price, I can't think of a great reason to combine mechanical key switches with a membrane framework. The device feels like a compromise, both tactilely and metaphorically. But as compromises go, the Apex 5 is a fairly...

By Tom's Guide on February 06, 2020

Membrane switches use rubber domes to create the key press spring motion, while m echanical switches use a metal spring, which is more responsive and doesn't wear out as fast hence longer keystroke lifespan. This one of the key advantages...

By gadgetexplained.com on December 16, 2020

SteelSeries have become known for their excellent quality hardware, but also the associated pricetag that would come with them. The Apex 5 proves that keyboards don't need to cost £200 perform well.Comfort and usability are up there with any other...

By vortez.net on June 03, 2020

It's one of the best looking, best made and best performing keyboards available today. At under £100 it's a very competitive keyboard, albeit, be sure to shop around for the best deals as there is some discrepancy. I love the SteelSeries Apex 7, but...

By eTeknix on May 23, 2020

Hybrid mechanical switches make the Apex 5 affordable, but still performs as they use real mechanical switches withinProsSolid and durable frameCompact design on the desk, with optional premium wrist restFeels premium even at the priceLoud, audible...

By Craving Tech on April 29, 2020

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