Corsair K55 Rgb Pro Vs Steelseries Apex 3: Battle Of The Affordable Mechanical Keyboards

In the realm of gaming peripherals, the keyboard plays a pivotal role in enhancing the overall gaming experience. Two renowned brands, Corsair and SteelSeries, have crafted two exceptional gaming keyboards: the Corsair K55 RGB Pro and the SteelSeries Apex 3. This comprehensive comparison delves into the intricacies of these keyboards, analyzing their features, performance, and suitability for various gaming genres. By the end of this in-depth analysis, you’ll have a clear understanding of which keyboard reigns supreme and is the perfect fit for your gaming arsenal.

Build Quality and Design:

Corsair K55 RGB Pro:

The Corsair K55 RGB Pro boasts a sturdy construction with a solid plastic frame. Its sleek and minimalistic design features a brushed aluminum finish on the top plate, exuding a premium aesthetic. The keyboard’s compact size makes it ideal for setups with limited desk space.

SteelSeries Apex 3:

The SteelSeries Apex 3 also features a durable plastic frame, complemented by a water-resistant design. Its prominent feature is the magnetic wrist rest, which provides exceptional comfort during extended gaming sessions. The Apex 3’s larger form factor accommodates a dedicated media control panel, adding convenience and functionality.

Switches and Performance:

Corsair K55 RGB Pro:

The Corsair K55 RGB Pro employs reliable membrane switches, renowned for their quiet operation and tactile feedback. These switches offer a consistent and responsive typing experience, making them suitable for both gaming and general use.

SteelSeries Apex 3:

The SteelSeries Apex 3 utilizes exclusive hybrid switches, which combine the best aspects of membrane and mechanical switches. These switches deliver a satisfying tactile bump and a crisp actuation point, providing exceptional precision and responsiveness. The Apex 3 also boasts an impressive actuation force of 45g, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming genres.

RGB Lighting and Customization:

Corsair K55 RGB Pro:

The Corsair K55 RGB Pro features vibrant RGB lighting with five customizable zones. Utilizing Corsair’s iCUE software, users can create stunning lighting effects and synchronize them with other compatible peripherals. The software also allows for macro programming and key remapping, enhancing the keyboard’s functionality.

SteelSeries Apex 3:

The SteelSeries Apex 3 outshines its competitor in the RGB lighting department, boasting per-key RGB illumination. With over 16.8 million colors and a plethora of customizable effects, the Apex 3 offers unparalleled personalization options. Additionally, the SteelSeries Engine software provides extensive macro programming capabilities and game-specific profiles.

Additional Features:

Corsair K55 RGB Pro:

The Corsair K55 RGB Pro includes dedicated media keys, allowing for convenient control over audio playback and volume adjustment. Additionally, the keyboard features anti-ghosting technology, ensuring accurate keystrokes even during intense gaming sessions.

SteelSeries Apex 3:

The SteelSeries Apex 3 boasts a dedicated volume roller, providing precise control over audio levels. Furthermore, the keyboard incorporates anti-ghosting and N-key rollover, guaranteeing flawless key registration regardless of the number of keys pressed simultaneously.

Gaming Performance:

Corsair K55 RGB Pro:

The Corsair K55 RGB Pro delivers a solid gaming experience. Its membrane switches provide consistent and responsive feedback, making it suitable for a wide range of games. However, the lack of dedicated macro keys may limit its functionality in certain genres.

SteelSeries Apex 3:

The SteelSeries Apex 3 excels in gaming performance. Its hybrid switches offer exceptional precision and tactile feedback, catering to the demands of competitive gamers. The dedicated macro keys and extensive customization options further enhance the gaming experience, making the Apex 3 a formidable choice for serious gamers.

Comfort and Ergonomics:

Corsair K55 RGB Pro:

The Corsair K55 RGB Pro provides a comfortable typing experience, thanks to its low-profile keys and soft keycaps. However, the lack of a wrist rest may cause discomfort during prolonged use.

SteelSeries Apex 3:

The SteelSeries Apex 3 takes comfort to the next level with its magnetic wrist rest. The wrist rest offers excellent support and reduces strain during extended gaming sessions. Additionally, the keyboard’s adjustable feet allow users to find the optimal typing angle.

Final Thoughts:

The Corsair K55 RGB Pro and SteelSeries Apex 3 are both capable gaming keyboards with distinct strengths. The Corsair K55 RGB Pro offers a reliable and quiet typing experience, making it a versatile choice for both gaming and general use. However, the SteelSeries Apex 3 emerges as the superior option for serious gamers, thanks to its hybrid switches, per-key RGB lighting, and extensive customization options. Ultimately, the choice between these two keyboards depends on individual preferences and gaming needs.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Which keyboard is better for competitive gaming, the Corsair K55 RGB Pro or the SteelSeries Apex 3?

A: The SteelSeries Apex 3 is the better choice for competitive gaming due to its hybrid switches, which provide exceptional precision and tactile feedback. Additionally, the Apex 3’s dedicated macro keys and extensive customization options give gamers an edge in fast-paced games.

Q: Does the Corsair K55 RGB Pro have dedicated macro keys?

A: No, the Corsair K55 RGB Pro does not have dedicated macro keys. However, you can program macros using Corsair’s iCUE software and assign them to specific keys.

Q: Is the SteelSeries Apex 3 water-resistant?

A: Yes, the SteelSeries Apex 3 features a water-resistant design, making it resistant to accidental spills and splashes. This feature enhances the keyboard’s durability and longevity.