# TLDR Review: SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Keyboard

*Published: 2025-06-13 | Updated: 2025-07-18 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/reviews-tldr/steelseries-apex-3-tkl-keyboard*

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## Product: SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Keyboard
**Brand:** SteelSeries

## Pros
- Offers a smooth typing experience with minimal keycap wiggle.
- High-quality plastics and smooth actuation enhance the typing experience.
- Includes a wrist rest and volume knob for better usability.
- Lightweight, comfortable, and responsive for long gaming sessions.
- Magnetic wrist rest adds comfort and stability.
- Provides a good tactile feel with customizable RGB lighting.
- Silent membrane switches ideal for late-night gaming.
- Sturdy, water-resistant design protects against spills.
- Features dedicated media controls, including a media scroll wheel.
- Easy setup and customization through SteelSeries Engine software.

## Cons
- Incorrectly marketed as USB C, but actually uses USB A.
- Audio mute function is overly sensitive.
- Keys are challenging to see in low light without backlighting.
- Right kickstand may detain over time, implying durability issues.
- Drift issues reported with WASD keys after prolonged use.
- Requires software for RGB and macro programming, which some may find inconvenient.

## Bottom Line

The SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL Gaming Keyboard packs a punch with its features, comfort, and durability. It's a solid choice for gamers who enjoy customizable RGB lighting and quiet performance. While some users have faced durability and software dependency issues, it remains a good value for the price. If a USB C connection is important to you, note that this model is USB A, which might be a deal breaker for those with USB C-only setups. Overall, for those who prioritize silent operation and gaming convenience, this keyboard makes a strong case.

## Pros vs Cons at a Glance

| Pros | Cons |
|------|------|
| Offers a smooth typing experience with minimal keycap wiggle. | Incorrectly marketed as USB C, but actually uses USB A. |
| High-quality plastics and smooth actuation enhance the typing experience. | Audio mute function is overly sensitive. |
| Includes a wrist rest and volume knob for better usability. | Keys are challenging to see in low light without backlighting. |
| Lightweight, comfortable, and responsive for long gaming sessions. | Right kickstand may detain over time, implying durability issues. |
| Magnetic wrist rest adds comfort and stability. | Drift issues reported with WASD keys after prolonged use. |
| Provides a good tactile feel with customizable RGB lighting. | Requires software for RGB and macro programming, which some may find inconvenient. |
| Silent membrane switches ideal for late-night gaming. |  |
| Sturdy, water-resistant design protects against spills. |  |
| Features dedicated media controls, including a media scroll wheel. |  |
| Easy setup and customization through SteelSeries Engine software. |  |

## Current Prices

| Retailer | Price | Availability |
|----------|-------|-------------|
| My Store | $13.80  | In Stock |
| My Store | $13.80  | In Stock |
| My Store | $13.80  | In Stock |
| Secondipity | $26.99  | In Stock |
| Tanga.com | $29.99  | In Stock |
| StorageDKS | $40.48  | In Stock |
| Best Buy | $42.99  | In Stock |
| Bonanza | $43.55  | In Stock |
| Adorama | $44.99  | In Stock |
| Dell Home & Home Office | $44.99  | In Stock |
| Dihuni | $44.99  | In Stock |
| Q.R.Systems | $44.99  | In Stock |
| Steel Series INT | $44.99  | In Stock |
| TGE | $44.99  | In Stock |
| Venue Marketplace | $44.99  | In Stock |
| howardcomputers.com | $47.99  | In Stock |
| colamco.com | $48.13  | In Stock |
| CompBargains.com | $49.47  | In Stock |
| officesupply.com | $49.48  | In Stock |
| Amazon | $49.97  | In Stock |

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*About this review: We pulled together findings from professional and user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from thousands of retailers to give you the short version.*