What To Know
- RGB lighting is a cornerstone of any gaming keyboard, and the Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT and SteelSeries Apex 3 deliver in spades.
- The membrane switches of the K55 RGB Pro XT provide a smooth and consistent keystroke, while the hybrid mechanical switches of the Apex 3 offer a more tactile and responsive feel.
- The K55 RGB Pro XT offers a sleek design, customizable RGB lighting, and a comfortable typing experience, while the Apex 3 impresses with its hybrid mechanical switches, dedicated media controls, and ergonomic wrist rest.
In the realm of gaming peripherals, the battle for RGB keyboard dominance rages on. Two formidable contenders emerge from the fray: the Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT and the SteelSeries Apex 3. Both keyboards boast an array of features that cater to the discerning gamer, but which one reigns supreme? To uncover the answer, we embark on an in-depth comparison of these RGB powerhouses.
Design and Build Quality
The Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT exudes a sleek and refined aesthetic, with a brushed metal top plate and sturdy plastic body. The SteelSeries Apex 3, on the other hand, opts for a more angular and aggressive design, featuring a magnetic wrist rest for added comfort. In terms of build quality, both keyboards feel solid and well-made, ensuring durability during intense gaming sessions.
RGB Lighting
RGB lighting is a cornerstone of any gaming keyboard, and the Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT and SteelSeries Apex 3 deliver in spades. The K55 RGB Pro XT features customizable RGB zones, allowing you to create vibrant and immersive lighting effects. The Apex 3, however, takes it a step further with its dedicated media keys and volume wheel, which also light up in a customizable RGB spectrum.
Switches and Keycaps
The Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT employs membrane switches, offering a soft and responsive typing experience. The SteelSeries Apex 3, on the other hand, utilizes hybrid mechanical switches, combining the tactile feedback of mechanical switches with the durability of membrane switches. Both keyboards feature dedicated macro keys for programmable actions.
Software and Customization
The Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT is compatible with Corsair’s iCUE software, which provides a wide range of customization options. You can adjust lighting, create macros, and monitor system performance. The SteelSeries Apex 3 integrates with the SteelSeries Engine software, offering similar customization capabilities, including the ability to sync lighting effects with other SteelSeries peripherals.
Gaming Performance
In the heat of battle, both the Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT and SteelSeries Apex 3 deliver exceptional gaming performance. The membrane switches of the K55 RGB Pro XT provide a smooth and consistent keystroke, while the hybrid mechanical switches of the Apex 3 offer a more tactile and responsive feel. Both keyboards feature anti-ghosting technology for accurate key registration during intense gaming sessions.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT comes with a detachable wrist rest for added comfort during extended gaming sessions. The SteelSeries Apex 3, however, features a built-in magnetic wrist rest that provides excellent support and contours to the shape of your wrist. Both keyboards offer adjustable typing angles to enhance ergonomics.
Versatility and Additional Features
Beyond gaming, both the Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT and SteelSeries Apex 3 offer additional features that enhance their versatility. The K55 RGB Pro XT includes dedicated media keys and a volume wheel, while the Apex 3 features a USB passthrough port for easy connectivity of additional peripherals.
Pricing and Value
The Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT and SteelSeries Apex 3 are both competitively priced, offering excellent value for money. The K55 RGB Pro XT typically retails for around $60, while the Apex 3 can be found for around $50. Considering the features and performance they offer, both keyboards represent a solid investment for gamers seeking an RGB keyboard with a solid balance of quality and affordability.
The Verdict: Which Keyboard Reigns Supreme?
In the battle for RGB keyboard supremacy, both the Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT and SteelSeries Apex 3 emerge as formidable contenders. The K55 RGB Pro XT offers a sleek design, customizable RGB lighting, and a comfortable typing experience, while the Apex 3 impresses with its hybrid mechanical switches, dedicated media controls, and ergonomic wrist rest.
Ultimately, the choice between these two keyboards boils down to personal preference and specific needs. If you prioritize customization, a detachable wrist rest, and a slightly higher price point, the Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT is an excellent option. If you prefer a more tactile typing experience, dedicated media controls, and a built-in magnetic wrist rest, the SteelSeries Apex 3 is the better choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which keyboard has better RGB lighting?
Both the Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT and SteelSeries Apex 3 offer impressive RGB lighting, but the Apex 3 has a slight edge with its dedicated media keys and volume wheel that also light up in customizable RGB colors.
Which keyboard is more comfortable for extended gaming sessions?
The SteelSeries Apex 3 has a slight advantage in terms of comfort, thanks to its built-in magnetic wrist rest that provides excellent support and contours to the shape of your wrist.
Which keyboard is better for gaming?
Both the Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT and SteelSeries Apex 3 offer excellent gaming performance, but the tactile feedback of the Apex 3’s hybrid mechanical switches may be preferred by some gamers.
