What To Know
- The Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT and the Apex 3 are both excellent gaming keyboards that offer a range of features and functionalities.
- The K55 RGB Pro XT is a solid choice for gamers who prioritize comfort and affordability, while the Apex 3 is better suited for competitive gamers seeking maximum performance and customization.
- The K55 RGB Pro XT offers a more comfortable typing experience due to its membrane switches, while the Apex 3 provides a more responsive typing experience with its HyperX Red linear switches.
The world of gaming peripherals is continuously evolving, offering gamers an array of options to enhance their gaming experience. Two prominent contenders in this arena are the Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT and the Apex 3. These keyboards boast an array of features and functionalities, catering to different gaming needs and preferences. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the intricacies of each keyboard, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and ultimately determining which one reigns supreme for your gaming endeavors.
Design and Aesthetics
Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT: The K55 RGB Pro XT showcases a sleek and minimalist design, featuring a brushed aluminum finish that exudes both durability and sophistication. Its low-profile keys provide a comfortable typing experience, while the dedicated media controls and volume roller offer convenient access to essential functions.
Apex 3: In contrast, the Apex 3 embraces a more aggressive aesthetic, with a rugged, reinforced frame and a magnetic wrist rest that ensures maximum comfort during extended gaming sessions. Its floating keycaps add a touch of flair, while the dedicated macro keys and programmable profiles elevate its functionality.
Switches and Keycaps
Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT: The K55 RGB Pro XT employs membrane switches, which offer a soft and quiet typing experience. These switches are ideal for gamers who prioritize comfort and minimize noise levels. Furthermore, the keycaps are laser-etched for durability and feature a textured surface for enhanced grip.
Apex 3: The Apex 3, on the other hand, utilizes HyperX Red linear switches, known for their lightning-fast actuation and low friction. These switches provide a responsive and tactile typing experience, perfect for competitive gaming. The keycaps are made from durable PBT plastic, ensuring longevity and resistance to wear and tear.
Lighting and Customization
Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT: The K55 RGB Pro XT supports vibrant RGB lighting with six dedicated lighting zones. Users can customize the lighting effects through the Corsair iCUE software, enabling them to create stunning and immersive lighting displays. Additionally, the keyboard offers four programmable macro keys, allowing gamers to assign essential commands for quick and easy access.
Apex 3: The Apex 3 features per-key RGB lighting with 16.8 million colors. The lighting effects are highly customizable through the HyperX NGENUITY software, providing gamers with endless possibilities for personalization. The keyboard also boasts five dedicated macro keys and onboard memory for storing custom profiles.
Software and Compatibility
Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT: The K55 RGB Pro XT is compatible with Corsair iCUE software, which provides a comprehensive suite of customization options. Users can adjust lighting effects, program macros, and create custom profiles for different games and applications. The software is compatible with Windows and macOS.
Apex 3: The Apex 3 is compatible with HyperX NGENUITY software, which offers a user-friendly interface for customizing lighting effects, macros, and profiles. The software is compatible with Windows and macOS.
Performance and Responsiveness
Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT: The K55 RGB Pro XT delivers consistent and reliable performance, with a polling rate of 1000Hz ensuring rapid and accurate keystrokes. The membrane switches provide a comfortable typing experience, although they may not be as responsive as mechanical switches for competitive gaming.
Apex 3: The Apex 3 excels in performance and responsiveness, thanks to its HyperX Red linear switches. These switches provide a lightning-fast actuation speed and minimal resistance, making it ideal for competitive gaming where every millisecond counts. The keyboard also features a polling rate of 1000Hz for maximum accuracy and precision.
The Bottom Line: The Ultimate Choice
The Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT and the Apex 3 are both excellent gaming keyboards that offer a range of features and functionalities. The K55 RGB Pro XT is a solid choice for gamers who prioritize comfort and affordability, while the Apex 3 is better suited for competitive gamers seeking maximum performance and customization. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Which keyboard is better for typing?
A: The K55 RGB Pro XT offers a more comfortable typing experience due to its membrane switches, while the Apex 3 provides a more responsive typing experience with its HyperX Red linear switches.
Q: Which keyboard has more customization options?
A: Both keyboards offer extensive customization options through their respective software, but the Apex 3 has a slight edge with its per-key RGB lighting and onboard memory for storing custom profiles.
Q: Which keyboard is more durable?
A: The Apex 3 features a reinforced frame and durable PBT keycaps, making it more resistant to wear and tear compared to the K55 RGB Pro XT.
Q: Which keyboard is better for gaming?
A: The Apex 3 is better suited for competitive gaming due to its faster switches and higher polling rate, while the K55 RGB Pro XT is a more versatile option for casual gaming and general use.
Q: Which keyboard is more affordable?
A: The K55 RGB Pro XT is generally more affordable than the Apex 3, offering a good value for its features.
