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The Ultimate Gaming Keyboard Battle: Corsair K70 Max Vs. Steelseries Apex Pro

Michael is the owner and chief editor of MichaelPCGuy.com. He has over 15 years of experience fixing, upgrading, and optimizing personal computers. Michael started his career working as a computer technician at a local repair shop where he learned invaluable skills for hardware and software troubleshooting. In his free time,...

What To Know

  • The K70 Max features a durable aluminum frame with a brushed finish, while the Apex Pro utilizes a sturdy steel frame with a sleek black coating.
  • If you prioritize build quality, a traditional layout, and a wide selection of switches, the Corsair K70 Max is an excellent choice.
  • Both the Corsair K70 Max and SteelSeries Apex Pro are exceptional gaming keyboards that offer a plethora of features and performance.

In the realm of gaming peripherals, the Corsair K70 Max and SteelSeries Apex Pro stand as two formidable contenders. Both keyboards boast cutting-edge features and exceptional performance, catering to the discerning needs of competitive gamers and enthusiasts alike. This in-depth comparison delves into the intricacies of these keyboards, examining their strengths, weaknesses, and key differences to help you make an informed decision for your gaming setup.

Build Quality and Design

The Corsair K70 Max and SteelSeries Apex Pro exude premium craftsmanship. The K70 Max features a durable aluminum frame with a brushed finish, while the Apex Pro utilizes a sturdy steel frame with a sleek black coating. Both keyboards offer excellent build quality, ensuring years of reliable use.

In terms of design, the K70 Max adopts a traditional layout with a full-size number pad and dedicated media keys. The Apex Pro, on the other hand, features a more compact design with a tenkeyless layout, maximizing desk space.

Switches

The choice of switches is crucial for any gaming keyboard. The K70 Max offers a variety of Cherry MX switches, including Red, Blue, Brown, Silent Red, and Speed Silver, providing a wide range of tactile and auditory feedback options.

The Apex Pro takes customization to the next level with its OmniPoint Adjustable Switches. These innovative switches allow you to adjust the actuation point on a per-key basis, ranging from 0.4mm to 3.6mm. This unparalleled level of control empowers you to fine-tune the sensitivity of each key to your exact preferences.

RGB Lighting

Both the K70 Max and Apex Pro boast vibrant RGB lighting. The K70 Max features customizable per-key lighting with a wide range of effects and profiles. The Apex Pro goes a step further with its OLED display, which can display customizable animations, GIFs, and system information.

Software

The Corsair iCUE software suite and the SteelSeries Engine provide comprehensive control over your keyboard’s settings. iCUE offers a user-friendly interface with extensive customization options for lighting, macros, and performance. SteelSeries Engine is equally powerful, allowing you to fine-tune your Apex Pro’s switches, lighting, and macros.

Performance

Both the K70 Max and Apex Pro deliver exceptional performance. The K70 Max’s Cherry MX switches provide consistent and reliable keystrokes, while the Apex Pro’s OmniPoint switches offer unmatched precision and customization.

In terms of latency, the Apex Pro has a slight edge with its 0.5ms response time compared to the K70 Max’s 1ms response time. However, both keyboards are lightning-fast and will not hinder your gameplay.

Ergonomics

Ergonomics is essential for extended gaming sessions. The K70 Max comes with a detachable magnetic wrist rest that provides ample support. The Apex Pro, while not featuring a dedicated wrist rest, has a slightly slanted design that reduces wrist strain.

Connectivity

The K70 Max and Apex Pro offer versatile connectivity options. The K70 Max supports both wired and wireless connections via a USB-C port, while the Apex Pro is wired only.

Price

The Corsair K70 Max and SteelSeries Apex Pro come with a premium price tag. The K70 Max starts at $199.99, while the Apex Pro starts at $199.99.

Which Keyboard is Right for You?

Choosing between the Corsair K70 Max and SteelSeries Apex Pro depends on your individual preferences and needs.

If you prioritize build quality, a traditional layout, and a wide selection of switches, the Corsair K70 Max is an excellent choice.

If you value customization, precision, and a compact design, the SteelSeries Apex Pro is the superior option.

Takeaways: The Ultimate Gaming Keyboard

Both the Corsair K70 Max and SteelSeries Apex Pro are exceptional gaming keyboards that offer a plethora of features and performance. The K70 Max excels with its durable construction, traditional layout, and versatile switch options. The Apex Pro stands out with its OmniPoint switches, OLED display, and unmatched customization possibilities. Ultimately, the best choice for you hinges on your specific requirements and preferences.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Which keyboard has the better switches?
A: Both keyboards offer high-quality switches, but the SteelSeries Apex Pro‘s OmniPoint switches provide unparalleled customization and precision.

Q: Which keyboard is more durable?
A: Both keyboards are built to last, but the Corsair K70 Max’s aluminum frame may provide a slight edge in durability.

Q: Which keyboard has more lighting options?
A: Both keyboards offer extensive RGB lighting options, but the Apex Pro‘s OLED display sets it apart with the ability to display custom animations and GIFs.

Q: Which keyboard is more ergonomic?
A: The K70 Max comes with a detachable magnetic wrist rest, providing better ergonomic support than the Apex Pro.

Q: Which keyboard is better for gaming?
A: Both keyboards are excellent for gaming, but the Apex Pro’s customizable switches and precision give it a slight edge for competitive play.

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Michael

Michael is the owner and chief editor of MichaelPCGuy.com. He has over 15 years of experience fixing, upgrading, and optimizing personal computers. Michael started his career working as a computer technician at a local repair shop where he learned invaluable skills for hardware and software troubleshooting. In his free time, Michael enjoys tinkering with computers and staying on top of the latest tech innovations. He launched MichaelPCGuy.com to share his knowledge with others and help them get the most out of their PCs. Whether someone needs virus removal, a hardware upgrade, or tips for better performance, Michael is here to help solve any computer issues. When he's not working on computers, Michael likes playing video games and spending time with his family. He believes the proper maintenance and care is key to keeping a PC running smoothly for many years. Michael is committed to providing straightforward solutions and guidance to readers of his blog. If you have a computer problem, MichaelPCGuy.com is the place to find an answer.
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