What To Know
- Both the Huntsman V2 and the Apex 7 come packed with a range of features to enhance the gaming experience.
- The Huntsman V2 has a per-key RGB lighting system, while the Apex 7 has a customizable RGB light bar and underglow lighting.
- The Huntsman V2 excels in terms of performance and aesthetics, while the Apex 7 offers a wider range of features and customization options.
In the realm of gaming peripherals, keyboards hold a pivotal position, enabling gamers to execute precise commands and enhance their gaming experience. Two formidable contenders in this arena are the Razer Huntsman V2 and the SteelSeries Apex 7. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of both keyboards, exploring their features, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
Build Quality and Design
Both the Razer Huntsman V2 and the SteelSeries Apex 7 boast sturdy construction with high-quality materials. The Huntsman V2 features an aluminum top plate, while the Apex 7 utilizes a durable alloy frame. Both keyboards are designed to withstand the rigors of intense gaming sessions.
In terms of aesthetics, the Huntsman V2 exudes a sleek and minimalist look with a floating keycap design. The Apex 7, on the other hand, has a more aggressive appearance with a prominent wrist rest and customizable OLED display.
Switches
The choice of switches is a crucial factor in determining the feel and performance of a keyboard. The Huntsman V2 offers two switch options: the linear optical switches and the tactile optical switches. The linear switches provide a smooth and lightning-fast actuation, while the tactile switches offer a satisfying bump for a more responsive feel.
The Apex 7 comes with SteelSeries’ own Red or Blue mechanical switches. The Red switches are linear and provide a similar experience to the Huntsman V2’s linear optical switches. The Blue switches, on the other hand, have a tactile and clicky actuation, offering a more distinct and audible feedback.
Performance
In terms of performance, both the Huntsman V2 and the Apex 7 deliver exceptional responsiveness and precision. The Huntsman V2’s optical switches have an actuation point of 1.0 mm, while the Apex 7’s mechanical switches have an actuation point of 1.5 mm. This difference is virtually imperceptible, and both keyboards offer lightning-fast keystrokes.
The Huntsman V2 has a slightly faster keystroke registration time of 0.1 ms compared to the Apex 7’s 0.2 ms. However, this difference is negligible in real-world gaming scenarios.
Features
Both the Huntsman V2 and the Apex 7 come packed with a range of features to enhance the gaming experience. The Huntsman V2 features dedicated media keys, a volume scroll wheel, and a USB passthrough port. The Apex 7, on the other hand, has a built-in OLED display that can display game stats, Discord notifications, and customizable animations.
Additionally, the Apex 7 has a magnetic wrist rest that provides excellent comfort during extended gaming sessions. The Huntsman V2 does not come with a wrist rest, but it can be purchased separately.
Software and Customization
Both keyboards have dedicated software that allows for extensive customization. The Razer Synapse software for the Huntsman V2 offers a wide range of options for key programming, macro creation, and RGB lighting effects. The SteelSeries Engine software for the Apex 7 also provides comprehensive customization options, including the ability to create custom profiles for different games.
RGB Lighting
Both the Huntsman V2 and the Apex 7 feature RGB lighting with millions of customizable colors. The Huntsman V2 has a per-key RGB lighting system, while the Apex 7 has a customizable RGB light bar and underglow lighting.
Price
The Razer Huntsman V2 and the SteelSeries Apex 7 are both premium gaming keyboards with a price tag to match. The Huntsman V2 starts at $199.99, while the Apex 7 starts at $199.99.
The Bottom Line: The Verdict
The Razer Huntsman V2 and the SteelSeries Apex 7 are both exceptional gaming keyboards that offer a premium experience. The Huntsman V2 excels in terms of performance and aesthetics, while the Apex 7 offers a wider range of features and customization options. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual preferences and needs.
Top Questions Asked
1. Which keyboard has faster switches?
The Razer Huntsman V2 has faster optical switches with an actuation point of 1.0 mm compared to the SteelSeries Apex 7’s mechanical switches with an actuation point of 1.5 mm.
2. Which keyboard has more customization options?
The SteelSeries Apex 7 has more customization options thanks to its OLED display and magnetic wrist rest.
3. Which keyboard is more comfortable for extended gaming sessions?
The SteelSeries Apex 7 has a magnetic wrist rest that provides excellent comfort during extended gaming sessions.
4. Which keyboard has better RGB lighting?
Both keyboards have excellent RGB lighting, but the Huntsman V2 has a per-key RGB lighting system while the Apex 7 has a customizable RGB light bar and underglow lighting.
5. Which keyboard is a better value for money?
Both keyboards offer excellent value for money, but the Huntsman V2 is slightly cheaper than the Apex 7.
