SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL Keyboard - Review

I spent some time using the SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL and here is the straight-up take: this is a compact, competitive keyboard built for gamers who want low latency, fast actuation, and a solid, no-nonsense build. Priced around one hundred and forty dollars at the time of this review, it sits in the mid-to-high range of the market. If you value responsiveness and a sturdy frame over gimmicks, the Apex 9 is worth a look.

Table of Contents

• What you get in the box
• Design and build quality
• Form factors: TKL, full-size, and mini
• Switches and hot-swap capability
• Typing experience and sound
• Media controls and quick actions
• SteelSeries GG software: lighting, macros, and profiles
• Connectivity, cable, and modding
• Ergonomics and adjustability
• Who this keyboard is for
• Pros and cons
• Final verdict
• FAQ

What you get in the box

The Apex 9 comes with just the essentials. Inside the package you will find the keyboard itself, a braided USB-C cable that connects to USB-A, and a keycap puller stored in a small compartment on the back of the board. No frills, but everything you need to get started and maintain the keyboard.

Design and build quality

This keyboard keeps things minimal with a clean aesthetic. The top plate is made from aircraft-grade aluminum alloy which gives it a cool, solid feel when you touch it. The frame uses a mix of plastic and metal — the result is a keyboard that feels sturdy and tank-like when you try to flex it. SteelSeries did not cheap out on the materials here; the board resists bending and sits confidently on the desk.

Flip it over and the back is equally simple. There is a centered compartment that houses the keycap puller so you do not have to dig through your drawers when you want to swap keycaps. The entire package screams functionality: built to perform rather than to show off.

Form factors: TKL, full-size, and mini

The Apex 9 is available in three sizes. The version I tested is the TKL (tenkeyless) edition which keeps your arrow keys and compact layout while removing the number pad. You can also get a full-size model that includes a numpad for productivity work, or the ultra-compact mini that removes the arrow and navigation cluster for maximum desk space.

I personally prefer smaller layouts — the mini or TKL — because they keep your hands more in-line, which feels more ergonomic for long gaming sessions and gives you extra room for mouse swipes. That said, everyone has different needs: if you use the numpad a lot, the full-size Apex 9 makes sense.

Switches and hot-swap capability

One of the defining features of this keyboard is the SteelSeries OmniPoint 2.0 switches. These are optical switches that are neither traditional mechanical nor membrane. They offer fast actuation and a unique two-point actuation system. You can tune registration depth to your preference which is great if you play multiple game types or want to fine-tune typing versus gaming behavior.

OmniPoint 2.0 switches are hot-swappable, so you can swap them out if you prefer a different feel or need to replace a switch. The keycaps themselves are concave which helps your finger sit naturally on the key during rapid presses. The caps also have a grainy texture that gives a reassuring grip — they are not slippery, which matters during fast movement.

The keyboard also ships with durable double shot PBT keycaps according to product specs, which means key legends will hold up long-term and the caps will maintain their texture and shape through heavy use.

Typing experience and sound

How does it feel to type on the Apex 9? The OmniPoint switches deliver a linear, fast-feeling actuation with very low latency. When you pair that with the concave, textured keycaps, typing feels precise and comfortable. If you enjoy a snappy linear action for gaming — particularly FPS where response time matters — you are going to appreciate the way these switches behave.

It is not a silent keyboard. The switches produce an audible click and clack that may be distracting in quiet, shared spaces. If you work in a public environment or an office where noise matters, consider a quieter option. For home use or a dedicated gaming room, the sound gives satisfying feedback and helps you feel confident in every keystroke.

Media controls and quick actions

Media controls are simple and effective. There is a volume dial at the top-right of the board that adjusts volume by default and mutes when pressed. Small touches like this make day-to-day use painless, whether you are switching between a meeting and a game or controlling media while streaming.

If you want more flexibility with media functions and remapping, that is where software comes in.

SteelSeries GG software: lighting, macros, and profiles

Install SteelSeries GG to get the most out of the Apex 9. The software unlocks RGB customization, per-key lighting, animations like breathing and color shifting, and more. It also handles macro programming, key remapping, and game integration features like GameSense. You can save profiles or link them to specific titles for automatic switching.

The keyboard is compatible with both Windows and Mac, so you can manage lighting and macros on either platform. If you prefer not to use software, there are a few on-board shortcuts: hold the SteelSeries button and press F11 to dim the LEDs or F12 to increase brightness.

Connectivity, cable, and modding

This is a wired keyboard that uses a detachable braided USB-C cable connecting to USB-A. I like that the cable is modular — it makes transport easier and opens the door to cable modding. If you like coiled or custom cables to match your setup, the Apex 9 supports that without hassle.

Wired connection also means lower latency compared to wireless setups, which is one of the reasons competitive players favor boards like this.

Ergonomics and adjustability

The Apex 9 offers two adjustable tilt angles via fold-out legs: a short middle leg and a longer outer leg for a steeper angle. This lets you find the angle that suits your typing posture. Combined with a compact TKL layout, the board promotes a more natural hand position on the desk which can reduce fatigue during long sessions.

Who this keyboard is for

If you are a competitive gamer or someone who values fast, predictable keystrokes and a robust build, the Apex 9 is a strong option. Its low-latency optical switches, hot-swap capability, and durable construction make it a future-proof choice for people who tinker with switches or want a keyboard that can be upgraded.

Do not buy this if you need a quiet keyboard for an office or shared workspace. Also, if you rely heavily on a numpad, choose the full-size variant instead of the TKL.

Pros and cons

• Pros: Low latency OmniPoint 2.0 optical switches, hot-swappable, solid aluminum top plate, detachable braided USB-C cable, textured concave keycaps, strong lighting and macro software.
• Cons: Audible key noise that may bother others, higher price point compared to entry-level boards, TKL layout lacks numpad for some users.

Final verdict

The SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL is a finely executed competitive keyboard. It combines a sturdy, minimal design with performance-oriented features: optical hot-swap switches, quick actuation options, and a modular cable. The typing experience is precise and satisfying, though not silent. Software support via SteelSeries GG brings extensive customization and makes the keyboard very adaptable.

If you game competitively or just want a responsive, upgradeable keyboard with a high-quality build, the Apex 9 TKL is a solid investment. If you need silence or a built-in numpad, consider your priorities — but for most gamers who want speed and reliability, this keyboard delivers.

FAQ

What switches does the Apex 9 use and are they hot-swappable?

The Apex 9 uses SteelSeries OmniPoint 2.0 optical switches. They are not traditional mechanical switches or membrane switches. The switches are hot-swappable, so you can replace them with other compatible OmniPoint-style switches if you want a different feel.

Is the keyboard loud?

The OmniPoint 2.0 switches produce a noticeable sound and are not the quietest option. If you work in a shared or quiet environment, this keyboard may be distracting to others. At home, many users will appreciate the audible feedback for gaming and typing.

Can I customize lighting and macros?

Yes. Install SteelSeries GG to access full lighting customization, animations, macro programming, key bindings, and profile management. There are also basic on-keyboard shortcuts to adjust brightness without software.

Does it work with Mac?

Yes. The keyboard is compatible with both Windows and Mac. Some advanced software features may be more fully supported on Windows, but basic functions and lighting customization work with Mac when supported by SteelSeries GG.

Is the cable detachable and can I mod it?

The Apex 9 includes a braided, detachable USB-C cable that connects to USB-A. The modular connection makes it easy to swap cables or use a custom coiled cable for aesthetics and routing preferences.

What sizes are available?

The Apex 9 is available in three sizes: full-size (with numpad), TKL (tenkeyless, tested here), and an ultra-compact mini that removes arrow/navigation keys for maximum desk space.

How do I adjust backlight brightness without software?

Hold the SteelSeries button and press F11 to dim the backlight or F12 to increase brightness. These shortcuts allow basic control without installing SteelSeries GG.