The world of gaming keyboards is a highly competitive market, with numerous brands vying for attention from gamers and enthusiasts alike. Two popular options that have garnered significant interest are the Corsair K100 RGB and the SteelSeries Apex 5. In this comparison, we'll delve into the features, design, and performance of these two gaming keyboards to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Corsair K100 RGB boasts a sleek and premium design, with a sturdy aluminum frame that exudes durability. The keyboard's dimensions are slightly larger than average, but this is due to the inclusion of dedicated media controls, a USB passthrough, and a comfortable wrist rest. The K100 RGB features a floating keycap design, which allows for effortless cleaning and provides a unique aesthetic appeal.
In contrast, the SteelSeries Apex 5 has a more compact and minimalist design, with a focus on portability and ease of use. The keyboard's frame is constructed from a high-quality plastic material that feels solid and resistant to wear and tear. While it may not have the same level of premium feel as the K100 RGB, the Apex 5 makes up for it with its sleek and modern design.
Switches and Typing Experience
The Corsair K100 RGB features proprietary OPX optical switches, which offer a linear and smooth typing experience. These switches are designed to provide fast actuation and a lifespan of up to 100 million keystrokes. The keyboard also includes customizable backlighting with 44 zones of RGB lighting, allowing for a wide range of color options and effects.
The SteelSeries Apex 5, on the other hand, uses tactile and clicky SteelSeries QX2 switches, which provide a more pronounced feedback and audible click. These switches are designed to offer a balance between typing comfort and gaming performance. The Apex 5 also features customizable backlighting with 16.8 million color options, although it lacks the same level of complexity as the K100 RGB's lighting system.
Features and Customization
Both keyboards offer a range of features that cater to gamers and enthusiasts. The Corsair K100 RGB includes:
- Dedicated media controls
- USB passthrough
- Wrist rest with cushioning
- Elgato Stream Deck integration
- iCUE software for customization
The SteelSeries Apex 5, meanwhile, offers:
- Customizable macro keys
- Media controls
- USB passthrough
- SteelSeries Engine software for customization
- Discord and Twitch integration
In terms of customization, both keyboards offer a range of options through their respective software suites. However, the Corsair iCUE software is generally considered more comprehensive and user-friendly, with a wider range of features and effects available.
Gaming Performance
As gaming keyboards, both the Corsair K100 RGB and SteelSeries Apex 5 are designed to provide exceptional performance and responsiveness. The K100 RGB's OPX optical switches offer fast actuation and a high level of accuracy, making it well-suited for fast-paced games that require quick reflexes.
The SteelSeries Apex 5, meanwhile, excels in games that require a more tactile and clicky feedback, such as strategy games or MMOs. The QX2 switches provide a high level of precision and control, allowing gamers to execute complex commands with ease.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Corsair K100 RGB and SteelSeries Apex 5 are both excellent gaming keyboards that cater to different needs and preferences. The K100 RGB offers a premium design, fast optical switches, and a comprehensive customization suite, making it an ideal choice for gamers who value speed and precision.
The SteelSeries Apex 5, on the other hand, provides a more compact and portable design, tactile and clicky switches, and a range of features that cater to gamers and streamers. While it may not have the same level of premium feel as the K100 RGB, the Apex 5 is an excellent option for those who prioritize versatility and ease of use.
Ultimately, the choice between these two gaming keyboards will depend on your individual preferences and needs. If you're looking for a high-end keyboard with fast optical switches and advanced customization options, the Corsair K100 RGB may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more compact and portable design with tactile and clicky switches, the SteelSeries Apex 5 is an excellent alternative.
