SteelSeries Apex 700 Review: The King Still Reigns
In a world saturated with mechanical gaming keyboards, the SteelSeries Apex 700 manages to stand out, even in 2026. As a long-time mechanical keyboard enthusiast, I’ve cycled through countless models promising the ultimate gaming experience. The Apex 700, however, has earned a permanent spot on my desk, and here’s why.
Unboxing and First Impressions
The unboxing experience is premium, as expected from SteelSeries. The keyboard feels incredibly solid, thanks to its aircraft-grade aluminum alloy frame. The weight gives it a reassuring sturdiness that prevents any unwanted movement during intense gaming sessions. The included magnetic wrist rest is a welcome addition, providing excellent comfort even during extended use.
Key Switches and Performance
The Apex 700 comes with a choice of SteelSeries’ own QS1 switches. I opted for the Red (linear) switches, and they’re fantastic. They offer a smooth, consistent keypress with a satisfyingly light actuation force. This makes them ideal for fast-paced games where split-second reactions are crucial. The keycaps are made of durable PBT plastic, providing a textured feel that enhances grip and resists shine over time. The QS1 switches are rated for 100 million keystrokes, so durability shouldn’t be a concern.
Customization and Features
The integrated OLED Smart Display is one of the Apex 700’s standout features. It allows you to display game information, Discord notifications, and even custom GIFs. The SteelSeries Engine software is intuitive and easy to use, allowing for extensive customization of the keyboard’s RGB lighting, macros, and OLED display. The per-key RGB lighting is vibrant and customizable, allowing you to create stunning lighting effects that sync with your games and other SteelSeries devices. The keyboard also features dedicated media controls, including a volume wheel, which are conveniently located in the upper right corner.
Gaming and Typing Experience
The Apex 700 excels in both gaming and typing. The responsive switches and anti-ghosting technology ensure that every keypress is registered accurately, even when pressing multiple keys simultaneously. The comfortable wrist rest and ergonomic design make it a joy to type on for extended periods. Whether you’re fragging enemies in your favorite FPS or writing a lengthy document, the Apex 700 delivers a consistently excellent experience.
Pros
- Durable and premium build quality
- Responsive and satisfying QS1 switches
- Customizable OLED Smart Display
- Per-key RGB lighting with extensive customization options
- Dedicated media controls
- Comfortable magnetic wrist rest
Cons
- Pricey
- QS1 switches are not as widely available as Cherry MX switches
Final Verdict
The SteelSeries Apex 700 remains a top-tier mechanical gaming keyboard in 2026. While the price point may be a barrier for some, the Apex 700 offers a premium build quality, exceptional performance, and a wealth of customizable features that make it worth the investment. If you’re looking for a high-end mechanical keyboard that can elevate your gaming and typing experience, the SteelSeries Apex 700 is an excellent choice.