Razer Tartarus V2
Score: 80/100
SteelSeries Apex 3
Score: 72/100Rankings
The Razer Tartarus V2 is a one-handed macro keypad with 32 programmable mecha-membrane keys, per-key Chroma RGB lighting, and a 1000 Hz polling rate. It excels in customization and ergonomics but relies heavily on Razer Synapse and lacks onboard storage.
The SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB is a full-size wired membrane keyboard that combines quiet Whisper Quiet switches, 10-zone RGB lighting and IP32 spill resistance, targeting casual to mid-core gamers who value comfort and visual flair. It offers solid build quality and ergonomic wrist support, but its non-removable keycaps and dim legends may deter enthusiasts seeking extensive customization.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 24 keysbest | |
1,000 Hzbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 363 gbest | 1,270 g |
— | 10 zonesbest | |
24 monthsbest | 12 months | |
32 keysbest | — | |
2.03 mbest | 1.8 m |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Lighting(1) | ||
Backlighting Type | Per-key | RGB |
Warranty(1) | ||
Warranty Period (months) | 24 months | 12 months |
Switches(1) | ||
Switch Type | Mecha-Membrane | Membrane |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Form Factor | One-handed | Full‑size |
Weight (g) | 363 g | 1270 g |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Cable Length (m) | 2.03 m | 1.8 m |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers view the Tartarus V2 as a premium, niche input device that excels in customization and RGB integration, praising its ergonomic design and switch feel while criticizing its lack of onboard memory and heavy software reliance.
Everyday users love the ergonomic palm rest, the ease of assigning macros, and the vivid Chroma lighting, often calling it a "game-changer" for complex games. However, many complain about the mandatory Synapse connection, software bloat, noisy keys, and the inability to use the device offline.
Professional reviewers commend the Apex 3 for its solid construction, extensive RGB customization and spill-proof design, noting software integration and cable management add real value at its price point.
Everyday users love the quiet switches, comfortable magnetic wrist rest and eye-catching RGB zones, while repeatedly calling out dim key legends and the inability to replace keycaps as the most common pain points.
“"game-changer" for improving control in fast-paced shooters and MMOs”
“Synapse dependency is a major pain point - users cannot use custom settings without the software running”
“Near-silent switches are perfect for late-night gaming”
