Redragon K556
Score: 78/100
SteelSeries Apex 3
Score: 72/100Rankings
The Redragon K556 is a full-size, metal-framed mechanical keyboard that offers hot-swap capability, tactile brown switches, and vibrant RGB lighting with onboard memory. While it delivers solid build quality and customization options, its weight, lack of per-key lighting, and non-detachable cable may deter users seeking portability.
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 | |
| ↓ lower better | 1,000 gbest | 1,270 g |
— | 10 zonesbest | |
— | 12 monthsbest | |
104 keysbest | — | |
— | 1.8 mbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(1) | ||
N-Key Rollover (keys) | NKRO keys | 24 keys |
Switches(1) | ||
Switch Type | Brown | Membrane |
Build & Design(3) | ||
Form Factor | Full-size | Full‑size |
Weight (g) | 1000 g | 1270 g |
Case Material | Aluminum | Polymer |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Cable Type | Braided fiber | USB Type‑A |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the K556 for its solid metal chassis, hot-swappable design, and generous spare-switch bundle, noting that the lack of per-key RGB and a fixed cable are minor trade-offs for its price.
Everyday users overwhelmingly praise the build quality, tactile brown switches, and vibrant lighting, though they point out imperfections in keycap finish, the heavy weight, and the non-backlit Fn legends.
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.
“best keyboard I've ever owned”
“Near-silent switches are perfect for late-night gaming”
“The wrist rest feels great during long sessions”
