SteelSeries Apex 3
Score: 72/100
HyperX Alloy Origins Core TKL
Score: 84/100Rankings
The Alloy Origins Core is a high-end tenkeyless keyboard with an aluminum build, vivid per-key RGB and detachable USB-C cable. It delivers solid performance with full NKRO and onboard memory, but lacks media keys and wireless connectivity.
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 | 1,270 g | 900 gbest |
10 zonesbest | — | |
12 monthsbest | — | |
— | 60 gbest | |
— | 87 keysbest | |
1.8 mbest | 1.8 mbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(1) | ||
N-Key Rollover (keys) | 24 keys | Full keys |
Lighting(1) | ||
Backlighting Type | RGB | Per-key |
Switches(1) | ||
Switch Type | Membrane | HyperX Aqua |
Build & Design(3) | ||
Form Factor | Full‑size | Tenkeyless |
Weight (g) | 1270 g | 900 g |
Case Material | Polymer | Aluminum |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Cable Type | USB Type‑A | USB-C |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
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.
“Near-silent switches are perfect for late-night gaming”
“The wrist rest feels great during long sessions”
“RGB zones look amazing but the legends are hard to read”
Professional reviewers praise the premium aluminum build, vivid lighting and tactile Aqua switches, while noting the missing media keys and USB pass-through as drawbacks.
Everyday users rate it highly, calling it "perfect for PC gamers" and "the best board I've ever owned," though they miss dedicated media controls and note occasional early hardware failures.
