SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL
Score: 87/100
ASUS ROG Azoth
Score: 90/100Rankings
The ASUS ROG Azoth is a premium 75% wireless mechanical keyboard with a gasket-mounted metal chassis, hot-swappable linear switches, per-key RGB and a 2-inch OLED display. It offers ultra-low-latency tri-mode connectivity and exceptional battery life, but its price and proprietary software may deter budget-focused buyers.
The Apex 9 TKL is a premium tenkeyless keyboard that combines ultra-fast optical switches, hot-swap capability, and a solid aluminum chassis. It targets competitive gamers who value speed and customization, though it lacks media controls and an OLED screen.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
8,000 Hzbest | 1,000 Hz | |
— | 2,000 hoursbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 1,043.3 gbest | 1,179 g |
12 monthsbest | 12 monthsbest | |
45 gbest | — | |
87 keysbest | 84 keys |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(1) | ||
Polling Rate (Hz) | 8000 Hz | 1000 Hz |
Switches(2) | ||
Switch Type | OptiPoint optical | ROG NX Snow Linear |
Actuation Force (g) | 45 g | 45-50 g |
Build & Design(5) | ||
Form Factor | TKL | 75% |
Key Count (keys) | 87 keys | 84 keys |
Weight (g) | 1043.3 g | 1179 g |
Case Material | Aluminum alloy | Metal |
Keycap Material | PBT | Doubleshot PBT |
Connectivity(2) | ||
Connectivity Type | USB-C | Tri-mode |
Cable Type | USB-C | USB-C to USB-A |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers praise the ultra-fast 0.2 ms response and dual-point actuation, noting the solid aluminum build and premium PBT keycaps, but criticize the lack of per-key actuation, OLED display, and media controls.
Everyday users love the keyboard's durability, vivid RGB lighting, and speed advantage, while complaining about limited switch compatibility, missing media controls, occasional software hiccups, and the non-braided cable.
Professional reviewers praise the Azoth for its industrial-grade build, superb typing feel, and cutting-edge wireless performance, often calling it a "gorgeous enthusiast keeb" and the best wireless and hot-swappable keyboard on the market.
Everyday users overwhelmingly love the typing experience, the OLED display, and the ease of swapping switches, while complaining about the sluggish Armoury Crate software, smooth keycaps, the oddly placed Delete key, and the high cost.
“feels like a tank”
“very solidly built with no wobble or flex”
“Best typing experience I've ever had on a pre-built keyboard.”
