SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL
Score: 87/100Razer BlackWidow V4 X Macro
Score: 88/100Rankings
The BlackWidow V4 X is a full-size wired keyboard featuring fast 8000 Hz polling, per-key RGB, six macro keys, and quiet linear Yellow switches. It offers premium build quality but is heavy, has a short warranty, and some users experience early key failures.
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 | | Razer BlackWidow V4 X Macro |
|---|---|---|
8,000 Hzbest | 8,000 Hzbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 1,043.3 g | 1,027 gbest |
12 monthsbest | 3 months | |
45 gbest | 45 gbest | |
87 keysbest | — | |
— | 2 mbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | Razer BlackWidow V4 X Macro |
|---|---|---|
Lighting(1) | ||
Backlighting Type | Per-key | per-key |
Warranty(1) | ||
Warranty Period (months) | 12 months | 3 months |
Switches(1) | ||
Switch Type | OptiPoint optical | Yellow Linear |
Build & Design(4) | ||
Form Factor | TKL | full-size |
Weight (g) | 1043.3 g | 1027 g |
Case Material | Aluminum alloy | aluminum |
Keycap Material | PBT | ABS |
Connectivity(2) | ||
Connectivity Type | USB-C | USB 2.0 |
Cable Type | USB-C | braided USB-A to USB-C |
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 gave the BlackWidow V4 a solid 4.0/5, highlighting its maximalist feature set, high polling rate, smooth linear switches, and premium aluminum construction while noting its large footprint and premium price.
Everyday users love the quiet, fast feel of the Yellow switches, the vibrant RGB, and the macro/roller functionality, but a notable portion report reliability problems such as keys failing early and ABS keycap shine.
“feels like a tank”
“very solidly built with no wobble or flex”
“Very quiet and fast typing experience with Yellow switches”
