SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL
Score: 87/100
Razer BlackWidow V4 X Yellow
Score: 90/100Rankings
The BlackWidow V4 X (2023) is a full-size wired keyboard that combines ultra-fast 8000 Hz polling, per-key RGB, six macro keys, and quiet linear Yellow switches with a premium aluminum build. It delivers top-tier performance but is heavy, lacks USB passthrough, and depends on Razer software.
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 | 8,000 Hzbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 1,043.3 gbest | 1,138.5 g |
12 months | 24 monthsbest | |
45 gbest | 45 gbest | |
87 keysbest | — | |
— | 2 mbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Lighting(1) | ||
Backlighting Type | Per-key | per-key |
Warranty(1) | ||
Warranty Period (months) | 12 months | 24 months |
Switches(1) | ||
Switch Type | OptiPoint optical | Yellow Linear |
Build & Design(4) | ||
Form Factor | TKL | full-size |
Weight (g) | 1043.3 g | 1138.5 g |
Case Material | Aluminum alloy | aluminum |
Keycap Material | PBT | ABS |
Connectivity(2) | ||
Connectivity Type | USB-C | USB |
Cable Type | USB-C | braided 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.
“feels like a tank”
“very solidly built with no wobble or flex”
“Very quiet and smooth for office and gaming use”
Professional reviewers gave the keyboard a consistent 4.0/5.0, highlighting its fast actuation, high polling rate, robust build, and rich RGB features while noting the slightly hollow case tone and the absence of a USB passthrough.
Everyday users generally praise the keyboard's quiet linear feel, striking RGB lighting, useful macro keys, and comfortable magnetic wrist rest. However, a notable minority report premature key failures, out-of-the-box defects, and dissatisfaction with Razer's support, as well as the typical ABS keycap shine over time.
