SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL
Score: 87/100
RK Royal Kludge R75
Score: 88/100Rankings
The RK Royal Kludge R75 is a wired 75% keyboard that blends a gasket-mount, multi-layer foam dampening, hot-swappable switches, and a removable CNC aluminum volume knob. It adds onboard memory and vibrant RGB while retaining a compact footprint.
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 | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 1,043.3 g | 680 gbest |
12 monthsbest | 12 monthsbest | |
45 gbest | 45 gbest | |
87 keysbest | 81 keys | |
— | 1.6 mbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Lighting(1) | ||
Backlighting Type | Per-key | South-facing |
Switches(1) | ||
Switch Type | OptiPoint optical | Silver |
Build & Design(4) | ||
Form Factor | TKL | 75% |
Key Count (keys) | 87 keys | 81 keys |
Weight (g) | 1043.3 g | 680 g |
Case Material | Aluminum alloy | Plastic |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Connectivity Type | USB-C | Wired |
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”
“The volume knob is incredibly useful and well-machined.”
Professional reviewers highlight the R75's thocky typing feel, premium gasket mount, and the value-packed removable volume knob, calling it a well-rounded budget-friendly board.
Users love the satisfying typing experience and the knob, but note occasional spacebar wobble and uneven RGB lighting.
