Review: SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL — Water‑Resistant RGB Gaming Keyboard

The SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL is a compact, quiet keyboard that is easier to live with than a clicky mechanical board. It uses whisper quiet switches, an IP32 rating to shrug off splashes, and a tenkeyless layout to win back mouse space. If you share a room or game late, its low noise profile is the point.

Quiet Typing

Rubber dome switches are naturally softer and lower in pitch than most mechanical boards. The Apex 3 TKL produces a damped, low volume sound that blends into a room instead of cutting through it. Key feel is consistent across the board and the case is rigid enough to avoid flex or rattle.

TKL Layout and Build

You keep the function row and navigation keys while dropping the numpad. The chassis feels sturdy, and underside cable channels let you route left or right to clean up your desk. The finish resists shine, and the legends remain readable in dim rooms.

Spill Resistance

IP32 does not make it waterproof, but it does protect against typical desk mishaps like condensation or a small splash. Wipe and move on; it is a comfort feature for real world desks.

Lighting and Software

10 zone RGB keeps things simple and light on system resources. SteelSeries GG handles macros, reactive effects, and remaps. Setting per app profiles is straightforward.

Gaming

Anti ghosting coverage fits common WASD combinations. For niche cases that demand simultaneous presses across many rows, full NKRO is still better, but for mainstream shooters and MOBAs the Apex 3 TKL keeps up and stays quiet doing it.

Pros

• Quiet, compact, spill resistant
• Comfortable for long sessions
• Budget friendly with usable software

Cons

• Not mechanical; no hot swap
• Lighting is zoned, not per key

Verdict

If you need a keyboard that plays nice with roommates and shrugs off minor spills, the Apex 3 TKL is a practical pick.

Where to Buy

Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn from qualifying purchases.