Keyboards / Compare

Redragon K521-R 104-Key Wired Membrane Gaming Keyboard vs SteelSeries Apex 3

A

Product A: Redragon

K521-R 104-Key Wired Membrane Gaming Keyboard

46 of 164 known

Change Redragon K521-R 104-Key Wired Membrane Gaming Keyboard

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B

Product B: SteelSeries

Apex 3

68 of 164 known

Change SteelSeries Apex 3

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All 164 fields

Every value links to where we found it.

Only differences

ARedragon K521-R 104-Key Wired Membrane Gaming Keyboard

BSteelSeries Apex 3

General

4 of 9 differ

Series

Not available

Not available

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

K521-R1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Product name Redragon K521-R 104-Key Wired Membrane Gaming Keyboard. Amazon calls the same listing K521, with model number K521.

64795, 64796, 64806, 648031Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026SKUs 64795, 64796 and 64806 from the maker. 64803 from the Multitronic listing.4Retailer pagemultitronic.fi/en/products/2437848/steelseries-apex-3-gaming-keyboard--whisper-quiet--blackRead 15 October 2026

GTIN / EAN

69503767253702Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboard.jsRead 23 October 2026Store product data: the one US variant has barcode 6950376725370.

5707119038805, 813682026561, 5707119038829, 813682026578, 5707119039024, 813682026677, 57071190389661Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026EAN and UPC of each regional SKU from the maker's product data.4Retailer pagemultitronic.fi/en/products/2437848/steelseries-apex-3-gaming-keyboard--whisper-quiet--blackRead 15 October 2026

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

Not available

21 January 20203Press releasesteelseries.com/press/67-steelseries-launches-rival-3-gaming-mouse-apex-3-and-apex-5-gaming-keyboardsRead 15 October 2026Press release dated January 21, 2020 announces the Apex 3 and says it is available now globally. The Spanish spec database geektopia gives the same presentation date.

Status

Available3Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0DRFGNWV1Read 23 October 2026Amazon shows In Stock at 15.99 USD with 4K+ bought in the past month. Sold by Redragon Official. The maker store page shows Sold Out for the same board.

Available1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

Not available

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

Not available

$49.993Press releasesteelseries.com/press/67-steelseries-launches-rival-3-gaming-mouse-apex-3-and-apex-5-gaming-keyboardsRead 15 October 2026'The Apex 3 is available now globally for $49.99.' US dollar price at launch. Sales tax is not included.

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

Not available

€79.998Reviewgameswelt.de/steelseries/test/neue-maus-und-tastaturen-im-test-301137Read 15 October 2026German review dated 5 February 2020 of the Rival 3, Apex 3 and Apex 5: SteelSeries Apex 3 at 79,99 Euro. Germany, VAT included as published. The US maker price is $49.99.9Spec databasegeektopia.es/es/product/steelseries/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Spanish spec database: launch price 79.99 EUR and presentation date 21 January 2020. Matches the German review.

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

US1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Store page ships to US and the variant is US.

Not available

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Black3Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0DRFGNWV1Read 23 October 2026Item details: Color Black, Style Classic. The listing also sells other styles in other prices and layouts that are not this model. The Redragon store page links to this ASIN. Seller is Redragon Official.

Black1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026

Segment

Gaming1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Specification: Product Category Gaming Keyboard.

Gaming1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Listed in the maker's Gaming Keyboards category.

Sold asiParts fitted when sold. A complete keyboard includes switches and keycaps. Barebones includes neither.

Complete1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Sold fully assembled with membrane keys.

Complete1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Sold fully assembled. The box holds the keyboard and the wrist rest.

Layout

4 of 12 differ

Form factoriLayout size or shape. A percentage describes the layout, not the number of keys.

Full size1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Specification: Number of keys 104. Collection: Full-size Keyboards.

Full size1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Maker page calls Apex 3 a full-fledged gaming keyboard. The product images and reviews show a full-size layout with numpad.

Layout standardiPhysical key layout standards sold for this model. Regional language names are listed separately.

ANSI1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Maker photo: horizontal Enter, long left Shift and a backslash key above Enter. That is ANSI.

ANSI, ISO1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026US is ANSI. The Nordic layout is ISO with 105 keys per the retailer. BR and SP standards are not stated.4Retailer pagemultitronic.fi/en/products/2437848/steelseries-apex-3-gaming-keyboard--whisper-quiet--blackRead 15 October 2026

Regional layouts

US1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Variant name US.

US English, Brazilian, Spanish, Nordic1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Maker store variants Apex 3 US, Apex 3 BR and Apex 3 SP. Nordic from a Finnish retailer.4Retailer pagemultitronic.fi/en/products/2437848/steelseries-apex-3-gaming-keyboard--whisper-quiet--blackRead 15 October 2026

Keys in regional layoutiPhysical typing and function keys in the stated regional layout. Separate media buttons, macro buttons and rotary controls are excluded. A Touch ID or Lock key in a key row counts, as on Apple keyboards.

1041Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Specification: Number of keys 104. The maker photo shows a standard 104-key layout with the right Windows and menu keys replaced by Fn and a backlight key.

Not available

Key legends for

Windows1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Maker photo shows a Windows logo key.

Not available

Numpad

Yes1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Maker photo shows a numpad.

Yes1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Product images show a numpad.

Function row

Yes1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Maker photo shows F1 to F12.

Yes1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Product images show F1 to F12 above the number row.

Dedicated arrow keys

Yes1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Maker photo shows an inverted-T arrow cluster.

Yes1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Product images show a separate arrow cluster.

Navigation keysiAvailability of Home, End, Page Up and Page Down as dedicated keys or through an Fn layer.

Full1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Maker photo shows Ins, Home, Pg Up, Del, End and Pg Dn as separate keys.

Full1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Product images show Ins, Home, Pg Up, Del, End and Pg Dn as separate keys. Game Revolution lists the same six keys.6Reviewgamerevolution.comRead 15 October 2026Review: six keys from Ins to Pg Dn above the arrows.

Key stagger

Row-staggered1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Maker photo shows row-staggered keys.

Row-staggered1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Product images show a standard row-staggered layout.

Bottom row

Not available

Not available

Low profile

Not available

Not available

Switches

5 of 25 differ

Switch sensing technologyiKey sensing technology. Hall effect and TMR are different sensor types. A mixed board is identified explicitly. Magnetic switch housing alone does not identify the sensor.

Membrane1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Product name: Membrane Gaming Keyboard.

Membrane1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Product data field switch type is 'membrane'. Maker name for the switch is Whisper-Quiet Switches.5Reviewtechradar.com/reviews/steelseries-apex-3Read 15 October 2026Review calls the switches Whisper-Quiet membrane switches.

Switch feel

Not available

Not available

Switch maker

Not available

SteelSeries1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026

Switch models

Not available

SteelSeries Whisper-Quiet Switches1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026

Switch stem

Not available

Not available

Actuation forceiForce at the point where a key registers. Initial spring force is not actuation force. Adjustable switches require a stated actuation setting.

Not available

Not available

Bottom-out forceiForce at the end of the switch travel. It is not the initial spring force or the tactile peak.

Not available

Not available

Tactile bump forceiPeak force of the tactile bump. It is not the force at initial movement or at bottom-out.

Not available

Not available

Actuation pointiDistance before a key registers. For adjustable boards, the default profile or setting is stated in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Total travel

Not available

Not available

Rated keystrokes

Not available

20million1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Specification: 'Switch Lifetime: 20 Million Keypresses'.

Factory-lubed switches

Not available

Not available

Adjustable actuation

Not available

No12Reviewrtings.com/keyboard/reviews/steelseries/apex-3Read 21 October 2026Public summary box: Output Type Non-Adjustable, Switch Type Rubber Dome. The measured results behind the membership wall were not used.

Actuation rangeiSelectable actuation distances. These are settings, not a measured usable travel range.

Not available

Not available

Actuation stepiSmallest documented increment between selectable actuation settings.

Not available

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Per-key actuationiActuation can be configured individually for supported keys. The source note identifies any excluded keys.

Not available

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Rapid trigger

Not available

Not available

Minimum rapid trigger movementiSmallest selectable movement used to reset or reactivate a key. This is a setting, not measured accuracy.

Not available

Not available

Multi-action keys

Not available

Not available

SOCD handling

Not available

Not available

Analog inputiCan send variable gamepad or joystick input. Magnetic sensing or adjustable actuation alone does not establish analog output.

Not available

Not available

Hot-swap socketsiSwitches can be replaced without soldering. Magnetic compatibility must be checked separately.

Not available

None10Spec databasekeybumps.com/keyboard/steelseries-apex-3.htmlRead 15 October 2026Spec list: Hot-Swap No. A Riga retailer spec table says the same. The maker does not state it. The board has membrane switches.11Retailer page4games.pro/en/shop/pcperepherias/keyboards/steelseries-apex-3-usRead 15 October 2026Retailer specification table for SKU 64795: Hot-Swap No.

Compatible switches

Not available

Not available

Stabilizers

Not available

Not available

Factory-lubed stabilizers

Not available

Not available

Keycaps

2 of 5 differ

Keycap material

Not available

Not available

Legend method

Doubleshot1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Features: Double-shot keycaps (permanent legends).

Not available

Keycap profile

Not available

Not available

Keycap thickness

Not available

Not available

Shine-through legendsiLight passes through the legends. Translucent keycap sides alone do not count.

Yes1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Specification: Two-color translucent keycaps. The maker photos show the legends lit by the backlight.

Not available

Performance

4 of 11 differ

Polling rate per connectioniDocumented report rates for each connection. Required receivers or optional adapters are identified in the row and source note.

ARedragon K521-R 104-Key Wired Membrane Gaming Keyboard

Not available

BSteelSeries Apex 3

Connection	Polling rate (Hz)
USB (wired)	1,000

Source4Retailer pagemultitronic.fi/en/products/2437848/steelseries-apex-3-gaming-keyboard--whisper-quiet--blackRead 15 October 2026Retailer specification: 'Polling rate 1000 Hz'. The maker does not publish it. Reviews say the rate is set in SteelSeries Engine.5Reviewtechradar.com/reviews/steelseries-apex-3Read 15 October 2026Review: the polling rate can be edited in SteelSeries Engine. The 1000 Hz value comes from the retailer specification.

Max polling rate

Not available

1,000Hz=CalculatedFrom Polling rate per connection

Polling rate (wired)

Not available

1,000Hz=CalculatedFrom Polling rate per connection

Polling rate (2.4 GHz)

Not available

Not available

Polling rate (Bluetooth)

Not available

Not available

Scan rateiHow often the keyboard reads its switches. A USB report rate does not establish a scan rate.

Not available

Not available

Input latency (claimed)iMaker-published input or response latency with conditions in the source note. Do not calculate this from polling rate.

Not available

Not available

Key rollover per connectioniKeys registered simultaneously over the stated connection. Connection is omitted if the source does not specify it.

ARedragon K521-R 104-Key Wired Membrane Gaming Keyboard

Not available

BSteelSeries Apex 3

Connection	Rollover
USB (wired)	NKRO

Source1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Specification: 'N-Key Roll Over: 24 Keys'. Wired connection only. Stored as nkro because the maker uses the N-key name.4Retailer pagemultitronic.fi/en/products/2437848/steelseries-apex-3-gaming-keyboard--whisper-quiet--blackRead 15 October 2026

Anti-ghosting

Yes1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Features: 25-key rollover anti-ghosting. The Amazon listing says 19 keys anti-ghosting. Neither figure fits a rollover option, so key_rollover is left out.

Yes1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Specification: 'Anti-ghosting: Gaming Grade'.

Adjustable debounce

Not available

Not available

Minimum debounce

Not available

Not available

Measured

None of 7 known

Latency per connection (measured)iReviewer measurements for one tested setup per row. Settings and test method are stated in the source note. Missing conditions are not inferred.

Not available

Not available

Actuation point (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Total travel (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Operating force (measured)iReviewer-measured force at actuation. The switch and actuation setting are stated in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Typing noise (measured)iReviewer-measured A-weighted typing sound level. Measurement distance and conditions are stated in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Battery life (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Weight (measured)iReviewer-measured keyboard weight without cable or wrist rest. The tested configuration is stated in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Connectivity

3 of 18 differ

Connections

USB (wired)1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Specification: Connection Wired.

USB (wired)1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Product data field connectivity is 'Wired'.

Wireless technology

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth device slots

Not available

Not available

Devices it can switch betweeniDistinct device connections available for switching. Do not infer this by adding wireless modes or paired Bluetooth slots.

Not available

Not available

Device switchingiControl used to switch between paired device hosts. Connection-mode and OS switches are described separately.

Not available

Not available

Receiver connector

Not available

None2Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/KB_apex_3_pig_web.pdfRead 15 October 2026Wired USB plug only. Package contents list the keyboard and the wrist rest, with no receiver.

Receiver storage in keyboard

Not available

Not available

Receiver shared with other devices

Not available

Not available

Wireless range

Not available

Not available

Detachable cable

No1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Same photo: the cable is fixed.

No4Retailer pagemultitronic.fi/en/products/2437848/steelseries-apex-3-gaming-keyboard--whisper-quiet--blackRead 15 October 20266Reviewgamerevolution.comRead 15 October 2026Review: no detachable cable. The cable routes left, middle or right under the board.

Port on keyboard

None1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Maker photo shows the cable leaving the top edge and no port on the keyboard.

None6Reviewgamerevolution.comRead 15 October 2026Attached cable, so the keyboard has no port.

Cable plug

USB-A3Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0DRFGNWV1Read 23 October 2026Item details: Connectivity Technology USB-A. Some regional retailers describe a Type-C cable for the RGB Netherbane, which is not this listing.

USB-A4Retailer pagemultitronic.fi/en/products/2437848/steelseries-apex-3-gaming-keyboard--whisper-quiet--blackRead 15 October 2026Retailer specification: 'Device interface USB Type-A'.

Cable

Not available

Not available

Cable length

Not available

Not available

USB passthrough

Not available

No5Reviewtechradar.com/reviews/steelseries-apex-3Read 15 October 2026Review cons list: no USB passthrough.

Works withiSystems on which the keyboard works. Configuration software may have narrower system support.

Windows, macOS1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Features: Windows 10/11 plus macOS compatible. The Specification row lists only Windows 10 down to Windows XP. The Features line and the Amazon listing are stored.

Windows, macOS, ChromeOS1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Specification: 'Windows, Mac OS X, Chromebook (ChromeOS), Xbox, and PlayStation. USB port required'.2Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/KB_apex_3_pig_web.pdfRead 15 October 2026Platform compatibility: PC, Mac, Xbox One, PS4. Maker page adds ChromeOS.

Consoles

PlayStation, Xbox3Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0DRFGNWV1Read 23 October 2026Title: Compatible with PC, Mac, PS4/5, Xbox. Bullet: Windows XP to Win11, PS4-5, Xbox, MacOS, no driver required. The Redragon store page does not mention consoles.

PlayStation, Xbox1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Same specification line: Xbox and PlayStation.2Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/KB_apex_3_pig_web.pdfRead 15 October 2026Platform compatibility: Xbox One and PS4.

Battery

None of 16 known

Battery type

Not available

Not available

Number of batteriesiNumber of replaceable AA or AAA cells required. Internal rechargeable battery packs are not counted here.

Not available

Not available

Battery capacity

Not available

Not available

User-replaceable battery

Not available

Not available

Battery life per mode (claimed)iMaker estimates. Store one published native duration unit per row: hours, days or months. Days and months describe calendar use including idle time, not continuous runtime. Do not convert calendar estimates into hours. Connection, lighting and polling rate are included only when published. Brightness, workload, screen status, sleep settings and up-to qualifiers go in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Longest battery life (claimed)iLongest maker estimate published in hours across the listed modes. Rows published in days or months do not contribute. Conditions can differ between products.

Not available

Not available

Battery life, lighting offiLongest maker estimate published in hours with lighting off. Calendar-day and calendar-month estimates are not converted and do not contribute.

Not available

Not available

Battery life, lighting oniLongest maker estimate published in hours with lighting enabled. Calendar-day and calendar-month estimates are not converted and do not contribute. Brightness and display conditions are stated in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Battery life, backlight on (claimed)iLongest maker up-to estimate published in calendar days with backlighting enabled. Includes idle time and the source-defined usage pattern, not continuous runtime. Brightness, workload, connection and sleep conditions remain in the table and source note. Hours and months are not converted.

Not available

Not available

Battery life, backlight off (claimed)iLongest maker up-to estimate published in calendar months with backlighting off. Includes idle time and the source-defined usage pattern, not continuous runtime. Workload, connection and sleep conditions remain in the table and source note. Hours and days are not converted.

Not available

Not available

Charging port

Not available

Not available

Full charge timeiPublished time for a full charge. Approximate times remain qualified in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Quick charge

Not available

Not available

Use while charging

Not available

Not available

Solar charging

Not available

Not available

Battery indicator

Not available

Not available

Build

2 of 8 differ

Case material

ABS3Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0DRFGNWV1Read 23 October 2026Item details: Keyboard Plate Material ABS. Amazon names it plate material and it is stored as the case material.

High Quality Polymer Frame1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Specification: 'Top Material: High Quality Polymer Frame'.

Plate material

Not available

Not available

Mount style

Not available

Not available

Flex cuts in PCB

Not available

Not available

Sound dampeningiDampening layers the maker or a review names. Foam whose position in the stack is not stated is foam. Films, pads and silicone parts that fit no other option are other.

Not available

Not available

Typing anglesiKeyboard slope for each supported foot position, starting with the lowest. An adjustable-foot count does not establish angles. When the maker publishes only the angle with the feet out, that angle is stored alone.

Not available

Not available

Spill resistant

Yes1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Features: spill-resistant design plus ergonomic tilt.3Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0DRFGNWV1Read 23 October 2026Infographic: Spill-resistant Protection. Prevent accidental spills from interrupting your game.

Yes1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Maker page: rated water and dust resistant. The 2020 press release says IP32 water resistant to prevent damage from accidental spills.3Press releasesteelseries.com/press/67-steelseries-launches-rival-3-gaming-mouse-apex-3-and-apex-5-gaming-keyboardsRead 15 October 2026'IP32 water resistant to prevent damage from accidental spills.'

IP rating

Not available

IP321Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026IP32 stated on the maker page and in the press release.

Lighting

3 of 7 differ

Backlight

RGB zones1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Features: 6-zone RGB backlighting. Specification: Lighting Rainbow.

RGB zones1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Specification: '10-Zone RGB Illumination'.

LED position

Not available

Not available

Lighting zones

61Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Features: 6-zone RGB backlighting.

101Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Specification: '10-Zone RGB Illumination'.

Brightness levelsiSelectable onboard brightness steps. The source note states whether the off position is included.

41Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Features: 4 brightness levels. It is not stated whether off is counted.

Not available

Side or underglow lighting

Not available

Not available

Lighting sensors

Not available

Not available

Lighting sync

Not available

SteelSeries Prism14Maker product pagesupport.steelseries.com/hc/en-us/articles/4995636454285-Apex-3-RGB-configurationRead 21 October 2026Maker support article: in GG open the Engine tab, then PRISM, then choose Apex 3 to set zone colours, effects and brightness.

Controls

5 of 12 differ

Media keysiPlayback controlled by separate buttons, an Fn layer or a multifunction knob/rocker. Volume controls are listed separately, and knob presses are excluded from the separate media-button count.

Fn layer3Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0DRFGNWV1Read 23 October 2026Infographic: 12 multimedia functions through Fn plus F1 to F12 (media player, play/pause, volume down and up, mute, next and previous track, stop, e-mail, home page, calculator and lock keyboard).

Dedicated1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Page copy: a clickable metal roller and media keys for rewind, skip and pause.2Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/KB_apex_3_pig_web.pdfRead 15 October 2026Overview items 01 and 02: volume roller and multimedia button.

Separate media buttonsiSeparate physical buttons for playback or mute, counted once each. Fn shortcuts, macro buttons, knob presses and roller presses are excluded.

03Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0DRFGNWV1Read 23 October 2026The photo shows no separate media buttons. Media functions are Fn layer shortcuts.

11Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026One Multimedia Button per the product information guide. The roller is counted as volume control.2Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/KB_apex_3_pig_web.pdfRead 15 October 2026Overview item 02: Multimedia Button. Play and pause with one press, skip with two, previous with three.

Volume control

Keys3Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0DRFGNWV1Read 23 October 2026Infographic: Fn plus F2 and F3 for volume down and up, Fn plus F4 for mute.

Roller1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Clickable metal roller.2Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/KB_apex_3_pig_web.pdfRead 15 October 2026Overview item 01: Multimedia Volume Roller. Scroll for volume, press to mute.

Knobs

01Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026No knob in the maker photo.

02Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/KB_apex_3_pig_web.pdfRead 15 October 2026Overview item 01 is the multimedia volume roller. The overview lists no knob.

Programmable knob

Not available

Not available

Knob press

Not available

Not available

Separate macro keysiSeparate physical keys or buttons intended for macros. Excludes ordinary remappable keys, media buttons and a dedicated software-launch button.

01Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026No separate macro keys in the maker photo.

012Reviewrtings.com/keyboard/reviews/steelseries/apex-3Read 21 October 2026Verdict: any key can take a macro, but there are no dedicated macro keys.

Built-in screen

None1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026No screen in the maker photo.

None12Reviewrtings.com/keyboard/reviews/steelseries/apex-3Read 21 October 2026Public Apex 5 comparison text: the Apex 5 has an OLED screen, a feature the Apex 3 lacks. GamesRadar also says there is no OLED display on the Apex 3.13Reviewgamesradar.com/steelseries-apex-3-reviewRead 21 October 2026Review of the full-size Apex 3: there is no tiny OLED display like the Apex 5 has.

Touchpad

No1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026No touchpad in the maker photo.

No2Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/KB_apex_3_pig_web.pdfRead 15 October 2026Product overview page lists eight controls: volume roller, multimedia button, SteelSeries function key, USB plug, profile switching key, macro recording key and two brightness keys. No touchpad.

Fingerprint reader

No1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026No fingerprint reader in the maker photo.

No2Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/KB_apex_3_pig_web.pdfRead 15 October 2026Same overview of eight controls. No fingerprint reader.

OS mode switch

Not available

None2Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/KB_apex_3_pig_web.pdfRead 15 October 2026Overview lists no OS switch. The only combination key is the SteelSeries function key.

Windows key lock

Yes3Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0DRFGNWV1Read 23 October 2026Infographic: FN plus Win locks the Windows key.

No7Reviewtomsguide.com/reviews/steelseries-apex-3Read 15 October 2026Review: the Apex 3 does not offer a game mode that disables the Windows key and similar commands.

Software

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Software

Not available

SteelSeries Engine1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Specification: 'SteelSeries Engine 3.15+ for Windows (7 or newer) and Mac OS X (10.11 or newer)'. The same page shows this line marked 'coming soon'.

Software runs on

Not available

Windows, macOS1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Windows and Mac OS X per the same specification line.

Open firmware

Not available

Not available

Onboard memory

Not available

No12Reviewrtings.com/keyboard/reviews/steelseries/apex-3Read 21 October 2026Public Apex 5 comparison text: onboard memory is a feature the Apex 3 lacks.

Onboard profilesiProfiles stored on the keyboard, including fixed defaults when the maker counts them. Software-only profiles are excluded.

Not available

Not available

Macros

Not available

Yes2Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/KB_apex_3_pig_web.pdfRead 15 October 2026On-the-fly macro recording with the SteelSeries Function Key and the macro recording key. Needs SteelSeries Engine.7Reviewtomsguide.com/reviews/steelseries-apex-3Read 15 October 2026

Macros stored onboardiRecorded command sequences run from keyboard storage without the configuration app. Onboard lighting or remapping alone does not establish this.

Not available

No2Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/KB_apex_3_pig_web.pdfRead 15 October 2026SteelSeries Engine is required for on-the-fly macro recording. RTINGS says the Apex 3 has no onboard memory.12Reviewrtings.com/keyboard/reviews/steelseries/apex-3Read 21 October 2026Public comparison text says the Apex 3 has no onboard memory, so macros are not stored on the keyboard.

Key remapping

Not available

Yes7Reviewtomsguide.com/reviews/steelseries-apex-3Read 15 October 2026Review: SteelSeries Engine 3 can adjust lighting, program macros and remap almost every key.

LayersiTotal key mapping layers including the base layer. Lighting effect layers and profile slots are excluded.

Not available

Not available

User firmware updates

Not available

Yes7Reviewtomsguide.com/reviews/steelseries-apex-3Read 15 October 2026Review says the multimedia button did not respond even after updating the keyboard firmware, so a user firmware update exists.

Ergonomics

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Wrist rest

None1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026No wrist rest in the package contents.

Detachable1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Premium magnetic wrist rest in the box.

Wrist rest material

Not available

Soft touch finish1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Page copy: 'durable soft touch finish'.

Tenting

Not available

Not available

Tenting angles

Not available

Not available

Dimensions and weight

2 of 6 differ

DimensionsiKeyboard body dimensions with fitted keycaps, without wrist rest and with feet folded. Any different measurement condition is stated in the source note. Width is the longest side, depth runs front to back and height is the thickness. Map by size when the maker's labels differ.

Width434Depth128Height31mm(17.1 × 5 × 1.2 in)1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Weight & Size: Product Size (L x W x H) 43.4X12.8X3.1cm. Mapped by size: width 434, depth 128, height 31. The measurement conditions are not stated.

Width444.7Depth151.62Height39.69mm(17.5 × 6 × 1.6 in)1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Specification: Width 444.7 mm, Depth 151.62 mm, Height 39.69 mm. Feet state and wrist rest are not stated. The depth fits the keyboard alone, without the wrist rest.

Dimensions with wrist rest

Not available

Not available

Keyboard weightiKeyboard without cable or wrist rest. Weights that include accessories cannot be stored here. A cable that cannot be removed is included. Replaceable batteries are included, as built-in batteries are.

581g(1.3 lb)1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Weight & Size: Product Weight 0.581kg.

816.4g(1.8 lb)4Retailer pagemultitronic.fi/en/products/2437848/steelseries-apex-3-gaming-keyboard--whisper-quiet--blackRead 15 October 2026Retailer specification: 'Keyboard weight 816.4 g'. The maker publishes 1.8 lbs. The two agree. The maker does not say if the wrist rest is included.

Weight including wrist restiKeyboard plus supplied wrist rest, excluding packaging. The source note identifies any included cable.

Not available

Not available

Box dimensions

Not available

Not available

Box weightiOne retail package including its contents. A multi-unit shipping carton weight is excluded.

Not available

Not available

Certifications

1 of 2 differ

Platform certifications

Not available

Not available

Other certifications

Not available

FCC Part 15 Class B, ICES-003 Class B, EU Declaration of Conformity, UK Declaration of Conformity, KC R-R-SS4-KB-00014, VCCI Class B, Customs Union compliance, ACMA compliance2Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/KB_apex_3_pig_web.pdfRead 15 October 2026Regulatory pages: EU and UK declarations of conformity, FCC Part 15 Class B, Canadian ICES-003 Class B, Korea KC certificate R-R-SS4-KB-00014, VCCI Class B for Japan, Custom Union and ACMA compliance marks. Regulatory model KB-00014, rated 5 V and 400 mA.

In the box

1 of 3 differ

In the box

Keyboard, User Manual1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Package Contents: 1 x Keyboard, 1 x User Manual.

Apex 3 Gaming Keyboard, Magnetic Wrist Rest, Product Information Guide1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026

Cables included

Not available

Not available

Spare switches

Not available

Not available

Links

Not compared

Product page

redragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboard1Maker product pageredragon.com/products/redragon-k521-r-104-key-wired-membrane-gaming-keyboardRead 23 October 2026Redragon US store page. The only variant is US at 25.99 USD and it shows Sold Out on the access date. The page has a Buy on Amazon button that links to Amazon listing B0DRFGNWV1. The page has no description text.

steelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-31Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026

Spec sheet

Not available

Not available

Manual

Not available

downloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/KB_apex_3_pig_web.pdf2Owner's manualdownloads.steelseriescdn.com/guides/KB_apex_3_pig_web.pdfRead 15 October 2026

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

Not available

Not available

Warranty

1 of 1 differ

Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

Not available

1year1Maker product pagesteelseries.com/gaming-keyboards/apex-3Read 15 October 2026Product data: SteelSeries Limited Warranty, 12 months. US store.

Both are also in the API. Back to all keyboards.