Royal Kludge RK61 vs SteelSeries Apex 3: Overview of expert opinions

In terms of overall design and visual appeal, both the SteelSeries Apex 3 and Royal Kludge RK61 have their own unique aesthetics that cater to different preferences.

The SteelSeries Apex 3 has a sleek and modern design that is characteristic of SteelSeries products. Its ergonomic design and rounded edges give it a comfortable and visually pleasing look. The inclusion of a premium magnetic wrist rest adds to the overall appeal and enhances comfort during long gaming sessions.

The 10-zone RGB illumination allows for customization and personalization, making it visually striking and able to match any gaming setup. The ability to sync the RGB lighting with other SteelSeries products adds to the overall visual appeal and cohesiveness of the setup.

On the other hand, the Royal Kludge RK61 has a compact and minimalist design that is popular among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Its 60% form factor makes it smaller and more portable than a full-sized keyboard, which can be appealing for those who prioritize space-saving and portability.

The plastic body casing and ABS keycaps give it a budget-friendly look, but it still maintains a decent build quality. The availability of different colors, such as black, white, and pink, allows for personalization and adds to the visual appeal.

Overall, the SteelSeries Apex 3 offers a sleek and stylish design with premium features like the magnetic wrist rest and customizable RGB lighting, making it visually appealing and suitable for a wide range of gaming setups. On the other hand, the Royal Kludge RK61 has a compact and minimalist design that appeals to mechanical keyboard enthusiasts who prioritize portability and space-saving.

The availability of different colors adds to its visual appeal and allows for personalization. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities in terms of design and visual appeal.

Both the SteelSeries Apex 3 and the Royal Kludge RK61 are constructed primarily using plastic materials. However, despite being made of plastic, both keyboards have been praised for their build quality and durability.

The SteelSeries Apex 3 has a plastic frame, keycaps, and body. Despite not having a metal frame like some higher-end keyboards, the plastic construction of the Apex 3 contributes to its sturdy build quality. Reviews mention minimal flex and no creaking or groaning, indicating that the plastic frame gives it a solid feel and durability.

The keycaps are made of ABS plastic with a soft finish, providing a comfortable feel while typing. Overall, the plastic construction of the Apex 3 ensures its reliability for gaming and everyday use.

On the other hand, the Royal Kludge RK61 is also encased entirely in plastic. Despite this, the keyboard has a considerable weight to it, indicating a robust construction. Reviews describe the build quality of the RK61 as nice and sturdy, suggesting that the plastic materials used in its construction are of good quality.

The keyboard feels like it should be pricier, according to Switch&Click, and it is hard to find affordable keyboards that are well-built and inflexible. This suggests that the plastic construction of the RK61 contributes to its durability and overall build quality.

In summary, both the SteelSeries Apex 3 and the Royal Kludge RK61 are constructed primarily using plastic materials. However, the plastic construction of both keyboards does not compromise their build quality and durability. Both keyboards have been praised for their sturdy construction, minimal flex, and solid feel, making them reliable options for gaming and everyday use.

The SteelSeries Apex 3 and Royal Kludge RK61 have some notable design differences.

1. Layout: The Apex 3 has a full-size layout with a numeric pad and dedicated arrow keys, while the RK61 has a compact 60% layout without a numeric pad or dedicated arrow keys. This makes the RK61 more compact and portable, but it may require some adjustment for users who are used to a full-size layout.

2. Weight and Size: The Apex 3 is described as lightweight and portable, but specific weight and size measurements are not provided in the available information. On the other hand, the RK61 is explicitly mentioned to weigh only 1. 28 pounds and measures around 11. 5 by 4 inches, making it very compact and easy to carry.

3. RGB Backlighting: Both keyboards feature RGB backlighting, but the Apex 3 has 10-zone RGB illumination, allowing for more customization and reactive effects. The available information does not specify the extent of RGB customization options on the RK61.

4. Water Resistance: The Apex 3 is IP32 water-resistant, which helps protect it from liquid spills. There is no information available about the water resistance capabilities of the RK61.

5. Wrist Rest: The Apex 3 comes with a premium magnetic wrist rest, providing palm support and comfort. There is no information available about whether the RK61 includes a wrist rest.

6. Dedicated Multimedia Controls: The Apex 3 has dedicated multimedia controls, allowing for easy adjustment of volume and settings. There is no information available about whether the RK61 has dedicated multimedia controls.

7. Software: The Apex 3 operates using the SteelSeries Engine software, which allows for customization of lighting and the addition of apps. There is no information available about whether the RK61 has any accompanying software for customization.

8. Aesthetics: The Apex 3 is described as having a sleek and stylish design, with SteelSeries' classic design philosophy. The available information does not provide specific details about the aesthetics of the RK61, other than mentioning that it is available in different colors.

Overall, the SteelSeries Apex 3 and Royal Kludge RK61 have different design features that cater to different preferences. The Apex 3 offers a full-size layout, water resistance, and dedicated multimedia controls, while the RK61 is more compact, lightweight, and portable.

The extent of RGB customization options and the inclusion of a wrist rest are not specified for the RK61.

In terms of size, the SteelSeries Apex 3 is larger than the Royal Kludge RK61. The Apex 3 measures 44. 5 centimeters wide, 15. 2 centimeters high, and 22. 2 centimeters with the wrist-rest attached. On the other hand, the RK61 is a compact keyboard with a 60% form factor, meaning it is significantly smaller and takes up less desk space.

This compact size of the RK61 makes it ideal for those with limited space or who prefer a minimalist setup. The weight of the keyboards also differs. The Apex 3 weighs 816 grams without the wrist-rest and an additional 192 grams with it. In comparison, the RK61 weighs around 590 grams.

The lighter weight of the RK61 makes it more portable and easier to carry around, which is beneficial for those who frequently travel or attend gaming events. The impact of size and weight on overall design and usability can vary depending on individual preferences and needs.

The larger size of the Apex 3 may be more comfortable for those with larger hands or who prefer a more substantial keyboard. Additionally, the wrist-rest on the Apex 3 provides added comfort during long gaming sessions.

On the other hand, the smaller size and lighter weight of the RK61 make it more portable and suitable for on-the-go use. Its compact design also allows for more flexibility in positioning and can be easily stored when not in use.

In terms of usability, the absence of arrow keys on the RK61 may be a drawback for some users who frequently use them. However, this can be mitigated by using the keyboard's programmable features to assign arrow key functions to other keys.

Overall, the size and weight of each keyboard impact their overall design and usability in different ways. The Apex 3's larger size and weight provide a more substantial and comfortable typing experience, while the RK61's compact size and lightweight design make it highly portable and suitable for those with limited space.

In terms of customizable lighting options, both the SteelSeries Apex 3 and the Royal Kludge RK61 keyboards offer a range of options.

The Apex 3 has a 10-zone RGB backlighting system that can be customized through the SteelSeries Engine software, while the RK61 offers 18 lighting modes that can be customized using downloadable software from the manufacturer's website.

In terms of brightness, both keyboards allow you to adjust the brightness according to your preference. The Apex 3 has a brightness control directly on the keyboard, making it easy to adjust on the fly. The RK61 also has adjustable brightness, as mentioned in the product review on Autonomous.

Both keyboards provide bright and evenly distributed backlighting, making them easy to see in low-light conditions.

In terms of color accuracy, the Apex 3 has generally good RGB settings, although some reviewers have mentioned that the colors produced by the keyboard tend to be more pastel rather than vibrant primary colors. On the other hand, the RK61 has received positive reviews for its color accuracy, with reviewers praising the bright and vibrant colors produced by the RGB backlighting system.

In terms of ease of use, both keyboards have user-friendly software for customizing the lighting options. The SteelSeries Engine software allows you to create custom lighting settings and effects, as well as program macros and remap keys. The downloadable software for the RK61 is also praised for being easy to use and navigate, according to the reviews on Budgetnology and GoMechanicalKeyboard.

Overall, both the SteelSeries Apex 3 and the Royal Kludge RK61 offer customizable lighting options with adjustable brightness. The Apex 3 provides good customization options through the SteelSeries Engine software, while the RK61 offers a wide range of lighting modes that can be easily customized using downloadable software.

In terms of color accuracy, the Apex 3 produces more pastel colors, while the RK61 produces bright and vibrant colors. Both keyboards are praised for their ease of use, with user-friendly software for customization.

The SteelSeries Apex 3 uses rubber dome switches, while the Royal Kludge RK61 offers a variety of switch options, including tactile Brown, clicky Blue, and linear Red switches, as well as their own brand of switch, the RK switch.

In terms of typing experience, the Apex 3's rubber dome switches have a higher pre-travel distance, which can improve typing accuracy and reduce unintended keystrokes. They require a moderate amount of force to get over the tactile bump, but they are not heavy. These switches are designed to be quiet and durable, with a certified lifespan of over 20 million key presses.

On the other hand, the RK61 offers more switch options, allowing users to choose between tactile, clicky, and linear switches based on their personal preferences. However, some users have reported that the RK switches can be a bit rattly and not as high quality as Cherry MX switches.

Overall, the choice between the SteelSeries Apex 3 and Royal Kludge RK61 will depend on the user's preference for switch type and their priorities in terms of typing accuracy, noise level, and durability.

In terms of actuation force, the Royal Kludge RK61 has a specified actuation force of 50g with its RK brown switches. This means that it requires a moderate amount of force to actuate the keys.

On the other hand, the actuation force of the SteelSeries Apex 3 is not mentioned in available sources. However, it is mentioned that the rubber dome switches in the Apex 3 require a moderate amount of force to get over the tactile bump, but not to the point of being heavy.

Based on this information, it can be inferred that the actuation force of the Royal Kludge RK61 is known and specified, while the exact actuation force of the SteelSeries Apex 3 is not mentioned. Therefore, if actuation force is an important factor for you, the Royal Kludge RK61 may be a better choice as it provides a specific actuation force of 50g.

Based on the available information, it is difficult to determine which keyboard has a faster response time due to its switches. The SteelSeries Apex 3 is generally described as responsive, but it may have higher latency compared to other wired keyboards.

The Royal Kludge RK61 is also mentioned to have high latency, which may not be suitable for competitive gaming. In terms of response time, it is important to consider factors such as the type of switches used, the keyboard's firmware, and the overall build quality.

It is recommended to look for keyboards that specifically mention low latency or fast response times in their product descriptions or reviews.

In terms of switch durability and long-lasting quality, the SteelSeries Apex 3 is likely to be more reliable than the Royal Kludge RK61. The Apex 3 switches are certified for over 20 million key presses, indicating that they are designed to withstand a significant amount of use. On the other hand, the RK61 switches have received mixed reviews, with some users reporting that they feel a bit rattly and could be better in quality.

However, it's important to note that the Apex 3 switches are rubber-dome based, which means they may not offer the same satisfying snap and longevity as mechanical switches. Mechanical switches, like those found in higher-end keyboards, are generally considered to be more durable and long-lasting.

In terms of customization and replacement options, the RK61 has an advantage with its hot-swappable feature. This means that if the switches do wear out or if you simply prefer a different type of switch, you can easily replace them without needing to buy a whole new keyboard. This can extend the overall lifespan and versatility of the RK61.

Overall, if switch durability and long-lasting quality are your primary concerns, the SteelSeries Apex 3 may be the better option. However, if you value customization and the ability to easily replace switches, the Royal Kludge RK61 may be a more suitable choice.

In terms of typing experience, the SteelSeries Apex 3 with its rubber dome switches offers a fairly accurate typing experience with a satisfying feeling. The high pre-travel distance helps prevent unintended keystrokes, and the keys have very little resistance without feeling overly spongey.

However, some users may find the keys slightly mushy and lacking distinct tactile feedback.

On the other hand, the Royal Kludge RK61 with its RK Brown switches offers good tactile feedback and light keypresses. However, the pre-travel distance of the keys was inconsistent during testing, which may affect the overall typing experience. Additionally, some users have complained about the keys being shaky, which can also impact typing accuracy.

When it comes to gaming, the SteelSeries Apex 3 is considered a good gaming keyboard. The rubber dome switches make it relatively easy to actuate the keys, but the long pre-travel distance can make the keyboard feel unresponsive. The latency of the keyboard is also reported to be fairly high.

However, the Apex 3 allows for macro customization, although it lacks dedicated macro keys. The RGB backlight is zone-lit, limiting customization options.

Similarly, the Royal Kludge RK61 with its RK Brown switches offers good tactile feedback and light keypresses for gaming. The keyboard is also hot-swappable, allowing for customization with different switches. However, the latency of the keyboard is too high for competitive gaming, and the software for setting macros may not work reliably.

Overall, the switches in the SteelSeries Apex 3 provide a decent typing experience and a good gaming experience, although they may lack the same level of responsiveness and tactile feedback as mechanical switches. The switches in the Royal Kludge RK61 offer good tactile feedback and light keypresses for both typing and gaming, but they may have inconsistencies in pre-travel distance and potential shakiness.

In terms of RGB lighting customization, the Royal Kludge RK61 offers a wider range of options compared to the SteelSeries Apex 3. The RK61 has 18 RGB backlit modes and 8 monochrome modes, allowing users to choose from a variety of colors and lighting effects. The backlighting system includes static colors, breathing effects, and wave effects, providing a more dynamic and customizable lighting experience.

Additionally, the RK61 comes with companion software that enables users to further customize the keyboard's lighting effects and macros.

On the other hand, the SteelSeries Apex 3 has a more limited RGB lighting customization. It offers eight different "zones" that can be adjusted with different colors and effects, such as a rainbow effect. However, it does not provide the option to adjust the lighting on a per-key basis, which may be a drawback for users looking for more precise customization.

Overall, if RGB lighting customization is a priority, the Royal Kludge RK61 offers a more extensive range of options and flexibility compared to the SteelSeries Apex 3.

In terms of programmable keys, the Royal Kludge RK61 has an advantage over the SteelSeries Apex 3. While the Apex 3 only has six programmable macro keys, the RK61 offers all 61 keys as programmable. This means that every key on the RK61 can be customized to perform specific functions or actions.

In terms of customization options, both keyboards offer software that allows users to personalize their keyboard experience. The SteelSeries Engine software for the Apex 3 allows users to create shortcuts, bind actions, remap keys, and customize the RGB backlighting. On the other hand, the RK61's companion software offers similar customization options, including lighting effects and macros.

Users can also set up different profiles for different use cases.

Overall, the Royal Kludge RK61 offers more programmable keys, allowing for greater customization possibilities. However, both keyboards provide software that allows users to personalize their keyboard experience to suit their specific needs and preferences.

Both the SteelSeries Apex 3 and the Royal Kludge RK61 offer software control for their RGB lighting and programmable keys. However, there are some differences in terms of features and customization options.

The SteelSeries Apex 3's software, the SteelSeries Engine, is known for its robustness and user-friendly interface. It allows users to customize the RGB lighting in different zones, adjust brightness, choose presets, and create custom lighting effects. Additionally, the software enables users to program macros and remap keys, providing a high level of customization for gaming.

On the other hand, the Royal Kludge RK61's companion software is also easy to use and offers customization options for lighting effects and macros. Users can set up different profiles for different use cases, such as gaming or typing. While it may not have as many advanced features as the SteelSeries Engine, it still provides enough control for most users' needs.

In terms of RGB lighting, both keyboards offer customizable lighting effects and the ability to sync the lighting across different keys. However, the SteelSeries Apex 3 may have more advanced lighting options and effects due to its dedicated software.

Overall, both keyboards offer software control for RGB lighting and programmable keys, but the SteelSeries Apex 3 may have a slight edge in terms of customization options and advanced features.

Both the SteelSeries Apex 3 and the Royal Kludge RK61 offer customization features such as remapping keys, creating macros, and adjusting RGB backlighting. However, there are some differences in the level of customization and the software used.

The SteelSeries Apex 3 offers 10-zone RGB backlighting, allowing for more precise and detailed lighting customization. The SteelSeries Engine software provides a user-friendly interface for customizing lighting effects and colors. Additionally, the software allows for programming macros and remapping keys, providing a higher level of customization.

On the other hand, the Royal Kludge RK61 also offers customization features such as remapping keys, creating macros, and adjusting RGB backlighting. However, the level of customization may not be as extensive as the Apex 3. The software provided by Royal Kludge is still user-friendly and allows for basic customization options.

In summary, both keyboards offer customization features, but the SteelSeries Apex 3 provides a higher level of customization with its 10-zone RGB backlighting and more extensive software options. The Royal Kludge RK61 still offers customization options, but they may be more limited compared to the Apex 3.

In terms of customization, both the SteelSeries Apex 3 and the Royal Kludge RK61 offer a good level of customization for their RGB lighting and programmable keys. However, there are some differences and limitations to consider.

The SteelSeries Apex 3 has a zone-based RGB backlighting system, allowing you to customize each of the eight zones. While this provides some level of customization, it does not offer individual backlighting for each key. This may be a limitation for users who prefer more precise and detailed lighting effects.

On the other hand, the Royal Kludge RK61 offers 18 lighting modes, including static colors, breathing effects, and wave effects. The backlighting is bright and evenly distributed, making it visually appealing.

In terms of programmable keys, both keyboards offer macro functionality. The SteelSeries Apex 3 allows you to set custom macros to any key and provides the ability to remap keys and reprogram almost every key on the device. The Royal Kludge RK61 also allows users to remap keys and create macros using its companion software.

Users can set up different profiles for different use cases, providing flexibility in customization.

In terms of ease of customization, both keyboards have user-friendly software that allows for easy customization of RGB lighting and programmable keys. The SteelSeries Engine software for the Apex 3 is praised for its intuitive interface, while the Royal Kludge RK61's companion software is also considered user-friendly.

However, it's worth noting that there was one review mentioning difficulties with the Royal Kludge RK61's software not working during testing, so users may encounter some difficulties in customizing the keyboard.

Overall, both the SteelSeries Apex 3 and the Royal Kludge RK61 offer a good level of customization for their RGB lighting and programmable keys. The Apex 3 has a zone-based RGB backlighting system with limitations on individual key customization, while the RK61 offers a variety of lighting modes.

Both keyboards have user-friendly software, although there may be some difficulties with the RK61's software based on one review.

In terms of connectivity options, the Royal Kludge RK61 offers more versatility with both wired and wireless options. It allows for Bluetooth connectivity, which is convenient for connecting to multiple devices simultaneously. Additionally, it supports various operating systems, including Windows, Mac, and even mobile devices.

On the other hand, the SteelSeries Apex 3 only offers a wired connection, limiting its flexibility in terms of device compatibility and mobility.

In terms of wireless connectivity, the Royal Kludge RK61 offers more flexibility as it can be used both as a wired and wireless keyboard. It has Bluetooth 5. 1 connectivity, allowing you to connect it to your devices without the need for cables. It also comes with a 2.

4GHz dongle for a stable wireless connection. Additionally, it has a USB-C port for wired connection, giving you the option to use it as a wired keyboard if desired.

On the other hand, the SteelSeries Apex 3 is a wired keyboard and does not have wireless connectivity. It relies on a wired connection to your device, which may limit its mobility and flexibility compared to the Royal Kludge RK61.

Overall, if wireless connectivity is an important factor for you, the Royal Kludge RK61 would be the better choice as it offers both wired and wireless options. However, if you prefer a wired connection or do not require wireless functionality, the SteelSeries Apex 3 may still be a suitable option.

Both the SteelSeries Apex 3 and the Royal Kludge RK61 have USB connectivity. However, there are some differences in terms of the cables provided.

The SteelSeries Apex 3 comes with a non-detachable USB-A cable, while the Royal Kludge RK61 comes with a USB-C to USB-A rubber cable.

Additionally, the SteelSeries Apex 3 does not have a USB passthrough, meaning you cannot connect other USB devices through the keyboard.

On the other hand, the Royal Kludge RK61 does not have any limitations in terms of USB connectivity and allows you to easily replace the provided cable with any cable of your preference.

Based on the available information, the Royal Kludge RK61 offers both wireless Bluetooth connectivity and USB-C to USB-A connectivity options, while the SteelSeries Apex 3 is a wired keyboard with a USB connection.

In terms of speed, the Royal Kludge RK61's Bluetooth connectivity allows for a stable connection even from centimeters apart, according to the review on autonomous. ai. This suggests that the keyboard has a fast and responsive wireless connection. Additionally, the ability to pair with up to three devices and cycle quickly, as mentioned in the review on villagepipol.

com, further indicates that the RK61 offers a convenient and efficient wireless experience.

On the other hand, the SteelSeries Apex 3's wired connection means that it does not rely on wireless signals and is not subject to potential interference or latency issues that can occur with wireless keyboards. Wired connections are generally known for their stability and reliability, providing a consistent and responsive experience.

In summary, the Royal Kludge RK61 offers the convenience of wireless Bluetooth connectivity with a stable and fast connection, while the SteelSeries Apex 3 provides a reliable and consistent experience through its wired USB connection. The choice between the two keyboards would depend on the user's preference for wireless convenience or the stability of a wired connection.

In terms of operating system compatibility, both the SteelSeries Apex 3 and the Royal Kludge RK61 are compatible with Windows. However, the Royal Kludge RK61 has broader compatibility as it is also compatible with MacOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.

The SteelSeries Apex 3 has limited compatibility with other operating systems. While all keys function properly on Linux, there is no software available for customization on that platform, and there is no onboard memory. On macOS, the Scroll Lock and Pause/Break keys do not work.

On the other hand, the Royal Kludge RK61 is compatible with Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. However, there are some limitations on certain devices. For example, on macOS, the Pause Break and Scroll Lock hotkeys do not work. On Linux, only the Calculator and Mail hotkeys do not work.

Overall, if you are looking for a keyboard with broader operating system compatibility, the Royal Kludge RK61 would be a better choice. However, if you primarily use Windows and do not require extensive customization options, the SteelSeries Apex 3 could still be a suitable option.

In terms of gaming platform compatibility, the SteelSeries Apex 3 offers more versatility as it can be used with gaming consoles like PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch, in addition to PCs. This makes it a suitable choice for gamers who want to use the keyboard across different platforms.

On the other hand, the Royal Kludge RK61 is compatible with Windows, MacOS, and Android, but it does not have specific compatibility with any gaming platforms. Therefore, if you primarily game on consoles, the SteelSeries Apex 3 may be a better option for you.

In terms of software requirements, the SteelSeries Apex 3 requires the SteelSeries Engine software, while the Royal Kludge RK61 does not require any additional software or drivers. This means that the Apex 3 offers more customization options and features through its software, while the RK61 relies solely on its built-in hotkeys for customization.

Additionally, it is worth noting that the Apex 3 is compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems, but not with Linux. On the other hand, the RK61 is compatible with any desktop or mobile operating system, providing more flexibility in terms of device compatibility.

Overall, the choice between the two keyboards may depend on the user's preference for customization options and compatibility with their operating system.