Apex Legends rewards tight movement, fast pivots, and instant reactions. Your gear shouldn’t get in the way. The right keyboard or gamepad turns frantic squad fights into clean decisions, whether you main Wraith on a ten-streak or play casually with a small group of friends. This lineup mixes mechanical keyboards from the SteelSeries Apex family with wireless gamepad options built for couch sessions, hybrid play, and PC shooters, so you can match the tool to the way you actually game.
An Overview Of The Picks
SteelSeries Apex 7 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard (Blue Switch)
SteelSeries Apex 7 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard (Red Switch)
SteelSeries Apex M750 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
ProControllers LLC Wireless Custom Controller (Golden Apex)
American Warriior Custom PS-5 Wireless Controller
SteelSeries Apex M400 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard (Red)
SteelSeries Apex 100 Gaming Keyboard (Renewed)
SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 OmniPoint 3.0 Keyboard
FLYDIGI APEX 4 PC Controller (Wukong Edition)
More Details On Our Top Picks
Mechanical keyboards have a way of making Apex Legends feel sharper, and the SteelSeries Apex 7 in its Blue Switch configuration leans hard into that tactile identity. Blue switches give you a clear, audible click the moment a key registers, which means you always know when a jump, slide, or ability press actually went through. For players who like physical confirmation, that snap-action feedback removes a layer of guesswork during chaotic squad fights.
The integrated OLED Smart Display sits at the top corner of the board, a small but genuinely useful tool. Pull up in-game stats, swap tracks in Spotify, or check Discord notifications without alt-tabbing out of your match. Compared to the Apex M750 covered later, this one trades pure esports minimalism for a richer media experience.
Why It Works Well
- Clicky blue switches confirm every press with a tactile bump and audible click
- OLED display shows app info, Discord messages, and in-game telemetry on demand
- USB passthrough gives you a clean port for your mouse, headset dongle, or phone
- Dedicated media controls keep volume and playback within reach
- Per-key RGB lighting lets you map abilities to color cues
Points To Keep In Mind
- The clicky sound can be intrusive in shared rooms or late-night sessions
- Full-size layout takes up meaningful desk real estate
Who It Suits Best
Competitive Apex players who want tactile confirmation and useful on-board readouts during long sessions.
Look Elsewhere When
The Apex 7 TKL makes more sense for desk-space-conscious PC gamers who want the same OLED smarts in a smaller footprint.
The Red Switch version of the Apex 7 takes the same chassis and swaps the clicky blue action for a smooth, linear keypress. There is no tactile bump and no audible click, which means each key glides straight down with a soft landing. For rapid-fire ability combos in Apex Legends, that consistency helps you chain inputs without the small hesitation a clicky switch can introduce.
Everything else carries over from the Blue Switch sibling. The OLED display, USB passthrough, dedicated media controls, and aluminum alloy frame all remain, so the only real decision is how loud you want your keyboard to sound. Gamers streaming late at night or playing in shared spaces tend to appreciate the quieter profile here.
What Helps Most
- Linear red switches glide smoothly for fast, repeatable inputs
- Quieter operation suits shared rooms and late-night play
- Same OLED screen and media controls as the Blue Switch model
- USB passthrough keeps your mouse or wireless dongle plugged in cleanly
Worth Noting
- No tactile bump means you rely on feel alone for input confirmation
- Full-size body may crowd smaller desks
Made For
Apex players who prefer silent, smooth keystrokes without losing the Apex 7’s smart features.
Reach For A Different Pick When
The Apex 7 TKL is the quieter call for shoppers who also want a smaller desk footprint.
The Apex M750 is a purpose-built esports board, and it shows. QX2 linear mechanical switches sit inside a 5000-series aluminum alloy frame, giving the keyboard a dense, planted feel that does not flex under heavy fingers. For Apex Legends players who push WASD and ability keys hard every match, that rigidity translates into consistent action without the board shifting around.
SteelSeries layered in Discord-aware lighting that pulses when you receive a message, plus reactive effects that respond to in-game events like low ammo or low health. It is a small touch, but for streamers and content creators juggling chat and combat, the visual cues add real value beyond decoration.
What Pays Off
- QX2 linear switches built for speed and consistency
- 5000-series aluminum frame resists flex during intense play
- Discord notifications light up the keys in real time
- Reactive lighting responds to in-game events such as low health
- Per-key RGB customization through SteelSeries Engine
Trade Offs
- No OLED display, unlike the Apex 7 series
- No dedicated media controls
Key Specs
Best Suited To
Esports-leaning Apex players who want a stripped-down board focused on switch speed and build rigidity.
A Better Fit Elsewhere
The Apex 7 in Blue Switch is a smarter choice for players who want an OLED screen and media controls alongside competitive switches.
Gamepads carve out a different niche for Apex Legends, and the ProControllers Wireless Custom Controller leans into personality. The Golden Apex shell is a hand-finished custom cover that swaps the standard Xbox look for something a little more striking. It still works with PC, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S, so the practical foundation stays familiar.
Wireless play matters on a couch or in a living-room setup, where dragging a cable across the floor is a hassle. The internal hardware follows standard Xbox controller architecture, which means trigger feel, stick tension, and button layout all behave as most seasoned Xbox players expect.
Bright Spots
- Custom Golden Apex shell gives the controller a one-of-a-kind look
- Wireless connection works across PC, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S
- Standard Xbox-style internals keep the learning curve short
- Solid choice for couch Apex sessions with friends
Where It Is Less Suited
- No PlayStation compatibility, unlike the BCB PS5 option below
- Custom finish may show wear on heavily used grips over time
Right Fit For
Xbox and PC gamers who want a wireless controller with a personalized shell that stands out on the shelf.
Skip It When
PlayStation 5 players are better served by the American Warriior Custom PS-5 Controller for that platform.
Custom controllers for PS5 are easy to find with peel-and-stick skins, and most of them wear out within months. The American Warriior Custom Controller takes a different route, using hydro-dip printing (a water-transfer process that bakes pigment into the shell) on a genuine DualSense body. The result is a finish that holds up to long sessions without peeling at the edges.
Because the internals are stock PS5 hardware, you keep the adaptive triggers, haptic feedback, and built-in microphone that Sony designed into the DualSense. Apex Legends does not lean on every PS5-specific feature, but those triggers add weight to weapon firing in a way flat rumble motors never quite match.
What Stands Out
- Hydro-dipped finish resists peeling and fading under heavy use
- Built on a genuine PS5 DualSense, so all stock features remain intact
- Adaptive triggers add tactile depth to weapon firing
- Customized in the United States, with a unique finish per unit
Things To Consider
- PS5-only, so PC or Xbox users will need a different option
- Customization adds cost compared to a stock DualSense
Who Should Grab It
PS5 Apex players who want a personalized DualSense without sacrificing Sony’s signature features.
Where Another Pick Suits Better
Xbox and PC shoppers looking for wireless gamepad flexibility should look at the ProControllers Wireless Custom Controller instead.
The Apex M400 sits in the older but still solid corner of SteelSeries’s catalog. QX1 linear switches, the predecessor to the QX2, keep keystrokes smooth and predictable, while a reinforced steel backplate keeps the chassis planted under heavy WASD play. For Apex players who care more about consistent input than flashy features, that focused approach still works.
Full 104-key rollover with 100 percent anti-ghosting means every simultaneous press registers, even during the kind of panic button-mashing that happens in the final ring. Media controls and SteelSeries Engine support round out a keyboard that is more about fundamentals than extras.
A Favorable Mix
- QX1 linear switches offer smooth, predictable travel
- Steel backplate adds weight and reduces flex
- 104-key rollover and full anti-ghosting for multi-key inputs
- Fully programmable through SteelSeries Engine
Some Limits To Know
- Blue LED backlight only, no per-key RGB customization
- Lacks the OLED screen found on the Apex 7 series
Feature Snapshot
Whose Shelf It Belongs On
Apex players who want a no-frills mechanical keyboard that focuses on input quality over flashy extras.
Not Your Match When
Shoppers wanting OLED readouts and modern RGB should consider the Apex 7 instead.
The tenkeyless layout trims the numpad off the right side, which sounds small until you set up a wide mouse-pad and need the extra room. For Apex Legends, where mouse movement often matters more than spreadsheet shortcuts, that TKL footprint is a real perk. The Apex 7 TKL keeps the same OLED Smart Display as the full-size model, so you do not give up that on-board info center just by going smaller.
Linear red switches match the smooth-action feel of the full-size Apex 7 Red, and the included magnetic wrist rest adds ergonomic support for long play sessions. The aircraft-grade aluminum frame keeps the chassis sturdy despite the smaller footprint.
What It Does Well
- Tenkeyless layout frees up desk space for wide mouse movement
- Linear red switches keep input smooth and quiet
- Premium magnetic wrist rest supports long sessions
- 16.8 million colors per key for deep RGB customization
Points To Note
- No numpad is inconvenient for spreadsheet work outside gaming
- Wrist rest adds desk depth when attached
Perfect Match For
Apex players with limited desk space who still want an OLED screen and a magnetic wrist rest.
Swap It Out When
Shoppers needing a numpad for work tasks will find the full-size Apex 7 a better fit.
The Apex 100 is the entry point in the SteelSeries Apex keyboard family, and this renewed version keeps that accessibility intact. Tactile yet quiet switches give you physical feedback without the loud click of blue-style keys, which makes the keyboard a reasonable middle ground for players who are not sure which switch type they prefer.
Splash resistance is the small detail that earns the Apex 100 its fans. A knocked-over drink during a long session is less of a crisis when the keyboard can handle a bit of liquid. Media controls and a blue LED backlight round out the feature set at this price tier.
Everyday Advantages
- Tactile-but-silent switches balance feedback and noise
- Splash-resistant design adds peace of mind around drinks
- Media controls keep playback within easy reach
- Renewed condition offers a lower entry point into the Apex lineup
Honest Caveats
- Renewed units may show minor cosmetic wear
- No RGB lighting, only a static blue backlight
Built With In Mind
First-time Apex players or budget-conscious shoppers who want SteelSeries quality without paying flagship prices.
Consider Something Else When
Players wanting full RGB and modern features should step up to the Apex 7 series.
The Apex Pro Gen 3 takes a different approach to mechanical input with OmniPoint 3.0 switches, which use adjustable magnetic actuation (the distance a key must travel before it registers a press). Instead of committing to a fixed actuation point, you can tune each key across 40 levels. For Apex Legends, that means setting WASD to a hair-trigger for fast pivots while leaving ability keys at a deeper press to avoid accidental triggers.
The Quick Trigger function releases the key the moment it travels back up, allowing rapid tap-fire inputs that traditional mechanical switches cannot match. Protection Mode reduces the sensitivity of surrounding keys when you press a target key, which is a smart defense against ghost inputs during tense moments.
Benefits That Matter
- Adjustable actuation across 40 levels per key
- Quick Trigger enables rapid tap-fire inputs
- Protection Mode prevents accidental surrounding key presses
- OLED Smart Display provides at-a-glance settings and stats
A Few Limitations
- Premium price compared to fixed-switch Apex models
- Software tuning takes time to dial in for different games
Quick Facts
The Right Fit
Competitive Apex players who want to dial in their input feel and shave milliseconds off their reactions.
Another Choice May Suit
Casual players satisfied with fixed switches will find the Apex 7 a friendlier and more accessible option.
The FLYDIGI Apex 4 is the most controller-forward option on this list, and it is built for players who take gamepad input seriously. The standout feature is the force-adjustable alloy joystick, which lets you change stick tension to match your aim style. Tight tension suits flick shots in Apex Legends, while a looser feel helps with slow tracking on distant targets.
A 2000Hz polling rate (how often the controller reports input to the console or PC) is unusually high for a wireless gamepad, and it shows up in how responsive aiming feels during fast fights. The controller supports PC, Nintendo Switch, Android, iOS, and TV modes through wired, Bluetooth, or 2.4G wireless connections. Xbox and PlayStation consoles are not supported, which is a meaningful limitation for console-only players.
Strengths Worth Knowing
- Adjustable alloy joystick lets you tune stick tension
- 2000Hz polling rate keeps aim inputs responsive
- Four-motor haptic system adds depth to in-game feedback
- Multi-platform support across PC, Switch, mobile, and TV
Things To Weigh
- No native Xbox or PlayStation console support
- Specialty features take time to learn and customize
Who Will Love This
Multi-platform PC and Switch Apex players who want premium stick feel and high polling rates on a gamepad.
Where A Sibling Pick Shines
Console-locked Xbox or PlayStation gamers will get broader support from the ProControllers and BCB options above.
What Matters Before Choosing Gear For Apex
Switch Feel And Sound Profile
Mechanical switches come in three common flavors: linear (smooth, no bump), tactile (small bump, quiet), and clicky (bump plus audible click). For Apex Legends, the choice comes down to personal preference. Linear red switches keep rapid input chains smooth, clicky blue switches give you physical and audible confirmation, and tactile switches sit in between. Try to test a switch type in a store before committing, or buy from a retailer with a return window.
Layout And Desk Footprint
Full-size boards with numpads offer more keys but take up significant desk real estate. Tenkeyless (TKL) boards drop the numpad, freeing room for wide mouse movement. That extra space matters in Apex Legends, where swinging your mouse across a pad often decides close-range fights. Consider your desk size and how much mouse space you actually use before picking a layout.
Wired Or Wireless Gamepad
For couch Apex sessions, a wireless controller removes the cable annoyance, but battery life and input lag become factors. The FLYDIGI Apex 4 and the ProControllers option here both run wireless, but if you prioritize the lowest possible input latency, a wired connection remains the safer bet for ranked play.
Software And Customization
SteelSeries Engine unlocks deeper tuning for the Apex keyboard family, including macros, per-key RGB, and reactive lighting tied to in-game events. FLYDIGI’s companion software lets you adjust stick tension and vibration intensity. Gamers who love tinkering will appreciate that flexibility. Anyone who just wants plug-and-play should focus on boards and controllers that work well out of the box.
Quick Considerations Across These Picks
Where Shoppers Go Wrong
A common mistake is picking a switch type based on popularity rather than feel. Clicky blue switches are popular in recommendations, but they get old fast in shared rooms or late-night sessions. Equally risky is assuming any mechanical keyboard is built for esports. Boards without anti-ghosting or full key rollover can drop inputs during multi-key ability combos. Match the board to your environment, not to a trend.
Where The Extra Money Goes
Stepping up to premium models like the Apex Pro Gen 3 or the FLYDIGI Apex 4 buys you finer control, not just better looks. Adjustable actuation, tunable stick tension, higher polling rates, and on-board displays all serve specific play styles. The upgrade pays off when you know exactly which feature will improve your game, and it is wasteful when you are paying for adjustments you will never touch. Mid-tier boards cover most players well, and the flagship models earn their cost only when their specialty features line up with how you play.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are mechanical keyboards better than gamepads for Apex Legends?
Both work, and the choice depends on your play style. Mouse-and-keyboard players benefit from faster aiming and movement precision, while gamepad players enjoy couch comfort and analog stick control. Many ranked players use both depending on the situation.
What is a polling rate, and does it matter for Apex?
A polling rate is how often a device reports its input state to the host system. Higher polling rates, like the 2000Hz offered on the FLYDIGI Apex 4, reduce input lag and make aim feel more responsive. For casual play, a standard 125Hz or 250Hz is fine. For competitive play, higher rates offer a noticeable edge.
Do I need RGB lighting to play Apex well?
No. RGB lighting is mostly cosmetic, though some boards use it for reactive cues like low-health warnings or Discord notifications. If those features matter to you, look for boards with per-key customization.
What is anti-ghosting, and why does it matter?
Anti-ghosting is a keyboard feature that ensures all simultaneous key presses register correctly, even when you mash multiple keys at once. In Apex Legends, where quick ability combos and movement keys are pressed together, anti-ghosting prevents dropped inputs during the most critical moments.
Can I use a console controller on PC for Apex Legends?
Yes. Most modern controllers, including the ProControllers Wireless Custom Controller and the FLYDIGI Apex 4, work with PC through wired or wireless connections. Steam also offers native controller support for many gamepad-friendly titles.
The Takeaway
Apex Legends rewards precision, and the right gear simply gets out of the way so your decisions can lead. Mechanical keyboard loyalists will find strong picks across the SteelSeries Apex family, from the accessible Apex 100 to the adjustable Apex Pro Gen 3. Gamepad players have equally thoughtful options in the ProControllers and FLYDIGI entries. Match the tool to your environment, your switch preference, and the way you actually play, and the rest takes care of itself.
