Which is better for FPS gaming?

The TKL. The shorter body leaves more room for mouse movement at low sensitivity, and it costs less. Both use the same quiet membrane switches.

Is the full-size worth the extra $13.49?

Only if you need a numpad, media keys or the wrist rest. If you don't, the TKL does the same typing and gaming job for less.

Do both have water resistance?

Yes. Both are rated IP32, which handles small spills and dust. Neither is safe to submerge.

Both switches are rated for 20 million keypresses, so expect similar life. The full-size adds a wrist rest, which is the part most likely to wear first.

Are these mechanical keyboards?

No. Both use SteelSeries Whisper-Quiet membrane switches. They are quieter and softer than most mechanical switches but lack their tactile snap.

Which has better software support?

Both work with SteelSeries Engine and PrismSync. The TKL uses PrismSync RGB, while the full-size has 10-zone RGB, so the TKL gives finer per-key lighting control.

SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL vs SteelSeries Apex 3 Gaming Keyboard

Both are quiet membrane keyboards with IP32 water resistance and 20 million keypress ratings. The TKL is the better buy for most gamers: it costs $41.50 at Newegg as of November 8, 2026, versus $54.99 at Best Buy for the full-size as of the same date. Pick the full-size only if you need a numpad, dedicated media keys and the magnetic wrist rest.

Today the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL costs $13.49 less at its best price.

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