SteelSeries New Apex 9 TKL
Bottom line: The SteelSeries New Apex 9 TKL ($149.99 on Amazon as of 2026-10-06): OptiPoint optical switches actuate 33% faster with a 0.2ms response and zero debounce; main trade-off: premium price point versus budget optical TKL keyboards.
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-06. Price and availability subject to change.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ OptiPoint optical switches actuate 33% faster with a 0.2ms response and zero debounce
- ✓ Adjustable 2-point actuation: 1mm for fast gaming, 1.5mm for deliberate typing
- ✓ Hot-swappable switches let you customize, upgrade, or repair without soldering
- ✓ Compact TKL form factor frees desk space for wider mouse swipes
Cons
- ✗ Premium price point versus budget optical TKL keyboards
- ✗ TKL layout omits the number pad
- ✗ Rapid Tap feature requires the latest SteelSeries GG software update
- ✗ Hot-swap accepts only OptiPoint optical switches, not MX-style
Manufacturer description
Make the first move with the incredibly fast Apex 9 TKL gaming keyboard. Boasting swappable OptiPoint optical switches that actuate 33% faster than the leading optical keyboard, adjust the actuation point between a fast 1mm for gaming and 1.5mm for deliberate typing on this compact esports tenkeyless keyboard.
SpecPicks Verdict
SpecPicks scored SteelSeries New Apex 9 TKL using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the gaming peripherals category. Compare with similarly-priced alternatives in the gaming peripherals category before committing. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.
Common buyer scenarios for gaming peripherals of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.
Key Features
- Play at the Speed of Light - Outpace leading optical keyboards with 33% faster actuation using custom OptiPoint switches with zero debounce and a lightning-fast 0.2ms response time.
- 2-point Actuation - Adapt to any game by changing the registration depth from a speedy, light 1mm press to a deliberate 1.5mm keystroke.
- Swappable Switches - Customize, upgrade, and repair your keyboard by changing the switches to your favorite stye of OptiPoint switch.
- Streamlined TKL Form Factor - Play like the pros with a compact, ergonomic tenkeyless keyboard that leaves more space for broad mouse swipes.
- Durable PBT Keycaps - Long-lasting and fadeproof double shot PBT keycaps provide a high-quality texture for enhanced keystroke feel as well as improved typing accuracy.
- Rapid Tap: Prioritizes the last key press in a selected pair for faster input and improved aim. Enhance responsiveness for counter-strafing, peeking, crouch jumping or slide canceling. (Latest GG update Required)
Full Specifications
| Brand | SteelSeries |
|---|---|
| Color | Clear |
| Style | Esports TKL |
| Theme | gaming |
| Model Name | Apex 9 TKL |
| Style Name | Esports TKL |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
| Switch Type | OptiPoint optical |
| Model Number | 64847 |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Compatibility | Switch |
| Series Number | 64847 |
| Built-In Media | SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL Keyboard |
| Number of Keys | 19 |
| Button Quantity | 9 |
| Keyboard Layout | QWERTY |
| Mfr Part Number | 64847 |
| Special Feature | Custom-built OptiPoint optical switches for faster actuation and zero debounce |
| Antenna Location | Gaming |
| Hand Orientation | Ambidextrous |
| Full listing title | SteelSeries New Apex 9 TKL – HotSwap Optical Mini Keyboard – TKL Esports Design – Optical Switches – RGB Customization – Aluminum Alloy Frame – Double Shot PBT Keycaps |
Ready to buy?
SteelSeries New Apex 9 TKL – HotSwap Optical Mini Keyboard – TKL Esports Design – Optical Switches – RGB Customization – Aluminum Alloy Frame – Double Shot PBT Keycaps is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.
*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-06. Price and availability subject to change.
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