SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL vs SteelSeries Aerox 5 Black Friday 2026

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SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL vs SteelSeries Aerox 5 Black Friday 2026 is a comparison between a gaming keyboard family and a gaming mouse family. The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL gives players compact keyboard layouts and, on select models, adjustable actuation. The SteelSeries Aerox 5 gives mouse users a lightweight design, multiple programmable buttons and a high-resolution sensor. They are different kinds of gear, so the right choice depends on what your setup needs.

I researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to build this guide around real use cases, not a single winner. Here's the bottom line: choose an Apex Pro TKL when you want a keyboard upgrade, and choose an Aerox 5 when you want a mouse upgrade. Black Friday 2026 is also a useful time to compare wired and wireless options, layouts and control features before adding either product to your setup.

How We Picked

• Compared core specifications, including layout, weight, sensor resolution, actuation options and connectivity.
• Prioritized products with clearly distinct roles, so keyboard and mouse picks are not treated as direct substitutes.
• Reviewed owner feedback for recurring comments about comfort, control layouts, setup flexibility and everyday usability.
• Considered who benefits from each model, including competitive players, MMO fans, desk-space savers and wireless users.
• Selected products with established product identities and used null for Amazon ASINs where a confident match was unavailable.

Comparison Table

Product	Best for	Format	Key / button detail	Connection
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3	Adjustable wired keyboard control	Tenkeyless	0.1–4.0 mm actuation	Wired USB-C
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3	Premium wireless keyboard control	Tenkeyless	0.1–4.0 mm actuation	2.4 GHz and Bluetooth
SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3	Compact adjustable keyboard	60%	0.1–4.0 mm actuation	Wired USB-C
SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL	Optical-switch keyboard	Tenkeyless	1.0 mm and 1.5 mm actuation	Wired USB-C
SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Red Switch	Traditional linear mechanical keyboard	Tenkeyless	Red linear switches	Wired USB
SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wireless	Wireless multi-button mouse	74 g	9 programmable buttons	2.4 GHz and Bluetooth
SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wired	Lightweight wired mouse	66 g	9 programmable buttons	Wired USB
SteelSeries Aerox 9 Wireless	MMO and strategy mouse controls	89 g	18 programmable buttons	2.4 GHz and Bluetooth

Best Picks Reviewed

#1 · Top pick

SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3

The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 is the best adjustable wired keyboard for competitive players who want per-key control. The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3's OmniPoint 3.0 switches support adjustable actuation from 0.1 to 4.0 millimeters.

Best for: Competitive players who want adjustable keyboard actuation

Layout

Tenkeyless, 80% class

Switch technology

OmniPoint 3.0 adjustable switches

Actuation range

0.1–4.0 mm

Display

OLED smart display

Pros

• Adjustable actuation offers a tailored key response.
• Compact layout leaves more room for mouse movement.
• OLED display provides onboard information and settings.

Cons

• Wired design is less convenient for cable-free setups.
• Advanced adjustments take time to personalize.

Is the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 is worth considering for players who want a compact wired keyboard with adjustable switches. The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3's 0.1–4.0 mm actuation range supports distinct settings for fast inputs and deliberate typing.

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#2

SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3

The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3 is the best premium wireless keyboard for players who want adjustable switches without a permanent cable. OmniPoint 3.0 actuation adjusts across a 0.1–4.0 mm range.

Best for: Players building a premium wireless keyboard setup

Layout

Tenkeyless, 80% class

Switch technology

OmniPoint 3.0 adjustable switches

Actuation range

0.1–4.0 mm

Wireless modes

2.4 GHz and Bluetooth

Pros

• Wireless design keeps the desk clear of a keyboard cable.
• Adjustable switches suit different games and typing habits.
• Tenkeyless footprint preserves space for mouse movement.

Cons

• Wireless features require battery management.
• Advanced features suit players who will customize settings.

Is the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3 a good Black Friday 2026 keyboard?

Yes. The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3 suits players who want wireless freedom and adjustable actuation in one keyboard. The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3's 0.1–4.0 mm switch range and compact tenkeyless layout make it a flexible premium choice.

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#3

SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3

The SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 is the best compact adjustable keyboard for players with limited desk space. The SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3's 60% layout pairs with OmniPoint 3.0 actuation adjustable from 0.1 to 4.0 millimeters.

Best for: Minimalist desks and players who want maximum mouse room

Layout

60%

Switch technology

OmniPoint 3.0 adjustable switches

Actuation range

0.1–4.0 mm

Connection

Wired USB-C

Pros

• Small footprint opens up valuable mouse space.
• Adjustable actuation supports personalized input response.
• A compact pick for travel or smaller desks.

Cons

• The 60% layout omits dedicated navigation and function rows.
• Players used to full-size keyboards face a learning curve.

Is the SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. The SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 is a strong fit for players who want a 60% keyboard with adjustable actuation. The compact layout saves space, while the 0.1–4.0 mm range gives players control over key response.

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#4

SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL

The SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL is the best optical-switch keyboard for players who want a compact layout and selectable actuation. The SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL's optical switches offer 1.0 mm and 1.5 mm actuation settings.

Best for: Players who prefer optical switches and a tenkeyless layout

Layout

Tenkeyless, 80% class

Switch type

Optical

Actuation options

1.0 mm and 1.5 mm

Connection

Wired USB-C

Pros

• Two actuation choices support different play styles.
• Tenkeyless design gives the mouse more room.
• Optical switches deliver a distinct alternative to mechanical switches.

Cons

• Actuation is less flexible than models with a broad adjustable range.
• Wired connection is not suited to cable-free desks.

Is the SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. The SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL is worth considering for players who want a compact optical keyboard with two actuation choices. The SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL's 1.0 mm and 1.5 mm settings offer a clear, straightforward alternative to fully adjustable switches.

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#5

SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Red Switch

The SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Red Switch is the best traditional linear-switch keyboard for players who want familiar mechanical input in a compact format. The SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Red Switch's tenkeyless layout keeps the setup focused on essential gaming controls.

Best for: Players who want a traditional linear mechanical keyboard

Layout

Tenkeyless, 80% class

Switch type

Red linear mechanical

Display

OLED smart display

Connection

Wired USB

Pros

• Linear switches provide a consistent keystroke feel.
• Tenkeyless size keeps the desk less crowded.
• OLED display adds onboard control options.

Cons

• Switch response is not adjustable per key.
• Wired connection limits cable-free placement.

Is the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Red Switch worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. The SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Red Switch is a sensible pick for players who prefer traditional linear mechanical keys over adjustable actuation. The SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Red Switch's compact layout and OLED display make it a capable, straightforward gaming keyboard.

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#6

SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wireless

The SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wireless is the best wireless multi-button mouse for players who want a lightweight design and flexible controls. The SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wireless weighs 74 grams and provides nine programmable buttons.

Best for: Wireless players who want extra thumb controls

Weight

74 g

Programmable buttons

9

Sensor resolution

18,000 CPI

Wireless modes

2.4 GHz and Bluetooth

Protection

IP54 AquaBarrier

Pros

• Nine programmable buttons support extra game commands.
• Wireless modes offer flexible device connections.
• 74-gram weight suits players who favor lighter mice.

Cons

• Extra side controls require a short adjustment period.
• Wireless play requires battery charging.

Is the SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wireless worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. The SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wireless is a strong option for players who want nine programmable buttons without a heavy mouse. The SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wireless's 74-gram weight, 18,000 CPI sensor and dual wireless modes suit a flexible gaming setup.

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#7

SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wired

The SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wired is the best lightweight wired mouse for players who want multiple side controls without managing a battery. The SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wired weighs 66 grams and has nine programmable buttons.

Best for: Players who want a light mouse with a wired connection

Weight

66 g

Programmable buttons

9

Sensor resolution

18,000 CPI

Connection

Wired USB

Protection

IP54 AquaBarrier

Pros

• Low 66-gram weight supports quick movement.
• Nine programmable buttons add control options.
• Wired connection means no battery charging.

Cons

• The cable adds a physical connection to the desk.
• Side buttons take time to learn.

Is the SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wired worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. The SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wired is a practical choice for players who want a lightweight mouse with nine programmable buttons and no battery to charge. The SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wired's 66-gram build and 18,000 CPI sensor make it a focused gaming pick.

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#8

SteelSeries Aerox 9 Wireless

The SteelSeries Aerox 9 Wireless is the best MMO-focused mouse for players who want a large bank of side controls. The SteelSeries Aerox 9 Wireless's 18 programmable buttons and 89-gram weight balance command access with a relatively light build.

Best for: MMO and strategy players who need many mouse commands

Weight

89 g

Programmable buttons

18

Sensor resolution

18,000 CPI

Wireless modes

2.4 GHz and Bluetooth

Protection

IP54 AquaBarrier

Pros

• Eighteen programmable buttons suit command-heavy games.
• Wireless modes support different connection needs.
• The side-button grid keeps extra commands close at hand.

Cons

• The button grid requires practice to use accurately.
• The larger control count is unnecessary for simple game setups.

Is the SteelSeries Aerox 9 Wireless worth buying on Black Friday 2026?

Yes. The SteelSeries Aerox 9 Wireless is worth considering for MMO and strategy players who use many mapped commands. The SteelSeries Aerox 9 Wireless's 18 programmable buttons, 89-gram weight and 18,000 CPI sensor deliver a feature-rich wireless control setup.

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Is the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL better than the SteelSeries Aerox 5?

The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL is a keyboard; the SteelSeries Aerox 5 is a mouse. Choose the keyboard for an upgrade to typing and key response, or the mouse for extra programmable controls.

The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 offers adjustable actuation from 0.1 to 4.0 mm. The SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wireless has nine programmable buttons and weighs 74 grams. Compare what each adds to your setup rather than treating them as alternatives.

Which SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL model should I choose?

Choose the wired SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 or wireless SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3. Both use OmniPoint 3.0 adjustable switches with a 0.1–4.0 mm actuation range.

The SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 has a 60% layout for a smaller footprint. Choose a tenkeyless model for dedicated navigation keys, the SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL for optical switches, or the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Red Switch for a traditional linear mechanical feel.

Which SteelSeries Aerox mouse is right for gaming?

The SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wireless combines nine programmable buttons with a 74-gram design. The SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wired has the same button count, weighs 66 grams and avoids battery charging.

The SteelSeries Aerox 9 Wireless has 18 programmable buttons for MMO and strategy commands. For games with simpler inputs, the nine-button SteelSeries Aerox 5 models offer a more straightforward layout.

Are the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL and Aerox 5 good for competitive games?

The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 offers adjustable key actuation, while the SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wireless has a 74-gram body and an 18,000 CPI sensor. Each targets a different input need.

A tenkeyless keyboard leaves room for mouse movement, and programmable mouse buttons keep selected commands close. Consider comfort, grip and the games you play; specifications alone do not determine which setup feels best.

What should I compare before buying on Black Friday 2026?

First choose the product category, layout and connection. Compare keyboard actuation and mouse weight, programmable buttons and wireless modes. For keyboards, choose tenkeyless or the 60% SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 layout. For mice, compare the nine-button SteelSeries Aerox 5 models with the 18-button SteelSeries Aerox 9 Wireless.

Check the full product name and variant against the features you want before buying.

Buying Guide

Choose the right gear category

The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL is a keyboard family; the SteelSeries Aerox 5 is a mouse family. Decide which needs an upgrade.

Pick a keyboard layout

Tenkeyless models retain arrow and navigation keys. The SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 uses a more compact 60% layout.

Match the mouse buttons to your games

The SteelSeries Aerox 5 models have nine programmable buttons. The SteelSeries Aerox 9 Wireless has 18 for command-heavy games.

Decide between wired and wireless

Wired models avoid battery charging. Wireless models reduce cable clutter; check connection modes for your devices.

Check the exact model variant

Compare full product names and specifications. SteelSeries Apex Pro, SteelSeries Apex 9 and SteelSeries Apex 7 keyboards differ in switch features; wired and wireless SteelSeries Aerox 5 models differ in weight and connectivity.

FAQ

What is the difference between the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL and SteelSeries Aerox 5?

The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL is a gaming keyboard, and the SteelSeries Aerox 5 is a gaming mouse. The Apex Pro TKL focuses on keyboard layout and adjustable actuation, while the Aerox 5 focuses on mouse tracking, low weight and programmable buttons.

Is the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL good for competitive gaming?

Yes. The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 is a competitive gaming keyboard with a tenkeyless layout and OmniPoint 3.0 switches adjustable from 0.1 to 4.0 mm. Players can tune actuation around their preferred key response and game style.

Is the SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wireless good for FPS games?

Yes. The SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wireless suits FPS players who want a lightweight 74-gram mouse with an 18,000 CPI sensor. Its nine programmable buttons add control options, while its shape and button layout should match each player's grip and preferences.

Should I buy the SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wired or Wireless?

Choose the SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wired for a 66-gram mouse with no battery charging. Choose the SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wireless for a 74-gram design with 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth connectivity. Both models offer nine programmable buttons.

Which SteelSeries mouse is best for MMO games?

The SteelSeries Aerox 9 Wireless is the strongest fit for MMO players who want extensive command mapping. Its 18 programmable buttons offer more onboard controls than the nine-button SteelSeries Aerox 5 models, supporting a wider range of mapped abilities.

Is a tenkeyless keyboard better than a 60% keyboard?

A tenkeyless keyboard keeps dedicated arrow and navigation keys, while a 60% keyboard saves more desk space by removing more keys. Choose the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL for familiar access or the SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 for a smaller footprint.