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Ajazz AK820 Pro vs SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (2023)

Researched, not hands-on tested.How we review ›

all judged against mechanical keyboards at a similar price

The Ajazz AK820 Pro scores 6.3/10 overall, ahead of the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (2023) at 6.1/10.

The Ajazz AK820 Pro leads on typing feel, connectivity and battery and software.

The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (2023) leads on build quality and layout and ergonomics.

They score the same on customisation.

The biggest difference is connectivity, where the Ajazz AK820 Pro scores 7/10 to the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (2023)'s 4/10.

Ajazz AK820 Pro

Ajazz AK820 Pro

6.3/10verdict: good, not the best

The Ajazz AK820 Pro is for people who want a compact 75% wireless keyboard with hot-swap switches and a gasket mount. It suits desk users who want a choice of Bluetooth, 2.4GHz or USB-C connections. It is a better fit for ANSI users and those happy with Ajazz's own software than for anyone who needs QMK/VIA.

Typically about £58.64 in the UK when we researched itCheck price at Amazon UK (opens in a new tab, affiliate link)

Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Details

SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (2023)

SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (2023)

6.1/10verdict: good, not the best

The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (2023) is for people who want a compact, wired keyboard with adjustable key actuation. It suits gamers and typists who like to set how far a key travels before it registers. It is a poorer fit for anyone who needs wireless connections.

Typically about £159.99 in the UK when we researched itCheck price at Amazon UK (opens in a new tab, affiliate link)

Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Details

Scores, criterion by criterion

CriterionWeightAjazz AK820 ProSteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (2023)
Typing feel25%7/106/10
Build quality20%6/108/10
Customisation20%6/106/10
Connectivity15%7/104/10
Layout and ergonomics10%4/106/10
Battery and software10%7/106/10
Overall6.3/106.1/10

Specifications

SpecAjazz AK820 ProSteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (2023)
Layout75% ANSI (81 or 82 keys, sources conflict)TKL (tenkeyless)
SwitchesAJAZZ Gift Switch default; AJAZZ Flying Fish and AJAZZ Dreamy Switch alternatives; actuation force reported as 42g to 45g across reviewsOmniPoint 2.0 adjustable HyperMagnetic (Hall-effect), 0.1–4.0 mm actuation range
Hot-swappableYes, 5-pin sockets for all switches (3-pin and 5-pin compatible per one review)not listed
ConnectivityBluetooth 5.1, 2.4GHz or USB-CWired, detachable USB-C cable
Firmware (QMK / VIA)Windows/MacOS compatible; QMK/VIA support unverifiednot listed
KeycapsDouble-shot PBT (sources disagree; one review says ABS)Double-shot PBT
BatteryUp to 4000 mAh; about 100 hours without light, 20 hours with RGB light (manual figures)not listed

Strengths and weaknesses

Ajazz AK820 Pro

  • + Gasket mount and a thocky sound praised by owners
  • + Hot-swap sockets for changing switches
  • + Bluetooth, 2.4GHz and USB-C connections
  • − ANSI layout rather than UK-style ISO
  • − RGB cuts battery life to about 20 hours

Skip it if:

  • Buyers who need QMK/VIA firmware for remapping
  • UK users who want an ISO layout
  • People who want RGB on all day and long battery life
Read the full Ajazz AK820 Pro review ›

SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (2023)

  • + Actuation adjustable from 0.1 to 4.0 mm
  • + Aluminium top plate and double-shot PBT keycaps
  • + Three tilt positions: flat, half and full
  • − Wired only, with no wireless connection on this model

Skip it if:

  • Buyers who want Bluetooth or 2.4GHz wireless connections
  • People who need a full-size layout with a number pad
  • Anyone who has no use for adjustable key actuation
Read the full SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (2023) review ›

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