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MSI FORGE GK310 - RED SWITCHES vs SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (2023)

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

all judged against mechanical keyboards at a similar price

The MSI FORGE GK310 - RED SWITCHES scores 6.2/10 overall, ahead of the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (2023) at 6.1/10.

The MSI FORGE GK310 - RED SWITCHES leads on customisation, connectivity and battery and software.

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

They score the same on typing feel and layout and ergonomics.

MSI FORGE GK310 - RED SWITCHES

MSI FORGE GK310 - RED SWITCHES

6.2/10verdict: good, not the best

The MSI FORGE GK310 with red switches is a wired, full-size mechanical keyboard that MSI lists for gaming. It suits buyers who want a numpad, RGB backlighting and hot-swap sockets without wireless features. People who need Bluetooth, a compact layout or open firmware should look at other boards.

Typically about £25.99 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

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

CriterionWeightMSI FORGE GK310 - RED SWITCHESSteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (2023)
Typing feel25%6/106/10
Build quality20%6/108/10
Customisation20%7/106/10
Connectivity15%5/104/10
Layout and ergonomics10%6/106/10
Battery and software10%7/106/10
Overall6.2/106.1/10

Specifications

SpecMSI FORGE GK310 - RED SWITCHESSteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (2023)
Layout104 / 105 / 108 keys (different by language); UK ISO shape not confirmed by MSITKL (tenkeyless)
SwitchesMechanical red, linear, rated 60 million keystrokesOmniPoint 2.0 adjustable HyperMagnetic (Hall-effect), 0.1–4.0 mm actuation range
Hot-swappableYes, 3-pin switches swappable without solderingnot listed
ConnectivityWired USB 2.0, 1.8 m cable; no wireless or BluetoothWired, detachable USB-C cable
Keycapsnot listedDouble-shot PBT

Strengths and weaknesses

MSI FORGE GK310 - RED SWITCHES

  • + Hot-swap sockets take 3-pin switches without soldering
  • + Owners report a solid, sturdy feel
  • + Plug-and-play USB setup with no battery
  • − Wired only, with no Bluetooth or 2.4GHz
  • − Full-size body is 442 mm wide
  • − Linear red switches only in this version

Skip it if:

  • Buyers who want Bluetooth or 2.4GHz wireless
  • Anyone who needs QMK or VIA firmware remapping
  • People with limited desk space who want a compact layout
Read the full MSI FORGE GK310 - RED SWITCHES 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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