Stefan Mileschin

If the keyboards we saw in the run up to CES told us anything, it's that you ain't a serious gamer unless your keys be lit. We guess it's a good thing, then, that the two new 'boards SteelSeries has brought to the show -- the Apex and Apex [RAW] -- aren't lacking that all-important backlighting. Both feature low-riding main keys, an extra-fat space bar, a bunch of macro keys, some extra arrow keys, and various other tricks and treats to give you the upper hand in-game. Despite the [RAW] sounding cooler, it's actually the lower-spec model, with a few less macro keys / options and only white backlights. The Apex 'proper' (pictured above) adds a couple of USB ports to the frame, multicolor backlighting with "ActiveZones" for painting different sections distinct hues, and extra customization options for "more ways to win." SteelSeries' Engine software manages your setup -- profiles, macros, lighting and such -- as well as recording keystroke stats if that's your bag. The Apex and Apex [RAW] won't be hitting stores until Q2 this year, but when they do, expect them to set you back $100 / $70, respectively.

http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/07/s...ing-keyboards/