SteelSeries Apex M500 Illuminated Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - Cherry MX Red Switch - Blue LED Backlit - Media Controls - Steel Back Plate

Absolutely LOVE this keyboard. I used to have one of the non-lit models from steel series before I bought this and, obviously it was also a great keyboard, but I found myself wishing I had bought the backlit version. After all, late night Civilization 5 isn't going to play itself. So, I sprung for this keyboard.Yep, it meets my expectations. I also found the keys, despite being cherry mx reds to be a bit more clicky than the other keyboard (don't remember the name, but it's steel series' full sized non backlit keyboard). This is something I loved - mx red feel and responsiveness with even a nice little feeling of solidity on downstrokes. It's not loud, but it just feels nice.The backlight is nice, and can be adjusted for brightness.The keyboard is hefty, feels like it'll last forever and its amazing to me that it's non ghosting despite being a non ps2 keyboard (only through USB. I was skeptical too.)If you're in the market for a keyboard that doesn't look like a baby transformer, but practically performs like one, this keyboard should basically be an autobuy.

Awesome keyboard, good feedback and very very durable. The price for this quality keyboard make it a good value for the money. You won't have get another one for years to come. Mine is at least 4 years old and still have no issue. I would recommend.

Best keyboard I've used so far. Big issue I found with this keyboard is that the keycaps get coating off easily, but support send you free replacements.

Feels great. It is a bit loud, but it isn't the irritating high pitched click, if you know what I'm talking about. Works great on my mac. Though in the beginning I had some issues, after installing the drivers/software I was able to fully customize the keyboard to make it mac friendly (command and media keys mostly).Another issue I had with my mac is that sometimes my changes would not be saved on my keyboard. To get my configurations back to work I had to open their software, open my keyboard preset, disconnect the keyboard, reconnect, and only then would it function as expected. I eventually realized that the reason that was happening was because I would plug in my keyboard and then boot up my computer (which should be fine?). This sounds like a bug to me. Anyway I just boot my computer up and then plug in my keyboard after everything's loaded up to avoid issues. I have a laptop though so if you're on a desktop that may be way more irritating and something to definitely take into consideration before purchasing.

It is a shame this well built keyboard uses such horrible software. The software is awful. Don't take my word for it, search for "SteelSeries firmware issue" and you will get pages of unhappy customers. My keyboard is working, but not the way it should.I hate being all negative, so here is a the good before going after the bad: I bought the M500 keyboard and Rival 100 mouse a year ago and I like the feel, the simple design, the back lighting, and the build quality of both. I've been tapping computer key boards for almost 30 years and have come across some quality boards that seem indestructible. This keyboard reminds me of some of these good old fashion keyboards, but with the latest features. That is what I wanted, and from that perspective I am very happy and why this review gets more than one star.The problem is that the product comes with poor software. Good software is functional software that gets the job done without issues and drama. SteelSeries software is flashy and looks good, but it is lousy. It is not that hard to build good software - I know because I've done my share. First, make sure it works, then build the bling.The problem I have with this keyboard is that the firmware will not upgrade, and it gives critical errors every time I try. I've put dozens of hours into updating the firmware with no success. I've even install the keyboard on two other computes hoping for better results. Unfortunately I get different problems on each completer, and still no updated firmware. From what I read, I'm not the only one.My recommendation for SteelSeries is very simple: separate the firmware update from all your other software products, then create your own tool. And one more recommendation - put your software on a diet - 100MB package for drivers and bling??? This is a keyboard!! Keep it simple and functional. Let me put is another way. If the software worked, this product would get 5 stars from me.

Fantastic quality from steelseries. I absolutely love this keyboard, It is a great starter keyboard if you are getting into competitive pc gaming. when using it to type it really is a chore since you will hit a key if you scrape it a little. The reason is is because this keyboard has Cherry MX reds and that is really good for competitive games. When you are in a game that needs the fastest reaction response, this keyboard can help you. It takes practice but when you are in a game it really doesn't slack. There are some problems I have with the plastic creaking sometimes but either than that it isn't a burden. I really trust this brand for pc gaming and I am glad I bought this keyboard. SPONSOR ME ;). In all seriousness this is one of my favorite brands out there and I am truly grateful of this keyboard. Thanks

It worked good until it failed.Now it just randomly stopping working until I unplug it and plug it back.It is a common issue and I am surprised there was no information about it here in reviews.Reason is unknown, it may be poor Win 10 support or something else.I would like to like it, but I can not. Unplugging and plugging back 15-20 times a day. Feels bad.