The MSI Cubi NUC 1M is an intriguing compact computer. It features two Ethernet ports rated at 2.5GbE, yet it is small enough to fit comfortably in my hand. Although the Cubi desktops have been available for some time, the NUC designation is a newer addition to MSI's line-up.
As with many of the best mini PC units we've reviewed, the MSI Cubi NUC 1M is designed to be an excellent business desktop, offering a wide range of ports in a small, efficient device. But what this little desktop may be best at is remaining undetected.
MSI Cubi NUC 1M: Price and Availability
The base price for the MSI Cubi NUC 1M is $649.99 and swings up to $999.99 for the Core 7 model with 16GB RAM and 1TB SSD. Depending on what you plan on using this device for, it's probably worth a bit more to get this guy "spec'd" out, but that's just me.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
MSI Cubi NUC 1M: Unboxing and First Impressions
The MSI Packaging I've seen has always been minimalist and focuses on sustainability since they utilize recyclable and other materials that are supposed to be better to use than others. Regardless, I also noticed that everything was packaged well; nothing was falling around or too loose. Every component had its place, and I got my computer in one piece -- that's the goal.
The computer, a power adapter, some documentation, and an optional VESA mount were within the packaging, which I found super interesting. It could be because I don't usually see VESA mounts with computers, or maybe it's because my mind was already going there when I knew my Cubi NUC 1M was on its way to me. Since this computer is so tiny and has such a robust port selection, my mind didn't jump to "this computer will replace my powerhouse laptops." Still, instead, it jumped to "this could so easily be a server or a display manager, or a front desk computer, or a business desk setup, or a doctor's office setup, etc."
MSI Cubi NUC 1M: Design and Build Quality
Specs
Processor: Up to Intel Core 7 150U (10 cores, 12 threads) Memory: Up to 64GB DDR5 (dual-channel) Storage: Support for two M.2 SSDs (PCIe 4.0) and one 2.5-inch HDD/SSD Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, Thunderbolt 4, dual HDMI 2.1 OS: Windows 11 Pro supported.
The compact design is small but mighty, and I think it's because this computer has some power under its casing that I would consider using this machine as a media server, as a way to display content in the lobby of a business, as a way to log important information in a consultation office, or even have a front desk rely on this machine to capture valuable client information. That is why it makes sense that there is an optional VESA mount. Because this computer can be easily tucked away behind a monitor, it can go on a monitor arm and be forgotten about, or it can be mounted behind a TV, under a desk, or anywhere out of sight and out of mind. At the same time, it continues to perform just as needed.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
MSI Cubi NUC 1M: In use
Now, I'll start this off honestly: I wouldn't expect this computer to game or edit 4k video in DaVinci Resolve. I'm not picking this computer up so it can be a photo editing machine, nor am I grabbing it to be my coding powerhouse to run my most complex scripts.
I want to use this as my Plex media server since I can hide it away and utilize the 16GB and 1TB of storage and the ethernet line to keep things running smoothly. I want to use this at the front desk of my office thanks to the multi HDMI out and other ports, ease of use, and the ability to hide and mount easily. I want to awkwardly hand this to those doctors with ancient technology so they can retire the 23" Dell tower strapped to a cart that they roll around. I want to utilize this as a display tool, pushing two different TVs in the lobby of my local businesses.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
There are a thousand ways I would use this; however, the question then circles back to quite simply: what can this device do?
One of, if not the single greatest, features of this computer is its port offering. On the back, there are dual HDMI ports, two Thunderbolt ports, two 2.5G ethernet lines, two USB-A ports, and a power supply port. On the front, there is a headphone jack, two USB-A ports, a microSD Card reader, and a power button.
It handles basic administrative tasks and even light multimedia well. It's a great machine to catch up on emails with, log your recent findings in a spreadsheet, run your accounting software on, or even as a middleman for a file server.
The multi-output lends itself to use as a multi-display desk setup, either at a desk or even as a digital display. The redundant network port shows reliability, even during a network outage (assuming the second network is from a different ISP).
So, I put this computer to the test. I wired up two networks and simulated an outage by disconnecting the modem power to one. For me, there was no noticeable outage or downtime for what I was working on, making me think this computer could make an excellent VIP station for just about anything. It could hold vital patient data, it could be servers (though not crazy powerful, it could hold vital information), or a display server utilizing the dual network and the dual HDMI.
Another test I ran was how this computer could handle my day-to-day workflow, managing systems for multiple businesses, massive Chrome windows due to so many admin tabs being open, research articles for product reviews pulled up, and plenty of project management tools running at once, all through two displays. During my couple of days of testing this computer as a true setup, I was shocked to have no issues. The only problem was that I personally was moving from a laptop to a desktop, meaning I lost the portability, but performance-wise for my business side of tasks was doing just fine, showing that this computer can handle a decently heavy day of work without a problem -- though, again, I wouldn't use this for creative tasks like video editing, nor would I use it to run scripts
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
MSI Cubi NUC 1M: Final verdict
The MSI Cubi NUC 1M offers a compelling mix of sustainability, compact design, and robust connectivity. While it excels in these areas, its performance and pricing make it less competitive against similar offerings in its class. However, if you are looking for a mountable device at a reasonable price, this setup might be for you.
The Thrustmaster T300RS GT Edition is a belt-driven racing wheel designed for PlayStation and PC. Considering it’s a GT Edition, this isn’t the most auspicious looking racing wheel. Its rather plain design isn’t helped by the lack of color. However, the leatherette material adds a touch of class and appears to be hard-wearing.
The pedals also feel durable, and feature plenty of adjustments. However, the base can slide around on smooth flooring, so rugs and carpets are best.
Installing the wheel base on a table is somewhat of a hassle, owing to the stiff fastening screw (at least on the unit I had), requiring some lubrication to make it easier. It’s also quite heavy, which means you’ll have to hold it in place while fixing it to a table. The clamping mechanism is also quite clunky, since it’s prone to moving out of position while installing, and gets in the way of the handle on the fastening screw.
Once installed, you should watch out for the self-calibration procedure that takes place as soon as you power it on, as the wheel spins quickly and forcefully. Thankfully, this is the only form of setup when using the T300 RS GT Edition with a PS5 – as you would expect from an officially licensed PlayStation product.
Things were a little more difficult on PC, though. The software tool doesn’t feel the most modern, and it took a few restarts to run correctly and update the firmware successfully. However, it does offer the settings and tweaks you would expect of one of the best racing wheels, including numerous force feedback options.
The T300RS GT Edition performs well in certain areas, but not so well in others. The steering is precise enough, and the pedals offer enough resistance without being too hard. There’s an optional conical stop you can install behind the brake pedal to lend a different sense of feedback, but I found this limited travel too much – which I found a tad too short to begin with.
The wheel can also feel very notchy, especially at the start of rotations; most noticeable when making the slow, gradual movements you might when playing more sedate driving sims. The paddles aren’t damped well enough either, feeling a little harsh in use.
While the button selection is good for PlayStation users, it’s a shame there are no rotary knobs for typical on-the-fly racing adjustments. And on PC, some buttons failed to work in my experience, although quite where the blame lies on this front isn’t exactly clear.
All of these are disappointments for a wheel of this price. The Thrustmaster T248, for instance, is considerably cheaper, yet we think it’s the best racing wheel overall thanks to its excellent performance-to-price ratio. You can of course spend a lot more on a racing wheel, such as the Thrustmaster T-GT II, but we think this is the best premium racing wheel around, as it rivals direct drive wheels – the zenith of racing wheel technology.
(Image credit: Future)
Thrustmaster T300RS GT Edition: Price and availability
$449.99 / £379.99 (about AU$725)
Available now in one color
Some rivals are cheaper
The T300RS GT Edition costs $449.99 / £379.99 (about AU$725) and is available now in one colorway. It comes with a pedal set but not an external shifter, although one can be connected.
This makes it quite a lot more expensive than the Thrustmaster T248, our pick as the best racing wheel overall. This wheel offers similarly good pedals and we liked the force feedback with certain games, but again we had some issues with the steering feel.
If you want a more luxury belt-driven experience, then the Thrustmaster T-GT II is one of the best in this category, and comes close to rivaling state-of-the-art direct drive wheels. We still found the rotation wasn’t as seamless as it could be, though, and it’s considerably more expensive than the T300RS GT Edition.
Thrustmaster T300RS GT Edition: Specs
Thrustmaster T300RS GT Edition review: Design and features
Plain looks
Violent self-calibration
Useful software
The T300RS GT Edition cuts a rather bland figure, with a monochromatic colorway and a lackluster wheel design that fails to inspire or excite. Considering this is the variant officially licensed by PlayStation and the Gran Turismo series, I was expecting something a little more special.
The pedals are similarly plain, although the metal heads do lend an element of sophistication. There’s also an optional conical stop, which can be screwed in behind the brake pedal to offer a different level of resistance.
The wheel has a satisfactory feel to it, being neither too thick nor too thin. The leatherette finish feels hard-wearing but offers little in the way of padding. There’s also some perforation to help with grip, and I had no issue handling it securely.
Thrustmaster doesn’t give a weight for the wheel base alone, but it’s reasonably heavy with a bias towards the front, which can make installation a little tricky. The pedal base, on the other hand, is much lighter, which can be a problem for those with low-friction flooring, as I did find it was prone to sliding unless I had a carpet or rug underneath.
Installation wasn’t the most seamless experience. The wheel attaches to the base relatively easily, requiring several turns of the Quick Release ring before tightening a small screw to secure it in place. However, attaching the base to a table is more awkward. The fastening screw in the unit I had didn’t thread smoothly, requiring some lubrication to get it working correctly.
(Image credit: Future)
You have to hold the wheel up while you attach it, as it will fall forwards otherwise. This means tightening the fastening screw one-handed, or using your chest to prop it up while you turn it with both hands, which is the method I preferred. The handle for turning the screw kept getting in the way of the attachment system used to clamp the base to the table, which is an annoying design flaw. What’s more, this attachment system is prone to rotating out of position whilst fastening – another irksome fault.
The pedals do have a pleasing number of adjustments, made easily using the included Allen key. You can adjust the height, angle, and spacing, although I would’ve liked a wider range for the latter, as I found my legs were always too close together, but this could be a personal gripe not shared by others.
The self-calibration for the wheel begins as soon as the T300RS GT Edition is powered on and plugged in, and it took me by surprise: it’s sudden and quite forceful, so make sure to keep your hands completely clear of the wheel.
In order to adjust various calibration and force feedback settings, the Thrustmaster Control Panel for Windows is required. This failed to install on first try for me, although a couple of restarts seemed to fix the issue. The same was true of a required firmware update, but this was successful in the end.
Once up and running, the Thrustmaster Control Panel offers many of the usual customization options you’d expect of a racing wheel. You can set the maximum rotation angle and make multiple force feedback adjustments, with static settings for the constant and periodic forces, as well as dynamic ones for the spring and damper effects. All these are easy to make thanks to the basic layout of the UI.
I had no problem connecting the T300RS GT Edition to a PS5, making it as easy to use as the best PS5 racing wheels out there. The button layout on the wheel is also similar to a controller, which makes navigation simple. It’s a shame, however, that there are no rotary dials, useful for adjusting common racing settings such as traction control and brake balance.
The T300RS GT Edition offers a mixed performance. The steering feels accurate and precise, although the paddles were too clicky for my liking, lacking the satisfying action better damped switches offer.
The pedals provide enough resistance to let you feel how your inputs translate in-game, yet light enough to make them easy to press without fatigue. The clutch pedal offers just the right amount of travel; while I would’ve preferred a bit more for the brake pedal, it still offers enough control. It’s also reassuringly weighted, although I found the optional conical stop added too much resistance, and further decreased the already-wanting travel.
However, my chief grip with the T300RS GT Edition is the notchy feel of the steering wheel. No matter what you do with the settings in the Control Panel, this is always present. I found it particularly noticeable when making small movements close to the center of the axis, which you are likely to do in slower-paced driving sims, as opposed to outright racing sims.
(Image credit: Future)
The other settings available in the Control Panel do make a difference to performance. There’s plenty of scope within the force feedback for most gamers to find the right setup. The maximum setting was far too strong for me, with the wheel being too hard to turn and flailing wildly when losing traction in-game. As a result, I preferred having the overall strength setting quite low, at about 15%.
The buttons on the wheel all perform well enough, but don’t match the premium feel of those on the best PC controllers. I did have an issue with the POV hat failing to work with some PC games, but this could’ve been a fault with the game rather than with the input itself.
Should I buy the Thrustmaster T300RS GT Edition?
(Image credit: Future)
Buy it if...
You want good pedals The pedals of the T300RS GT Edition provide enough feel while being easy to actuate. The multiple adjustments are also useful, although I would’ve welcomed more range for the spacing.
You want multiple platform support The T300RS GT Edition works with three PlayStation consoles and PC, which means you can use it with plenty of high-end racing sims, from various Gran Turismo titles to Assetto Corsa.
Don't buy it if...
You want the best steering feel The T300RS GT Edition is rather notchy, especially at the start of its turns, so those who’ll be making slow, gentle movements might want to look elsewhere.
You want the best design The clamping system is quite awkward and not the best engineered solution. The pedal base also has a tendency to slide on smooth surfaces.
Also consider...
If the T300RS GT Edition doesn't sound right for you, then take a look at these excellent alternatives.
Thrustmaster T248 As the best racing wheel overall in our opinion, the T248 offers a perfect balance between price and performance. It’s considerably cheaper than the T300RS GT Edition, but we think it has great build quality and a useful feature set, all of which help to make it a great all-rounder for those embarking on their racing sim journey.
Thrustmaster T-GT II If you’re after another belt-driven wheel, then the Thrustmaster T-GT II is one of the best there is in our view. It even gives direct drive wheels a run for their money, which are the gold standard for sim racers. We were impressed with its excellent force feedback and extra buttons, making it a practical wheel. You will have to pay considerably more than the T300RS GT Edition for it, though.
I tested the T300RS GT Edition for about a week, during which time I used it on PC and PS5. I installed it myself and made sure to adjust as many hardware and software settings as possible, such as pedal positioning and force feedback. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to test the T300RS GT Edition with an external shifter.
I played Gran Turismo 7 on PS5 and Assetto Corsa on PC – two two-tier racing sims on their respective platforms. I also played American Truck Simulator to test the wheel for slower, more controlled steering and pedal movements.
I have been gaming for over 25 years, with racing sims being one of my favorite genres. I play numerous titles across various sub-categories such as F1, touring car racing, and rallying.
The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is the brand’s new top-of-the-line wireless gaming keyboard, featuring hot-swappable mechanical switches and multiple connectivity options.
It cuts a rather formidable figure, with its angular, slab-like body conveying its gaming intentions. The RGB lighting also helps in this regard, and the bars around the bottom edges are a particularly nice touch, boasting just the right amount of opulence. Despite this, it isn’t as heavy or as unwieldy as you might think, and its compact layout makes it easy to get along with.
The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% also comes with a leatherette wrist rest that puts those on even the best gaming keyboards to shame, thanks to its ornate design and plush cushioning for maximum comfort. It might seem too thick at first, but you’ll likely adapt quickly as you sink into it.
A small OLED display is positioned in the top right corner of the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, controlled via a button on the side of the keyboard and a scroll wheel, which can be set to perform various functions, such as adjusting the volume and switching app windows to name a few (further functions are available via Synapse, Razer’s peripheral software). Other keyboard settings are available via this display, although the selection is quite limited. But overall, it’s easy to use and works quite well.
The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is compatible with Synapse 4. During my time with it, I did experience a few technical hitches, including erroneous battery readouts and failed firmware updates. However, these issues eventually went away with updates and restarts, and I had little trouble thereafter.
When working as it should, Synapse 4 offers some useful customizations, with a plentiful selection of binds and shortcuts for both the keys and the scroll wheel. Everything is well presented and easy to navigate.
The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% really shines, though, when it comes to the business of gaming. The Gen-3 Tactile mechanical switches are snappy yet damped just enough to make them satisfying to use. The compact layout and indented doubleshot PBT keycaps are secure and easy to press too. However, if you’re not happy with the stock setup, the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is hot-swappable, allowing you to choose your own switches and keycaps to suit your preferences.
Typing is also a pleasant experience on the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, and the plush wrist pad offers plenty of support. My only minor complaint is the rather shallow six degree angle provided by the feet, but this still didn’t compromise comfort levels for me.
Connectivity between Bluetooth and 2.4GHz modes is easy, although I didn’t notice much improvement when using the included HyperPolling Wireless Dongle, which elevates the polling rate maximum to 4K. Handy keyboard shortcuts also allow you to switch effortlessly between three Bluetooth connected devices, which makes the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% very versatile if you have lots of systems to move between.
Battery life on the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is good, but nothing spectacular. I found it could last a couple of days of varied use, switching between the various wireless modes. Charging from empty to full takes over two hours in my estimation, which is an average performance.
There’s no denying that the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is a very well-made and extremely worthy gaming keyboard. But whether it’s worth that sizable asking price is debatable, especially when you consider others, such as the Razer Huntsman V2 Analog and Steelseries Apex Pro, offer stunning analog performance for less. However, for the mechanical purists, it’s certainly the cream of the crop.
(Image credit: Future)
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% review: price and availability
$299 / £299 / AU$499
Available now in Black
Top-end of the market
The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% costs $299 / £299 / AU$499 and is available now in one color: black. In the box you get a USB-C-to-A cable, the HyperPolling Wireless Dongle, a key cap puller, and three spare switches.
The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% sits atop Razer’s gaming keyboard lineup in terms of price. It’s more expensive than the excellent Huntsman V2 Analog, the best gaming keyboard right now in our view. Unlike the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, the analog capability means that you can set the actuation point just so. However, it isn’t hot-swappable like the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, so you’re stuck with the optical switches, and it’s wired only.
Other high-profile rivals in the premium sector are also cheaper. The Steelseries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3, for instance, is a standout board that also features analog switches, and costs $269 / £259 (about AU$456).
Value: 2 / 5
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%: specs
(Image credit: Future)
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%: design and features
Thick body
Supremely engineered
Synapse 4 compatible
The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is a fairly unremarkable looking gaming keyboard from the front, but a three-dimensional view reveals just what a monolithic slab this keyboard really is. The layout is compact, although the keys are still spaced well enough apart to make them easy to use, even if you’re as clumsy as me.
There’s some RGB lighting for the keys and strips running along the bottom edges, which does help to make its appearance more elaborate.
The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% comes with a wrist rest, which is much more plush and padded than many of those offered by its rivals. In fact, I thought it was too thick at first, as it raises your hands higher than usual. However, you do sink into it, and after a short while I acclimatized. The two-stage feet help to get a more comfortable position, although neither setting raises the board that high compared to other keyboard feet.
It’s also more stylish than many other rests too, thanks to its premium leatherette material with a subtle herringbone pattern. It connects to the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% magnetically with just the right amount of force, making it easy to remove yet strong enough to remain secure.
The doubleshot PBT keycaps are lightly textured and feel premium to the touch. The same goes for the stock Gen-3 Tactile mechanical switches, although since this is a hot-swappable keyboard, you can change them if they aren’t to your liking.
(Image credit: Future)
Nestled in the top right corner of the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is a small OLED display. This can be used to show GIFs and make certain adjustments, which can be accessed by holding a button on the side of the board. There are only a few settings available, though, including those for the RGB effects and the polling rate (with a 4K maximum when using the included HyperPolling Wireless Dongle).
Tapping the side button cycles through up to six presets for the scroll wheel functionality; it can be used to adjust the volume, switch between apps, and zoom in and out, with inward clicks of the wheel having related functions too.
The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is compatible with Synapse 4. During my time with this software, I did experience a few glitches, such as the battery indicator giving false readings and the tab for the keyboard itself disappearing from the window. Also, firmware updates failed numerous times, but after a few updates and restarts, it worked more smoothly.
Synapse offers the usual customizations, including key rebinds, but the scope for these is large. You can map mouse buttons, as well as numerous Windows and media shortcuts (more than many other peripheral software offer) to the keys and even to the scroll wheel. There’s also the Hypershift feature, which allows you to add a second layer of binds by pressing the Hypershift button, designated to a key of your choosing.
Design & features: 4 / 5
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% review: performance
Fantastic stock switches
Great for gaming and typing
Average battery life
Gaming with the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is a joyful experience. Razer’s Tactile mechanical switches are snappy with low travel and damped just enough to allow for light yet satisfying and controlled presses, typical of the best mechanical keyboards. The keys are mildly indented, again offering the right balance between security and ease of use.
When it comes to typing, that snappy yet damped feel is a real boon, providing plenty of feedback and bounce for flitting around the keys with ease. However, the aforementioned thickness of the wrist pad created a somewhat unfamiliar typing position for me, but again I quickly adapted and found it very comfortable thereafter.
The various connectivity modes all work pretty seamlessly too, although I can’t say I noticed much improvement when using the 4K polling rate offered by the HyperPolling Wireless Dongle. Switching between the 2.4GHz/ HyperPolling and Bluetooth modes is fairly quick, although I did find that there was a slight delay, and a key press was required to activate the board after switching to a new device.
There are also three Bluetooth profiles available, which are conveniently accessible via the fn key and number keys 1-3. Again, switching this way to control numerous devices works quickly and consistently.
The battery depleted after a couple of days of varied use, as I switched between the various wireless modes (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz and the HyperPolling Wireless Dongle). This isn’t a particularly impressive performance, and neither is the two-plus hour charging time from empty. However, neither figure is cause for complaint, either.
Performance: 4/ 5
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%?
Buy it if…
You want to connect to multiple devices Wireless and three Bluetooth profiles make it easy to switch the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% between numerous devices. Wired connectivity is also an option.
You want that mechanical magic The tactile profile of the stock mechanical switches, combined with the premium keycaps, make for superb gaming and typing. Plus, if you don’t like them, you can swap them out.
Don’t buy it if…
You’re on a budget There’s no getting around it: this is one of Razer’s most expensive gaming keyboards, so you’ll have to part with some serious cash to get your hands on it.
You want plenty of adjustments Yes, you can swap out the switches for those better suited to your playstyle, but since this isn’t an analog board, you can’t fine-tune the actuation points or toggle rapid trigger.
Also consider
Razer Huntsman V2 Analog For less than the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, you could get the equally capable Huntsman V2 Analog. This board has analog switches as well, allowing for that fine actuation point tuning and rapid trigger activation. It also has a comfortable wrist rest, but it is wired only.
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3 If you’re after supreme gaming performance, it’s hard to overlook the Apex Pro. Its analog keys feature programmable actuation points and rapid trigger functionality, letting you tailor their responsiveness to your exact preferences. It too is very expensive, but it's still less than the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%.
I tested the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% for over a week, during which time I used it for gaming, working, and general browsing.
I played games including Counter-Strike 2 and S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl, FPS titles that test the responsiveness, accuracy and ergonomics of keyboards well. I made sure to use all the different connectivity methods, from wired and Bluetooth modes to the HyperPolling Wireless Dongle.
I have been PC gaming for over 10 years, and have sampled many keyboards over that period. I have also reviewed numerous gaming keyboards of varying sizes, switch types, and price tags.
The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is the brand’s new top-of-the-line wireless gaming keyboard, featuring hot-swappable mechanical switches and multiple connectivity options.
It cuts a rather formidable figure, with its angular, slab-like body conveying its gaming intentions. The RGB lighting also helps in this regard, and the bars around the bottom edges are a particularly nice touch, boasting just the right amount of opulence. Despite this, it isn’t as heavy or as unwieldy as you might think, and its compact layout makes it easy to get along with.
The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% also comes with a leatherette wrist rest that puts those on even the best gaming keyboards to shame, thanks to its ornate design and plush cushioning for maximum comfort. It might seem too thick at first, but you’ll likely adapt quickly as you sink into it.
A small OLED display is positioned in the top right corner of the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, controlled via a button on the side of the keyboard and a scroll wheel, which can be set to perform various functions, such as adjusting the volume and switching app windows to name a few (further functions are available via Synapse, Razer’s peripheral software). Other keyboard settings are available via this display, although the selection is quite limited. But overall, it’s easy to use and works quite well.
The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is compatible with Synapse 4. During my time with it, I did experience a few technical hitches, including erroneous battery readouts and failed firmware updates. However, these issues eventually went away with updates and restarts, and I had little trouble thereafter.
When working as it should, Synapse 4 offers some useful customizations, with a plentiful selection of binds and shortcuts for both the keys and the scroll wheel. Everything is well presented and easy to navigate.
The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% really shines, though, when it comes to the business of gaming. The Gen-3 Tactile mechanical switches are snappy yet damped just enough to make them satisfying to use. The compact layout and indented doubleshot PBT keycaps are secure and easy to press too. However, if you’re not happy with the stock setup, the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is hot-swappable, allowing you to choose your own switches and keycaps to suit your preferences.
Typing is also a pleasant experience on the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, and the plush wrist pad offers plenty of support. My only minor complaint is the rather shallow six degree angle provided by the feet, but this still didn’t compromise comfort levels for me.
Connectivity between Bluetooth and 2.4GHz modes is easy, although I didn’t notice much improvement when using the included HyperPolling Wireless Dongle, which elevates the polling rate maximum to 4K. Handy keyboard shortcuts also allow you to switch effortlessly between three Bluetooth connected devices, which makes the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% very versatile if you have lots of systems to move between.
Battery life on the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is good, but nothing spectacular. I found it could last a couple of days of varied use, switching between the various wireless modes. Charging from empty to full takes over two hours in my estimation, which is an average performance.
There’s no denying that the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is a very well-made and extremely worthy gaming keyboard. But whether it’s worth that sizable asking price is debatable, especially when you consider others, such as the Razer Huntsman V2 Analog and Steelseries Apex Pro, offer stunning analog performance for less. However, for the mechanical purists, it’s certainly the cream of the crop.
(Image credit: Future)
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% review: price and availability
$299 / £299 / AU$499
Available now in Black
Top-end of the market
The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% costs $299 / £299 / AU$499 and is available now in one color: black. In the box you get a USB-C-to-A cable, the HyperPolling Wireless Dongle, a key cap puller, and three spare switches.
The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% sits atop Razer’s gaming keyboard lineup in terms of price. It’s more expensive than the excellent Huntsman V2 Analog, the best gaming keyboard right now in our view. Unlike the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, the analog capability means that you can set the actuation point just so. However, it isn’t hot-swappable like the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, so you’re stuck with the optical switches, and it’s wired only.
Other high-profile rivals in the premium sector are also cheaper. The Steelseries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3, for instance, is a standout board that also features analog switches, and costs $269 / £259 (about AU$456).
Value: 2 / 5
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%: specs
(Image credit: Future)
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%: design and features
Thick body
Supremely engineered
Synapse 4 compatible
The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is a fairly unremarkable looking gaming keyboard from the front, but a three-dimensional view reveals just what a monolithic slab this keyboard really is. The layout is compact, although the keys are still spaced well enough apart to make them easy to use, even if you’re as clumsy as me.
There’s some RGB lighting for the keys and strips running along the bottom edges, which does help to make its appearance more elaborate.
The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% comes with a wrist rest, which is much more plush and padded than many of those offered by its rivals. In fact, I thought it was too thick at first, as it raises your hands higher than usual. However, you do sink into it, and after a short while I acclimatized. The two-stage feet help to get a more comfortable position, although neither setting raises the board that high compared to other keyboard feet.
It’s also more stylish than many other rests too, thanks to its premium leatherette material with a subtle herringbone pattern. It connects to the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% magnetically with just the right amount of force, making it easy to remove yet strong enough to remain secure.
The doubleshot PBT keycaps are lightly textured and feel premium to the touch. The same goes for the stock Gen-3 Tactile mechanical switches, although since this is a hot-swappable keyboard, you can change them if they aren’t to your liking.
(Image credit: Future)
Nestled in the top right corner of the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is a small OLED display. This can be used to show GIFs and make certain adjustments, which can be accessed by holding a button on the side of the board. There are only a few settings available, though, including those for the RGB effects and the polling rate (with a 4K maximum when using the included HyperPolling Wireless Dongle).
Tapping the side button cycles through up to six presets for the scroll wheel functionality; it can be used to adjust the volume, switch between apps, and zoom in and out, with inward clicks of the wheel having related functions too.
The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is compatible with Synapse 4. During my time with this software, I did experience a few glitches, such as the battery indicator giving false readings and the tab for the keyboard itself disappearing from the window. Also, firmware updates failed numerous times, but after a few updates and restarts, it worked more smoothly.
Synapse offers the usual customizations, including key rebinds, but the scope for these is large. You can map mouse buttons, as well as numerous Windows and media shortcuts (more than many other peripheral software offer) to the keys and even to the scroll wheel. There’s also the Hypershift feature, which allows you to add a second layer of binds by pressing the Hypershift button, designated to a key of your choosing.
Design & features: 4 / 5
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% review: performance
Fantastic stock switches
Great for gaming and typing
Average battery life
Gaming with the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is a joyful experience. Razer’s Tactile mechanical switches are snappy with low travel and damped just enough to allow for light yet satisfying and controlled presses, typical of the best mechanical keyboards. The keys are mildly indented, again offering the right balance between security and ease of use.
When it comes to typing, that snappy yet damped feel is a real boon, providing plenty of feedback and bounce for flitting around the keys with ease. However, the aforementioned thickness of the wrist pad created a somewhat unfamiliar typing position for me, but again I quickly adapted and found it very comfortable thereafter.
The various connectivity modes all work pretty seamlessly too, although I can’t say I noticed much improvement when using the 4K polling rate offered by the HyperPolling Wireless Dongle. Switching between the 2.4GHz/ HyperPolling and Bluetooth modes is fairly quick, although I did find that there was a slight delay, and a key press was required to activate the board after switching to a new device.
There are also three Bluetooth profiles available, which are conveniently accessible via the fn key and number keys 1-3. Again, switching this way to control numerous devices works quickly and consistently.
The battery depleted after a couple of days of varied use, as I switched between the various wireless modes (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz and the HyperPolling Wireless Dongle). This isn’t a particularly impressive performance, and neither is the two-plus hour charging time from empty. However, neither figure is cause for complaint, either.
Performance: 4/ 5
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%?
Buy it if…
You want to connect to multiple devices Wireless and three Bluetooth profiles make it easy to switch the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% between numerous devices. Wired connectivity is also an option.
You want that mechanical magic The tactile profile of the stock mechanical switches, combined with the premium keycaps, make for superb gaming and typing. Plus, if you don’t like them, you can swap them out.
Don’t buy it if…
You’re on a budget There’s no getting around it: this is one of Razer’s most expensive gaming keyboards, so you’ll have to part with some serious cash to get your hands on it.
You want plenty of adjustments Yes, you can swap out the switches for those better suited to your playstyle, but since this isn’t an analog board, you can’t fine-tune the actuation points or toggle rapid trigger.
Also consider
Razer Huntsman V2 Analog For less than the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, you could get the equally capable Huntsman V2 Analog. This board has analog switches as well, allowing for that fine actuation point tuning and rapid trigger activation. It also has a comfortable wrist rest, but it is wired only.
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3 If you’re after supreme gaming performance, it’s hard to overlook the Apex Pro. Its analog keys feature programmable actuation points and rapid trigger functionality, letting you tailor their responsiveness to your exact preferences. It too is very expensive, but it's still less than the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%.
I tested the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% for over a week, during which time I used it for gaming, working, and general browsing.
I played games including Counter-Strike 2 and S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl, FPS titles that test the responsiveness, accuracy and ergonomics of keyboards well. I made sure to use all the different connectivity methods, from wired and Bluetooth modes to the HyperPolling Wireless Dongle.
I have been PC gaming for over 10 years, and have sampled many keyboards over that period. I have also reviewed numerous gaming keyboards of varying sizes, switch types, and price tags.
The Acer Predator controller is more than a little disappointing given the brand’s track record of producing high-quality gaming hardware. It’s apparent that this is one of Acer’s first forays into the realm of gaming controllers, as the Predator is pretty bare-bones for what it offers in terms of features. That, and its overall build quality, leaves something to be desired.
Don’t expect remappable buttons, trigger locks, or even basics like a good overall build quality here; the Predator’s closest analog is probably the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller. And even there, Nintendo’s official pad has the Predator beat on both build and battery life.
This isn’t to say the Acer Predator isn’t at least worth a look. It still gets plenty of things right. Hall effect sticks allow for a controller that could last you years, and it does support Switch-friendly features like gyro aiming for games like Splatoon 3. It is a bit lamentable that the Predator requires AA batteries to be used wirelessly, but both Bluetooth and 2.4GHz connectivity are supported here and overall battery life is pretty decent at around 20 hours on average.
In summary, if you’re after a simple, no-frills controller similar to the official Nintendo Switch option, the Acer Predator might just be for you. However, when its peers are handily one-upping it in terms of design, features, and performance - often at the same price or less - it probably shouldn’t be at the top of your list.
(Image credit: Future)
Acer Predator controller: Price and availability
£69.99 (around $87.99 / AU$139.99)
Purchasable from Acer’s website in certain regions
Limited overall availability, with the controller seemingly not available in the US
While the Acer Predator controller seems to be unavailable (at time of writing) in the US, it is available for £69.99 in the UK and can be purchased from Acer’s own website. Unlike most other third-party controllers, availability (at the time of writing) appears to be extremely limited. The controller isn’t listed at retailers like Amazon, Argos, or John Lewis in the UK. Moreover, Acer itself doesn’t have a store page for the controller in the US or Australia.
In terms of price, the Acer Predator is fairly competitive when you consider that many other top controllers fall within that £60-£70 price bracket. As mentioned, though, it’s not the most complete feeling controller out there when compared to other pads in this range. It would have been a more attractive purchasing option, I feel if it came in at £10 or even £15 cheaper than its current retail price.
Acer Predator controller: specs
(Image credit: Future)
Acer Predator controller: design and features
Simple, but nonetheless eye-catching sci-fi-esque livery
Lacking in build quality in comparison to its competitors
D-pad and triggers feel noticeably spongy
Starting off with the positives, I really like the aesthetic touches on the Acer Predator controller. It’s emblazoned with cool sci-fi-looking patterns that definitely lend it some unique identity, but it’s understated enough to not stand out in a garish way. The bumpers up top also offer a soft, tactile clicky feel. Thumbsticks also feel great here with a comfortable amount of concavity for your thumbs to firmly rest on.
Other aspects of the controller don’t fare as well. The d-pad and face buttons have an overly mushy feel. It doesn’t help that the former is extremely basic and rather flat in design which did make for an occasional mispress during gameplay. Triggers, meanwhile, did grow on me after some time, but these are fairly wide and offer an unsatisfyingly spongy feel. A pretty mixed bag overall, then, in terms of buttons and modules.
It’s also worth noting that the Acer Predator’s 2.4GHz dongle is not separate in the box. Rather, it’s housed within the controller’s onboard battery compartment. So make sure you’re taking that out first before inserting any AA batteries if you’re planning to use it wirelessly on PC.
It’s a slightly strange choice for a controller, and it does take a little bit of wrestling to release it from the controller’s slot. But it does at least offer a safe way to store the dongle to prevent you from losing it when not in use.
(Image credit: Future)
Acer Predator controller: performance
Hall effect thumbsticks make for a long-lasting controller
Well-developed rumble that offers a robust and impactful play experience
Battery life is decent but may vary depending on your battery brand of choice
Design issues aside, the Acer Predator does perform admirably as a controller, with few notable faults. Despite the pad feeling outdated in some aspects, I’m grateful for the inclusion of Hall effect sticks first and foremost. This will make for a long-lasting gamepad that’s resistant to stick drift issues. On that front alone, the Predator is worth considering if you’re tired of cycling through controllers on a semi-regular basis.
What surprised me most here is the Predator’s incredibly effective rumble tech. It’s not exactly haptic feedback a la the PS5’s DualSense wireless controller, but it feels significantly less flat than many other controllers in this regard.
Playing action-heavy titles like Wuthering Waves, Zenless Zone Zero, and Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, I was really impressed with the impactful register of sword swipes and other special abilities. It’s a well-rounded vibration that successfully adds a good layer of immersion to whichever game you’re playing. However, you still may wish to switch off vibrations for competitive play as I do feel such a strong rumble could disrupt things like aim or other desired inputs.
The Acer Predator controller also matches many of its peers on compatibility and connection types. It works with Nintendo Switch, PC, and mobile devices (both Android and iOS) and supports 2.4GHz and Bluetooth for wireless connectivity, as well as USB-C for wired connections. Switch compatibility is an especially big plus here, as I feel the Acer Predator makes for a decent alternative to the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller.
Battery life is also pretty decent overall. Acer’s own website states you’ll get around 25 hours here, but this will of course vary based on the AA battery brand used. The controller comes with a pair of Energizer AA batteries included in the box. With these, I managed to get around 20 hours of playtime before needing to swap them out. Again this will vary based on brand and the types of games you play, but this is an overall decent number that means you shouldn't have to swap out batteries too often.
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the Acer Predator controller?
Buy it if...
You want a good Switch Pro Controller alternative While many of the best Nintendo Switch controllers do outshine Nintendo’s official pad in terms of design and features, the Acer Predator still puts up a decent show and is a good pick if you’re looking for a reliable Hall effect controller.
You like rumble This is arguably the Acer Predator controller’s standout feature and really comes alive in action-heavy games. While not quite haptic feedback or Nintendo’s own HD Rumble, it’s nonetheless very robust and impactful here.
Don't buy it if...
You want better, sturdier build quality There is an overtly cheap feel to the Acer Predator controller, from its chassis to its individual buttons and modules. While not the absolute worst we’ve ever tested in this regard, it still leaves much to be desired.
You want a more reliable wireless solution It’s quite rare for contemporary controllers to run on AA batteries, and if you don’t like the idea of having to purchase these to keep playing wirelessly, you should consider a controller that offers a more modern charging solution.View Deal
Also consider...
If the Acer Predator is proving to be a hard sell, refer to the table below in which we compare its specs to two other great controllers.
8BitDo Ultimate The 8BitDo Ultimate still finds itself at the top of our best Nintendo Switch controllers guide for good reason. Superb build quality, lovely additional features, and an included charging dock all at a very reasonable price.
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller Despite lacking modernities like Hall effect sticks, the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is still a real workhorse of a gamepad, with excellent build quality and best-in-class battery life for the console.
Compared to the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller and 8BitDo Ultimate
I tested the Acer Predator controller over the course of a week, hopping between PC and Nintendo Switch. By doing this, I was able to test multiple connection types from 2.4GHz to Bluetooth and wired, while also sampling a wide range of excellent games including Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Astral Chain, Zenless Zone Zero, and Wuthering Waves.
While certainly far from the best controller I’ve ever tested, it did eventually somewhat win me over thanks to its broad compatibility, strong rumble tech, and impressive battery life - even if I’m not personally a fan of having to rely on AA batteries for wireless play.
The Dell OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020 is designed for businesses that require a compact yet efficient workstation. Featuring 13th Gen Intel processors and DDR5 memory, it caters to multitasking professionals.
As with almost all the best mini PC devices we've reviewed, the micro form factor ensures seamless integration into tight workspaces without compromising performance or reliability. The Dell OptiPlex Micro Plus is impressive because you can specify it to fit your business needs. It can have an i5 or an i7 processor, it can have 16GB or 32GB DDR5 RAM, it can have 256GB or 512GB NVMe SSD Storage, you can opt for a wireless card adding Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth, or you can keep it wired, you can opt for a vPro Enterprise system management or not, and you can choose to include peripherals or not. That's a lot of options for a desktop I can hold in one hand.
I previously mentioned the business because this desktop is designed in every way for a "business" use case. This is not the computer you want for anything graphics-based. Nor is it anything you want for crazy heavy loads or processing. What this is great for, though, are workstations, admins, doctors' offices, front desks, simple desktop solutions that need to be clean, a solution mounted under a desk or behind a monitor, or something that needs to be portable on a cart. That's the kind of professional business this computer excels at, but it was designed from the internals to the case. Something that can be tucked away but relied on to perform crucial tasks for a business to operate.
Dell OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020: Price and Availability
The Dell OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020 starts in the base configuration without accessories at around $1,000. If you fully spec this model out, you can reach $1,530.01, according to Dell.com, without peripherals. Due to the customizability of this unit, I suggest ordering your OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020 from Dell. However, B&H Photo, as well as several other retailers, have pre-configured units available as well.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Dell OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020: Unboxing and First Impressions
Though the desktop is tiny, my OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020 came in a box that could fit a standard keyboard had I ordered it with my computer. Within that box was some packing that kept the laptop secure and safe, along with the power supply and some essential documentation.
Right away, it's clear that this is a simple, professional, very Dell-looking desktop, and it looks good. It's simple, it's minimal, it's easy to use, and it has excellent port layout. It's compact, lightweight, sturdy, and ready to go to work right out of the gate.
Dell OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020: Design and Build Quality
Specs
Processor Options: Intel Core i5 to i7 (13th Gen). Memory: Up to 32GB DDR5, 5600 MT/s . Storage: M.2 PCIe NVMe SSDs up to 512GB. Ports: 4x USB-A, 1x USB-C, 1x RJ45, 1x Headphone, 1x Mic, 3x DisplayPort, 1x Barrel Power, Dimensions: 7.17 x 1.42 x 7.01 inches
The Dell OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020 is an ultra-compact, ultra-lightweight (under 2.5 lbs), easy-to-mount or hide desktop solution for professional use cases. This desktop can fit behind most monitors, under a desk, behind a plant, on a bookshelf, in a drawer, on a shelf, in a cabinet, or just about anywhere (even on a VESA mount). And, with the ability to output to three displays, this can run a pretty impressive setup for the size and price.
The build quality is robust and lightweight, making it something I'd be willing to have out where it could get bumped, knocked into, or used by people who are not as careful with technology as I am.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Dell OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020: In use
The OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020 handles multitasking and business applications like a dream. It's fantastic at running multiple spreadsheets and multiple windows (or even monitors) of browser tabs; it can have charts pulled up, graphs, email, imaging, and so on. It's a great little machine for this kind of work, and even more so paired with being able to tuck that case just about anywhere.
This computer is not one you'll want to run high-intensity graphics on, no video editing, no pushing an entire LED wall worth of display, nor would I use this as a server for a security room to view a bunch of footage. I would have this be used for a front desk, an admin, a meeting room, a check-in, or the like. It's great for those classic office needs with limited demand for high-processing power.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
One major downfall in my book is the lack of HDMI and too few USB-C ports. Thankfully, there is one USB-C port, but with how commonplace that port is, I'm shocked not to see more. Then again, the average business workspace may not be up-to-date with technologies, but that will surely be a miss if they are. Secondly, if you want to push to a monitor via HMDI, you'll need an adapter from DisplayPort to HDMI since this computer has no native HDMI ports. This isn't the end of the world, but it's good to know if you are replacing a computer and keeping peripherals or buying a new one.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Dell OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020: Final verdict
The Dell OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020 excels in providing business-grade performance in a compact design. Its robust build, security features, and extensive connectivity options make it a great choice for professional use. However, the lack of HDMI and minimal USB-C may limit some users.
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3: one-minute review
The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3 is the latest incarnation in the brand’s line of elite gaming keyboards, with various improvements for even better gaming performance.
The looks downplay its gaming prowess, with the RGB lighting and floating keycaps being the only signals in this regard. Still, it looks smart and sophisticated, and the build quality is excellent.
It’s quite thick yet not as heavy as you might expect. Every aspect of its built feels premium, right down to the included wrist pad, which is soft yet durable; it’s easily on a par with the best gaming keyboard out there. The double shot PBT keycaps also feel great, with a pleasantly grainy texture.
There are various keyboard shortcuts available by default, accessible via SteelSeries’ Meta modifier key (essentially a function key). These include altering the global actuation point, toggling rapid trigger, changing profiles, recording macros, and switching between three Bluetooth devices.
Similar functions can also be found on the OLED screen in the top right corner of the Apex Pro, with navigation achieved via a dedicated button and the volume wheel. This screen can also be customized in SteelSeries’ GG software, letting you upload images and GIFs to display, and can be used to view system and in-game information.
Overall GG is easy to use and offers plenty of other customizations to sink your teeth into. There are various keyboard shortcuts to configure, although the system-level functions are lacking somewhat. There are also default profiles for certain games, including Counter-Strike 2, DOTA 2, Minecraft and League of Legends. You can set binds to activate on press or release, and the dual actuation mode lets you assign two binds to a single key, each one activated depending on how hard you press, which works effectively. It’s a shame, though, that there’s no visual feedback to show how your actuation settings work in practice.
When it comes to gaming, the Apex Pro really shines: the clack of key presses is very satisfying, the indented keycaps provide a planted finger position, and the bottom row is easy to access thanks to the slope of the keycaps. The layout is quite compact, but I still found it manageable. The switches offer fast yet smooth performance, and hitting certain actuation points is easy thanks to their feel. It is a shame, however, there aren’t more settings available to emulate the analog control of a gamepad.
Also, the wrist rest also cuts off abruptly with no downwards slope, so my palm hung off the edge awkwardly while in the WASD position. Without it, though, I found the keys were raised too high to reach without adopting a more fingertip-oriented position. Typing with the Apex Pro isn’t the best experience either. I personally prefer shallower keycaps, and I found gliding around on the Apex Pro awkward.
There’s no doubt the Apex Pro is a premium piece of hardware, and it commands a premium price tag. It may not be as expensive as some of its rivals, such as the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, but it runs close. There are cheaper gaming keyboards with analog switches, such as the Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro, although this is wired only and can’t quite match the Apex Pro for performance. So if you’ve got the money to spend, the Apex Pro is hard to top for an analog keyboard.
(Image credit: Future)
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3 review: price and availability
$269 / £259 (about AU$456)
Available now
Top-end of the market
The Apex Pro costs $269 / £259 (about AU$456) and is available now in black only. It comes with a wrist pad and replacement keycaps can be purchased from SteelSeries’ website. A mini version is also available which loses the OLED screen, and a full-size variant adds a number pad as well as a larger scroll wheel and screen button.
The Apex Pro sits atop the market in terms of price, eclipsing some of Razer’s best offerings, for instance. Although not quite as pricey as the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, it’s more expensive than the Huntsman V2 Analog, our pick as the best gaming keyboard. What sets that board apart is the 360-degree motion of the switches keys, letting you mimic an analog stick on a gamepad even more closely. It’s wired only, though.
If you’re looking for another analog keyboard, then the Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro is considerably less expensive than the Apex Pro. Although it’s wired only and has some issues with its analog implementation, the Vulcan 2 is still a worthy contender in the sector.
Value: 3 / 5
(Image credit: Future)
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3 review: specs
(Image credit: Future)
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3 review: design and features
Premium design
Useful OLED screen
Intuitive software
The Apex Pro looks understated for a gaming keyboard. The totally black design is bereft of the brash trappings common in the sector, so at first glance you’ll struggle to identify its intended audience. The floating keycaps, though, are a giveaway, as is the opulent RGB lighting.
There’s no denying the Apex Pro has a premium aura, though. It’s also substantial, with a thick, two-tiered chassis, but fortunately it isn’t as heavy as it looks. The build quality is impeccable, with every material, join and key feeling smooth and sturdy.
The double-shot PBT keycaps are lightly textured and feel great under your fingers. They’re quite thick and sit high above the board, allowing for deep presses. If they aren’t to your liking, though, they can be swapped out, and a puller is included. The layout is also quite compact, which I had to get used to, but it didn’t take long to adapt.
The wrist pad is similarly well-built yet pleasingly light, with a smooth rubberized layer that’s both durable and comfortable. It connects magnetically to the board itself, and although the connection is quite weak, it suffices.
There are several default hotkeys on the Apex Pro, accessible with SteelSeries’ own modifier key, called the Meta key. These include global adjustments for the actuation point and rapid trigger function, as well changing profiles, recording macros, and switching between three Bluetooth devices.
However, more detailed settings and customizations are available via the Engine tool within the GG software. All keys can be remapped, and can be set to trigger on press or release. There’s a good selection of actions, including profile switching, keyboard setting adjustments and app launching. There are also OS shortcuts that can be mapped, including a selection of media keys and copy and paste, but there aren’t many more than this; those in other peripheral software are more numerous.
(Image credit: Future)
GG also allows you to set actuation points ranging from 0.1mm to 4mm for all main keys. You can also toggle rapid trigger for each individual key, which, as GG explains, dynamically alters the actuation point when spamming, allowing for rapid-twitch movements. It even has a dual binding mode, allowing a single key to have two different binds, depending on the primary and secondary actuation points of your choosing.
For the most part, GG is easy to use with a clear layout and some explanations for various settings. However, it would’ve been nice to see some visual feedback when adjusting actuation points and rapid trigger modes, as some of the Apex Pro’s rivals offer with their own software.
Nestled in the top right corner of the Apex Pro is a small monotone OLED screen, called the Smart Screen. It displays battery life by default, but can be customized in GG to display anything from your own images and GIFs, to system and in-game information.
The options available for the latter are quite in depth. For instance, you can choose to display certain information at certain increments, and choose various screens to cycle through, each displaying their own unique information at various points. Supported games include Counter-Strike 2, DOTA 2, Minecraft, and League of Legends.
There’s also a button on the screen that can be used to control media playback, such as play / pause and next / previous functions. You can enter a menu by holding this button down for a few seconds, from which more settings and functions are available: you can change the brightness of the RGB illumination, toggle between three of your connected Bluetooth devices, and change the global actuation point and rapid trigger functions. Navigation in this menu is achieved with the volume wheel acting as a scroller, and it’s responsive and effective.
Design & features: 4 / 5
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3 review: performance
Superb gaming performance
Analog keys actually usable
Typing not the best
The gaming performance of the Apex Pro is excellent. The stock keycaps are nicely indented, allowing you to maintain a secure position, and presses are weighted just right, allowing for easy actuation that provides pleasant feedback. Reaching the CTRL key and spacebar is also easy, thanks to the slight incline of the keycaps.
The switches are silky smooth and well lubed, offering plenty of clack without being too loud. I also found it relatively easy to hit certain actuation points, as the Hall-effect magnetic switches have more feel and resistance than others I’ve tried, such as those on the Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro. This makes the Apex Pro ideal for rapid trigger functionality or dual binding.
SteelSeries has also implemented a new Protection mode, which prevents keys adjacent to the intended one from accidentally triggering by reducing their sensitivity momentarily, which is a useful feature.
Where it does miss a trick, however, is the ability to map the keys to an analog stick. This would make for smoother character movements and vehicle control, and is something that can be done with the aforementioned Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro, as well as the Razer Huntsman V2 Analog.
(Image credit: Future)
As someone who prefers shallow keycaps for typing, I didn’t find the Apex Pro well suited for productivity purposes. Although adjusting the actuation point can help to prevent typos, the relatively thick keycaps and their deep indentations aren’t conducive to gliding around the board.
The included wrist pad is pretty much essential for typing comfortably, as the thick body forces your wrists to bend awkwardly without one. Thankfully, the one included offers enough support and padding to make both typing and gaming more comfortable.
The wrist pad can be more cumbersome when gaming, though. As the backend tails off abruptly with no slope, the area where your wrist meets your palm tends to overhang when in the WASD position, which is a strange and not entirely comfortable sensation. I did find that I could game without the pad, but I had to adapt my fingers so they were more perpendicular to the key caps, emphasizing more contact with the fingertips. If this is your preferred playing style anyway, then you shouldn’t have a problem.
Steelseries claims a battery life of up 40 hours over Bluetooth, or 37.5 hours via the 2.4GHz dongle. During my tests I found this to be accurate, as I was able to get several days use out of it.
Performance: 4.5/ 5
Should I buy the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3?
Buy it if…
You want analog keys Analog keys aren’t all that common, so if you want changeable sensitivity and rapid trigger functionality, this could be the board for you.
You want top-tier performance Gaming with the Apex Pro is sublime, thanks to its smooth and fast performance. Actuation points are easy to hit and the rapid trigger works well.
Don’t buy it if…
You’re on a budget You’ll be hard pressed to find many gaming keyboards that perform better than this, but it’ll cost you.
You want controller emulation Although the switches are analog, you can’t emulate a gamepad’s triggers or analog sticks as you can with some other analog boards.
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3 review: also consider
Razer Huntsman V2 Analog If you must have an analog keyboard, then the Huntsman V2 Analog is another fine example in this category. Razer claims that the analog inputs can work with any controller-based game, allowing for ultra-smooth inputs. Uniquely, the keys also feature 360-degree movement, emulating a joystick more closely. The Huntsman V2 Analog can be had for slightly less than the Apex Pro, although if you hunt around you may be able to find a better deal. Read our Razer Huntsman V2 Analog review.
Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro If you still want analog switches but want to save even more cash, then the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro could fit the bill. It also lets you emulate the triggers and analog sticks of a gamepad, although the implementation isn’t as seamless as you might imagine. Still, it can have its uses. Read our Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro review.
How I tested the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3
Tested for about a week
Used for gaming, productivity and general use
10+ years PC gaming experience
I tested the Apex Pro for about a week. During that time I used it for gaming, productivity and general use.
I played various games, including Counter-Strike 2 and I Am Your Beast, which were useful for testing the actuation points and rapid trigger functionality. I also made sure to make use of every feature and function available via the GG software where possible.
I have been PC gaming for over 10 years, and have experienced numerous keyboards during that time, spanning various switch types, key profiles, and form factors. I have also reviewed multiple gaming keyboards from a mixture of brands.
The Hori Fighting Stick Alpha is a very solid option for those on the hunt for a new fight stick, but only if you’ve already got some familiarity with this type of controller and prefer them for fighting games over regular gamepads. At $200 / £200, I certainly wouldn’t recommend it to players transitioning to fight sticks for the first time. Especially as many of the best fight sticks come in cheaper while still offering a fantastic onboarding experience.
But that doesn’t mean the Hori Fighting Stick Alpha isn’t worth buying. For one, it’s impressively light for its size, meaning it’ll rest on your lap easily. There’s plenty of space on its surface, too, making for a roomy and comfortable stick to use for quick sessions online.
As we see with similarly priced sticks like the Nacon Daija, the Alpha is fully customizable. Its clamshell design allows you to easily open it up and swap out Hori’s components for alternatives should you desire. That goes for the faceplate, too, if you’re keen to add some of your own unique flair to the rather bland default design.
Circling back to comfort, one other dealbreaker here might be the Alpha’s usage of the Noir layout for its buttons. This means the buttons are slightly more offset than what you’d find with the more modern Vewlix layout - where the buttons are gathered closer together. Your preference may vary here, and I certainly found the Noir layout well-suited for four-button games like Tekken 8(Noir is a layout popularized by Namco, after all), but when swapping over to Street Fighter 6, I found myself wanting the more uniform layout of a Vewlix stick.
(Image credit: Future)
Hori Fighting Stick Alpha: Price and availability
$200 / £200
Priced similarly to the Nacon Daija
Newcomers may wish to consider cheaper sticks like the 8BitDo Arcade Stick
The Hori Fighting Stick Alpha is not cheap, and while it is significantly easier on the wallet than premium sticks like the Victrix Pro FS, it’d be understandable if its $200 / £200 price tag turned newcomers away. It’s definitely a workhorse fight stick thanks to its good build quality and customizability, and well worth the investment if you know you’re going to get plenty of use out of it.
However, those dipping a toe in for the first time may want to consider some of the cheaper fight stick options out there. The excellent 8BitDo Arcade Stick comes to mind here. The Xbox/PC version can be had for $119.99 / £99, and the original Switch model often comes in even cheaper than that (and it also works with PC).
Hori Fighting Stick Alpha: specs
(Image credit: Future)
Hori Fighting Stick Alpha: design and features
Solid build quality and impressively lightweight
Features Hori’s Hayabusa modules by default
Fully customizable modules and faceplate
While not the absolute tip-top premium in this regard, there is a good build quality all around on the Hori Fighting Stick Alpha. It’s entirely plastic and rather lightweight compared to many of its peers, but this does mean it sits easily in your lap without feeling like it’s weighing you down. Two rubberized grips on the underside mean it can easily be placed on a desk or similar flat surface without slipping around.
Hori’s own Hayabusa modules are in play here, including eight buttons and a square gate joystick. The top of the board features a line of ancillary function buttons, including Home and sharing buttons as well as options to mute your headset should one be connected via the 3.5mm jack on the left side of the unit. A couple of switches here also let you toggle between Xbox and PC compatibility, as well as a lock switch to prevent pausing or accessing your console’s dashboard for tournament play.
If you’re not keen on those Hayabusa modules, or simply want to swap in other parts like the gold standard Sanwa-Denshi buttons and sticks, you can do so here. The Alpha features a clamshell design that can be opened up via a sturdy latch at the rear side of the unit. I tested swapping out parts myself and found the process to be straightforward. But if you’re new to this kind of thing, you may wish to look up a separate guide as some cable management is involved.
The transparent pane on the surface of the Alpha can also be removed, allowing you to swap in custom faceplates. All in all, it’s a highly customizable stick. You should expect that, given the cost, but it’s nice that you can change up the stick to such a degree based on your preferences nonetheless.
(Image credit: Future)
Hori Fighting Stick Alpha: performance
Sharply responsive across all fighting games tested
Better suited to four-button games due to Noir layout
No option for wireless connectivity
In terms of overall performance, the Hori Fighting Stick Alpha doesn’t really put a foot wrong. You’re getting solid, responsive performance across all of the best fighting games. Hori’s Hayabusa buttons have a very short travel time, allowing you to perform inputs quickly and reliably. Stick motions for special move inputs in games like Street Fighter 6 and Guilty Gear Strive do take some getting used to, but that’s more of a stick thing in general and not really a flaw of the Alpha itself.
The elephant in the room for the Alpha - and whether or not you’re likely to gel with it - is its usage of the Noir button layout which many find to be outdated. As mentioned earlier, Noir has the button column second from the left slightly raised compared to the rest, and the buttons on the far right are slightly lowered, too. This creates an offset that might cause your hand to get uncomfortable during longer play sessions.
Noir is actually excellent for four-button fighting games like Tekken 8 as your fingers will naturally rest over those four leftmost buttons. It can be a little awkward for six-button fighters, however, like Street Fighter 6 and many of the titles featured in Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics. That’s because you’ll more regularly be using the buttons further to the right (by default, for heavy attacks).
You can of course set your own button profiles on the Alpha which may alleviate some of the stress here. But if you’re a Street Fighter player, you may be better served with a stick that adopts the Vewlix layout which has the buttons laid out in more uniform rows.
Lastly, for connectivity on console or PC, you’ll be relying on the included 10ft (3m) USB-C cable. That should be fine for most gaming setups and you can adjust its length via a spool beneath the Alpha’s clamshell. But just know that wireless connectivity isn’t an option here.
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the Hori Fighting Stick Alpha?
Buy it if...
You’re a Tekken player Four-button fighting games like Tekken 8 or The King of Fighters 15 are well-suited for the Alpha’s Noir button layout.
You’re after a long-lasting, customizable fight stick The Alpha is customizable in terms of its hardware and software, allowing you to swap out components and set your own button profiles. Its sturdy build quality and lightweight design make it excellent for traveling and taking to tournaments, too.
Don't buy it if...
You’re new to fight sticks This is a price thing more than anything else. If you’re just looking to dabble in fight sticks for the first time, cheaper options like the 8BitDo Arcade Stick or Mayflash F300 might suit you better.
You play a wide range of fighting games While you can have success in just about any fighting game with the Alpha, if you juggle a number of fighting games you might find that a Vewlix layout stick is better suited for you, especially for titles like Street Fighter 6.
Also consider...
Still unsure? We’ve reviewed a couple of fight stick alternatives that you may wish to check out instead of the Hori Fighting Stick Alpha. Refer to the table below for a quick rundown of specs.
8BitDo Arcade Stick An excellent budget-friendly fight stick that’s relatively light and travel-friendly. It’s also got wireless connectivity via an included 2.4GHz dongle if you’d prefer that over a stricter wired connection. You will have to contend with slightly higher input lag if you’re going wireless, though, which is worth keeping in mind.
Victrix Pro FS Arguably the cream of the crop when it comes to premium fight sticks, the Victrix Pro FS boasts immaculate build quality and comes fitted with best-in-class Sanwa-Denshi buttons. If money’s no object and you’re going all in on a fight stick, this is the one to go for. Both stick and leverless options are available here, at the same price.
Played a wide variety of fighting games across platforms
I tested the Hori Fighting Stick Alpha over a period of two weeks, playing a variety of fighting games including Tekken 8, Street Fighter 6, Guilty Gear Strive, Granblue Fantasy Versus Rising, and Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes.
I’ve been playing fighting games all my life, and while I’m typically a controller player, I’ve owned a number of fight sticks and thus have been able to channel my experience there into this review. Key things I looked out for during my testing included button responsiveness, the durability of the product, its aptitude to differing fighting game button layouts, and its comfort over longer gaming sessions.
I tested the Hori Fighting Stick Alpha primarily on PC but was also able to hook it up to my Xbox Series X Digital Edition for play on an LG CX OLED TV. Whether I was on console or PC, I didn’t notice any serious deviation when it came to input lag or general performance.
When I sent a picture of my Thrustmaster Viper TQS Mission Pack review unit to my editor, he called it a “ridiculous product”. He meant it flatteringly, of course - how could anyone not want a chunk of a fighter jet’s cockpit ripped out and placed on their desk? That’s exactly what’s on offer with the catchily titled Mission Pack (which sounds like Flight Sim DLC as opposed to a peripheral).
To get the important thing out of the way, though, there’s no stick included here. You can, of course, connect up any traditional flight stick, but for $549.99 / £449.99, it’s worth remembering you’ll still need one.
That plus the price tag puts this firmly in ‘enthusiast’ territory for many, and yet as soon as you take the hefty unit out of the box, it’s hard not to let out a small gasp at just how neat it is. From the switches, to the throttle and its assorted inputs, it only gets cooler when you plug it in and engage the backlights throughout.
There are a staggering 64 buttons included on this 1:1 model, and it’s possible to get even more out of it with some remapping. It’s in a nice spot where it’s approachable (as long as you can afford it) because you can plug it in and most games will recognize it almost instantly, but there’s the potential for some light tweaking with adjustable lights and friction that mean it can be as smooth as you’d like.
The Thrustmaster Viper TQS Mission Pack won’t be for everyone, but if you’re in the target demographic, you’ll likely already have an order placed.
(Image credit: Future)
Thrustmaster Viper TQS Mission Pack: price and availability
List price:$529.99 / £449.99
Available worldwide
Very much in premium territory
The Thrustmaster Viper TQS Mission Pack, as mentioned above, doesn’t come with a flight stick but it does come in three different configurations if you’d like to keep costs down.
The first is the throttle, which is available solus, while the second is just the control panel of switches and the like. Finally, you can get the complete version that we’re reviewing here, but if you already have a throttle and just want some switches, or vice versa, the option is there.
Still, there’s no getting around that price tag, but there are much more affordable options available for newer pilots - we’ll come to those shortly.
Thrustmaster Viper TQS Mission Pack: specs
(Image credit: Future)
Thrustmaster Viper TQS Mission Pack: design and features
Sturdy construction means it won’t move
Adjustable friction
Plenty of inputs
What struck me when removing the Thrustmaster Viper TQS Mission Pack from its box was just how weighty it is. It’s not necessarily what I’d describe as heavy for heavy’s sake, but it’s got enough heft to it where you can tell it’s been made of materials that will last.
It arrives fully assembled, but with the option to adjust the friction. I found it a little too easy to push at first, and lacking in dramatic effect, but in order to engage afterburner or idle your in-game engine, you’ll need to lift the throttle over a sort of 'hard stop' which adds a fun mechanical feel. Once you then dial in the friction, it just feels right.
There’s even a 'slap button' which can trigger flares with your backhand, which is a nice touch, and then you have a whole bunch of buttons and knobs on the throttle handle. There’s comfortable, if overwhelming at first, and relative novices (that’s me) will likely not press them often, but we’ll come to mapping shortly.
For the panel, you get an adjustable green backlight once you plug it in (there’s a USB-C port at the front), and every switch has a satisfying click when engaged. Add to that the variety of knobs that are easy to turn but don’t get too close to the throttle, and there’s plenty of space for some quick maneuvers.
I also really like the landing gear switch, which you can’t accidentally nudge because it has to be lifted before it can be moved. When I started playing Elite Dangerous I was on Xbox, playing with a controller, fumbling with modifier buttons and all sorts to get my landing gear up. Having a bespoke switch now is a testament to how wide the gamut of flight sim control options are.
If the game you’re playing supports an eject button, you’ll find one of those, too - here’s hoping you never need it.
(Image credit: Future)
Thrustmaster Viper TQS Mission Pack: performance
Plug and play
Customizable elements
T.A.R.G.E.T software feels a little dated
Thrustmaster recommends using its T.A.R.G.E.T software, but I barely dabbled with it in my testing.
It’s a small install, but outside of using it to install drivers, I found the interface a little too dated to use for button remapping. Still, you can set up various premade layouts within it, mimicking the behaviour of real aircraft, if that’s your thing,
I’m more a space ace myself, so I was keen to test it at two ends of the spectrum: Star Wars Squadrons and Elite Dangerous.
The former was nice and easy, with the game instantly recognizing my stick as one input, and the Thrustmaster Viper TQS Mission Pack as a secondary one. Within minutes I was chasing ‘Rebel scum’ in my TIE Fighter, locking on and looping the loop.
Elite Dangerous is a slower-paced space sim, but again it was easy enough to get going after switching my input method over in the settings. After a quick auto-launch procedure, I was out space trucking in comfort, safe in the knowledge I was able to react to any situation.
Naturally, sim-based games will have more use for many of the panel’s various switches and knobs. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 dropped during testing, and I found much more use for the array of inputs there than I did in more sci-fi settings.
(Image credit: Future)
Should you buy the Thrustmaster Viper TQS Mission Pack?
Buy it if...
You want to take your flight sim setup to new heights This is as close as you can get to flying a real aircraft at your desk, and could elevate your entire setup.View Deal
You’re happy to get your hands dirty With customizable friction and lighting, as well as extensive button mapping.View Deal
Don't buy it if...
You want a flight stick The Thrustmaster Viper TQS Mission Pack is additive, but you’ll still need a stick.View Deal
Also consider...
Still not sold on the Thrustmaster Viper TQS Mission Pack? Here’s how it compares to two similar products.
Turtle Beach VelocityOne The Turtle Beach VelocityOne is a much more affordable stick, which might make it an ideal companion to the Thrustmaster Viper TQS Mission Pack.
It has plenty of buttons and a nice OLED screen for data, while also offering a comfortable flight experience. We’d have liked it to be slightly heavier, though, so it’s less likely to move across a desk.
Logitech T Flight Hotas One Looking to get a throttle and stick combo that’s built for beginners? This option has a comfortable stick and detachable throttle.
It’s not as weighty, but it is a fantastic beginner product thanks to its competitive price and the ability to use it on PC and Xbox consoles.
How I tested the Thrustmaster Viper TQS Mission Pack
Tested over multiple weeks
Used on a gaming PC with an RTX 4070Ti
Tested using Elite Dangerous, Star Wars Squadrons and Microsoft Flight Simulator
I’ve been using the Thrustmaster Viper TQS Mission Pack for a couple of weeks now, switching between multiple titles.
While I enjoyed using it for Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown, I primarily tested it using Elite Dangerous, an expansive space sim, and Star Wars Squadrons for testing tight turns and dogfighting, as well as Microsoft Flight Simulator for longer, more realistic flying sessions.
Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex: One-minute review
Look, it’s hard to make one of the best racing wheels at an affordable cost. Compromises have to be made in order to hit a lower price point, and there are no good options when it comes to what to jettison.
In the Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex, Hori has managed to retain decent build quality and even an impressive wireless function that far pricier wheels don’t feature, but after a few hours of use it’s clear that this is a Pyrrhic victory - the driving experience makes you miss the features it’s gone without.
Specifically: a longer brake pedal actuation, a sturdier pedal base that stays in place, and - although it’s a stretch at the price - force feedback. With these elements missing, the fundamental fun and increased precision you gain from inputting via a wheel is unfortunately offset by too much fiddling and repositioning with the pedals, and an unsatisfying on/off feel to braking.
Of course, that’s the sim racer in me talking, with an awareness of how far more expensive direct drive setups feel in the best racing games. If you put this wheel in the hands of a younger gamer whose curiosity for racing might not warrant sinking two grand on a Fanatec direct-drive rig quite yet, they’ll likely just appreciate the pros and won’t miss the cons too much.
The same goes for casual players whose appetite for racing is infrequent and who just want to try a different style of controlling their vehicles in game. Ultimately, then? The Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex's quality hinges entirely on the use case, and the audience. Just know that there are dramatically better options out there for only a small amount of extra cash.
(Image credit: Future)
HORI Wireless Racing Wheel Apex: Price and availability
List price: $119.99 / £159.99 / around AU$319
As budget-friendly as you’ll find for a racing wheel
Logitech’s G29 is only £40 more now in UK, and offers force feedback
You can’t fault Hori’s ability to achieve a really attractive entry-level price point – in fact, you’ll struggle to find a cheaper model from a reputable brand. This pricing alone makes the Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex worth considering.
It’s up against dominating competition from an old stalwart, the Logitech G29, in the UK which is now going for £199 and offers force feedback, superior build qualit,y and functionality. In the US, where the G29 still costs $299, the Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex seems a lot more reasonable.
Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex: Specs
Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex: Design and features
Smart appearance
Ergonomic layout
Flawed pedal design
You’ll find even less metal here than at the Teen Choice Awards, but this wheel’s finish and aesthetic do a lot to flatter the plastic construction materials. This being a PlayStation wheel officially licensed by Sony, you’ll find all the buttons from a DualSense Wireless Controller mapped around the centre of the wheel in a sensible ergonomic layout. Behind them are two plastic paddle shifters, and above the central PlayStation logo are a couple of toggle switches for PS4 / PS5 / PC compatibility.
It’s an attractive peripheral for the price, and the chromed plastic on the lower half does a lot to elevate the look. The gold centre band is a useful touch that adds some motorsport cred to the design, and all the face buttons feel really nice to press – perhaps owing to Hori’s chops in the fight stick market.
I also appreciated the rubberized grips, which added a lot to the feel during a race and kept my hands exactly where I needed them, even in sweatier sessions.
(Image credit: Future)
Down at your feet though, the design fares less well. There’s no hiding how plasticky that throttle and brake are, nor how insubstantial they feel to operate.
A lot of this comes down to the design. The base just isn’t big enough to distribute your stamping force across a wide enough surface area to prevent the pedals from shifting or twisting under your feet. Even if you push the unit right up against a wall so it can’t move backwards, you still feel a twist if you brake hard. There’s not much that can be done about this - there are no mounting holes for a racing seat, and the rubber stays aren’t sticky enough to keep it in place on carpets or hard floors.
Time for the ace up the Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex’s sleeve, though: wireless operation. Alright, not totally wireless - you still need to connect the wheel to the pedals, via an old-school modem-like input (like the ones Thrustmaster and Fanatec use in bases). But from wheel to console or PC, it’s cable-free.
Up to 10 hours of battery life is promised on the spec sheet, and pairing it to the USB-A dongle is a simple procedure. It’s a genuinely impressive addition, although you can’t help but wonder if the overall experience might have benefitted from that expense being spent on the driving feel instead.
Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex: Performance
Functional but basic
Limited steering angle and brake actuation
Centering spring hampers car feel
There are two ways to appraise this wheel. Given that it’s aimed squarely at the beginner end of the market, the first is to simply weigh up the merits of using a wheel input versus a controller – the increased precision offered, the way you can catch those spins quicker and correct them more easily. The advantage of holding a consistent steering angle through a corner is something that’s much trickier when you’re trying to be precise with a tiny analog stick. It won’t make you faster straight away, but in the long run, you’re always going to feel the benefits of a wheel peripheral over a pad.
The second approach – and this is where Hori is sweating – is to evaluate this wheel against similarly priced competitors. And that’s where it struggles to make a compelling argument.
Here are the elements that hamper your performance: firstly, the brake pedal. In addition to the issues with keeping the pedal base in place, the brake pedal itself has a tiny amount of actuation, and that creates the sensation that you’re pressing the brake button, rather than applying progressive pressure to the brakes. In other words, it negates the benefits of braking using a pedal instead of a trigger on a pad.
It’s not all bad, though. To the Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex’s credit, there’s a decent amount of resistance to the spring on the brake, slightly more than on the throttle, which feels just about resistant enough. And which, crucially, has just about enough travel.
(Image credit: Future)
Next performance-limiting issue: the centering spring strength of the wheel. This is not a force feedback peripheral, so there’s no tarmac rumble, no dynamic resistance to turn-in, and no steering wheel snaps when your back end hits traction loss and steps out. That’s fair enough. This is a budget wheel, and implementing both the hardware and the software compatibility for force feedback aren’t cheap.
So in its place is a simple spring which brings the wheel back to its centre point when you’re not exerting steering inputs to the left or right. The amount of tension when you’re moving the wheel from centre to a degree of rotation feels fine, and likewise when you’re moving it back from that rotated position. But as it hits the centre point, the wheel snaps into position so aggressively that it affects a car’s stability in-game.
There’s also the 270-degree rotation range to consider. It’s enough angle to enjoy the feeling of sending a car through a corner in most scenarios, but it’s quite limited by the standards set by its peers and situations will crop up where you’ll wish for more angle. Taking the hairpin at Monaco in F1 24, for example, or trying to park in Euro Truck Simulator 2. Many wheels offer up to 900 degrees, and truthfully I’ve sometimes felt like I could get away with much less until I used this Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex.
And that leads to the final point about this wheel. It’s not to be knocked or ruled out of contention, because the build quality and features are decent for the price. But that caveat is crucially important. It’s the only context in which such a wheel makes sense.
And that means you should consider if this wheel is going to satisfy your needs in the long run, or whether you’ll probably end up buying a more expensive upgrade later down the line that adds in the features you’ll miss here.
Should I buy the Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex?
(Image credit: Future)
Buy it if...
You’re new to racing peripherals The pricing and feature set are aimed squarely at the entry level of the market, making the Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex a low-cost way to see if wheel peripherals are for you.
You’re buying for a younger gamer The smaller size of the pedals and wheel would suit a junior racer who’s newer to the genre.
You’re not going to upgrade later Spending slightly more could unlock access to wheels with force feedback, more rotation, better pedals and sturdier construction, so be sure that this is all you’re going to need.
Don't buy it if...
You're an Xbox racer The Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex is PS5, PS4, and PC-compatible, so if you want a Forza rig you’ll need to look elsewhere.
You want force feedback You get a lot more information from a force feedback wheel which helps you to improve as a racer in the long run.
You’ve got a heavy foot The small pedal base, plastic construction and limited brake actuation aren’t ideal for heavy brake or throttle inputs.
Also consider...
If the Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex doesn’t meet your need (for speed), these similarly priced rivals are worth a look.
Thrustmaster T248 A decent all-rounder with sturdy build quality, gratifying magnetic shifter paddles and a lot of torque generated by a dual-motor force feedback servo.
Logitech G920 The elder statesman of racing wheels remains as dependable and feature-complete as ever, even if its position in the Logi G hierarchy is confusing following the G923’s arrival.
Since the Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex'spedal base can’t be mounted to a sim racing rig, my Playseat gathered dust for a week while I clamped this wireless rig to my desk and put in the hours with Gran Turismo 7, F1 24, and The Crew Motorfest.
I’ve been testing wheels since the early 2010s when the Logitech G27 sat resplendent on the sim racing throne, and in the intervening year,s I’ve taken hairpins and sent many a purple sector with high-end direct drive models and budget offerings alike.
As a point of comparison, I dug out Thrustmaster’s similarly priced T128 wheel for a feature, build quality and driving feel reference, setting aside my usual Thrustmaster T-GT II belt-driven wheel (and the sim rig it’s attached to) for a while
