SteelSeries’ Apex Pro TKL (Gen 3) is a high-end wired gaming keyboard featuring adjustable OmniPoint 3.0 switches and innovative functionalities like Rapid Tap to enhance gaming performance. Its sleek design includes a black chassis, an OLED screen, and customizable RGB lighting. The keyboard offers an improved typing experience with lubricated switches and responsive feedback. With adjustable travel distances and dual action capabilities, it caters to gamers seeking precision and versatility in their gameplay.
The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (Gen 3): A Gaming Marvel
The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (Gen 3) wired gaming keyboard is a premium offering from the renowned Danish brand. With its innovative adjustable magnetic switches, the Apex Pro series has been a staple on gamer’s desks for years, and this latest generation continues that tradition.
This third iteration enhances the OmniPoint switches by integrating features seen in competitors, such as Rapid Tap. This functionality prioritizes the most recent key press, even when multiple keys are being activated simultaneously. Additionally, the new model introduces a protective mode to help avoid accidental presses from nearby keys.
Design and Build Quality
While the design remains familiar, the Gen 3 version sees a slight uptick in price, now priced at around 240 euros for the wired TKL variant, with the wireless version at 290 euros and a full-size wired model available for 260 euros.
The aesthetic of the Apex Pro TKL is sleek and understated, boasting a fully black plastic chassis that features an interesting indentation that gives it a floating appearance on the desk. Topped with a black metal plate housing the OmniPoint 3.0 switches, this keyboard exudes a unique character.
Despite its plastic build contributing to a less premium feel compared to some rivals, the overall construction quality is commendable. The keyboard is complemented by a magnetic wrist rest, though a bit more padding would enhance long-term comfort.
The iconic OLED screen is prominently positioned in the top right corner, accompanied by a compact clickable volume wheel and an additional button for display features. The TKL format retains simplicity, with the absence of unnecessary embellishments.
Switches are directly mounted on the metal plate, supporting integrated per-key RGB lighting and PBT keycaps. However, some symbols are merely printed rather than cut into the keys, limiting their visibility under low light conditions.
For enhanced ergonomics, the Apex Pro TKL includes retractable feet for adjustable angles, and a hidden keycap puller adds a pleasant surprise. Connectivity is via a single USB C port with a braided cable, but the lack of a USB passthrough port is a minor drawback. Additionally, the removal of three keys on the right side limits certain functionalities, like screenshot options.
Enhanced Typing Experience
Beyond its new features, the Apex Pro TKL significantly improves typing quality. SteelSeries has refined the feel of the OmniPoint switches, which maintain a linear action, making for a smooth and enjoyable typing experience.
With lubricated switches, upgraded stabilizers, and multiple insulation layers, the keyboard delivers a satisfying auditory feedback akin to that of custom keyboards. The OmniPoint 3.0 switches remain light and responsive, requiring minimal force to activate, with a default activation point of 1.8 mm.
This setup allows for fluid action execution, enhancing the overall performance, especially with customizable options like Rapid Trigger and double activation that can elevate your gaming experience.
Innovative Switch Features
The Apex Pro TKL showcases the pinnacle of SteelSeries innovation through its cutting-edge OmniPoint 3.0 switches. Configuration is straightforward via the SteelSeries GG driver, allowing for comprehensive key reassignment and macro functions.
Featuring adjustable mechanical switches with travel distances from 0.1 to 4 mm, the keyboard includes Rapid Trigger and double activation functionalities. The ability to assign two distinct actions to the same key opens up a new realm of possibilities for gamers, allowing for strategic gameplay adjustments.
Additionally, the introduction of Rapid Tap addresses simultaneous key presses, providing a solution to the challenges of competitive gaming. Users can effortlessly customize key pairs and choose their preferred responses, enhancing the overall gaming experience.