SteelSeries Apex Pro Keyboard Review: A Deep Dive into the Future of Typing

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When I first heard about the SteelSeries Apex Pro HyperMagnetic Gaming Keyboard, my curiosity was immediately piqued. A keyboard that promises adjustable actuation, an OLED screen, and a magnetic wrist rest? Count me in. After using this keyboard extensively, I’m here to share my experience with this game-changing device.

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Unboxing the Beast

The moment I unboxed the SteelSeries Apex Pro, I could tell it was something special. The packaging itself was sleek and professional, a precursor to the premium product nestled inside. Pulling out the keyboard, I was struck by its robust build. It felt solid and substantial, hinting at the quality within.

Inside the box, along with the keyboard, was a magnetic wrist rest, a product information guide, and a downloadable guide for the Arctis Pro. The inclusion of a wrist rest was a nice touch, even if it has a tendency to attract dust like a magnet to iron filings.

First Impressions

The SteelSeries Apex Pro is a full-sized keyboard, boasting 104 keys with RGB backlighting. The first thing that caught my eye was the OLED smart display located at the top right. This small screen can show information from games and apps, providing quick, glanceable updates without needing to tab out of a game. Next to it is a clickable metal roller and media key, perfect for adjusting volume and controlling media on the fly.

Build Quality and Design

The design of the SteelSeries Apex Pro is both modern and functional. It’s wired, which ensures a stable and reliable connection, crucial for gaming. The frame is made of aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, giving it a premium feel and ensuring durability.

The magnetic wrist rest is comfortable, albeit prone to gathering dust. It snaps onto the keyboard with satisfying precision and provides excellent support during long typing or gaming sessions. Overall, the keyboard feels well-built and designed with the user in mind.

Adjustable Actuation: The Game Changer

Now, let’s talk about the feature that truly sets the SteelSeries Apex Pro apart: the adjustable actuation. This keyboard uses OmniPoint 2.0 adjustable HyperMagnetic switches, allowing you to change the pre-travel distance required to register a keypress. You can set the actuation point anywhere between 0.1mm and 4.0mm.

For gaming, this means you can set your WASD keys to have ultra-fast actuation, ensuring every movement is registered instantly. For typing, you can increase the actuation distance to reduce accidental keystrokes. This customization extends to every key on the keyboard, providing a level of control that’s unmatched.

Typing Experience

Typing on the SteelSeries Apex Pro is a dream. The keys are responsive and have a satisfying tactile feel. The ability to adjust the actuation point means you can fine-tune the keyboard to your personal preferences, whether you prefer a light touch or a more deliberate press.

Despite being a gaming keyboard, it’s surprisingly quiet, making it suitable for office environments as well. The full RGB backlighting is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, allowing you to customize the look of your keyboard to match your setup.

Gaming Performance

When it comes to gaming, the SteelSeries Apex Pro truly shines. The rapid trigger technology eradicates latency by dynamically activating and deactivating keys based on their travel distance. This means your inputs are registered faster than with traditional mechanical keyboards, giving you a competitive edge.

The 2-in-1 action keys are another standout feature. You can program two different actions to the same key, depending on how hard you press it. For instance, a light touch could make your character walk, while a deep press could make them sprint. This adds a new layer of control and customization to your gaming experience.

Software Customization

The SteelSeries Engine software is where you can unlock the full potential of the Apex Pro. It’s intuitive and easy to use, allowing you to customize the actuation point of each key, program macros, and adjust the RGB lighting. The software also lets you set up profiles for different games or applications, ensuring you have the perfect setup for every situation.

OLED Smart Display

The OLED smart display is a nifty addition. It can show a variety of information, from game stats to Discord messages, without needing to leave your game. While it’s not a game-changing feature, it’s definitely a nice touch that adds to the overall experience.

Connectivity and USB Passthrough

The Apex Pro connects via USB, ensuring a stable and lag-free connection. Additionally, it includes a USB passthrough port, which is incredibly convenient for connecting additional USB-powered devices like a mouse or headset. This small feature can make a big difference in keeping your desk setup clean and organized.

Ergonomics

One of the key aspects of any keyboard is how it feels to use for extended periods. The SteelSeries Apex Pro excels in this department. The magnetic wrist rest provides excellent support, reducing strain on your wrists during long typing or gaming sessions. The ability to adjust the actuation point also means you can find a setting that minimizes fatigue, making this keyboard as comfortable as it is powerful.

Durability

Durability is another strong point for the SteelSeries Apex Pro. The aircraft-grade aluminum frame ensures it can withstand heavy use, whether you’re a hardcore gamer or someone who types all day. The keys are rated for millions of presses, ensuring this keyboard will last for years.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Adjustable Pre-Travel Distance: The ability to customize the actuation point of each key is a game-changer.
  • Build Quality: Robust and durable, with an aircraft-grade aluminum frame.
  • Typing Quality: Satisfying and responsive, suitable for both gaming and office use.
  • Full RGB Backlighting: Customizable and vibrant, enhancing the aesthetic appeal.
  • OLED Smart Display: Provides useful information at a glance.
  • 2-in-1 Action Keys: Adds a new layer of control and customization for gaming.

Cons:

  • Wrist Rest: Comfortable but a magnet for dust.
  • No Dedicated Macro Keys: Might be a drawback for some users who rely on them for gaming or productivity tasks.

Final Verdict

After spending considerable time with the SteelSeries Apex Pro, it’s clear that this is a keyboard designed for those who demand the best in both performance and customization. Whether you’re a gamer looking for that competitive edge, a programmer who needs a reliable and responsive keyboard, or just someone who types a lot and wants a comfortable and customizable experience, the Apex Pro has you covered.

The standout feature is undoubtedly the adjustable actuation, which allows you to tailor the keyboard to your exact needs. The build quality is exceptional, and the additional features like the OLED smart display and USB passthrough add to the overall value.

While it has a few minor drawbacks, such as the dust-attracting wrist rest and the lack of dedicated macro keys, these are easily outweighed by the numerous benefits. The SteelSeries Apex Pro is not just a keyboard; it’s a tool that can significantly enhance your computing experience.

Recommendation

If you’re in the market for a new keyboard and want something that offers unparalleled customization and performance, I highly recommend the SteelSeries Apex Pro. It’s a bit of an investment, but for what you get, it’s worth every penny. This keyboard has redefined what I expect from a gaming and typing experience, and I’m confident it will do the same for you.

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