SteelSeries has long been a name synonymous with quality gaming peripherals, and their Apex Pro line of keyboards has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation. The Apex Pro Gen 3 continues this tradition, refining its predecessor’s strengths while introducing new features that cater to both gamers and serious typists. But does it live up to the hype and justify its premium price tag? Let’s dive in.
At the heart of the Apex Pro Gen 3 lie the new OmniPoint 3.0 switches. These magnetic switches, a hallmark of the Apex Pro line, allow for adjustable actuation points, meaning you can customize how far down you need to press a key for it to register. While the previous generation offered a respectable range of customization, the Gen 3 expands this with 40 levels of actuation, ranging from a featherlight 0.2mm to a deliberate 3.8mm. This level of granularity is unmatched in the market and allows for truly personalized keystrokes, whether you crave lightning-fast responsiveness for gaming or a more tactile feel for typing. Compared to traditional mechanical switches found in keyboards like the Logitech G Pro X or the Razer Huntsman, the OmniPoint 3.0 switches feel distinctly different. They lack the pronounced tactile bump or click of a mechanical switch, instead offering a smooth and linear feel. This might not appeal to purists who adore the feedback of a traditional switch, but it allows for swift and effortless keystrokes.
Beyond the adjustable actuation, the OmniPoint 3.0 switches boast significant speed improvements. SteelSeries claims 20x faster actuation and 11x faster response times compared to standard mechanical switches. While these figures are difficult to quantify in real-world use, the keyboard certainly feels incredibly responsive. In fast-paced games, where split-second reactions matter, the Apex Pro Gen 3 provides a noticeable edge. The keys register instantly, and there’s no sense of lag or delay. This responsiveness extends to typing as well. Whether I was hammering out a document or coding, the keyboard kept pace with my frantic keystrokes without missing a beat.
SteelSeries has also addressed some of the criticisms leveled against the previous generation. Key feel and sound have been improved with the addition of per-key lubrication and triple-layer sound dampening. While not as thocky as enthusiast keyboards like the Keychron Q series or as silent as membrane keyboards, the Gen 3 strikes a good balance. The keystrokes are relatively quiet, with a muted and satisfying sound profile. The stabilizers on larger keys, which were a point of contention in the past, have also been enhanced. They now feel more stable and less prone to wobble, resulting in a more consistent typing experience.
The build quality, as expected from a SteelSeries product, is superb. The keyboard features an aircraft-grade aluminum alloy frame that feels incredibly sturdy and durable. It can withstand the rigors of intense gaming sessions and the occasional accidental bump. The detachable USB-C cable is a welcome addition, making it easier to transport and store the keyboard. While the keycaps are made of ABS plastic, they feel decent enough and have a pleasant texture. However, they don’t quite match the premium feel of PBT keycaps found on some competing keyboards like the Corsair K100 RGB.
The OLED Smart Display, a signature feature of the Apex Pro line, returns in the Gen 3. This small screen, located in the top right corner of the keyboard, provides information at a glance, such as active profiles, actuation settings, and even notifications from apps like Discord and Spotify. While some might consider it a gimmick, the OLED screen can be genuinely useful, especially for quickly switching between profiles or adjusting settings on the fly. It’s a feature not commonly found on other keyboards, with the exception of some high-end models like the Corsair K100 RGB, which offers a similar iCUE control wheel.
The Apex Pro Gen 3 also introduces new features like Rapid Trigger, which dynamically adjusts actuation and reset points based on how far you press a key. This is designed to provide even faster input and potentially reduce latency in games. While the impact of Rapid Trigger is subtle, it adds another layer of customization and control for serious gamers.
Overall, the SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 is a truly impressive keyboard that excels in both gaming and typing. The OmniPoint 3.0 switches offer unparalleled customization and responsiveness, while the improved key feel, sound dampening, and build quality enhance the overall experience. Though it comes at a premium price, comparable to other high-end keyboards like the Razer Huntsman V2 Analog or the Corsair K100 RGB, the Apex Pro Gen 3 justifies its cost with its unique features and exceptional performance. Whether you’re a competitive gamer seeking every advantage or a discerning typist who values comfort and customization, the SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 is a worthy investment.
Overall Rating: 5 out of 5
Pros:
- Unmatched customization with OmniPoint 3.0 switches
- Incredibly fast and responsive keystrokes
- Improved key feel and sound dampening
- Durable build quality with aircraft-grade aluminum frame
- Useful OLED Smart Display
- Innovative features like Rapid Trigger
Cons:
- Premium price tag
- ABS keycaps instead of PBT
- OLED screen might not appeal to everyone
