SteelSeries Apex Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Review: Is it Worth the Hype?

Table of Contents

Introduction

The SteelSeries Apex Pro is a mechanical gaming keyboard that promises a revolutionary experience with its adjustable actuation switches. With a focus on speed and customization, this keyboard is aimed at competitive gamers and anyone who wants the best possible typing experience. I’ve been using the Apex Pro for several weeks, putting it through its paces in both gaming and everyday use.

Features

The SteelSeries Apex Pro is packed with features:

* **Adjustable Actuation Switches:** This is the most significant feature of the Apex Pro. Each key has an adjustable actuation point, meaning you can decide how far the key needs to be pressed down to register a keystroke. This allows you to fine-tune the keyboard for your individual preferences and playstyle.
* **OLED Smart Display:** This small display shows you important information, such as your current profile, active macros, and even notifications from Discord.
* **RGB Backlit:** The Apex Pro comes with per-key RGB backlighting, allowing you to customize the keyboard’s lighting to your liking.
* **Dedicated Media Controls:** Dedicated buttons for volume control, media playback, and mute are conveniently located on the top-right side of the keyboard.
* **USB Passthrough:** A USB port on the back of the keyboard allows you to connect a device like a mouse or headset.
* **SteelSeries Engine Software:** This comprehensive software allows you to customize the keyboard’s lighting, profiles, macros, and other settings.

Performance

The adjustable actuation switches are truly the star of the show. Being able to customize the actuation point to my liking was a game-changer. I was able to reduce the actuation point for my most frequently used keys, making my typing and gaming faster and more responsive. The overall typing experience is excellent; the keys feel smooth and responsive, with just the right amount of feedback.

The OLED display is a nice touch, providing quick access to information without having to minimize games or applications. The RGB lighting is bright and customizable, although some might find it a bit excessive. The dedicated media controls are convenient, and the USB passthrough is useful for connecting additional peripherals.

Pros & Cons

**Pros:**

* Adjustable actuation switches provide a personalized and responsive typing experience.
* OLED smart display is useful for showing important information.
* Excellent build quality and design.
* Customizable RGB backlighting.
* Dedicated media controls and USB passthrough are convenient features.

**Cons:**

* The price is significantly higher than most other mechanical gaming keyboards.
* The adjustable actuation switch system can be a bit complex to set up and configure.
* The OLED display is small and can be difficult to see in bright environments.

Final Verdict

The SteelSeries Apex Pro is an exceptional gaming keyboard that offers a unique and customizable typing experience. The adjustable actuation switches are a game-changer for anyone who wants to optimize their keyboard for speed and responsiveness. However, the high price point may be a barrier for some. If you’re a serious gamer or a demanding typist who is looking for the best possible experience, the Apex Pro is definitely worth considering.

Feature Specification
Type Mechanical
Switch Type SteelSeries OmniPoint Adjustable Actuation
Backlighting Per-key RGB
Display OLED Smart Display
Media Controls Dedicated buttons for volume control, media playback, and mute
USB Passthrough Yes
Software SteelSeries Engine