The SteelSeries Apex Pro is a high-end gaming keyboard designed to provide gamers with a competitive edge. With its sleek design, customizable features, and advanced technology, it’s no wonder that many gamers are eager to get their hands on this keyboard. But is the SteelSeries Apex Pro worth the investment? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the features, performance, and value of the SteelSeries Apex Pro to help you decide.
Design and Build Quality
The SteelSeries Apex Pro boasts a sleek and compact design that’s perfect for gamers who prefer a minimalist setup. The keyboard measures 17.5 inches in length, 5.5 inches in width, and 1.5 inches in height, making it easy to fit on most gaming desks. The keyboard’s frame is made of durable aluminum, which provides a solid foundation for the keys and other components.
One of the standout features of the SteelSeries Apex Pro is its compact tenkeyless design. This design allows for a more ergonomic typing experience and provides more space for mouse movement. The keyboard also features a built-in wrist rest, which can be adjusted to fit different hand sizes and preferences.
Key Switches and Actuation
The SteelSeries Apex Pro features SteelSeries’ proprietary OmniPoint switches, which are designed to provide a fast and responsive typing experience. These switches have a unique design that allows for adjustable actuation points, which can be customized to fit individual preferences.
The OmniPoint switches have a range of 0.4mm to 3.6mm, which allows for a high degree of customization. This means that gamers can adjust the actuation point to fit their preferred typing style, whether it’s light and fast or heavy and deliberate.
Switch Durability and Lifespan
The OmniPoint switches are designed to be durable and long-lasting, with a lifespan of up to 100 million keystrokes. This is significantly higher than the industry standard of 50 million keystrokes, which means that the SteelSeries Apex Pro can withstand heavy use over an extended period.
Performance and Features
The SteelSeries Apex Pro is designed to provide a fast and responsive typing experience, with a range of features that enhance its performance. Some of the key features include:
- N-key rollover: This feature allows for simultaneous key presses, which is essential for fast-paced games that require multiple key presses at once.
- Customizable backlighting: The SteelSeries Apex Pro features 16.8 million color options, which can be customized to fit individual preferences.
- Macro keys: The keyboard features 12 macro keys that can be customized to perform complex actions and commands.
- Media controls: The keyboard features dedicated media controls, including play/pause, skip, and volume adjustment.
Gaming Performance
The SteelSeries Apex Pro is designed to provide a competitive edge in games, with a range of features that enhance its performance. The keyboard’s fast and responsive typing experience, combined with its customizable features, make it an ideal choice for gamers who require precision and speed.
In our testing, the SteelSeries Apex Pro performed exceptionally well in a range of games, including first-person shooters, multiplayer online battle arenas, and real-time strategy games. The keyboard’s fast actuation point and customizable switches allowed for quick and precise movements, which gave us a competitive edge in fast-paced games.
Software and Customization
The SteelSeries Apex Pro is compatible with SteelSeries’ Engine software, which allows for customization and configuration of the keyboard’s features. The software is easy to use and provides a range of options for customizing the keyboard’s backlighting, macro keys, and other features.
Value and Conclusion
The SteelSeries Apex Pro is a high-end gaming keyboard that’s designed to provide a competitive edge. With its sleek design, customizable features, and advanced technology, it’s no wonder that many gamers are eager to get their hands on this keyboard.
However, the SteelSeries Apex Pro is not cheap, with a price tag of around $200. This is significantly higher than many other gaming keyboards on the market, which may make it out of reach for some gamers.
Despite its high price tag, the SteelSeries Apex Pro is a worthwhile investment for serious gamers who require a high-quality keyboard. Its fast and responsive typing experience, combined with its customizable features and advanced technology, make it an ideal choice for gamers who want to take their gaming to the next level.
Alternatives and Comparison
If you’re looking for alternative gaming keyboards, there are several options available on the market. Some of the top alternatives include:
- Razer BlackWidow Chroma V2: This keyboard features customizable backlighting, macro keys, and a range of switch options.
- Logitech G512 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard: This keyboard features customizable backlighting, macro keys, and a range of switch options.
- HyperX Alloy Elite: This keyboard features customizable backlighting, macro keys, and a range of switch options.
In comparison to these alternatives, the SteelSeries Apex Pro stands out for its unique OmniPoint switches and compact tenkeyless design. While it may not offer the same range of switch options as some of its competitors, its customizable features and advanced technology make it a worthwhile investment for serious gamers.
Final Verdict
The SteelSeries Apex Pro is a high-end gaming keyboard that’s designed to provide a competitive edge. With its sleek design, customizable features, and advanced technology, it’s an ideal choice for serious gamers who want to take their gaming to the next level. While it may not be cheap, its fast and responsive typing experience, combined with its durable construction and long-lasting switches, make it a worthwhile investment for gamers who require a high-quality keyboard.
| Feature | SteelSeries Apex Pro | Razer BlackWidow Chroma V2 | Logitech G512 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard | HyperX Alloy Elite |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Switch Type | OmniPoint | Razer Mechanical Switches | Romber-G Mechanical Switches | Kailh Silver Speed Switches |
| Customizable Backlighting | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Macro Keys | 12 | 5 | 12 | 12 |
| Price | Around $200 | Around $170 | Around $150 | Around $130 |
In conclusion, the SteelSeries Apex Pro is a high-end gaming keyboard that’s designed to provide a competitive edge. With its sleek design, customizable features, and advanced technology, it’s an ideal choice for serious gamers who want to take their gaming to the next level. While it may not be cheap, its fast and responsive typing experience, combined with its durable construction and long-lasting switches, make it a worthwhile investment for gamers who require a high-quality keyboard.
What are the key features of the SteelSeries Apex Pro gaming keyboard?
The SteelSeries Apex Pro gaming keyboard boasts several key features that make it a top contender in the gaming keyboard market. One of its most notable features is its adjustable actuation point, which allows users to customize the feel of their keyboard to suit their preferences. Additionally, the Apex Pro features SteelSeries’ proprietary OmniPoint switches, which provide a high level of precision and durability. The keyboard also includes a compact tenkeyless design, customizable backlighting, and a built-in wrist rest for enhanced comfort during extended gaming sessions.
Another notable feature of the Apex Pro is its advanced macro capabilities, which allow users to create complex custom keybinds and macros using the SteelSeries Engine software. The keyboard also features a built-in USB passthrough port, making it easy to connect other devices such as mice or headsets. Overall, the SteelSeries Apex Pro is a highly customizable and feature-rich gaming keyboard that is designed to meet the needs of serious gamers.
How does the SteelSeries Apex Pro compare to other gaming keyboards on the market?
The SteelSeries Apex Pro is a high-end gaming keyboard that competes with other top-of-the-line keyboards from brands such as Razer, Logitech, and Corsair. In terms of features and performance, the Apex Pro holds its own against these competitors, offering a unique combination of customizable switches, advanced macro capabilities, and a compact tenkeyless design. However, the Apex Pro’s price point is also higher than many of its competitors, which may make it less accessible to budget-conscious gamers.
That being said, the Apex Pro’s unique features and high-quality construction make it a compelling choice for serious gamers who are looking for a premium gaming keyboard. Additionally, the Apex Pro’s customizable switches and advanced macro capabilities make it a great choice for gamers who value customization and precision. Overall, the SteelSeries Apex Pro is a top-notch gaming keyboard that is well worth considering for anyone in the market for a high-end gaming keyboard.
Is the SteelSeries Apex Pro worth the investment for casual gamers?
While the SteelSeries Apex Pro is a high-quality gaming keyboard, it may not be the best choice for casual gamers who are on a budget. The Apex Pro’s price point is relatively high, and its advanced features may not be fully utilized by casual gamers who do not require the same level of customization and precision as serious gamers. Additionally, the Apex Pro’s compact tenkeyless design may not be suitable for gamers who prefer a full-size keyboard.
That being said, the Apex Pro is still a great keyboard that offers a high level of quality and performance, even for casual gamers. If budget is not a concern, the Apex Pro could be a great choice for casual gamers who want a premium gaming keyboard that will last for a long time. However, for gamers on a budget, there are many other great gaming keyboards available that offer similar features and performance at a lower price point.
How durable is the SteelSeries Apex Pro gaming keyboard?
The SteelSeries Apex Pro gaming keyboard is built to last, with a high-quality construction that is designed to withstand heavy use. The keyboard’s frame is made from durable aluminum, and its switches are rated for up to 100 million keystrokes. Additionally, the Apex Pro’s keys are designed to be resistant to wear and tear, with a special coating that helps to prevent fading and discoloration.
In terms of maintenance, the Apex Pro is relatively easy to clean and maintain. The keyboard’s keys are removable, making it easy to clean underneath them, and the keyboard’s frame is designed to be resistant to dust and debris. Overall, the SteelSeries Apex Pro is a highly durable gaming keyboard that is designed to last for a long time, even with heavy use.
Can I customize the SteelSeries Apex Pro gaming keyboard to fit my gaming style?
Yes, the SteelSeries Apex Pro gaming keyboard is highly customizable, with a range of features that allow users to tailor the keyboard to their individual gaming style. One of the keyboard’s most notable features is its adjustable actuation point, which allows users to customize the feel of their keyboard to suit their preferences. Additionally, the Apex Pro features customizable backlighting, which can be adjusted to suit individual preferences.
The Apex Pro also features advanced macro capabilities, which allow users to create complex custom keybinds and macros using the SteelSeries Engine software. This software also allows users to customize the keyboard’s keybinds, adjust the keyboard’s repeat delay and repeat rate, and create custom profiles for different games and applications. Overall, the SteelSeries Apex Pro is a highly customizable gaming keyboard that is designed to meet the needs of serious gamers.
Is the SteelSeries Apex Pro compatible with my gaming setup?
The SteelSeries Apex Pro gaming keyboard is compatible with a wide range of gaming setups, including PCs, Macs, and gaming consoles. The keyboard connects via USB, making it easy to plug in and start gaming. Additionally, the Apex Pro is compatible with a range of gaming software, including SteelSeries’ own Engine software, which allows users to customize the keyboard’s settings and create custom profiles.
In terms of compatibility with specific games, the Apex Pro is compatible with a wide range of titles, including popular games such as Fortnite, League of Legends, and Overwatch. The keyboard’s advanced macro capabilities also make it a great choice for games that require complex keybinds and macros, such as MMOs and strategy games. Overall, the SteelSeries Apex Pro is a highly compatible gaming keyboard that is designed to work seamlessly with a wide range of gaming setups.
What kind of warranty and support does SteelSeries offer for the Apex Pro gaming keyboard?
SteelSeries offers a comprehensive warranty and support program for the Apex Pro gaming keyboard, which includes a 2-year limited warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. Additionally, SteelSeries offers a range of support resources, including online documentation, FAQs, and a customer support team that is available to answer questions and provide assistance.
In terms of repair and replacement, SteelSeries offers a range of options, including repair services and replacement parts. The company also offers a warranty extension program, which allows users to extend their warranty for an additional year. Overall, SteelSeries’ warranty and support program is designed to provide users with peace of mind and protect their investment in the Apex Pro gaming keyboard.