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SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3: quick review
The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3 marks the latest version in the brand’s series of high-end gaming keyboards, featuring multiple enhancements for superior gaming performance.
The aesthetics modestly conceal its gaming capabilities, with the RGB illumination and floating keycaps being the only indicators in this respect. Nonetheless, it appears elegant and refined, and its construction quality is impressive.
It’s relatively thick, yet not as heavy as one might anticipate. Every detail of its composition exudes a premium feel, right down to the included wrist support, which is both soft and resilient; it competes excellently with the best gaming keyboards available. The double-shot PBT keycaps also have a delightful grainy texture to them.
A variety of keyboard shortcuts are readily available by default, accessed through SteelSeries’ Meta modifier key (essentially functioning as a secondary function key). These encompass adjusting the global actuation point, toggling rapid trigger mode, modifying profiles, recording macros, and switching between three Bluetooth devices.
Similar capabilities can also be observed on the OLED display located in the top right section of the Apex Pro, with navigation accomplished via a dedicated button and the volume dial. This display is customizable through SteelSeries’ GG software, enabling you to upload images and GIFs for display, as well as to monitor system and in-game information.
In general, GG is user-friendly and presents numerous other options to explore. There are different keyboard shortcuts to set up, although the system-level functions are somewhat limited. Default profiles are also available for specific games, including Counter-Strike 2, DOTA 2, Minecraft, and League of Legends. You can assign binds to activate upon press or release, and the dual actuation mode permits you to allocate two binds to a single key, which is activated based on the pressure applied, functioning effectively. Unfortunately, there is no visual feedback available to demonstrate how your actuation configurations perform in reality.
Regarding gaming, the Apex Pro truly excels: the click of key presses is incredibly satisfying, the indented keycaps ensure a firm finger placement, and the lower row is conveniently accessible due to the keycap slope. The layout is somewhat compact, yet I still found it manageable. The switches deliver quick yet fluid performance, and reaching specific actuation points is easy due to their tactile feedback. Regrettably, it is disappointing that more settings aren’t provided to replicate the analog control found in a gamepad.
Moreover, the wrist rest abruptly ends without a downward slope, causing my palm to hang off the edge awkwardly while in the WASD position. Without it, however, I found the keys to be positioned too high to access comfortably without adopting a more fingertip-oriented posture. Typing on the Apex Pro isn’t the most pleasant experience either—personally, I prefer shallower keycaps, and I found navigating the Apex Pro somewhat clumsy.
There’s no denying that the Apex Pro is a top-notch piece of equipment, and it carries a premium price tag. While it may not be as pricey as some competitors, such as the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, its price is still quite high. There are more affordable gaming keyboards with analog switches, such as the Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro, although this is wired only and doesn’t quite match the performance of the Apex Pro. Therefore, if you have the budget, the Apex Pro is difficult to surpass as an analog keyboard.
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3 review: pricing and availability
- $269 / £259 (approximately AU$456)
- Currently available
- High-end market segment
The Apex Pro is priced at $269 / £259 (around AU$456), and it is presently available in black only. The package includes a wrist support, and replacement keycaps can also be purchased from SteelSeries’ site. A smaller version is offered that omits the OLED display, while a full-size variant includes a numeric keypad alongside a larger scroll wheel and a screen button.
The Apex Pro is positioned at the top of the market in terms of pricing, surpassing some premier offerings from Razer, for example. Although not quite as costly as the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, it costs more than the Huntsman V2 Analog, which we consider the best gaming keyboard. What differentiates that keyboard is the 360-degree motion of the switch keys, allowing you to mimic an analog stick found on a gamepad even more closely. However, it is wired only.
If you’re in search of another analog keyboard, the Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro is significantly more affordable than the Apex Pro. While it is wired only and encounters some challenges with its analog implementation, the Vulcan 2 remains a competent contender in the market.
Value: 3 / 5
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3 review: specifications
| Layout: | TKL |
| Switch: | Analog (Hall-effect magnetic) |
| Programmable keys: | Yes |
| Dimensions: | 14 x 5 x 1.7 inches / 355 x 129 x 42mm |
| RGB or backlighting: | Yes (customizable) |
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3 evaluation: design and characteristics
- Exquisite design
- Functional OLED display
- User-friendly software
The Apex Pro maintains a subtle appearance for a gaming keyboard. Its entirely black aesthetic lacks the loud embellishments typical in the industry, so at first glance, you might find it challenging to pinpoint its target audience. The floating keycaps serve as a hint, in addition to the lavish RGB lighting.
Nonetheless, it cannot be disputed that the Apex Pro emanates a luxurious presence. Additionally, it is substantial, featuring a robust, two-tier chassis, yet fortunately, it isn’t as hefty as it appears. The craftsmanship is flawless, with every material, joint, and key feeling smooth and robust.
The double-shot PBT keycaps are delicately textured and provide a pleasant sensation under your fingers. They are rather thick and extend high above the board, facilitating deep presses. However, if you find them unsuitable, they can be replaced, and a puller is provided. The layout is quite compact, which took some getting used to, but adaptation was swift.
The wrist pad is similarly well-constructed yet delightfully light, featuring a smooth rubberized finish that’s both tough and comfortable. It attaches magnetically to the board itself, and while the connection could be stronger, it suffices.
Numerous default hotkeys exist on the Apex Pro, accessible with SteelSeries’ proprietary modifier key, known as the Meta key. These encompass global modifications for the actuation point and rapid trigger functionality, alongside changing profiles, recording macros, and toggling between three Bluetooth devices.
For further detailed configurations and customizations, the Engine tool within the GG software is available. All keys can be remapped and set to respond on press or release. A wide array of actions can be performed, including profile switching, adjustments of keyboard settings, and launching applications. There are also OS shortcuts that can be mapped, such as a selection of media keys and copy and paste functions, although there are fewer options than typically found in other peripheral software.
GG also allows users to set actuation points ranging from 0.1mm to 4mm for all primary keys. Additionally, rapid trigger can be toggled for each key, which, as GG describes, dynamically modifies the actuation point during rapid presses, enabling quick movements. It even incorporates a dual binding mode, permitting a single key to have two different binds based on your selected primary and secondary actuation points.
By and large, GG is straightforward to navigate, featuring a clear interface along with explanations for various settings. However, it would have been beneficial to incorporate some visual feedback when modifying actuation points and rapid trigger modes, a feature that some of the Apex Pro’s competitors offer with their software.
Located in the top right corner of the Apex Pro is a modest monotone OLED display, known as the Smart Screen. By default, it shows the battery life, but it can be personalized in GG to exhibit anything from your own images and GIFs to system and in-game data.
The options for the latter are quite extensive. For example, you may choose to display specific data at designated intervals and select various screens to cycle through, each presenting unique information at different times. Supported games include Counter-Strike 2, DOTA 2, Minecraft, and League of Legends.
Furthermore, a button on the screen allows for media playback control, such as play/pause and next/previous functions. By holding this button for a few seconds, you can access a menu that provides additional settings and functionalities: you can adjust the brightness of the RGB backlighting, switch between three connected Bluetooth devices, and modify the overarching actuation point and rapid trigger functionalities. Navigation within this menu is executed using the volume wheel to scroll, and it is responsive and efficient.
Design & features: 4 / 5
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3 evaluation: performance
- Outstanding gamingperformance
- Analog keys genuinely functional
- Typing experience not ideal
The gaming capabilities of the Apex Pro are outstanding. The original keycaps are well contoured, enabling you to maintain a firm grip, and the key presses are perfectly weighted, permitting effortless actuation that delivers satisfying feedback. Accessing the CTRL key and spacebar is also straightforward, thanks to the subtle gradient of the keycaps.
The switches glide flawlessly and are adequately lubricated, providing a satisfying clack without excessive noise. I also found it comparatively easy to hit specific actuation points, as the Hall-effect magnetic switches offer more tactile sensation and resistance than others I’ve encountered, such as those on the Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro. This quality makes the Apex Pro superb for rapid trigger actions or dual binding.
SteelSeries has introduced a new Protection mode, which inhibits neighboring keys from unintentionally activating by temporarily reducing their sensitivity, a practical feature.
However, it lacks the capability to map the keys to an analog stick. This would facilitate smoother character movements and vehicle control, a feature available with the previously mentioned Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro, as well as the Razer Huntsman V2 Analog.
As someone who enjoys shallow keycaps for typing, I found the Apex Pro not particularly conducive for productivity. While adjusting the actuation point might help reduce typos, the comparatively thick keycaps and their deep cavities aren’t ideal for gliding across the keyboard.
The included wrist rest is virtually essential for comfortable typing, as the bulky body forces your wrists into an awkward position without it. Fortunately, the included one provides adequate support and cushioning for both typing and gaming.
However, the wrist rest can feel cumbersome during gaming. As the back end drops off suddenly with no incline, the area where your wrist meets your palm tends to sag when in the WASD position, which creates an unusual and somewhat uncomfortable feeling. I discovered that gaming without the rest was possible, but I had to adjust my fingers to be more perpendicular to the key caps, focusing more contact on the fingertips. If this style suits you, then you shouldn’t encounter issues.
SteelSeries indicates a battery life of up to 40 hours via Bluetooth, or 37.5 hours using the 2.4GHz dongle. Throughout my testing, I found this claim to be accurate, as I managed to get several days of usage from it.
Performance: 4.5 / 5
Should I purchase the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3?
| Attributes | Comments | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Value | The Apex Pro is a costly keyboard regardless of the perspective taken, yet it aligns well with other wireless gaming keyboards of this caliber. | 3 / 5 |
| Design and features | It has a rather inconspicuous appearance, but the build quality is commendable, with every component feeling high-end. The wrist rest can be somewhat cumbersome at times, however. | 4 / 5 |
| Performance | The Apex Pro shines in gaming, and the analog switches perform exceptionally well. However, it’s not the finest option for typing. | 4.5 / 5 |
| Overall rating | The Apex Pro delivers an excellent gaming experience, attributed to the smooth analog switches and superior build quality. The GG software is also beneficial, although additional analog configurations would have been appreciated. It’s undoubtedly a strong contender for your upcoming keyboard – provided you can extend your budget to accommodate its price. | 4 / 5 |
Purchase it if…
Avoid it if…
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3 review: other options to consider
| Header Cell – Column 0 | SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3 | Razer Huntsman V2 Analog | Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Layout | TKL | TKL | TKL |
| Switch | Analog (Hall-effect magnetic) | Razer Analog Optical Switches | Analog (Hall-effect magnetic) |
| Programmable keys | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Dimensions | 14 x 5 x 1.7 inches / 355 x 129 x 42mm | Not specified | 14.5 x 5.5 x 1.5 inches (approx.) / 368.3 x 139.7 x 38.1mm |
| RGB or backlighting | Yes (customizable) | Yes (customizable) | Yes (customizable) |
How I evaluated the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3
- Evaluated for approximately one week
- Utilized for gaming, productivity, and general operation
- 10+ years of PC gaming experience
I assessed the Apex Pro for around a week. Throughout this period, it was utilized for gaming, productivity, and general operation.
I engaged in various games, including Counter-Strike 2 and I Am Your Beast, which were beneficial for evaluating the actuation points and quick trigger ability. Additionally, I ensured to utilize every feature and capability provided via the GG software whenever feasible.
Having over a decade of PC gaming experience, I have encountered a multitude of keyboards throughout this duration, covering a range of switch types, key layouts, and form factors. I have also reviewed several gaming keyboards from a variety of brands.
- Initially reviewed November 2024
- Learn more about our testing methods
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