SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 Review Is It Worth Buying

Hey guys! Are you a gamer or a typing enthusiast on the hunt for the ultimate keyboard? Then you've probably heard the buzz around the SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3. This keyboard isn't just another piece of tech; it's a statement. With its sleek design, customizable switches, and a price tag that might make you gulp, it's essential to ask: Is it really worth the investment? Let's dive deep into what makes the Apex Pro Gen 3 tick and whether it lives up to the hype.

Unboxing the Beast: First Impressions

Right out of the box, the SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 screams premium. The build quality is immediately noticeable. The aluminum alloy frame gives it a robust and weighty feel, assuring you that this keyboard is built to last. The design is minimalist yet striking, making it a fantastic centerpiece for any setup. But it's not just about looks; the Apex Pro Gen 3 is packed with features that set it apart from the competition.

One of the standout features is, without a doubt, the OmniPoint 2.0 adjustable mechanical switches. These aren't your run-of-the-mill mechanical switches. They allow you to customize the actuation point, meaning you can adjust how far down you need to press a key for it to register. This level of customization is a game-changer, especially for gamers who need lightning-fast responses. Imagine setting the actuation point incredibly low for gaming, ensuring that every keypress is registered instantly. Then, switch it up to a higher actuation point for typing, reducing accidental key presses and improving accuracy. The possibilities are endless, and this is just the tip of the iceberg.

The OLED Smart Display is another eye-catching feature. This small screen at the top right of the keyboard can display everything from system stats to game notifications. You can even customize it with your own images or animations, adding a personal touch to your setup. It's not just a gimmick, either. The OLED display can be genuinely useful, allowing you to quickly glance at important information without minimizing your game or application.

Of course, we can't forget about the RGB lighting. The Apex Pro Gen 3 boasts per-key RGB illumination, meaning you can customize the color of each individual key. The lighting is vibrant and the colors are rich, making for a stunning visual display. SteelSeries' software allows for deep customization, so you can create intricate lighting patterns or sync the lighting with your games and applications. Whether you prefer a subtle, static color scheme or a dynamic, reactive light show, the Apex Pro Gen 3 has you covered.

Diving Deep: The OmniPoint 2.0 Advantage

Let's talk more about the OmniPoint 2.0 switches, because they are truly the heart and soul of the SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3. These switches use magnetic sensors to detect key presses, allowing for an incredible level of precision and customization. The adjustable actuation point, ranging from 0.2mm to 3.8mm, is what sets these switches apart. This means you can fine-tune the sensitivity of your keys to match your specific needs and preferences.

For gamers, this is a huge advantage. A lower actuation point means faster response times, giving you a competitive edge in fast-paced games. Imagine being able to trigger actions milliseconds faster than your opponents – that could be the difference between victory and defeat. The ability to adjust the actuation point on a per-key basis takes this even further. You can set frequently used keys, like the WASD keys for movement, to be incredibly sensitive, while less frequently used keys can have a higher actuation point to prevent accidental presses.

But the benefits of OmniPoint 2.0 aren't limited to gaming. For typists, the adjustable actuation point can improve accuracy and comfort. A higher actuation point can reduce typos by requiring a more deliberate key press. This is especially useful for those who tend to bottom out their keys or have a heavy typing style. The ability to customize the switches to your typing style can lead to a more comfortable and efficient typing experience.

Beyond the adjustable actuation point, the OmniPoint 2.0 switches are also incredibly durable. They're rated for 100 million key presses, meaning they're built to withstand years of heavy use. This is a significant upgrade over traditional mechanical switches, which are typically rated for around 50 million key presses. The longevity of these switches is another factor that contributes to the overall value of the Apex Pro Gen 3.

The Software Experience: SteelSeries GG

No high-end keyboard is complete without powerful software to back it up, and the SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 is no exception. The keyboard is fully integrated with SteelSeries GG, a comprehensive software suite that allows you to customize every aspect of the keyboard. From adjusting the actuation point of the OmniPoint 2.0 switches to creating intricate RGB lighting effects, SteelSeries GG puts you in complete control.

The software is user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy to navigate and find the settings you need. The key customization options are particularly impressive. You can create custom profiles for different games or applications, allowing you to quickly switch between different settings depending on what you're doing. This is a huge time-saver and ensures that your keyboard is always optimized for the task at hand.

The RGB lighting customization is another standout feature of SteelSeries GG. The software offers a wide range of lighting effects, from simple static colors to dynamic, reactive patterns. You can customize the lighting on a per-key basis, allowing you to create truly unique and personalized lighting schemes. The software also allows you to sync the lighting with other SteelSeries devices, creating a cohesive and visually stunning setup.

Beyond keyboard customization, SteelSeries GG also includes other useful features, such as game integration and macro recording. Game integration allows the keyboard to react to in-game events, such as displaying health or ammo levels on the OLED Smart Display. Macro recording allows you to create complex sequences of key presses and bind them to a single key, which can be incredibly useful for both gaming and productivity.

Real-World Performance: Gaming and Typing

So, how does the SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 perform in the real world? In a word: exceptionally. Whether you're gaming or typing, this keyboard delivers a premium experience that is hard to match. The OmniPoint 2.0 switches are a game-changer, providing a level of customization and responsiveness that is unmatched by traditional mechanical keyboards.

For gaming, the adjustable actuation point is a revelation. Setting the actuation point low allows for incredibly fast and responsive key presses, giving you a competitive edge in fast-paced games. The ability to customize the actuation point on a per-key basis is also a major advantage, allowing you to optimize the keyboard for different games and playstyles. The Apex Pro Gen 3 truly shines in competitive titles where every millisecond counts.

But the Apex Pro Gen 3 isn't just a gaming keyboard. It's also an excellent choice for typing. The adjustable actuation point can improve typing accuracy and comfort, especially for those who tend to bottom out their keys. Setting a higher actuation point requires a more deliberate key press, reducing accidental presses and improving overall typing efficiency. The tactile feedback of the OmniPoint 2.0 switches is also satisfying, making for a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.

The build quality of the Apex Pro Gen 3 also contributes to its excellent performance. The aluminum alloy frame provides a stable and solid platform for typing, preventing the keyboard from flexing or moving around on your desk. The keycaps are also high-quality, providing a comfortable and durable surface for your fingers.

The Price Tag: Is It Justified?

Now, let's address the elephant in the room: the price. The SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 is undoubtedly an expensive keyboard. It's priced at the higher end of the market, and that can be a barrier for many potential buyers. But is the price justified? That's a question that only you can answer, but let's break down the factors that contribute to the cost.

The OmniPoint 2.0 switches are a major factor. These switches are a significant technological advancement over traditional mechanical switches, and that comes at a cost. The adjustable actuation point and durability of these switches are unmatched, and they provide a level of customization and performance that is simply not available on cheaper keyboards.

The build quality of the Apex Pro Gen 3 is another factor. The aluminum alloy frame and high-quality keycaps contribute to the overall cost, but they also ensure that the keyboard is built to last. This is a keyboard that you can expect to use for many years, making it a long-term investment.

The features, such as the OLED Smart Display and per-key RGB lighting, also add to the cost. These features aren't essential, but they enhance the overall experience and provide additional functionality. The SteelSeries GG software is also a valuable asset, providing a comprehensive suite of customization options.

Ultimately, whether the price is justified depends on your individual needs and budget. If you're a serious gamer or typist who values performance, customization, and durability, then the SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 is definitely worth considering. However, if you're on a tight budget or don't need the advanced features, there are other excellent keyboards available at a lower price point.

Alternatives to Consider

If the SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 is outside your budget, or if you're simply looking for other options, there are several excellent alternatives to consider. Here are a few of our top picks:

• Razer Huntsman V2 Analog: This keyboard also features adjustable actuation point switches, offering a similar level of customization to the Apex Pro Gen 3. The Razer Huntsman V2 Analog uses optical switches, which are known for their speed and responsiveness.
• Corsair K100 RGB: This keyboard is a premium option with a focus on performance and aesthetics. The Corsair K100 RGB features OPX optical-mechanical switches, which are incredibly fast and responsive. It also boasts a stunning RGB lighting system and a variety of customization options.
• Logitech G915 LIGHTSPEED: This wireless keyboard is a great option for those who value portability and convenience. The Logitech G915 LIGHTSPEED features low-profile mechanical switches and a sleek, minimalist design. It also offers excellent battery life and reliable wireless performance.

These are just a few of the many excellent keyboards available on the market. When choosing a keyboard, it's important to consider your individual needs and preferences. Think about what you'll be using the keyboard for, what features are important to you, and what your budget is.

Final Verdict: Is the Apex Pro Gen 3 Worth It?

So, let's get back to the original question: Is the SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 worth it? In our opinion, the answer is a resounding yes – if you're the right kind of user. This keyboard is a masterpiece of engineering, combining cutting-edge technology with premium build quality and a sleek design.

The OmniPoint 2.0 switches are the star of the show, providing a level of customization and responsiveness that is unmatched by traditional mechanical keyboards. The adjustable actuation point is a game-changer for both gaming and typing, allowing you to fine-tune the keyboard to your specific needs and preferences.

The build quality of the Apex Pro Gen 3 is also exceptional. The aluminum alloy frame and high-quality keycaps ensure that this keyboard is built to last. The OLED Smart Display and per-key RGB lighting add to the overall experience, providing additional functionality and customization options.

However, the Apex Pro Gen 3 is not for everyone. The high price tag can be a barrier for many potential buyers. If you're on a tight budget or don't need the advanced features, there are other excellent keyboards available at a lower price point. But if you're a serious gamer or typist who values performance, customization, and durability, the SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 is definitely worth the investment.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy the SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 is a personal one. Weigh the pros and cons, consider your individual needs and budget, and make an informed decision. But if you're looking for the ultimate keyboard experience, the Apex Pro Gen 3 is a top contender. Thanks for reading, guys! We hope this review has helped you make a decision.