The Apex Pro is a notable product, but some prefer a tenkeyless version. In our Steelseries Apex Pro TKL Wireless (2023) Review, we will discuss everything you need about the keyboard.
The latest version gives us all the responsiveness, performance, customisations, and style of its full-sized sibling. It enhances these elements further, making it the best model in the Apex Pro line.
Is the product as good as claims? Is it worth the purchase or upgrade?
Continue reading our Steelseries Apex Pro TKL Wireless (2023) Review to learn everything about it. We will discuss its features, functions, design, specs, and experience with the keyboard.
Steelseries Apex Pro TKL Wireless (2023) Packaging
We received our package in time for this review, and the keyboard shipped in a standard cardboard box. You will find an image of the product in front, along with its name and company logo. Behind, you will find several other details about the Apex Pro TKL.
Inside, you will find the following items:
- Steelseries Apex Pro TKL Wireless (2003)
- Keycap Puller
- USB-C Wireless Dongle
- Wrist Rest
- Detachable Braided USB-C to USB-A Cable
- Extension Adapter
- Product Information Guide
Steelseries Apex Pro TKL Wireless (2023) Review – Design and Functionality
Upon initial inspection, the keyboard bears a striking resemblance to the majority of models produced by well-known manufacturers. It lacks eccentric keycaps or vibrant colour schemes but maintains a conventional aesthetic with an all-matte black design. The only infusion of shades comes from the notably brilliant RGB lighting.
We will discuss its OLED display in our Steelseries Apex Pro TKL Wireless (2023) Review. This feature makes the keyboard stand out from other similar products.
Aside from its distinct display, the keyboard also features a control wheel and button. It lets you seamlessly adjust elements like profile customisations, actuation, and brightness modifications. Even macro creation is possible without the need to open its app.
OmniPoint 2.0 Switches
This keyboard offers remarkable OmniPoint 2.0 switches by SteelSeries, making it ideal for competitive gamers. The element is known for its incredible speed and responsiveness, with an impressive actuation of just 0.2mm.
Notably, a standout feature of this keyboard is its dual actuation capabilities made possible by these fast switches.
TKL Layout, Additional Keys, Smart Display
The Apex Pro TKL comes in a tenkeyless (TKL) version, offering a compact and ergonomic alternative to the full-sized model. While this version retains all the essential keys, such as function, arrow, and navigation keys, it excludes the numpad section.
This omission serves multiple purposes. It enhances the ergonomic design of the keyboard, reducing the need for arm/shoulder rotation. This setup leads to a more natural and comfortable posture.
Moreover, the compact form factor is particularly beneficial for individuals with limited desk space.
In addition to these, the Apex Pro TKL boasts several other notable components. On the upper right corner is a customisable OLED display. It allows you to personalise your keyboard experience.
Adjacent to the display is a multi-function media key that offers versatility and convenience in accessing media controls. The keyboard also incorporates a textured, clickable metal volume roller, adding tactile feedback for precise volume adjustments.
Steelseries Apex Pro TKL Wireless (2003) Connectivity
The keyboard also boasts triple connectivity options, including wired, 2.4GHz wireless, and Bluetooth 5.0. These cater to people like us who have multiple PC setups.
A simple switch on the rear enables a seamless transition between wireless and Bluetooth modes. It is better than transferring a dongle between computers.
It is also worth noting that while Bluetooth guarantees lag-free performance, its polling rate is at 125Hz. It contrasts with the 1K rate of other connectivity options.
It’s worth noting that while Bluetooth ensures lag-free performance, its polling rate operates at 125Hz, contrasting with the 1K rate of the other connectivity options.
Continue reading our Steelseries Apex Pro TKL Wireless (2023) Review to get insights on its features, specs, and performance.
Key Features of the Steelseries Apex Pro TKL Wireless (2023)
TKL Design – Ready for eSports
The Apex Pro TKL has a compact design that cuts the ten-key pad on the right. It allows large mouse swipes for convenient movement, bringing you closer to victory.
Adjustable Omnipoint 2.0 Switches
The OmniPoint 2.0 switches have magnetic sensors that activate fast, zero-contact keystrokes. You can conveniently adapt your keyboard to any game since the power is at your fingertips. Plus, you can take advantage of lightning-fast keystrokes with 0.2mm actuation and 3.8mm deep presses.
2-in-1 Action Keys of the Steelseries Apex Pro TKL Wireless (2023)
Two action buttons can be in a single key, depending on how you press it. For instance, a light keypress lets you walk, and pressing deeper allows you to sprint. Create your custom combos and have the advantage in your competitions.
Aircraft Grade Aluminum Alloy
We immediately noticed the durability of this keyboard while describing it for our Steelseries Apex Pro TKL Wireless (2023) Review. The Series 5000 metal top plate of the Apex Pro TKL is identical to the aluminium material used in jets. As a result, the keyboard has a durable structure that will last long.
Highly Adjustable Actuation Points
With the Apex Pro TKL, you can customise the actuation of each key to the nearest 0.1mm. You can set the feather-light touch at 0.2mm or firm and deep presses at 3.8mm. This keyboard offers superior precision and unparalleled customisation options.
Steelseries Apex Pro TKL Wireless (2023) Smart Display
The OLED Smart Display on the top-right corner of your keyboard is a built-in command centre. Here, you can change profiles, adjust settings, and see updates.
Quantum 2.0 Dual Wireless
The Apex Pro TKL lets you enjoy fast, lag-free wireless performance via Bluetooth 5.0 and ultra-fast 2.4GHz.
Customise Everything via the SteelSeries GG
The Apex Pro TKL has unique capabilities, which you can unlock via SteelSeries GG. Aside from actuation points, you can customise key binds, per-key RGB lights, and more.
Double Shot PBT Keycaps
This keyboard uses fade-proof PBT keycaps with a unique texture that enhances the keystroke feel. These also offer better typing accuracy.
Detachable USB Type-C Braided Cable
The supplied detachable USB-C braided cable is highly durable and can withstand daily wear and tear.
Height-Adjustable Tilt Legs of the Steelseries Apex Pro TKL Wireless (2023)
The adjustable tilt legs have flat, half, and full extension positions. This optimal flexibility allows you to enjoy long and comfortable gaming sessions.
Specifications
- Processor: 32-bit ARM
- Key Switches: OmniPoint Adjustable Mechanical
- Range of Actuation Points: 0.2 – 3.8mm
- Switch Rating: Guaranteed 100 Million Presses
- On-Board Memory: 5 Custom Profiles
- Connectivity Options: 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth 5.0, Wired
- Battery Life: 37.5 hours (Wireless) or 45 hours (Bluetooth), both with default lighting
- Dimensions: 355 x 128 x 42 mm (W x D x H)
- Weight: 1.07kg
- Height Adjustment: Rubber Tri-Level Feet
- Lighting: Per-key RGB Illumination
- OS Compatibility: Windows, Mac OS X, PlayStation, Xbox
Hands-on with the Steelseries Apex Pro TKL Wireless (2023)
Our Steelseries Apex Pro TKL Wireless (2023) Review will focus on using the product. Before discussing the product performance, we will focus on the Steelseries GG, the complementary software of the keyboard.
Steelseries GG
The Steelseries GG is the complementary software of the Steelseries Apex Pro TKL Wireless (2023). It has a well-laid-out interface, making it user-friendly even for beginners. Plus, it has multiple adjustable options and settings.
In Steelseries GG, you can program macros, rebind keys, and adjust the pre-travel distance of each switch. Plus, the software has customisation settings for the RGB illumination of the keyboard.
Steelseries often provides the GG with frequent updates to maintain optimal performance.
Performance
We conducted thorough tests on this keyboard across various games, and we are pleased to report that it performed flawlessly. We experienced no issues like missed presses, latency, or other performance-related problems.
The Apex Pro TKL keyboard boasts exceptional speed. Plus, it has a notable feature that allows you to customise the actuation point of most keys. The customisation ranges from 0.2mm to 3.8mm in 0.1mm increments.
We learned that the 0.2mm sensitivity is responsive to the lightest touch, and some users may benefit from this. On gaming, we also have zero complaints because it performed admirably.
We love the PBT plastic keycaps because they have a high-quality feel. They sport a textured surface for increased grip, perfect for gaming or typing.
While testing it for our Steelseries Apex Pro TKL Wireless (2023) Review, we also experience its remarkably low latency. It provided us with a highly responsive performance when using it for games in various genres.
Steelseries Apex Pro TKL Wireless (2023) Review Summary
The 2023 version of the tenkeyless Apex Pro TKL is one of the best gaming keyboards released this year. It has new and improved switches, a durable build, and unique extras like the OLED and volume roller. Most importantly, it delivers lag-free performance.
When we tested the product for our Steelseries Apex Pro TKL Wireless (2023) Review, we enjoyed our user experience. We also have no complaints about the keyboard since it performed excellently for games and typing.
The most notable aspect of this keyboard is its actuation and speed. It significantly improved our gameplay, and we highly recommend it to all gamers.
Visit the official product page of Steelseries for more details about the Apex Pro TKL Wireless (2023).
