What is SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL 2023?
The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL 2023 is a high-end, tenkeyless mechanical gaming keyboard. Its primary claim is to be the world's fastest keyboard, a title it pursues through its headline feature: adjustable per-key actuation.
You can customise how far down you need to press each key before it registers a keystroke, from a hyper-sensitive 0.2mm to a more traditional 3.8mm. This technology, branded as OmniPoint 2.0 switches, is the core of the keyboard's identity.
It aims to offer a competitive edge in fast-paced games while providing flexibility for typing and other genres. SteelSeries is a well-established Danish-American manufacturer specialising in gaming peripherals, with a strong reputation in the esports scene.
The Apex Pro line represents its flagship keyboard series, and this 2023 TKL model is a refreshed version of a previous design. It focuses on a more compact form factor without the number pad, positioned as a premium tool for serious gamers and enthusiasts.
Who is SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL 2023 best for?
This keyboard is a specialised tool designed for a specific segment of the market. It is not a general-purpose keyboard for everyone, but for its target audience, its features are highly compelling.
The high price and focus on modern performance mean it will be overkill for casual users or those on a tight budget.
- Competitive esports and FPS gamers: Players who believe millisecond advantages matter and want the fastest possible actuation for lightning-fast taps and strafing.
- Tech enthusiasts and tinkerers: Users who enjoy deep hardware customisation, from per-key RGB lighting to individual actuation points, and appreciate high-quality construction.
- Multi-genre gamers who want one keyboard for everything: The ability to switch actuation profiles allows for a feather-light touch in an MMO or MOBA and a more deliberate setting for typing or strategy games.
- Users with limited desk space: The TKL form factor frees up considerable room for larger mouse movements, which is crucial for low-sensitivity gaming setups.
Key features
Adjustable Actuation with OmniPoint 2.0 Switches
This is the keyboard's defining feature. Using Hall effect technology, each key's actuation point can be individually set from 0.2mm to 3.8mm in 0.1mm increments via the SteelSeries GG Engine software.
A 0.2mm setting is exceptionally sensitive, requiring only the lightest touch, while 3.8mm mimics a deeper, more traditional mechanical switch feel.
OLED Smart Display and Control Dial
Integrated into the top right of the keyboard is a small, programmable OLED screen and a metal control dial. The display can show system information, Discord messages, media playback details, or custom GIFs.
The dial's primary function is to control media volume by default, but it can be reassigned to other functions like scrolling or adjusting RGB brightness within the software.
Per-Key RGB Illumination with 10-Zone Dimming
The keyboard features vibrant, customisable RGB lighting for each individual key. It also includes a proximity sensor that automatically dims the RGB lights when your hands are not near the keyboard to reduce distraction.
This extends to a 10-zone edge lighting system on the chassis itself, which can be programmed independently from the key lights.
Premium Aluminium Alloy Frame and Magnetic Wrist Rest
The keyboard is built on a rigid, full aluminium alloy frame that provides excellent stability and a premium feel, resisting flex during intense gaming sessions. It also includes a leatherette magnetic wrist rest that snaps securely into place via strong magnets.
The wrist rest offers ergonomic support and is easily removable for transport or storage.
Full Software Integration (SteelSeries GG)
All customisation is managed through the SteelSeries GG software suite. This is where you adjust actuation points, create lighting profiles, program the OLED display, and set up macros.
The software is necessary to unlock the keyboard's full potential. It also enables integration with other SteelSeries peripherals and games for system monitoring and event-based lighting effects.
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL 2023 pricing
The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL 2023 is positioned firmly in the premium segment of the gaming keyboard market. At its launch, its recommended retail price was significantly higher than that of a standard mechanical gaming keyboard.
While street prices can vary due to promotions and regional differences, you should expect to pay a premium comparable to other flagship peripherals from competing brands. There are no pricing tiers for the keyboard itself; you pay one price for the complete package including the magnetic wrist rest.
Assessing its value is entirely dependent on how much you will use its unique features. If you will genuinely utilise the adjustable actuation, the OLED display, and the premium build, then the keyboard can justify its cost as a long-term investment.
However, if those features seem like novelties you might not use often, the value proposition weakens considerably. Compared to a standard high-quality mechanical keyboard with similar build quality but fixed switches, the Apex Pro TKL commands a substantial price premium for its technological innovations.
Bottom line: The Apex Pro TKL 2023 is a premium investment. Its value depends entirely on whether you will actually use its adjustable actuation and OLED features.
What we like
- Adjustable actuation works flawlessly: The technology offers a genuinely unique and customisable typing and gaming feel that can provide a tangible performance benefit.
- Exceptional build quality: The solid aluminium frame and magnetic wrist rest give it a durable, high-end feel that justifies its premium positioning.
- Useful OLED display and dial: These are implemented practically, providing at-a-glance information and convenient media control without being overly gimmicky.
- Powerful software: SteelSeries GG, while required, is relatively intuitive and allows for deep customisation of every aspect of the keyboard's functionality.
- Practical USB pass-through: The two-port USB 2.0 pass-through on the cable is a useful addition for connecting a mouse dongle or headset receiver directly to the keyboard, reducing cable clutter.
What could be better
- Exceptionally expensive: The price places it out of reach for most gamers and makes it a harder sell against more affordable high-performance alternatives.
- Distinct switch feel: OmniPoint 2.0 switches have a slightly dampened linear feel that may not appeal to users who prefer the tactile bump of a Cherry MX Brown or the click of a Blue switch.
- Mandatory software: The software must run in the background for full customisation, which some users may find intrusive or a drain on system resources.
- Average keycaps: While doubleshot PBT for the main keys, they are not the thickest or most premium-feeling on the market, and the font styling may not be to everyone's taste.
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL 2023 verdict
The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL 2023 is an impressive feat of engineering that successfully delivers on its core promise of speed and exceptional customisation. It is not a keyboard that makes vague marketing claims; its adjustable actuation is a real, functional innovation that competitive players can use.
The premium construction, useful OLED smart display, and thoughtful extras like the magnetic wrist rest and USB pass-through create a cohesive and high-quality package.
You should seriously consider the Apex Pro TKL 2023 if you are a competitive gamer who values every millisecond, a hardware enthusiast who appreciates modern technology and reliable build, and you have the budget to invest in a top-tier peripheral. The ability to fine-tune your keystrokes for different games and tasks is a legitimate advantage that few other keyboards can match.
Conversely, you should look elsewhere if you are on a budget, if you strongly prefer the tactile feedback of clicky or tactile switches over linear ones, or if you simply do not see yourself regularly using the adjustable actuation or OLED screen features.
For those users, a high-quality standard mechanical keyboard from SteelSeries or another reputable brand will offer excellent performance and durability at a significantly lower cost. The Apex Pro TKL 2023 is a brilliant, niche tool, but its value is entirely dependent on whether you need the specific advanced capabilities it provides.
Final verdict: A brilliant, niche tool for competitive gamers who will use its unique features. For everyone else, a standard high-quality mechanical keyboard offers better value.
