The Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 keyboard is the latest small-form-factor peripheral from SteelSeries. This compact beast has it all! Consequently, it is going to be a huge hit with casual and professional gamers. ESports fanatics have trusted SteelSeries for years, and I can see why. Years of gaming experience and a stunning eye for detail ensure that every product ticks every box!
This tiny device packs a mind-blowing level of tech into its mini 60% form factor casing. However, it doesn’t undermine performance as macros and other shortcut tools allow you to maximise inputs. Alongside this, you enjoy fully customisable RGB, reduced latency, and Omnipoint 3.0 Hall Effect switches. Accordingly, gamers can enjoy the world’s fastest keyboard without swamping their valuable gaming real estate.
What’s in the box of the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 keyboard?
- The packaging is strong, recyclable, and filled with key selling points.
- The Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 keyboard is available in 1 colour. The simple black finish may disappoint. However, the vibrant RGB ensures that this device stands out from the crowd.
- A keycap puller is hidden under the keyboard.
- Power the device with the braided USB-C cable.
- Learn the fundamentals with the quick-start guide.
Technical aspects.
The Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 keyboard is a wired-only device. Now, this may disappoint, but it shouldn’t. Instead of worrying about latency issues and battery life, you can focus on the game ahead. Additionally, you’ll enjoy razor-sharp inputs that never let you down. Yes, a cable can be a little messy, but the supplied braided cable looks great and can be easily removed if needed.
This keyboard comes with all the bells and whistles! Rapid Trigger, Protection Mode, Rapid Tap, and GG Quickset. Additionally, the free-to-download software allows gamers to customise their device to their liking. Subsequently, you can alter the actuation distance, lighting, and gaming profile with ease.
The Omnipoint 3.0 Hall Effect switches deliver a match-winning edge. With variable actuation distance and a featherlight touch, these switches will propel you up any leaderboard. Gamers may choose between 0.1mm and 4.0mm actuation for a personalised experience.
Features.
SteelSeries is pushing hard to keep ahead of its peers. The introduction of the aforementioned input modes and GG Quickset sets this device apart from its competition. Furthermore, if you love to play fast-paced and challenging games, the Apex range of keyboards will help you lead the charge.
Rapid Tap is the perfect tool for FPS fans. 5 customisable inputs allow you to prioritise the last pressed key in a pair for instantaneous results. Counter-strafing, peeking, or slide cancelling are some of the examples of how this tech works.
Rapid Trigger complements Rapid Tap with devastating consequences. This deadly tool removes latency from a selected input for instant results. Your selected key is activated as soon as you press or release it. Though I’m not a competitive gamer, I was blown away by this incredible tech pairing.
More features.
2-in-1 action keys are the perfect tool to reduce fatigue and maximise space. This small form factor keyboard is the perfect platform to test this spectacular feature. You may choose to walk with a deft touch of the key and run once it is fully activated. Alternatively, you may crouch and then move to a prone position if you love to snipe. Either way, you reduce hand movement and focus on the goals in front of you.
Finally, Protection Mode. Fat fingers and smashing keys are the bane of any gamer’s life. Accordingly, reducing the sensitivity of unnecessary surrounding keys can only be a good thing, right? Thankfully, this amazing feature can be altered with ease and improve your gaming experience exponentially.
Build quality.
The Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 keyboard is a high-end gaming peripheral. Consequently, exceptional build quality has to be a high priority. Fortunately, SteelSeries hasn’t let themselves down. Every aspect of this device is market-leading. The double-shot PBT keycaps are durable and comfortable to use. Moreover, they’ll resist scratching, staining, and that horrible glossy shine from oil and other dirt.
On top of this, new stabilisers deliver a secure typing platform. You’ll no longer experience key wobble, and every input feels deliberate and true. Though you’ll enjoy the wonderful, clacky mechanical sound, triple-layer sound dampening reduces the harsh clicks without undermining the familiar sound profile.
Finally, dynamic RGB customisation allows you to create the set-up of your dreams. 16.8 million colour options await, and gamers will not tire of the reactive and interesting profiles they can create.
Is the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 keyboard worth it?
SteelSeries does not disappoint with its latest Apex series. Though the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 keyboard doesn’t utilise wireless connectivity, this is a minor shortcoming. Every other aspect makes up for the wired-only approach, and I believe gamers will adore the vibrant RGB, the customisable profiles, and the spectacular gaming features. Furthermore, the robust build quality ensures this device will last a lifetime. Accordingly, it is fantastic, and I recommend buying it here!
(More information on SteelSeries can be found here!)
(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)
