SteelSeries, a renowned name in gaming peripherals, has just unveiled two exciting limited edition variants for its Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 magnetic switch keyboard: the ‘Cyber’ and ‘Steel’ editions. These new models, announced on September 22nd, bring a fresh aesthetic and nuanced performance options to the already popular Apex Pro TKL lineup, with each retailing at $239.99 USD.
Aesthetic Refresh with Cyber and Steel
The standout visual upgrade for both the Cyber and Steel editions lies in their striking new top plate colors, designed to complement the enhanced RGB lighting effects. Paired with these vibrant top plates are semi-transparent keycaps. This thoughtful design choice allows the per-key RGB backlighting to shine through more vividly, creating a more immersive and personalized gaming atmosphere. The translucent keycaps offer a unique visual flair that sets these limited editions apart from the standard model.
Performance Tuning with New Magnetic Switches
Beyond the visual enhancements, the Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 limited editions introduce refined magnetic switch options, catering to different playstyles. The original Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 features its signature OmniPoint analog magnetic switches with a actuation force of 45g. However, the new variants offer distinct alternatives:
- Cyber Limited Edition: This version is equipped with “speed-oriented” magnetic switches, requiring a lighter actuation force of 35g. This makes it ideal for gamers who prioritize rapid inputs and quick reactions, minimizing the physical effort needed for each keypress.
- Steel Limited Edition: In contrast, the Steel edition comes with “control-oriented” magnetic switches that require a firmer actuation force of 50g. This provides a more deliberate and tactile feel, beneficial for players who value precision and want to avoid accidental presses.
These new switch options allow users to fine-tune their keyboard’s responsiveness to match their specific gaming needs and preferences, further enhancing the competitive edge that the Apex Pro series is known for.
Familiar Form Factor, Enhanced Features
Both the Cyber and Steel editions retain the core features that have made the Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 a favorite among esports enthusiasts and gamers alike. The keyboard sports an 80% (Tenkeyless or TKL) layout, offering a compact design that maximizes desk space without sacrificing essential keys. Key functionalities such as rapid trigger, rapid click, and a protect mode are all present, ensuring optimal performance during intense gaming sessions.
The keyboard also boasts per-key RGB illumination, allowing for extensive customization of lighting effects and profiles. For enhanced ergonomics and stability, the Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 includes adjustable rubber feet, offering three different height settings to suit user comfort. This combination of refined aesthetics, specialized switch performance, and a feature-rich, compact design makes the new limited edition Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 keyboards a compelling choice for gamers seeking both style and substance.
