SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini: Compact keyboard with magnetic keys

SteelSeries has completed its line of gaming keyboards with the Apex Pro Mini. As its name suggests, this panel uses a 60% compact layout. Like the regular Apex Pro, it has OmniPoint magnetic switches, although in this case it’s version 2.0. In addition to the wired version, there will also be a 2.4GHz wireless version and Bluetooth 5.0.

Unlike traditional mechanical switches, OmniPoint switches log keystrokes using magnetic hall-effect sensors, which means they can measure exactly how hard a switch is pressed. SteelSeries takes advantage of this to allow users to choose the actuation point for each key, with a distance of between 0.2 and 3.8 mm – compared to 0.4 to 3.6 mm in the case of the OmniPoint 1.0. In addition, it is possible to assign two different actions to each key, depending on how hard it is pressed.

Due to the modest size, the manufacturer has equipped certain switches with an additional function, which can be seen on the underside and can be activated via the SteelSeries button. Other features include a removable braided USB type-c cable, foldable legs, per-key RGB lighting, and an included keycap puller that can be stored on the bottom of the board. The latter applies only to the wired variant.

Apex Pro Mini and Apex Pro Mini Wireless are both available immediately through the SteelSeries website. The standard version has a suggested retail price of €200, while the wireless model changes at €260.

Sources:
Steel Series (1)† (2)