Photo: Henri Robbins
Like nearly every keyboard today, the Apex Pro Mini has multiple layers of sound suppression inside the case. This includes a dense foam layer between the board and the PCB, a secondary foam layer under the PCB, and a thick piece of silicone that fills the bottom of the shell. Stripping the silicone back reveals the two internal steel weights, which makes the keyboard feel more dense and prevents it from sliding on the table, which is usually done on keyboards with plastic boxes. However, these weights and silicone inhibition make up most of the keyboard’s weight and feel light and insignificant when removed.
The Apex Pro Mini uses T6 TORX bolts instead of being secured with standard Phillips screws. This makes disassembly more difficult for the average buyer, but the T6 screwdriver is cheap and commonplace. Once these screws are removed, the PCB itself uses the standard POK3R/GH60 mounting points, which means that most 60% of cases (such as the tofu60) are compatible with it.
Finally, the Apex Pro Mini Pro is the right keyboard. The typing feels great, works well for the game, and has acceptable build quality as well as some weird details. It’s hard to justify the price of $220. Both Wooting and KeyChron have Hall Effect keyboards, with comparable features, similar build quality, and better software that can run within the browser.
Photo: Henri Robbins
KeyChron offers Hall effect keyboards for $80 less, such as the K2 HE with the same performance, the same pallet assembly program, and wireless connectivity. Or, $20 more than the Apex Pro Mini, he has all these features along with an aluminum build and a washer mount, both of which make the typing experience even more enjoyable.
However, only the 60he and Steelseries Apex Pro Mini have a true 60% layout. While the Apex Pro Mini has smoother switches and features such as misinput protection, the 60-person turnout is higher, the software is better, and at $175, it has comparable specifications and performance. I don’t think there is a lot of money on the Apex Mini Pro. If you really like the look of it, try waiting for sale.
