OmniPoint 2.0 features the fastest key presses with total versatility when it comes to changing actuation. Now, find out how to get your keyboard from OmniPoint 1.0 to 2.0. It's easy.
OmniPoint 2.0 is our most innovative version of magnetic mechanical switches yet. It features extremely fast responsiveness with unparalleled customization options. You're able to designate the actuation to every key individually at a wide range, and you can even assign two separate functions to the same key.
Our newer keyboards, such as the Apex Pro Mini and the Apex Pro TKL (2023) feature OmniPoint 2.0, but our engineers have been hard at work for our loyal fans who purchased earlier SteelSeries gaming keyboards. Thanks to their big brains, we've been able to update some older models, which featured OmniPoint 1.0, with the brand new and shiny OmniPoint 2.0. Let's dive in to how to make this happen, which keyboards this applies to, and answer some common questions.
How to upgrade your gaming keyboard
If you have an older model: the full-size Apex Pro or the legacy Apex Pro TKL, you are able to update their OmniPoint 1.0 switches into the 2.0 version. It's quite easy; the most important factor is to have the SteelSeries GG software installed. So if you haven't done that yet, download it for free and create/log in with your account.
Then, go to the Engine tab in the GG software, and you will see a collection of your SteelSeries-connected devices. Among them should be your Apex Pro or Apex Pro TKL, if it's plugged in. You may see a message about a firmware update (if you don't, that means you probably have done this already!). Click the firmware update and complete the next steps to update your keyboard.
Make sure to leave the keyboard plugged in during the entire process.
You can also check the firmware version by mousing over the device ribbon, clicking the cogwheel on the right, and selecting "About."
Once that's done, you should have the features of the OmniPoint 2.0 switches unlocked.
Benefits of OmniPoint 2.0
What are the changes when going from OmniPoint 1.0 to 2.0? Let's take a look at these "patch notes."
- Increased actuation range from 0.4-3.6mm to 0.2-3.8mm
- Going from 10 preset actuation levels to 37 levels (0.1mm increments)
- Adding 2-in-1 Action Keys, the ability to program two functions to the same key
- Improved response time, going from 0.7ms to 0.5ms
With the increased actuation range, you have a wider set of options that determine how early your keypress is registered. Do you prefer quicker, shallow presses, or do you want to press deep to assure you're targeting the right key? Going from only 10 presets, you can now adjust every key to a tenth milimeter range.
With 2-in-1 Action Keys, you can now program two functions to the same key. The secondary function is executed if you press the key deeply enough. You can use this to create a variety of shortcuts and quicken your actions in many games, like going from a walk to a sprint, or prepping a grenade to then throw it.
FAQ
Which keyboards are affected?
The 2023 version fo the Apex Pro TKL already has OmniPoint 2.0. This update is for the legacy version of the keyboard, as well as the full-size Apex Pro.
How do I get this update?
You only need this update if you have either of the models mentioned above. In order to do it, perform a firmware update via the SteelSeries GG software. See the steps outlined above.
What is OmniPoint 2.0?
OmniPoint 2.0 is a huge leap in mechanical keyboard technology. They're the fastest switches in the world. These switches use magnetic sensors that precisely detect the position of a keystroke at all times, which not only allows for powerful customization, but also increases the lifespan of the keys. The 2.0 version is an upgrade over the 1.0. Read more about OmniPoint 2.0 on our blog.
The fastest switches in the world? Prove it.
With an actuation point of 0.2 and improved response time, OmniPoint 2.0 switches are the fastest in the world. Compared to standard mechanical keyboards, they feature 10x faster actuation and 11x faster response (which are 50% and 33% faster in comparison to OmniPoint 1.0, respectively).
Check out our OmniPoint 2.0 Apex Pro Mini test to see for yourself.
Why are older keyboards getting updated?
If you want the newest, best features of gaming keyboards, we recommend purchasing our latest models. However, we don't want to forget about SteelSeries buyers who bought a keyboard from us in the past. Our engineers have figured out a way to bring these exciting new features to our legacy models.
How is this possible via firmware?
The hardware is similar enough that we've been able to develop a more accurate method of reading actuation points, and it's close enough that we can bring over this newer technology to the existing keyboards in our lineup.
