The Best Razer Keyboards for Gaming

After launching in 2010, it didn’t take long for the Razer BlackWidow mechanical keyboard to become a mainstay on gaming desks. Since then, Razer has evolved the BlackWidow series, allowing for greater customization with button remapping, a choice of switches, and modifiable RGB lighting. The best Razer keyboard options now include ultra-compact gaming keyboards with only 61 keys and wireless versions that don’t compromise performance.

How to Shop for a Razer Keyboard

When shopping for a new gaming keyboard, buyers should consider the following factors:

• Form Factor: One significant difference between Razer gaming keyboards is their size and number of keys. Esports pros increasingly support 60% or 75% keyboards because they allow mice to roam more freely and still provide the essential functions needed for competitive FPS action. However, Razer also continues to produce full-sized models with number pads that are popular with many gamers.
• Switch Type: Most Razer keyboards include mechanical switches, but there is quite a bit of variation in keyboard performance nonetheless. Linear switches promote fast and smooth typing, while clicky green mechanical switches make their presence known when pressed.
• Wired vs. Wireless: The majority of Razer gaming keyboards are wired since competitive gamers demand the most reliable connectivity possible. Even so, the manufacturer also markets several wireless keyboards with low-latency connectivity, allowing for the same responsive key presses as their corded alternatives.
• Customization: Fans of mechanical gaming keyboards tend to demand greater control over how their gear looks and feels when gaming. Many Razer keyboards allow for extensive macro programming, with some devices permitting users to swap out keycaps and switches for faster and louder typing.

Whatever a buyer’s priority, each of the following keyboards provides the durability and performance that Razer has become synonymous with.

Game Rant’s Picks for the Best Razer Keyboards for Gaming

The champion of gaming keyboards has a long list of objectives to fulfill, including offering outstanding build quality, responsive typing, and innovative features. Thankfully, the wired Razer Huntsman V3 Pro is up to the task, with its unusual analog optical switches that rely on a light path rather than physical components colliding to register key presses. These switches allow gamers to set various actuation distances, enabling single keys to have multiple functions. Compared to the Huntsman V2 Analog, the V3 Pro is more accommodating to competitive gamers traveling with expanded onboard storage.

Analog inputs also have other benefits, including the ability for keys and switches to move in eight directions. The result is a keyboard that can simulate a game controller, even if the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro has a fairly steep learning curve. By setting two actuation points, each key on the Huntsman V3 Pro can activate different commands depending on how much pressure is applied to a key. Gamers with finesse can effectively multiply the number of attacks or spells launched by a keyboard without relying on macros or custom button mapping.

Often, esports pros dread installing software on every PC to access a keyboard’s features. The Huntsman V3 Pro addresses this issue with generous onboard storage and LED indicator lights that signal what actuation settings are active. Users can also employ function keys and a media dial to change how keys respond during gameplay.

GameRant’s review of the Hunstman V2 Analog found that the keyboard exhibited stellar build quality. This follow-up to that Razer keyboard is just as durable, with a sturdy aluminum top plate and PBT keycaps that can withstand rapid-fire inputs.

As the best gaming keyboard in Razer’s lineup, the Huntsman V3 Pro boasts amazingly versatile switches while taking a few risks that set it apart from competitors.

The highest-rated mechanical gaming keyboards can cost as much as several hundred dollars, putting gamers without large budgets in a tough position. Fortunately, Razer recognizes its dilemma and offers the Ornata V3 with its Mecha-Membrane switches, which are a compromise between affordable membrane keyboards and more expensive mechanical alternatives.

At 1.8 pounds, the Razer Ornata V3 is significantly lighter and slimmer than the manufacturer’s other full-sized keyboards. The low-profile keys keep their height to a minimum and have a more clicky response to key presses than usually experienced with membrane keyboards. Even with some mushiness, the Mecha-Membrane keys are still quite loud, making them unsuitable for office environments. The keycaps are not Doubleshot PBT but rather UV-coated to withstand torture from dedicated gamers.

The Razer Ornata V3 is also a beautiful showpiece on a gaming desk with a striking array of Razer Chroma RGB effects. That excitement may fade somewhat when realizing the lighting is spread across ten zones rather than per-key. Razer Synapse still allows for customization of the lighting patterns, even if the effects aren’t quite as elaborate as more expensive keyboards. The illumination of the Ornata V3 also extends to the dedicated media keys in the upper right portion of the device, where users can adjust volume levels or skip audio tracks. There aren’t a ton of other perks with the Ornata V3, like USB passthrough, but the keyboard does ship with a comfortable magnetic wrist rest.

The Mecha-Membrane switches on the Ornata V3 are no substitute for Cherry MX-inspired hardware, and the keys won’t provide the most low latency performance. Even so, Ornata V3 is an attractive target for gamers who want to stay in the Razer family but are unwilling to invest money in a pricey mechanical keyboard like the Huntsman V3 Pro.

The Razer BlackWidow V3 is not a newcomer to the manufacturer’s lineup but offers high-end qualities at a mid-range price. With the keyboard’s longevity comes numerous choices in colors and mechanical switches. Most buyers may gravitate toward the Classic Black, but special editions like the Halo Infinite and Quartz Pink are also options. More crucial to performance, the BlackWidow V3 gives gamers switch choices, including Green switches with a clicky feel and actuation distance of 1.9 mm. Also, Yellow switches are an option that is built for speed with a shorter actuation setting of just 1.2 mm.

As a large full-sized keyboard, the BlackWidow V3 occupies considerable space on a gaming desk. For gamers with a more limited area to work with, Razer does sell a tenkeyless version of the BlackWidow V3. There is a heavy dose of aluminum in the build of the keyboard, leading to its 2.21 lb weight. The BlackWidow V3 is slimmer without the included ergonomic wrist rest, which lacks much cushioning anyway and obscures the illuminated Razer logo on the bottom of the device. Speaking of RGB effects, the Razer Chroma lighting on the keyboard is brilliant, with transparent switch components that allow more light to shine through the Doubleshot ABS keycaps.

Razer attempts to make the BlackWidow V3 a little less cluttered by positioning a multi-function volume rocker in its upper right quadrant. Thankfully, the rocker doesn’t have the annoying recoil that can make dialing into a particular volume level difficult. Both keys are customizable, but buyers may feel shortchanged when some budget keyboards have four or more dedicated media buttons.

Of course, performance is the priority with mechanical gaming keyboards, and the BlackWidow V3 has a strong reputation for excellence. Competitive gamers are increasingly drawn to more compact keyboards without number pads. Regardless, stay-at-home gamers appreciate the instant responses to key presses, whether using the Green or Yellow switches. As expected, users can customize nearly every button and adjust complex RGB effects in Razer Synapse.

With highly responsive typing, the BlackWidow V3 is the best gaming keyboard for buyers desiring a modestly priced keyboard with top-of-the-line features.

There aren’t many wireless full-sized mechanical keyboards on the market, at least compared to their wired counterparts. With competitive gamers demanding the most responsive key presses and reliability, pros shudder at the thought of lagging commands or running out of battery life during tournaments. The Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro deals with these issues with Hyperspeed wireless technology and a maximum battery capacity of 192 hours.

Razer has transferred most of the admirable qualities of their premium Huntsman and BlackWidow wired keyboards to the wireless BlackWidow V3 Pro. Build quality is again exemplary with the keyboard, though its added circuitry results in a not-very portable 3.1 lb profile. As with the wired BlackWidow V3, buyers can choose between Razer’s Yellow or Green mechanical switches, with either a linear silent or more clicky response to button mashing. Some gamers may find that the Doubleshot ABS keycaps used in the BlackWidow V3 Pro lack the sturdy feel of the PBT keycaps employed in Razer’s other keyboards. However, Razer didn’t skimp on the leatherette wrist rest, which is among the most pillowy buyers will encounter.

The Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro can connect to sources through Razer’s Hyperspeed USB dongle, Bluetooth, or a detachable USB-C cable. Fans of wireless gaming mice and other wireless gear should opt for the Hyperspeed option since Bluetooth can introduce some added latency to key presses. Although the keyboard displays Razer Chroma RGB effects in their full glory, the lighting dramatically reduces the device’s battery life. Users can also toggle between multiple connected sources by combining function and number keys.

Buyers will also celebrate a full array of media keys consisting of four buttons and a customizable digital dial. However, without the RGB lighting, it’s often difficult to discern the default function of the black symbols imprinted on the keys.

Boasting the same performance gamers expect with Razer’s wired mechanical keyboards, the Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro is the wireless solution gamers have been craving.

The growing popularity of 60% mechanical gaming keyboards like the Razer Huntsman Mini dispels the notion that more keys are always better. Without a number pad or a top row of function keys, the 61-key Huntsman Mini appeals to esports pros collecting gaming gear that’s perfect for FPS titles. These gamers not only have extra space to whip their mice around mousepads, but the keys of the ultra-portable Huntsman Mini are designed for near-instant responsiveness.

Although tiny and under a pound, the Huntsman Mini is not a cheap throwaway device made entirely of plastic. The device shares the same aluminum top plate as Razer’s larger keyboards, even if the material underneath is slightly less durable. Doubleshot PBT keycaps are exceptionally solid and resist the abuse of even the most violent gaming sessions.

Buyers of the Razer Huntsman Mini can choose clicky Purple optical, linear Red optical, or analog optical switches. The availability of analog optical switches is notable in this compact form factor, and it permits gamers to adjust actuation distance and assign multiple commands to the same key. This switch type takes on particular importance in a 60% keyboard since there are a limited number of keys to choose from. The Huntsman Mini also has side-printed secondary functions on its keys, making executing shortcuts simpler.

In reality, the Huntsman Mini is the most practical with shooters that require a minimal number of commands. MOBA gamers or buyers using the keyboard for office applications must learn a series of combined button presses to accomplish what is usually done with single keys.

Even if the Razer Huntsman Mini is a more niche product for competitive gamers, its highly portable form factor makes it a dream to travel with. Thanks to versatile analog optical switches and Razer’s usual top-notch manufacturing, the Huntsman Mini is the best Razer keyboard among the company’s compact contenders.

The Razer DeathStalker V2 tries to defy the myth that a wired, full-sized keyboard can’t be portable. For gamers who keep this keyboard at home, its low-profile design gives it a sleek appearance that takes up less space on desktops. Even though the DeathStalker V2 is as minimalist as a 102-key device can be, it retains the durability expected from Razer gaming keyboards.

Razer populated the DeathStalker V2 with low-profile optical switches, available in Clicky and Linear varieties. Even the louder option may not please fans of the noisiest clicky keyboards, but it’s geared toward rapid and smooth typing. Above the switches are keycaps with laser-etching that resist fading and the abuse that comes with furious gaming. The per-key Chroma RGB lighting shines brightly through the keys with less distance to travel from the keyboard’s base.

Despite the DeathStalker V2 taking up as small a footprint as possible, it includes a volume roller and multi-function media key in its upper right-hand corner. Although the keyboard doesn’t ship with a wrist rest, it has adjustable feet, and its slim profile allows hands and wrists to stay in more ergonomically friendly positions.

Unfortunately, the DeathStalker V2 exemplifies how less bulk does not always mean more affordability. It ranks as one of the priciest wired keyboards but sacrifices nothing in terms of a sturdy build. With a detachable USB-C cable, the DeathStalker V2 is the best Razer keyboard for portability among wired full-sized contenders. The DeathStalker V2 is also available in a wireless Pro version for an even more minimalist choice.

The BlackWidow V3 Mini Hyperspeed is Razer’s first 65% form factor keyboard, offering notable advantages over 60% keyboards like the Razer Huntsman Mini. Gamers who prefer a full-sized layout but have small gaming desks can find a compromise with the BlackWidow V3 Mini Hyperspeed since it includes arrow keys for easier navigation. Razer has side-printed commands on many keys activated using the Function button to make the lack of function keys less of an issue.

Wired keyboards still outnumber cord-free models in Razer’s lineup, but wireless gaming keyboards are becoming more commonplace in the marketplace. To match the performance of its corded counterparts, the BlackWidow V3 Mini takes advantage of Hyperspeed wireless technology. Razer’s wireless protocol virtually eliminates any delay with registering key presses. Also, gamers can pair the same wireless USB dongle with other compatible Razer wireless mice and headsets. The advertised 200-hour battery life of the keyboard is industry-leading, though the Chroma RGB lighting significantly affects its power capacity.

With the BlackWidow V3 Mini, gamers can choose Razer Green or Yellow mechanical switches. The Green switches have a more traditional mechanical feel with audible clicks, while the linear Yellow option is more about smooth typing. Each switch type promotes rapid-fire typing action during gaming, but some gamers may find that the keys are set too far above the keyboard’s bottom plate regardless. The keyboard is compact from side to side, but because of its tall keycaps, it doesn’t necessarily qualify as low-profile. With the Phantom Edition of the BlackWidow V3 Mini, buyers can upgrade to partially transparent keycaps that accentuate the device’s Chroma RGB lighting.

Some annoyances aside, the BlackWidow V3 Mini ranks highly among all compact wireless gaming keyboards. The device’s wireless performance and battery life are unmatched, while its 65% layout is a more sensible option for space-deprived gamers.

Razer resisted designing a keyboard that appeals to the most hardcore PC hardware enthusiasts for many years. This special breed of gamer enjoys building customized keyboards and selecting PCB boards, switches, and keycaps. The Razer BlackWidow V4 75% is the keyboard aspiring modders have been waiting for, with the ability to swap out many of its components quickly.

The customizable nature of the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% shouldn’t overshadow the benefits of this form factor. As a compact 75% keyboard, the BlackWidow V4 is a welcome alternative for gamers who find 60% or 65% keyboards too limiting. This device still saves a reasonable amount of space on a gaming desk but includes arrow keys, top-row function keys, a multi-function roller ball, and a pair of media buttons. Office workers may still miss having a number pad, but otherwise, the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% performs competently for productivity purposes.

Shipping with Razer Orange Tactical mechanical switches, the keys on the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% have a unique feel when typing. The Orange Tactical switches feature a gentle tactile bump when pressed with an actuation point setting of 2 mm and are surprisingly quiet. Some of the keys’ adversity to creating distractions is due to Razer placing a layer of tape and sound-dampening foam inside the keyboard’s housing. Razer also sells Yellow Linear and Green Clicky switches separately on its website if gamers prefer a different type of feedback to keypresses. This hardware is easily installed on the BlackWidow V4 75% with the help of an included key and switch pulling tool.

Buyers should be aware that Razer’s standard warranty doesn’t cover the most intrusive modifications. Enthusiasts discover this fact when trying to remove all the screws on the bottom of the device and encountering a warning sticker. While this may make modders think twice before completely tearing down the BlackWidow V4 75%, plenty of resources are available on the internet to guide buyers through the process safely.

Another slight disappointment with the BlackWidow V4 75% is Razer’s decision to utilize ABS instead of PBT keycaps. The ABS keycaps have a marginally more fragile feel but allow more of Razer’s vivid Chroma RGB lighting to shine through.

The Razer BlackWidow V4 75% is worth trying if only to experience the unique Orange Tactical Mechanical switches. Still, it’s pricey for a compact keyboard and is much more tempting for aspiring PC hardware tinkerers. For gamers who are never quite happy with the combination of switches and keycaps with a mechanical keyboard, the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% is a potential path to total gaming bliss.

It’s difficult for Razer to keep innovating its full-sized keyboards, but the BlackWidow V4 Pro finds new ways to impress. What’s most noteworthy about the wired keyboard is its sheer size, which dwarfs even some other full-sized alternatives. Gamers must dedicate a significant amount of space on desktops for the device. However, the benefits are numerous, including the eight dedicated macro keys on its left side, which are more common on a Logitech keyboard. Five of these macro keys are on the left side of the BlackWidow V4 Pro, with three mouse-inspired side buttons hidden on its left edge.

The large surface area of the BlackWidow V4 Pro also provides enough space for a volume rocker and four media keys in the upper right portion of the keyboard. A command dial is on the left side, above the macro keys, which introduces nearly limitless possibilities for quicker access to commands. Thanks to the fine control of the 30 notches in this dial, gamers can adjust RGB brightness to switch between apps without frustration. Of course, the command dial functions are further customizable in the Synapse software.

Currently, Razer offers a choice of three mechanical switches with the BlackWidow V4 Pro. The linear Yellow switch option is geared toward speed and a smooth typing feel with an actuation distance of just 1.2 mm. Green switches have an actuation rating of 1.9 mm and require a bit more force to press. Finally, like with the BlackWidow V4 75%, Razer’s new Orange switches produce a noticeable bump without being obnoxiously loud. Unfortunately, also like the BlackWidow V4 75%, Razer opted for ABS keycaps instead of the slightly superior PBT keycaps. Each switch results in outstanding gaming performance, especially since the BlackWidow V4 Pro can register commands with up to an 8000 Hz polling rate.

As impressive as the layout and switches of the BlackWidow V4 Pro are, the best aspect of the keyboard may be its Chroma RGB lighting. As usual, gamers can customize the lighting of individual keys in Synapse, but the lighting also extends to the sides of the keyboard for an underglow effect. Also, the exceptionally cushy leatherette wrist rest gets in on the RGB action, culminating in one of the most impressive-looking keyboards.

Powerful dedicated macro keys and a spectacular RGB light show make the BlackWidow V4 Pro the best Razer keyboard to enhance a gaming rig.

Most of Razer’s keyboards remain comfortable to use even during extended gaming sessions. Still, the wired Razer Huntsman V2 TKL is one of the most pleasing keyboards to type on at its current price point. A buyer might not think mechanical switches can make a difference in comfort. However, the optical switches on the Huntsman V2 TKL emphasize speed with minimal effort needed to register keypresses. Using light beams rather than physical components, keys will respond faster than traditional mechanical switches, whether they select Linear or Clicky switches.

Compact keyboards like the Huntsman V2 TKL are sometimes less durable than their full-sized cousins. However, in addition to the usual aluminum top plate found in the manufacturer’s other premium keyboards, the double-shot PBT keycaps utilize the industry’s most durable type of plastic. Also, if the included USB-C cable breaks at any point, gamers can replace it since it can detach from the keyboard. Buyers have to compromise somewhat with the lack of media keys on the Huntsman V2 TKL, forcing users to get creative in Synapse to customize other keys to raise volume or skip audio tracks.

With tenkeyless keyboards, extras like wrist rests are sometimes neglected to further save space in a setup. Fortunately, Razer includes an ergonomic wrist rest covered in a smooth leatherette material that attaches to the Huntsman V2 TKL at the perfect height. In addition, gamers can use the feet underneath the keyboard to set the device at two incline points.

Some minor quibbles with the Huntsman V2 TKL are related to an inconsistent key response, especially the spacebar, which produces a pinging noise despite sound-dampening foam on the keyboard. This doesn’t hold back the keyboard’s performance, which registers commands instantly thanks to a maximum 8000 Hz polling rate. All things considered, the Huntsman V2 TKL is the best Razer keyboard for effortless typing that fits in perfectly with other ergonomic gaming gear.

Many professionals use high-end gaming keyboards because of their build quality and satisfying mechanical switches. Other workers desire a single keyboard that excels at coding, general productivity, and gaming. The Pro Type Ultra is a rare wireless keyboard from Razer that focuses on making work days more efficient. At the same time, with fast and accurate Razer Yellow mechanical switches, it’s no slouch during competitive FPS gameplay.

Ergonomics is a priority for productivity keyboards, and the Pro Type Ultra achieves light and comfortable typing. Gamers who prefer more violent clicking keys may be unimpressed, but the Pro Type Ultra avoids causing distractions. It also ships with a comfy wrist rest, keeping hands, wrists, and arms at the perfect angle.

Buyers who have multiple PCs and mobile devices at workstations will appreciate the robust wireless connectivity of the Pro Type Ultra. With Bluetooth and RF connectivity, users can effortlessly switch between up to four devices. Unfortunately, since buyers will need the Windows-only Razer Synapse to use all of the keyboard’s features, the Pro Type Ultra is not the perfect keyboard for Mac. That said, iMac, iPad, and MacBook Pro owners can still connect to the keyboard with Bluetooth and enjoy much of its functionality.

Often, wireless gaming keyboards disappoint with battery life, especially when RGB backlighting is on at full brightness. The Pro Type Ultra is ideal for evening gaming sessions and long workdays, with a remarkable 214-hour battery life. Bright white LED backlighting still reduces the keyboard’s longevity, but coworkers will find this single-color illumination less distracting.

The Pro Type Ultra is the best Razer keyboard for productivity, with impressive battery life and painless day-long typing.

The Best Razer Keyboard to Complete a Rig

Razer admirably addresses the needs and preferences of every gamer with its extensive keyboard inventory. If a buyer is still undecided about which Razer keyboard to purchase, remember to consider these qualities the most essential:

Form Factor

Razer keyboards can vary dramatically with how much valuable real estate they consume on a gaming desk. The Razer Huntsman Mini is one of the company’s most compact keyboards and sacrifices a number pad and function keys for its 60% form factor. The Huntsman Mini is an attractive device for the most competitive esports pros, maximizing the size of mousepads while still providing the essential commands for FPS games. If a gamer has the space for a full-sized keyboard and wants the flexibility that a number pad and top row of function keys provide, then the BlackWidow V3 is a sensible choice.

Even a 104-key keyboard like the wired Razer DeathStalker V2 can save space at a workstation. Its low-profile keys require minimal effort to press, and its minimalist design defies the bulky nature of full-sized alternatives.

Switch Type

As one of the innovators of mechanical keyboard switches, Razer utilizes various switches in its keyboards. For example, the wireless Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro allows buyers to select from Linear Yellow switches for the smoothest typing feel or traditional Clicky Green switches for noticeable bumps. Constantly innovating mechanical keyboards, the Tactile Orange switches available on several models balance the clickiness of Green switches and the speed of Linear Yellow alternatives.

Other Razer keyboards are more limiting in the switch choices, targeting specific buyers. The Pro Type Ultra appeals to gamers who spend long hours in offices and utilizes quiet mechanical switches that won’t bother co-workers.

Wired Vs. Wireless

One of the advantages of wired keyboards is that they are generally less expensive than their wireless counterparts. The corded Razer Ornata V3 eliminates any battery drain concerns, while its Mecha-Membrane keys simulate the feel of mechanical switches without the added cost that comes with them.

Razer realizes that many gamers have shifted to completely wireless gaming setups. To accommodate those buyers, the Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro is a mechanical keyboard with performance that makes users forget it’s wireless. Hyperspeed Wireless technology provides the low-latency typing that’s essential for competitive gaming.

Customization

Razer keyboards are designed to allow for various degrees of customization. The most modifiable Razer keyboard is undoubtedly the Razer BlackWidow V4 75%, which makes it simple to swap not just keycaps but also the switches themselves for complete control over how typing sounds and feels.

The Razer Huntsman V3 Pro was selected as GameRant’s best overall keyboard in large part because of its versatility. This full-sized wired keyboard is highly innovative, with keys that can register multiple commands depending on the distance they are pressed. As with many Razer keyboards, buyers can also remap virtually any key in Synapse software and design unique RGB lighting effects.

Buying a Razer keyboard doesn’t have to be a frustrating experience. Regardless of which Razer keyboard buyers bring home with them, they will have a piece of gaming gear equipped to survive years of intense gaming action.

FAQ

Q: Why are Razer gaming keyboards so popular?

Razer gaming keyboards have a track record for stellar build quality, performance, and innovation. The Razer snake also has become one of the most iconic logos in the gaming industry, making buyers proud to decorate their rigs with gear made by the famous manufacturer.

Q: Is a wireless mechanical keyboard better than a wired one?

Most wireless mechanical keyboards use 2.4 GHz as a wireless band with a USB dongle. This is a relatively low latency technology versus other options that are more mainstream, such as Bluetooth. Some keyboards, like the Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro, support both.

If cable clutter and range are critical issues, a wireless keyboard has an edge over the wired options that buyers might consider. Otherwise, buyers really can’t go wrong with one choice over the other.

Q: What is the fastest Razer keyboard?

Razer keyboards like the wireless BlackWidow V4 Pro or wired Razer Huntsman V2 TKL that have 8000 Hz polling rates can register commands virtually instantaneously. Although most gamers won’t notice the difference from slower keyboards, competitive gamers can benefit most from this level of responsiveness.