The Best Razer Keyboards for Gaming

Deciding to buy a Razer keyboard is only half the battle. Learn which Razer keyboard is the right fit for your budget and gaming rig.

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 a greater level of 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 on performance.

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Since Razer has one of the most diverse keyboard lineups in the industry, deciding on the ideal piece of gear for a gaming setup can become a chore. Here are the most critical considerations to keep in mind:

Whatever a buyer's priority is when shopping for a Razer keyboard, each of these candidates offers the durability and performance that the manufacturer's devices have become synonymous with:

The Razer Huntsman V2 Analog is an analog switch-based wired keyboard that is at the highest tier of Razer's premium mechanical gaming keyboards. It features USB 3 passthrough, adjustable switches, and dedicated media keys as part of its USB-C powered feature set.

The champion of gaming keyboards has a long list of objectives to fulfill including offering outstanding build quality and responsive typing, while also throwing some innovation into the equation. Thankfully, the wired Razer Huntsman V2 Analog is up to the task, with its unusual analog optical switches allowing for customizable actuation points and relying on a light path rather than physical contact to register keypresses. When using the device, gamers find that the analog keys produce a satisfying response but don't sound overly violent like the clicky switches included with traditional mechanical keyboards.

Analog inputs also have other benefits, including the ability for keys and switches to move in 8 directions. The result is a keyboard that can simulate a game controller, even if the Razer Huntsman V2 Analog has a fairly steep learning curve when used in this way. By setting 2 actuation points, each key on the Huntsman V2 Analog can activate 2 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 on custom button mapping.

Build quality is another strong point of the pricey Razer Huntsman V2 Analog. Once the 2.64 lb keyboard is set on a desktop, it won't shift positions without significant effort. To ensure that its keys can withstand the rigors of competitive gaming, Doubleshot PBT Keycaps are sturdier than lower-quality keycaps and also have lettering that resists fading over time.

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Some other features that make gaming setups more comfortable and practical include a cushy magnetic wrist rest and a USB 3.0 passthrough port. However, buyers will have to route a pair of thick USB cables to PCs or hubs in order to take advantage of the keyboard's full suite of features including its USB passthrough. A multi-function dial and a series of 4 customizable media keys make gaming not only an enjoyable experience, but the Huntsman V2 Analog is also a great option for watching movies and listening to music. Razer Chroma RGB effects look outstanding on the keyboard, with the option to design lighting effects in the Synapse software or activate game-specific reactive lighting.

As the best gaming keyboard in Razer's lineup, the Huntsman V2 Analog boasts superior build quality and modern conveniences, while taking a few risks that mostly produce the desired results. Readers can find out more about how the keyboard justifies its high asking price by reading Game Rant's complete review.

The Razer Ornata V3 keyboard is designed with low-profile keys that feature slimmer keycaps and shorter switches. This configuration promotes natural hand positioning and allows for extended usage without causing strain. The keyboard uses Mecha-Membrane switches that combine the clicky feedback of a mechanical switch with the familiar feel of a conventional keyboard.The keycaps are UV-coated for enhanced durability, offering fade-resistant legends and additional protection against wear and tear from frequent usage. A set of backlit dedicated media keys are available for configuring tasks such as pausing, playing, skipping, and adjusting settings like brightness and volume.

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 their dilemma and offers the Ornata V3 with its Mecha-Membrane switches which are a compromise between affordable membrane keyboards and much more costly 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 its height to a minimum and have a more clicky response to keypresses than usually experienced with membrane keyboards. Even with some mushiness, the Mecha-Membrane keys are still quite loud, making them not ideal for some office environments. The keycaps are not Doubleshot PBT, but rather UV coated to withstand the abuse from dedicated gamers.

The Razer Ornata V3 is also a very attractive 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 10 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 surprisingly 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 low-latency performance common with the brand's premium keyboards. Even so, Ornata V3 is an attractive target for gamers wanting to stay in the Razer family, but who are not willing to invest the money that a mechanical keyboard like the Huntsman V2 Analog demands.

Razer's BlackWidow V3 is a professional-level gaming keyboard that supports Razer Chroma RGB lighting. The RGB lighting can be synchronized with popular games, other Razer hardware, and even Philips Hue lights. The mechanical switches on the keyboard are Razer Green and Yellow switches which offer a quick response with actuation points of 1.9 mm or 1.2 mm respectively.

The Razer BlackWidow V3 is not a newcomer to the manufacturer's lineup, but today offers high-end qualities at a mid-range asking 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 an option. More crucial to performance, the BlackWidow V3 gives gamers a choice of switches 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 takes up 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 allowing more light to shine through the Doubleshot ABS keycaps.

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Razer attempts to make the BlackWidow V3 a little less cluttered by positioning a multi-function volume rocker and media key 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 4 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, but stay-at-home gamers appreciate the instant responses to keypresses, whether they are using the Green or Yellow switches. As expected, users can also customize nearly every button as well as adjust complex RGB effects in the Razer Synapse.

With low-latency gaming performance, the BlackWidow V3 is the best gaming keyboard for buyers desiring a modestly priced keyboard with top-of-the-line features.

The Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro combines the performance of a premium gaming keyboard with the wireless capabilities of keyboards normally costing much more. If green switches are selected for the BlackWidow V3 Pro, they provide an actuation force of 50 G which produces a satisfying clicking sensation and enhanced accuracy. The BlackWidow V3 can connect to PCs and other devices with Bluetooth, HyperSpeed Wireless RF, or a USB-C cable.

There aren't a tremendous number of wireless full-sized mechanical keyboards on the market, at least compared to their wired counterparts. With competitive gamers demanding the most responsive keypresses and reliability, pros shudder at the thought of lagging commands or running out of battery life during tournaments. The Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro addresses these concerns with its Hyperspeed Wireless technology and a remarkable maximum battery capacity of 192 hours.

Razer has been able to transfer most of the admirable qualities of their premium Huntsman and BlackWidow wired keyboards to the wireless BlackWidow V3 Pro. Build quality is once 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 that buyers will encounter on the market.

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The Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro can connect to sources either 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 when possible since Bluetooth can introduce some added latency to keypresses. Although the keyboard displays Razer Chroma RGB effects in their full glory, the use of lighting dramatically lessens the device's battery life. Users can also toggle between multiple connected sources by using a combination of function and number keys.

Buyers will also celebrate a full array of media keys, which consist of 4 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 collection of wired mechanical keyboards, the Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro is the wireless alternative gamers have been craving.

The Razer Huntsman Mini boasts Razer Linear Optical switch technology, which utilizes optical beam-based actuation for key presses at the speed of light. This results in a 15-30% shorter actuation distance of 1.0 mm compared to other linear switches.For an enhanced gaming experience, this keyboard offers ultimate personalization with Razer Chroma, syncing with popular games, Razer hardware, Philips Hue, and gear from over 30 partners. This enables support for 16.8 million colors on individually backlit keys. Designed with quality in mind, the Huntsman Mini features a matte, aluminum top frame that increases structural integrity and durability.

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 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 it's tiny and under 1 lb, 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 less durable to keep its weight reasonable. Doubleshot PBT keycaps are exceptionally solid and resist the abuse of even the most violent gaming sessions.

Buyers of the Razer Huntsman Mini have a choice of 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 special 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 which make it simpler to execute shortcuts.

In reality, the Huntsman Mini is most practical with shooters that require a minimum amount of commands. MOBA gamers or any buyer using the keyboard for office applications will have to learn a series of combined button presses to accomplish what is normally done with single keys.

Even if the Razer Huntsman Mini is a more niche product crafted for competitive gamers, its highly portable form factor also 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 BlackWidow V4 75% is the most customizable Razer mechanical gaming keyboard to date. Enthusiasts can swap out many components of the BlackWidow V4 including its switches and keycaps. By default, this compact keyboard ships with Razer Orange Tactical switches which allow for smooth typing and producing tactile bumps without an excess of noise. In the 75% form factor, gamers looking to preserve space don't have to compromise with arrow keys, top-row function keys, and media controls.

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

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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% keyboards too limiting. This device still saves a reasonable amount of space on a smaller gaming desk but includes arrow keys, top-row function keys, and even a multi-function roller ball along with 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 normal 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%, there are plenty of resources available on the internet to safely guide buyers about the process.

Another slight disappointment with the BlackWidow V4 75% is Razer's decision to utilize ABS keycaps instead of PBT keycaps. The ABS keycaps have a marginally more fragile feel but tend to allow Razer's vivid Chroma RGB lighting to shine through without interruption.

The Razer BlackWidow V4 75% is almost worth trying out 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 available with a mechanical keyboard, the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% is a potential path to total gaming bliss.

At this point, it's obvious that Razer addresses the needs and preferences of every gamer with its extensive selection of keyboards. If a buyer is still undecided about which Razer keyboard to purchase, remember to consider form factor, the type of customization desired, and if a wired or wireless peripheral makes the most sense for a gaming setup.

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 many function keys for the sake of its 60% form factor. The Huntsman Mini is an attractive device for the most competitive Esports pros, maximizing 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. With the BlackWidow V3, buyers also have the choice of Green switches for a classic clicky response to keypresses or Yellow switches that emphasize speed.

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

Razer realizes that there are many gamers who 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.

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 V2 Analog was selected as Game Rant's best overall keyboard in large part because of its versatility. This full-sized wired keyboard is loaded with innovation highlighted by its keys which can move in 8 directions and register multiple commands depending on the distance a key is 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 resulting in a regretful purchase. 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.

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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.

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 support both, like the Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro for example.

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.

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An avid gamer since childhood, Adam Corsetti became hooked on video games after using the original Nintendo console. During college, he created a site aggregating gaming review scores and wrote features about the industry. Adam has since witnessed the popularity of video games rise further and become part of mainstream culture. Adam's video game interests include simulation, strategy, and sports titles on PC and consoles, as well as peripherals and hardware. As a seasoned freelance writer, he recently joined the Game Rant team and is excited to share his experiences and insights with readers.