Razer keyboards are regularly considered some of the best gaming keyboards, and there are plenty of reasons for that air of prestige. These decks cover a range of styles, designs, and mechanisms, with excellent response and a premium feel. Even cheaper membrane decks are well known for their durability and price to performance ratio, offering newcomers and budget setup builders a set of luxury feeling keys without breaking the bank. 

We’ve had our paws all over some of the best Razer keyboards in the business, and we’ve rounded up our top picks right here. Not only will you find the absolute best of the best here, though, we’ve brought out our favorites across the full price range. 

The best Razer gaming keyboards

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1. Razer Huntsman V2 Analog

The best Razer keyboard overall

Specifications

Type: Mechancial (wired)Size: FullSwitches: Razer Analog OpticalKeycaps: Doubleshot PBTMedia keys: Dedicated keys, volume dialWrist rest: Detachable, magneticUSB passthrough: USB 3.0

Reasons to buy

+Analog function+Satisfying click+Comfy, bezel-less wrist rest

Reasons to avoid

-Expensive

The keys of the Razer Huntsman V2 Analog are designed to mimic the thumbsticks of a controller. Essentially, each key has a variable actuation point – so you can use different levels of pressure in order to produce a different response from the keyboard. That’s a revelation in our books, allowing us to push harder on a key to run faster, or move with greater precision. 

In our testing, this nifty little feature offered up far smoother gameplay in Watch Dogs: Legion and Elite: Dangerous alike. We were cruising around asteroids, and subtly adjusting our flight patterns with the help of that variable actuation rate. It was a real game-changer – once we set it up. There’s a lot of fiddling required to make the switches perform to their full potential. For example, mapping thumbstick controls to WASD in certain games meant the title itself thought we using a full controller. That meant some commands were being automatically mapped to non-existent trigger buttons. Of course, this was fixed by diving back into the Synapse software, but it’s worth noting that this is not a plug and play affair.

Nevertheless, his is a Razer keyboard designed for FPS, racing, and flight-sim fans, with the WASD keys never feeling so in tune with our own gameplay requirements. While we wouldn’t chalk it up as a necessity, it’s certainly difficult to switch back to a regular deck once you’ve got used to it. 

Aside from that key feature, the Razer Huntsman V2 Analog still packs some considerable power under the hood. Razer’s optical switches mean you’re getting a super fast response, but there’s still a mechanical click feel here as well. Add dedicated media keys and dial, USB passthrough, and a luxurious leatherette magnetic wrist rest, and you’ve got yourself a particularly premium deck with a twist. 

Read more: Razer Huntsman V2 Analog review

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2. Razer Cynosa V2

The best Razer keyboard under $60 / £60

Specifications

Type: Membrane (wired)Size: FullSwitches: Rubber domeKeycaps: ABS plasticMedia keys: Dedicated keysWrist rest: NoneUSB passthrough: None

Reasons to buy

+Feels great to type on+Quiet membrane keys+Affordable

Reasons to avoid

-Some keys can sound ‘squeaky’

The Razer Cynosa V2 manages to feel great under your hands without breaking the bank – which isn’t an easy find in the world of Razer keyboards. Not only is it one of the brand’s best decks for value for money, but it’s one of the cheapest models worth running on the whole market as well. While it holds an MSRP of $59.99 / £59.99, we actually see this model well under $50 / £50 regularly.

While these rubber dome switches are a little cheaper by nature, the Cynosa manages to implement them in a way that still feels tactile and responsive. Plus, you’re keeping that quiet typing experience of a non-mechanical deck as well. It should be said, though, that in our testing we did come across a few squeaky keys. While no means a deal-breaker, and certainly not a constant sound, the odd ting noise could become irritating if they build up over time.

We were still flying across the board with excellent actuation speed and response, which is more than can be said for the majority of budget gaming keyboards. Not only that, but you’re also getting dedicated media controls and a full set of RGB LEDs as well. 

The Razer Cynosa line is very similar to the brand’s other budget range – the Ornata. The Cynosa won’t take you past $50, but the Ornata, with its hybrid switches, media dial, and included wrist rest will run you closer to $80. While the Ornata may boast a few more specialized features, then, those looking for a true budget buy will be better suited to the value experience that the Cynosa V2 line offers.

Read more: Razer Cynosa V2 review

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3. Razer BlackWidow Elite

The best Razer keyboard for most people

Specifications

Type: Mechancial (wired)Size: FullSwitches: Razer Green / Razer YellowKeycaps: ABSMedia keys: Dedicated keys, volume dialWrist rest: DetachableUSB passthrough: USB 2.0

Reasons to buy

+Quality construction+Responsive switches+Sounds awesome to use

Reasons to avoid

-Not great for longer periods of time-No dedicated macro keys

Blackwidow keyboards have been at the top of the mechanical tree for many years, and this latest Elite iteration seems likely to keep it there. With an arsenal of thoughtful features and a more streamlined design than we’ve seen in previous Blackwidow models, the Razer BlackWidow Elite seems to solve some of the line’s early problems. While you are dropping dedicated macro keys, there’s more than enough functionality in here to make up for it – including Razer Hypershift, an additional layer of programmability accessible via a modifier key. 

We found the BlackWidow Elite to be taller than other Razer decks, with a high profile design that did become cumbersome during longer testing sessions. However, the concave keycaps kept us in line.

Those keycaps are working hard as well. The clicky green switches in our testing unit were incredibly sensitive, which came in handy for twitch reflex manoeuvres. However, we did find ourselves making several mistakes with unwanted keypresses. That means we’d recommend taking a look at the orange switches if you’re looking for extra precision.

We greatly valued the USB passthrough on here, as well as the addition of a 3.5mm audio jack. We’re often testing the best gaming headsets while we plug away on Razer keyboards, so having somewhere easy to plug that cable in was a godsend.

The Razer BlackWidow Elite still isn’t a budget buy by any means. It doesn’t touch the lofty heights of the Huntsman V2, but still offers enough luxury to put it several large steps ahead of budget models like the Cynosa and Ornata. That makes it the best Razer keyboard for most people – strong value for money that doesn’t load up on expensive features that might not see use from everyday players.

Read more: Razer BlackWidow Elite review

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4. Razer Huntsman Mini

The best small Razer keyboard

Specifications

Type: Mechanical (wired)Size: 60%Switches: Opto-mechanicalKeycaps: Double-shot PBTMedia keys: Dual-functionWrist rest: NoUSB passthrough: No

Reasons to buy

+Compact and portable+Fast Razer Optical Switches+Satisfying key action+Tough and grippy PBT keycaps

Reasons to avoid

-Not great for long periods of typing

Don’t let the size of the Razer Huntsman Mini fool you – it’s every bit the equal of its full-size counterparts. That’s because it also features the same excellent opto-mechanical switches for ultra-fast actuation and a satisfying ‘click’ with every key bump. It’s a delight for typing as a result, but its main draw is its speed. You can respond every so slightly faster than your foes with this one, and that’s crucial in competitive shooters like Apex Legends.

The smaller footprint means it’s easy to transport as well, making this the ideal choice for tournament use or those who travel a lot. It’s also a good pick if you want to use it on one of the best gaming laptops (opens in new tab), as it doesn’t take up a huge amount of space.

Read more: Razer Huntsman Mini review

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5. Razer Huntsman Elite

The fastest Razer gaming keyboard

Specifications

Type: Mechanical (wired)Size: FullSwitches: Razer Opto-MechanicalKeycaps: ABSMedia keys: DedicatedWrist rest: DetachableUSB passthrough: No

Reasons to buy

+Opto-mechanical switches eliminate delay+Plush leatherette wrist rest+Bold RGB

Reasons to avoid

-No USB passthrough or macros-Requires two USB ports for full RGB

Razer’s Huntsman range of keyboards is rapidly becoming the company’s premier lineup for competitive use. They are currently the only set of keyboards to feature Razer’s excellent opto-mechanical switches to essentially eliminate actuation delay (the time it takes for a key-press to be registered). That means the Razer Huntsman Elite keys register the moment they touch a laser beam. 

These opto-mechanical switches are the star of the show here, offering up some of the speediest, most responsive switches we’ve seen in a gaming keyboard. We found that the tactile feedback and sound was similar to that of the Cherry MX Blue, but with a 15g lighter actuation force, each press was far easier and stood the test of a longer play session much better as well. Not only that, but you’ll find some solid stabilizers supporting those switches as well – we were particularly impressed with the stability of the overall experience here.

Of course, there are some drawbacks to having all that speed at your fingertips. The Razer Huntsman Elite does lack some of the more peripheral features that sit on other Razer keyboards. There’s no USB or audio passthrough here, and you’re not getting any dedicated macro keys. However, we were grateful for the stripped back approach here, with the features that are included (dedicated media keys and RGB) performing particularly well.

Read more: Razer Huntsman Elite review

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6. Razer Ornata V2

The best hybrid gaming keyboard from Razer

Specifications

Type: Mecha-membrane (wired)Size: FullSwitches: Razer mecha-membraneKeycaps: ABSMedia keys: Dedicated, volume rollerWrist rest: DetachableUSB passthrough: No

Reasons to buy

+Mixes membrane and mechanical switches+Low actuation+Pleather wrist-rest

Reasons to avoid

-Keycaps get greasy

The Ornata V2 is a brilliant answer to the question: should my Razer keyboard be mechanical or membrane? The answer is, actually, it can be both. 

Utilizing a ‘mecha-membrane’ approach to its design, the Razer Oranata V2 blends the two approaches and techs into a glorious combination: it has a mechanical ‘click’ with the feel of membrane switches. As a result, it is very easy to use and proved incredibly responsive in our testing, enhanced further by the low-profile keycaps. 

The Ornata V2 feels particularly tactile under the hand, which will benefit those who don’t get on with the longer travel distances of linear mechanical switches. However, you’re still getting a durable set of keys with a satisfying sound here – it really is the best of both worlds. Not only that, but because of that cheaper hybrid design this is also one of the more affordable Razer keyboards out there.

Of course, it’s not as cheap as the Razer Cynosa V2, but you’re still getting plenty of additional features like a media dial and wrist rest to make that extra investment worth it. That said, the budget build does mean you’re picking up ABS keycaps – a smoother, less durable alternative to pricier PBT models. In our testing we did notice some oily shine appearing fairly quickly.

Read more: Razer Ornata V2 review

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7. Razer Turret

The best Razer console keyboard

Specifications

Type: Mechanical (wireless)Size: FullSwitches: Razer Green TactileKeycaps: ABSMedia keys: Dual functionWrist rest: NoUSB passthrough: No

Reasons to buy

+Versatile – works with PC or Xbox One+Modeled after the excellent BlackWidow+Durable and built to last

Reasons to avoid

-Hard wrist rest

The Razer Turret is certainly an older model, but if you’re looking for a keyboard setup on your console it’s still a solid go-to. You can run this model on Xbox as well as PC, which will appeal particularly to anyone on the hunt for versatility – though unfortunately not if you’re a PlayStation player. 

Razer rarely produces wireless gaming keyboards, but you’ll find a solid cable-free connection here, on both Xbox and PC. We were particularly impressed with the battery life, running through several testing sessions without needing to juice up. 

Interrogated more closely, the Turret’s two parts perform just as well as the full-blooded counterparts which provided their inspiration. To start with, the keyboard is just like the BlackWidow in its reliability, quality, and design (its retractable mouse pad is also a wonderful design touch). Meanwhile, the included mouse is on par with the Mamba model – one of the best Razer gaming mice (opens in new tab) you can get. 

Read more: Razer Turret review

How we test gaming keyboards

We adopt each Razer keyboard as our own whenever a new model comes our way for review. That means we can make recommendations based on not only hands-on experience, but also the quality of life of a product. We use each Razer keyboard we review for work and play over a considerable amount of time, while also running a series of tests designed to stress a keyboard’s performance through a range of genres. 

In particular, we’re always making sure key features like the n-key rollover and scan rates are true to the brand’s marketing, while also testing response times, debounce, switch speeds, ease of macro use, travel and more during our use. 

Because we use these devices every day, we’re always keeping an eye on that form factor and durability as well – watching out for any flexible parts or switch wobble. However, once our initial review is finished we will continue to keep these Razer keyboards in our rotations so that we can determine long-term build quality and update our findings as well. 

For more information on how we make our recommendations, take a look at our full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy. You’ll also find more details on how we test gaming keyboards specifically as well. 

Of course, we’re also rounding up all the best cheap gaming keyboards currently on the market, as well as the best gaming mouse models and the best Razer laptops to boot. 

The post Best Razer keyboards 2022: all the brands top gaming decks appeared first on Game News.

At $139.99 / £109.99, the new miniature Mountain Everest 60 is a fairly pricey affair, though one look at the world of high-end gaming keyboards shows it’s clear that the overall experience on offer here is a steal. Investing in quality over quantity, the brand’s first keyboard, the Mountain Everest Max, launched two years ago. The new release is a scaled down version with some particularly thoughtful improvements on the original.

The Mountain Everest 60 is a 60% gaming keyboard like no other. That goes beyond the handy arrow buttons and optional modular number pad, though, and straight to the source; the in-house Mountain switches. These are some of the most pleasing springs I’ve had my hands on, and when taken with the thoughtful design, comfortable shape, and suave RGB effects they push the Mountain name even further into the limelight. 

I got to grips with the Everest 60 over the course of four weeks, using it as a daily driver in both work and play to find out just how well it lives up to its predecessor. 

Design

• Smaller footprint but still packs useful arrow keys
• RGB light strip remains 
• Great build quality overall

A 60% layout usually eschews all extraneous functions so that your keyboard can focus on core gameplay without having to worry about space for arrow buttons and a function row. That means I often have a hard time fully settling into a 60% keyboard, particularly when it comes to productivity. Rerouting buttons via a function layer has always felt like a band-aid on the broken leg of this layout, serving neither gamers nor office aficionados. Spotting the arrow keys fully intact on the Mountain Everest 60 (nestled between delete and shift keys no less), was my first indication that I was going to have a good time with this keyboard. 

You’re getting standard 60% design elsewhere, with no function row, home, insert, or end keys. However, those are the only sacrifices you’re making to get this smaller footprint, and that’s pretty damn impressive. Sure, it’s longer than the likes of the HyperX Alloy Origins 60 or Razer Huntsman Mini, but there’s still plenty of space to swing a mouse and the modular design means you can attach the optional number pad to the left or right of the deck as well.

That black brushed design has stuck around from the Everest Max, though it is less noticeable due to the reduced bezel size here. The RGB is bold and bright, and I was particularly pleased to find the LED light strip stuck between the two panels has made a return. It’s a subtle touch that I always enjoyed in the original model; a hint of color without glaring it across your desktop.

Overall, this feels like a reliably sturdy deck. The USB-C connection between the number pad and the main keyboard also feels a little less precarious, by virtue of a slightly longer connection panel compared to the original in the Everest Max. Magnetic feet risers are also included, with three increments of height available. I placed the whole deck on the highest setting, for ultra-ergonomics and was particularly pleased with the comfort on offer.

Features

• No space for previously released modular components
• Linear, tactile, or speed linear switches available
• Tactile texture on PBT doubleshot keycaps

Essential Info

Average price: $139.99 / £109.99
Type: Mechanical (hot-swappable)
Size: 60%
Switches: Mountain Linear 45
Keycaps: Double-shot PBT
Media keys: None
Wrist rest: None
USB passthrough: None
Tested on an Asus TUF Dash F15 gaming laptop

Existing Mountain fans will be disappointed to learn that the modular components shipped with the Everest Max model aren’t compatible with the new Everest 60. As hard as I tried, there’s no connecting my beloved digital display dial to this deck, the bezels are simply too skinny to support the lip of the device. Plus, the programmable macro buttons on the original number pad are nowhere to be found this time around. That’s a little disappointing, it was these touches that solidified the Mountain Everest Max’s position on my desktop long-term and I can’t help but feel some of the spark has been lost in their absence. 

Of course, with a 60% design and a slightly lower price point, the Everest 60 isn’t trying to be the all-in-one command centre its ancestor was. In truth, there’s a new set of features that propel the new release into the spotlight; and they’re all under the keys.

Our testing unit shipped with Mountain Linear 45 switches, a particularly snappy set of springs with a super-fast debounce and a satisfying heft to them. These aren’t heavy switches, but the force required to actuate is far greater than other linears in my arsenal, without ever feeling cumbersome. It’s a strange sensation; with a soft, smooth landing but – at the same time – a satisfying clack to each keypress. Thankfully, these switches come factory lubed, so there’s no need to take the deck apart before even plugging it in.

Of course, if you don’t get on with the Linear 45s, Mountain is also shipping the Everest 60 with its Tactile 55 and Linear 45 Speed switches. This is a hot-swappable keyboard, though, so you can also trade them out for anything you’d prefer, thanks to the 3 and 5-pin seats.

On top of those switches, you’ll find a set of PBT doubleshot keycaps, which I was particularly relieved to find. The original Max model shipped with ABS domes, and cheap-feeling ones at that. It was a frustration I held firmly against that $300 MSRP, but thankfully you’ll find nicely tactile, durable keycaps here. The surface texture is also pleasantly grainy, feeling infinitely better under the hand and keeping things fresh even during those longer (read sweatier) sessions.

Performance

• Comfortable but satisfying switches
• Weight of keys prevents unwanted keypresses 
• No rattle or ping

The Mountain Everest 60 owes a lot of its performance prowess to those switches. They’re truly outdoing themselves here, offering up a comfortable tension without fatigue, and a comfortable bottom-out that feels speedy and crisp in its debounce. Needless to say, typing feels fantastic. I averaged 92WPM in typing speed tests on this deck, with 98% accuracy. That’s a nice improvement over same-day tests on the original Max (90WPM at 96% accuracy), largely down to the fact that the increased resistance under here makes for a particularly precise typing experience, and those PBT keycaps offer greater purchase across the top as well. 

I wasn’t quite typing at the breakneck speed afforded by the Keychron Q2 (measuring in at 96WPM at 99% accuracy) with its lower travel distances and lighter actuation force, but I did prefer the extra weight to the Everest overall. 

During gameplay, the snappiness and weight of those keys made for precise shots and speedy dodges. Reaching around the WASD keys was easy and scampering across the keyboard during more intense Apex Legends moments felt natural as well. Response times were solid across Borderlands 2 and Apex, though wouldn’t hold up to more competitive decks with faster scan and polling rates.

The auditory profile of the Mountain Everest 60 was also impressive. There’s a silicon mat placed in the main housing here, with extra foam lining the PCB and sitting between the PCB and top plate. That all makes for excellent dampening, and a solid thud to boot. I never noticed any stabilizer twang or switch reverb running through the chassis; something that did present as an early problem with the original model.

Should you buy the Mountain Everest 60?

The Mountain Everest 60 is a serious contender for the best 60% keyboard out there. Its form factor strikes a perfect balance; saving space while still providing access to useful arrow keys. This is a particularly versatile deck (just look at that modular number pad, for instance) that will certainly look good and play well on anyone’s desk. At a fairly high asking price, I’d recommend this more for those on the hunt for an enthusiast-level typing experience than anyone looking for a suite of controls at their fingertips. 

The Everest 60 doesn’t offer the same level of sheer functionality as its predecessor, the Everest Max, did, but does represent a nice halfway point between a tiny 60% device and a TKL. If you’re looking to downsize, but don’t want to remove too much functionality, this is a solid bet. However, if you’re after blistering speed at the expense of all other functions, we’d recommend checking out the HyperX Alloy Origins 60. 

How we tested the Mountain Everest 60

I ran the Mountain Everest 60 through everyday work and play over the course of four weeks, using the deck as my main driver throughout. I tested response times, debounce, and switch feel using Apex Legends and Borderlands 2, while also testing actuation speeds and scan rates on platformers like Celeste and Hollow Knight. I also fully stripped the Everest 60 to check the ease of hot-swapping its switches and performed typing tests using TypingTest.com (opens in new tab). 

You can find out more about how we test gaming keyboards right here, or check out how we make all our recommendations in our full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy. 

We’re also rounding up all the best Razer keyboards and our top tips for budget gaming keyboards as well. Or, for the perfect partner, check out the best gaming mouse options on the market. 

The Verdict

3.5

3.5 out of 5

Mountain Everest 60 review: “Excellent quality with a thoughtful design”

The Mountain Everest 60 offers a rare halfway position between the miniscule 60% form factor and the functionality of a TKL. While you’re dropping some of the modular features that made the original release so great, the overall experience and typing feel here is second to none.

The post Mountain Everest 60 review: “Excellent quality with a thoughtful design” appeared first on Game News.

Sure, the Logitech G413 SE is certainly far cheaper than many mechanical decks. The best gaming keyboards can set you back well over $200, and custom mechanical keyboards can reach far higher. However, Logitech’s original G413 still carries an MSRP of just $89.99 – and is even currently on sale for $49.99 at Best Buy (opens in new tab), $59.99 at Amazon (opens in new tab), and $69.99 via the brand’s own store (opens in new tab). Those aren’t outlier prices, either – we regularly see this deck discounted these days.

So what’s the difference between the two? In short, the Logitech G413 SE replaces the far less durable ABS keycaps of the original with a new PBT set. That ‘SE’ naming convention, however, is running true here; offering a watered-down spec for a, supposedly, lower price. The new panel drops the red LED option of the former, opting for an all-white under key aesthetic, isn’t compatible with G-Hub (so no reprogrammable keys or macros), and switches out Romer-G switches for Logitech’s “Tactile Mechanical Switches”. 

Romer-G switches have been the go-to for Logitech for so long they’ve become synonymous with the brand’s portfolio of gaming keyboards. With a 1.5mm actuation point at 45g of force and a 3.2mm bottom out point, they’re comparable to Cherry’s MX Reds – if a little heavier and shorter.

However, the Tactile Mechanical Switches that will launch with the G413 SE actuate at a much higher 1.9mm with 50g of force behind them, bottoming out at 4mm. That’s both heavier and slower than the flagship switches. High-speed gaming traditionally relies on snappier, lighter switches for those twitch reflexes and repeat presses.

The Logitech G413 SE also looks like it might be taking a hit by dropping G-Hub compatibility. The G413 allows you to use Logitech’s software to configure macro commands along the function row, but here it looks like we’re just getting the stock functions described by side legends (media controls, brightness settings, and an LED switch).

We haven’t had our hands on the Logitech G413 SE, or its switches, yet – so it goes without saying that this is all speculative based on Logitech’s spec sheets and release information. However, on paper, it doesn’t look like the full-sized G413 SE is affordable enough to warrant such hardware strips.

Does the Logitech G413 SE have its place?

Of course, gaming keyboards and their switches, functionality, and LED settings are all subjective. That means there’s still a place for the Logitech G413 SE. If you find the Romer-G switches too light for controlled and precise play, for example, you may have a better time with this new model. If you’re after a more subdued design than the laser red LEDs of the original, the cooler whites on offer here will likely fit your setup better straight out of the box. 

Those PBT keycaps shouldn’t be ignored either – durability is a particularly important characteristic considering the strain these planks are put under during heavy sessions. And if that $59.99 sale price on the G413 SE should buckle, then it might be time to reassess the $10 difference if you’re after a high-quality cheap gaming keyboard.

Plus, let us not forget that new TKL option – launching at a lower $69.99 price point – will fill a gap in the G413’s current market. If you’re after a more compact design, for wider mouse sweeps and a more ergonomic typing experience, then, the mini version will likely be well worth a look.

The Logitech G413 SE will appeal to some, but unfortunately that $79.99 price point and feature discrepancy on the full-sized kit will potentially turn away more punters than it attracts when it launches in full-size and TKL format in February 2022. Pre-orders are available now via Logitech (opens in new tab).

Logitech gear features heavily in our guide to the best gaming mouse on the market right now, so if you’re looking to upgrade your setup it’s well worth taking a look at the pointers on offer. We’re also rounding up all the best Razer keyboards on the market, and the best gaming laptops if you’re after a full refresh. 

The post PBT keycaps might not be enough to justify the new Logitech G413 SE gaming keyboard appeared first on Game News.