Razer wants to attract performance-loving gamers with its new mechanical keyboard, the Huntsman V3 Pro. This peripheral not only focuses on its analog optical switches, but also on its customization and comfort. Successful bet for the snake brand?
In the field of gaming peripherals, Razer is a safe bet. The brand wants to prove it again with its new mechanical keyboard: the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro.
Choosing a keyboard is always a headache. Many specialized brands (Corsair, Logitech, Steelseries, Roccat) do excellent work and offer quality products. Razer must therefore redouble its efforts to convince the potential buyer. The Huntsman V3 Pro has something to seduce: analog optical switches, ultra-thorough customization and above all maximum comfort that we are promised.
On paper, so we have something convincing, but what about use? We tested the Huntsman for a little over a month and can give you a definitive opinion. Is this the ultimate gaming keyboard or a damp squib?
Price and availability
The Razer Huntsman V3 Pro is already available on the manufacturer’s website and at partner resellers. This is a high-end pro keyboard, the price displayed is therefore logically high. Here are the different versions on sale:
- Razer Huntsman V3 Pro: 289 euros
- Razer Huntsman V3 Pro TKL: 249 euros
- Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini: 209 euros
One keyboard, three variations: a complete model, one without a numeric keypad and a final one with ultra-small dimensions. Let us specify that we are testing the classic version here (the one at 289 euros), but that everything that is written will also be valid for the other models. It’s up to you to choose the one that suits your needs.
A design that focuses on ergonomics
Visually, this Huntsman V3 Pro remains in line with what Razer does. We have a chassis mixing brushed aluminum and plastic for a result that exudes premium. But it is in the finishes that the snake company makes its mark. For example, we notice that the underside of the keyboard (in plastic) is engraved with small “by gamers, for gamers”, its long-standing slogan. This attention to detail makes all the difference.
Another example, we really like the care taken with the volume wheel. Surrounded by an LED, it has a pleasant notched coating. The aluminum navigation buttons are also very nice. And what about the keys themselves? Their slightly grainy texture provides real comfort under our pudgy little fingers. We will come back to typing in the next part. Please note that they are all easily removed, making them easy to clean.
The Huntsman V3 Pro has a somewhat special wrist rest. Detachable and magnetic, it can be completely removed if the user wishes. It can also be used to support the forearms when typing, in short, it is fully modular. Its faux leather texture reinforces the premium feeling, we love it! The detail that kills ? The Razer logo engraved right in the middle.
Above the directional crosses, we notice a small transparent plastic window, it accommodates the classic light indicators (Caps Lock, numeric keypad, etc.), but also tells us about the profile used (adjustable in the Synapse software, we will come back to this). The Huntsman allows you to change them on the fly. Useful when switching from one game to another.
On the lower part, we note the presence of six rubber pads to guarantee good stability on your desk. Added to this are two modular plastic feet. They leave the choice between three positions: keyboard flat, tilted at 6 degrees and 9 degrees (our preferred posture). The big advantage is that they are thick and well attached, therefore resistant.
We notice a small niche, it allows you to connect the Huntsman to your PC. Yes, it is a wired device. Razer’s good idea, is not having incorporated the wire directly into its design, but to provide a separate two-meter braided cable (USB Type-C to USB Type-A). If it no longer works due to a bad contact, it is entirely possible to change it while keeping your keyboard. Furthermore, it is possible to opt for an even longer cable if the need arises.
Finally, let’s talk about RGB LEDs. Who says Razer keyboard, says little glowing glasses! Here again, we have backlit keys and fully customizable via Synapse software. As usual we can choose color or even effects. For our part, we like the static purple which changes to white when you press a key. It’s up to you to choose the animation you like: multicolor, wave, cycle… You can even combine them. The only regret is that some symbols printed on the keys are not all backlit (like the numbers) which may annoy some people. For our part, this is not a problem.
In terms of design, Razer impresses with this Huntsman V3 Pro. It’s a keyboard that not only exudes premium, but which offers very appreciable comfort, especially with its modular and very clever wrist rest. A beautiful keyboard is nice, but it’s no use if typing isn’t pleasant. This is what we will see right away.
Optimal typing comfort and ultra-deep customization
Might as well say it right away, The Razer Huntsman V3 Pro is the most comfortable mechanical keyboard on the market. The sensations are simply perfect. This is due to the brand’s work on its keys, analog optical switches. Several factors explain this quality. The activation force, first of all, 40 grams. Neither too sensitive nor too hard to press the keys quickly. The race, for its part, ranges from 0.1 mm to 4 mm depending on the profile chosen.
The particularity of the Huntsman’s optical switches is their analog activation. This means that by pressing a button, the function is activated at the end of the chosen travel (let’s say 2 mm). The real added value, is that there is no longer any need to cross this “border” to cancel an action, since the keyboard does it as soon as the player releases pressure a little. Concretely, this allows you to be more incisive in competitive games, such as FPS, Moba or RTS.
We are not only in the domain of theory, since the thing is verified in full. We used the Huntsman for a month on various types of games and the results are clear: it’s the best mechanical keyboard we’ve tested. We particularly appreciate the pre-established profiles, ideal for each type of game. For example, the High Sensitivity mode is ideal for MMOs where responsiveness is essential in raids. The ZQSD mode, which focuses on the analogy of the movement keys, is perfect for FPS or third-person adventure games like Alan Wake 2. We can also talk about the Rapid Trigger profile, suitable for ultra-competitive titles like Valorant or Overwatch 2. What about the default mode (2mm activation)? It’s great for just typing. The writing is a real delight.
If you are not satisfied yet, it is entirely possible to create your own profiles, up to 6. For example, you can opt for different activation strokes depending on the keys. It’s up to you to experiment to find the perfect setting. Remember, the Huntsman also allows you to change profile on the fly.
Razer promises a lifespan of one hundred million keystrokes per key, or several years without any worries (in theory). Mechanical keyboard requires, the Huntsman is a noisy device, up to 80 decibels per keystroke. In fact, the people who live with you will no longer be able to supervise him. It’s difficult to blame Razer for this, as it stems from the mechanical format, but it’s something to take into account before buying.
Synapse, Razer’s weak point
Now let’s talk about the annoying things: Razer Synapse. The software (which must be downloaded from the official website) allows you to fully personalize your Huntsman. We talked about backlighting, profiles, but also the activation stroke. The application is simply essential and we appreciate the ease of configuring certain aspects, such as running or quick release. Its interface is the only successful thing, because for the rest, Synapse is tough.
The application appears to be poorly thought out for even simple things. For example, you have to go through an external module to adjust the RGB effects, and not through the section dedicated to products connected to your PC. Besides, the software does not necessarily recognize when a device is plugged in, forcing us to unplug it then plug it back in until it worked.
Also read – Razer Deathstalker V2 Pro review: a superb keyboard that just misses perfection
Cherry on the cake, Synapse is a real wheelbarrow. Sometimes it doesn’t launch at all when you start your PC, or runs idle once activated. Launch it manually afterwards? We are very lucky that the app does not respond, or that it is looking for an update that takes too long to install (we have the impression that there is one every day). In short, we are not fans. Fortunately, the brand has promised us a new version soon. We are looking forward to it, as the current state of the software is complicated.
So, should we buy?
You would have understood it, We thoroughly enjoyed our experience with the Huntsman V3 Pro. It’s quite simply the best mechanical keyboard on the market, so much so that we even forgive that damn Synapse. So, should we buy? The Huntsman is a high-end keyboard, so the price is just as high-end. Our version, the most complete, is priced at 289 euros. For this price, it had better be good. But we have to be realistic, this remains a fortune for a peripheral, even a quality one.
The fact is that the Huntsman is not for everyone. Are you looking for a mechanical keyboard for playing in your corner or for writing? It is not necessarily necessary to opt for this model. For example, Razer offers BlackWidows V4X, a mechanical keyboard for 150 euros which remains very good. Even among the competition, we find quality products at a much lower price.
But then, who is the Huntsman V3 Pro for? For those who want to play competitive games, have the best of the best to be as efficient as possible. Or to those who have no budget limit and who are looking for the most pleasant keyboard on the market, whether for gaming or writing. Yes, the Huntsman is a high quality, pleasant, comfortable, ergonomic and pleasant to use peripheral, but it is not for everyone.