Razer Huntsman Keyboard Review

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Welcome to my detailed review of the Razer Huntsman Keyboard! If you’re here, you’re likely considering a new gaming keyboard, and let me tell you, the Huntsman is a real contender. This review will dive deep into everything you need to know about this keyboard. We’ll explore its features, performance, build quality, and much more. So, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s get started!

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First Impressions: Sleek and Solid

The moment you unbox the Razer Huntsman, you’re greeted with a sleek, full-size gaming keyboard that looks every bit as premium as it feels. It has a classic black finish that gives it a clean, sophisticated look. This keyboard isn’t just about aesthetics, though. It’s built like a tank with a sturdy aluminum top frame that promises durability. It’s clear that Razer didn’t cut any corners here, which is always a good sign when investing in gaming peripherals.

Clicky Optical Switches: Love Them or Hate Them

One of the most notable features of the Razer Huntsman is its unique Razer clicky optical switches. These switches use light-based actuation, which means your key presses are registered at the speed of light. This results in a very fast response time, perfect for gaming. The actuation distance is 1.5 millimeters, which is 30% shorter than traditional mechanical switches. This makes them incredibly responsive, which is a huge plus for gamers.

However, these switches are clicky. Really clicky. They provide satisfying tactile feedback, but they also produce a significant amount of noise. If you’re gaming in a shared space or an office, this could be a bit of a nuisance. Personally, I enjoy the clickiness—it adds to the overall experience, making every key press feel deliberate and substantial.

RGB Lighting: Customization Galore

What’s a gaming keyboard without some flashy lights, right? The Razer Huntsman doesn’t disappoint in this department. It features fully customizable RGB lighting that supports 16.8 million colors. Each key is individually backlit, allowing for an incredible level of personalization. You can sync the lighting with your games, Razer hardware, Philips Hue, and gear from over 30 partners. This level of integration is fantastic for creating an immersive gaming setup.

Using Razer’s Synapse software, you can customize the lighting effects to your heart’s content. Whether you want a subtle wave of colors or a pulsing effect that matches your music, the possibilities are endless. It’s like having a mini light show right at your fingertips.

Programmable Macro Functionality: A Gamer’s Best Friend

If you’re serious about gaming, you’ll appreciate the fully programmable macros on the Razer Huntsman. With Razer Hypershift, you can remap all keys and keypress combinations to execute complex commands. This is a game-changer for games that require quick reflexes and intricate key combinations. Setting up macros is straightforward using the Razer Synapse software, and it adds a layer of customization that can give you an edge in competitive play.

Build Quality: Durable and Dependable

As mentioned earlier, the Razer Huntsman is built with a matte aluminum top frame, adding to its structural integrity. This keyboard feels substantial and durable. It’s not one of those flimsy keyboards that you worry about breaking if you press the keys too hard. In fact, it supports up to 100 million clicks, which is double the lifespan of many competitor keyboards. This durability is backed by a two-year manufacturer warranty, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected.

Typing Experience: Great for Gaming, Decent for Office Work

While the Razer Huntsman shines as a gaming keyboard, it’s also quite capable for everyday typing tasks. The clicky optical switches provide excellent feedback and are quite satisfying to type on. However, the loudness of the clicks can be a bit much for an office environment. If you’re in a shared space or prefer quieter keyboards, this might be a drawback.

Another point to note is the lack of a wrist rest. For extended typing or gaming sessions, this could affect comfort. Razer has addressed this in the Huntsman V2, which includes a wrist rest, but for the original Huntsman, you might want to consider investing in an aftermarket wrist rest to enhance ergonomics.

Gaming Performance: Speed and Precision

When it comes to gaming performance, the Razer Huntsman truly excels. The optical switches’ quick actuation allows for lightning-fast key presses, which is crucial in fast-paced games. Whether you’re playing an intense first-person shooter or a strategy game that requires rapid commands, this keyboard delivers. The programmable macros add another layer of functionality, allowing you to set up complex actions that can be executed with a single keystroke.

The anti-ghosting and N-key rollover features ensure that every key press is registered accurately, even during the most frenetic gaming sessions. This reliability is essential for competitive gaming, where a missed key press can mean the difference between victory and defeat.

Customization with Razer Synapse: A World of Possibilities

Razer Synapse is the software that brings all the Razer Huntsman’s features to life. It’s user-friendly and packed with options to customize your keyboard to your exact preferences. From lighting effects to macro programming, everything is easily accessible through the software.

One feature I particularly like is the ability to create different profiles. You can have a profile for gaming, another for work, and switch between them effortlessly. This makes the Razer Huntsman not just a great gaming keyboard, but a versatile tool for all your computing needs.

Ergonomics: Could Be Better

If there’s one area where the Razer Huntsman could improve, it’s ergonomics. The keyboard’s high profile and lack of a wrist rest can make it uncomfortable for long typing or gaming sessions. While the keys themselves are comfortable to type on, the overall setup isn’t the most ergonomic.

This isn’t a deal-breaker, but it’s something to keep in mind if you spend long hours at your computer. As mentioned earlier, the Huntsman V2 addresses this issue with a bundled wrist rest, so if ergonomics are a top priority for you, it might be worth looking into the upgraded model.

Durability: Built to Last

Durability is one of the standout features of the Razer Huntsman. The aluminum top frame not only looks good but also adds to the keyboard’s longevity. The optical switches are rated for up to 100 million keystrokes, which is impressive. This means the keyboard is built to withstand intense gaming sessions and heavy use without showing signs of wear.

Having used the Razer Huntsman for a considerable amount of time, I can vouch for its durability. It still feels as solid as it did on day one, with no noticeable degradation in performance or build quality. This is crucial for a gaming keyboard, as you want something that will last through countless hours of gaming.

Compatibility: Plug and Play

The Razer Huntsman is designed to be compatible with both gaming consoles and PCs, thanks to its wired connection. This makes it versatile for different gaming setups. The wired connection also ensures a reliable and fast response time, which is essential for competitive gaming. There’s no need to worry about connectivity issues or lag, which can sometimes be a problem with wireless keyboards.

The Razer Huntsman V2: A Worthy Successor

It’s worth mentioning the Razer Huntsman V2, which builds upon the original Huntsman’s strengths while addressing some of its shortcomings. The V2 comes with a wrist rest, dedicated media keys, and a multi-function wheel, making it a more ergonomic and feature-rich option. If these additions are important to you, it might be worth considering the upgrade.

However, the original Razer Huntsman remains a solid choice, especially if you’re looking for a high-performance gaming keyboard with responsive optical switches and excellent build quality.

Conclusion: A High-Performance Gaming Keyboard

In conclusion, the Razer Huntsman is an outstanding gaming keyboard that offers a lot of value. Its clicky optical switches provide a fast and satisfying typing experience, and the customizable RGB lighting adds a touch of personalization to your setup. The build quality is top-notch, ensuring that this keyboard will last through countless gaming sessions.

While the loud switches and lack of a wrist rest might be drawbacks for some, the overall performance and features of the Razer Huntsman make it a great choice for gamers. If you’re looking for a keyboard that combines speed, precision, and durability, the Razer Huntsman is definitely worth considering.

So, there you have it—my detailed review of the Razer Huntsman Keyboard. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or someone who spends a lot of time typing, this keyboard has a lot to offer. Give it a try, and you might just find that it’s the perfect addition to your gaming setup.

Recommendation: Is the Razer Huntsman Right for You?

Now, the million-dollar question: Should you buy the Razer Huntsman? If you prioritize speed and precision in your gaming, the Razer Huntsman is a fantastic choice. The optical switches are incredibly responsive, and the build quality is second to none. The customizable RGB lighting and programmable macros add a level of personalization and functionality that is hard to beat.

However, if you’re sensitive to loud keyboard noises or need more ergonomic features, you might want to consider the Huntsman V2 or look for a keyboard that includes a wrist rest. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preferences and how you intend to use the keyboard.

For gamers who want a high-performance, durable, and customizable keyboard, the Razer Huntsman is a top contender. It’s a keyboard that’s designed to perform at the highest level and last for years to come.

And there you have it—my comprehensive Razer Huntsman Keyboard Review. I hope this helps you make an informed

decision about whether this keyboard is the right fit for you. Happy gaming!

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