Diving into the world of compact keyboards, I was initially skeptical. Having always gravitated towards full-sized keyboards for my gaming sessions, the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% was uncharted territory for me. But after rigorous testing, I’ve been converted. This is not just a keyboard; it’s a marvel of design and functionality that now sits front and center on my gaming desk.
One of the striking features of this board is its 75% layout, which, as the name suggests, is a condensed version of a standard keyboard. Yet, it retains all essential keys: the function row, arrows, and crucial editing keys. The multi-functional roller, mainly used for audio, along with the media buttons, were a delightful touch. Adapting to this layout had its challenges, but the space-saving advantage soon made it all worthwhile.
Razer’s acclaimed Gen-3 Orange Tactile Mechanical Switches come as standard here, providing that tactile feedback without being overly clicky. While I was drawn to the Orange switches, Razer offers the flexibility of Green and Yellow variants. If you’re an audiophile when it comes to keystrokes, Razer’s site has some enticing audio previews.
The ability to tinker is a huge boon for enthusiasts. With an included switch and keycap puller, modifying this board is child’s play. The compatibility with both three and five-pin switches and pre-installed sound-dampening foam and tape enhancements ensures a quieter typing experience.
The plush leatherette wrist rest, magnetically attaching to the keyboard’s base, was the cherry on top. Hours of continuous gaming and typing flew by with my wrists cradled comfortably.
For those deep into the Razer ecosystem, the Razer Synapse 3 on Windows will let you unlock the keyboard’s full potential, harmonizing it with other Razer devices. And for Mac users? This beauty performs flawlessly.
To sum it up, the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% has thoroughly impressed me. It’s a harmonious blend of ergonomic design, auditory pleasure, and space-saving brilliance. For those seeking a compact yet powerful gaming keyboard, look no further.
Highlights:
- Design & Build: The BlackWidow V4 boasts a compact 75% design, cutting the number pad for a more ergonomic and streamlined form. Its sturdy build is complemented by full per-key RGB lighting, dual-stage feet for adjustable inclination, and a padded wrist rest for enhanced comfort.
- Key Performance: Fitted with Razer’s Orange Tactile switches, the keyboard promises a quieter, yet tactile feedback. Factory-lubricated switches ensure each keystroke is smooth and satisfying.
- Modding & Customization: Borrowing from the keyboard modding community, Razer offers a hot-swappable design, making customization a breeze. From switching out keycaps to altering the foam padding, the possibilities are vast.
- Features: Beyond customization, the BlackWidow V4 is bundled with the Razer Synapse software, giving users a suite of options from RGB customization to key remapping. Also, being a Razer product, seamless integration with other Razer peripherals is a given.
- Gaming Performance: Whether it’s navigating Night City in Cyberpunk 2077 or taking down demons in Doom Eternal, the BlackWidow V4 doesn’t disappoint. Its compact size is especially beneficial for FPS titles, providing ample desk real estate for swift mouse movements.
The Review
BlackWidow V4 75%
Razer's latest entrant into the mechanical keyboard landscape, the BlackWidow V4 75%, sets a new benchmark for gaming keyboards. Packed with features tailored for enthusiasts and the modding community, it's a blend of aesthetics, function, and stellar performance. At $189, it isn't the cheapest offering on the block. However, its feature set, build quality, and potential for customization make it a compelling choice for gamers and typists alike. Whether you're delving into keyboard modding or just need a reliable tool for work and play, the BlackWidow V4 75% is hard to overlook.
PROS
- Everything is hot-swappable
- Compact form factor
- Comfortable typing
- Customization via Razer Synapse app
CONS
- More expensive than most
Review Breakdown
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4.5 out 5